INSIDER The official Yamaha racing magazine Summer 2006 Issue five

Valentino Rossi Keeping an eye on...

Antonio Cairoli Digging Deep

Knowledge is power Set-up In WSB

Michele Rinaldi A man in full

Behind closed doors Inside a World Supersport workshop

THE ART OF ENGINEERING

INSIDER  INSIDER Welcome to the fifth edition of Insider, Yamaha’s official racing magazine. Publisher Yamaha Racing Communications by Dear Insider, As I write this we're just about over the halfway point of the season. As you're Editors probably aware, we did'nt have an easy start to the year in MotoGP but with hard Dennis Sol - work and a reversal of the bad luck that dogged us in the opening races, Yamaha and Leon Oosterhof - Yamaha Motor Europe NV are once again at the top of the podium. The middle of the racing season is always a bit odd. On one hand we find ourselves fighting as hard as we can Design/production to win world titles while on the other, preparing ourselves for next season. Peter Henneman

This is perhaps even more apparent this year. The news that Valentino will remain with Yamaha Contributors Paul Taylor, Isabella Marcis, Milagro, for 2007 means we can go full steam ahead with the development of our new bike for the era of Massimo Zanzani, Graeme Brown, Gary 800cc MotoGP racing. In as well, 2006 marks the end of an era. has Freeman, Filip Decoster, Tom Jacobs, Enrico announced his retirement from the sport at the end of the season. Our nine-times world champ Borghi, Matteo Cavadini, Natascha Kayser, continues to amaze and win almost everything in sight. We hope that Stefan goes out on top Tom Borst, Ad Kievit, Henk Verschuren, with a 10th world title, therewith leaving Yamaha facing the challenge to replace the greatest Peter van den Bosch motocross rider of all time.

Printing Our beautiful new R6 is selling like hot cakes and the limited edition R1-SP units are already sold Habo DaCosta BV, Vianen, The out. We have big plans for our R-series racing programme in 2007. It's a little early to confirm Lithography our activities at this stage, but so far things are shaping up to be very interesting for sure. We've MontBlanc Creative Assistance Group, The Netherlands already announced our new range of off-road machines and I am confident that the new alu- minium-framed WR models will provide a good base for next year's Enduro World Championship. Insider is produced on behalf of Yamaha Motor Europe by Yamaha Racing Commu- Our new racing website is about to go live at www.yamaha-racing.com - bringing you even more nications, a service of p’ZAZ, Hoogte Kadijk interesting information in a more visually attractive format with easy to use navigation. I could 61hs, 1018 BE Amsterdam, The Netherlands. tell you more but, well, it’s probably easier for you to check it out yourself. Telephone +31 20 62 56 539. For now I wish you all the best for the rest of the season and hope you enjoy reading this Reproduction of any text, photograph or magazine - again filled with lots of typical Yamahainsider information about our riders, bikes and illustration in this magazine is prohibited racing preparations. Have fun. without permission from the publisher. While care is taken to ensure that the content of Insider is accurate, the publisher can not accept any liability for errors or omissions.

The change is subtle... © 2006 Yamaha Motor Europe NV Laurens Klein Koerkamp, Racing Division Introducing the new Yamaha FJR1300AS with Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S), Department Manager - Yamaha Motor Europe NV On the cover: a new concept in sports touring. A close-up image of the YZR-M1 engine. This revolutionary shift system – the first ever on a – does away with rider clutch operation, so you can get on with really enjoying your journey. How does it work? It’s simple. Watch the online video at www.yamaha-motor-europe.com/FJR1300AS for your easy guide to YCC-S technology.

the difference is immense

FJR1300AS www.yamaha-motor-europe.com/FJR1300AS

INSIDER  INSIDE...

Pitlane All the latest Digging Deep Current Knowledge is power Michele Rinaldi - 12 news from the world 16 MX2 world cham- 44 Bike set-up makes the 50 a man in full Yamaha of Yamaha pion Antonio Cairoli difference between a Motocross Team boss talks about his past win or a lose. Follow a is not a man to do and present life as a race weekend of bike things by halves. This champ ‘tweaking’ with Haga is the story of his life and get your technical devoted to motocross vocabulary up-to-date

The art of engineering Behind closed doors

Yamaha engineers Supersport contender 63 Database Overview of all create masterpieces of Kevin Curtain gives us Yamaha’s official riders ‘tech art’. M1 and R1 a tour of his Yamaha and bikes special parts put under Motor a different spotlight team’s workshop 22 58

Keeping an eye on... 28 Valentino Rossi and give us the lowdown on the capabilities of some of their MotoGP rivals

Feel small alone in 32 the desert A bunch of eccentric and inex- perienced adventurers set out to ride the Dakar

Supermoto Face-off 38 Haga and Rossi’s play- things go head-to- head to decide who's got the world’s trickiest Yamaha supermotard

 INSIDER INSIDER  Over the limit Vale is experiencing one of his toughest seasons yet. He’s got to dig a whole lot deeper to keep the championship in check, demanding more of his bike, team and body than ever before. Can Valentino extend the limits of his abilities and that of his YZR-M1 even further? He might have to. Picture: Milagro

 INSIDER INSIDER  Getting there In its second year of WSB competition the YZF-R1 has been developed into a razor sharp tool, enabling wild child to be one of the main men. After his teammate won a race at Misano, we expect Nori chan to reciprocate soon. Picture: Matteo Cavadini

 INSIDER INSIDER  Big ten Stefan Everts could have been forgiven for taking things easy on his last farewell tour. But he hasn’t been cruising around, winning all GP’s in 2006. With nine world titles and 96 GP wins to date (as at 2nd of July 2006) Everts could round up thing nicely with ten world titles and a century of GP wins… or more. Picture: Gary Freeman

10 INSIDER INSIDER 11 Pitlane Quick New flashing site news Yamaha introduces Last year’s FIM Superstock 1000 Cup Yamaha-racing.com champion Didier van Keymeulen has switched his attentions to the German racy new scoots IDM superbike championship for 2006. Yamaha has introduced a new racing website at www.yamaha- The Belgian started out the year riding a racing.com with new improved navigation and more information YZF-R6 in the Supersport World Cham- Two MotoGP-liveried versions of the ever-popular Aerox R pionship but split with the privately- than ever on your favourite Yamaha stars. In addition to the new entered squad after two rounds. Didier are now available. The Aerox R Special Version pays tribute look, star riders Colin Edwards, Stefan Everts, Noriyuki Haga and wasn’t out of work for long though, and to Yamaha’s rich racing heritage, featuring the yellow, white has signed with his team manager from Valentino Rossi will all be contributing regular columns to the site. All and black colour scheme made famous by in last year, Michael Gallinski, to race his the old favourites remain, including full race reports and the ability R1 in the competitive national series. the Seventies and reintroduced to such acclaim at last year’s to download high-resolution photos from each race. Check it out for At the time of writing, Van Keymeulen’s American MotoGP round best result is eighth in Lausitz. Colin yourself at www.yamaha-racing.com Edwards recently attended the glam- The Aerox R Race Replica is another MotoGP liveried JogRR - an exact replica ourous premiere of the new MotoGP new-for-2006 model, featuring a design of those used by MotoGP staff at race movie The Doctor, The Tornado and the based on the Yamaha factory team’s YZR- meetings. Kentucky Kid in Los Angeles. Made by M1s. It’s also the model chosen by riders All three scooters are available now the same team behind the critically ac- claimed movie Faster, the new film is a Colin Edwards and Valentino Rossi as their from Yamaha’s European dealer network. feature-length documentary charting the paddock bike for the season, making it not Alternatively visit the microsite at www. 2005 American MotoGP race in Laguna so much a replica but the real thing. yamaha-motor-europe.com/replica for Seca. Edwards made his entrance to the Another Yamaha that can be seen scooting further information. premiere by riding a YZF-R6 up Holly- around the MotoGP paddock is the JogRR wood Boulevard, much to the delight of MotoGP, which celebrates the continuation the large, and celebrity-studded, crowd. Visit you local dealer or of Yamaha’s partnership with MotoGP Valentino Rossi has set yet another www.yamaha-motor-europe.com/replica Yamaha Superbike team become ‘famoso’ promoters Dorna. Yamaha is once again the record. With his 55th MotoGP/ 500 cc for more information official scooter supplier to Dorna, with the Yamaha pulled off a PR coup earlier this year race victory in Mugello , he is the when pictures of Noriyuki Haga riding his YZF-R1 new leader in the ranking of ultimate were plastered along the side of buses in Milan and race winners in MotoGP/ 500 cc races. on posters in the city’s underground stations for a Rossi is followed by Mick Doohan with 54 month. The Japanese star’s image was being used by victories. The winning duo of the 1996 Superbike World Championship organizers FG Sport to promote the Italian round of the championship, Suzuka 8-hour race, Colin Edwards and Vale honoured at Laureus awards held at nearby Monza. Noriyuki Haga will reunite for the 2006 edition, held on the 30th of July, riding Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi was honoured at Speaking after the ceremony, the 27 year old from a specially prepared YZF-R1 SP. Yamaha’s the annual Laureus World Sports Awards in Barcelona Tavullia said “I am very happy to have received this three-team entry will be headed by their recently, receiving the ‘Spirit of Sport’ Award for rais- award, and very proud to be considered such an Yamaha Blue Racing team followed by ing the profile of MotoGP during his five-year World important ambassador for our sport. It’s also a big Yamaha active in cars Championship reign. The defending champion flew im- honour for me to be nominated once again for the two other factory-supported entries, mediately to Barcelona after concluding a day’s testing main award alongside such great sportsmen.” Yamaha has started to supply V8 engines being the YSP Racing Team and Team with his Camel Yamaha Team in Le Mans and entered The Laureus Awards are the only global awards hon- for the Volvo S80 sedan. The engine, a V8 4.4L Cha-llenger. The YSP Racing Team will the ceremony on board a Yamaha YZF-R1 motorcycle. ouring the greatest sportsmen and women across all 32-valve unit with a maximum output of 232 kW enter the pair of , He accepted the award from Yamaha’s first World sports each year. This year’s ceremony was presented (315 PS), will be supplied for luxury models in the who is competing this season in the Champion, and Formula One Director by Hollywood actors Teri Hatcher and Cuba Gooding S80 Series, Volvo Cars current flagship model. This JSB1000 class of the All Cham- Bernie Ecclestone. Junior and attended by King Juan Carlos of , as engine is manufactured at the Yamaha Motor’s pionships, and Shinichi Nakatomi, who Rossi was a nominee for the third year running in the well as a host of stars from the world of sport including Iwata Factory in Japan, and installed in vehicles rides for Yamaha Motor in WSB. ‘World Sportsman of the Year’ category, but lost out to Michael Johnson, Bobby Charlton, Seve Ballesteros and manufactured by Volvo Cars in . Yamaha Team Cha-llenger will enter with riders Swiss tennis player Roger Federer, who collected the Boris Becker. Motor plans to supply 15,000 or more engines Norihiko Fujiwara, who has ridden the prize for the second consecutive year. annually to Volvo Cars for these models. 8-hour almost every year since 1992, and

12 INSIDER INSIDER 13 Pitlane ACCESS ALL AREAS

53-2802-94398-339363-61 Quick Members only! news

YRT 2006: Learn In the last Insider issue we asked our Nobuyuki Osaki, a Japanese supersport readers for any feedback that could help us to published twice a year for now. But we hope competitor. Yamaha has unveiled its as fast as you can improve the magazine and serve you better. First to have found an alternative solution with our 2007 off-road competition range with of all we'd like to thank all of you who have www.yamaha-racing.com website that now fea- a number of exciting new and updated The 4th Yamaha Race Training (YRT) programme, which was taken the effort to write us. What struck us is the tures columns and Q & A's from our most famous models introduced to help the brand amount of requests we received for more and riders, including Valentino Rossi, Noriyuki Haga maintain its record as the most success- held from 29th March to 1st April 2006 at the Ricardo Tormo circuit, more frequent personal information on our riders. and Stefan Everts. If you haven’t noticed them it ful off-road manufacturer. The WR450F Valencia, Spain gave way to Yamaha Supersport, Superbike and Unfortunately, we can’t increase the frequency of is about time to check them out! and WR250F are all-new models for Insider magazine just yet, it will still only be 2007, featuring the most advanced en- European Superstock 600/1000 teams to test their race bikes gine and chassis technology ever seen Yamaha Race TRAINING is set up to help pre- Yamaha Motor Europe’s Racing Division. Education on a Yamaha enduro machine. Both season preparations and to improve the knowledge and advice given by race engineers from Yamaha run with a new lightweight aluminium of the technical set-up and machine tuning of the Japan, Yamaha Europe racing staff, as well as some semi-double cradle frame and are driven 2006 YZF-R6 and the 2006 YZF-R1 (SP), equipped of the leading tyre and suspension manufacturers by new high performance engines that with YEC (Yamaha Engineering Company) kit parts. and 2D Datarecording, gave 83 Yamaha riders from Tricked out Trike deliver increased levels of useable power, A three day programme, including theoretical 11 countries a head start to the season. the advanced high-tech packages are sessions and practical education at the racetrack on This YFZ450 is a one-off race prototype ATV, completed by totally new ergonomic how to set-up and tune the bikes, was organised by intended for demonstration purpose only and bodywork. The 2007 WR450F is the most crafted with all MX1 experience Yamaha has. For advanced 450cc 4-stroke of the decade, instance this ATV is fitted with a Rinaldi YZ479 featuring a YZ450F-developed 5-valve engine kit, all sorts of billet aluminium parts like engine tuned to deliver remarkably clutch basket, pressure plate and all around billet strong power in the low-to-mid range hubs. For the suspension, Öhlin’s upgraded the for winning performance on a variety of front and rear supension with top-end pieces. terrain. The aluminium chassis has been All these special parts – many of them for closed developed to offer an idealised rigidity course competition use only - have extensively balance for quick directional changes lightened this ATV, making it 11kg lighter than in the tight stuff and winning times in the standard YFZ450. the MX tests. Likewise the class-defining WR250F has been designed as a ma- chine that is at one with the rider, with Yamaha’s engineers focusing on building Rius aims a bike that responds to the rider’s input rather than being a machine that is in control of the rider. Using the most ad- for 11th championship vanced race-bred technology developed Y��������������������������amaha’s watercraft riders have gotten off to a great start in the Corona Extra European tour. from their world title winning MX1 and At May’s opening round in Spain, Yamaha’s 10-time world champion Nicolas Rius ended the day in second MX2 race programmes, the YZ450F and place. After competing in both the Runabout and Ski categories for the past seasons, the Frenchman YZ250F motocrossers feature a number will this year concentrate solely on the Ski class, where he will run the Yamaha SuperJet. His consistent of significant improvements to their performances (second place in each of the three heats) saw him leave Murcia just one point behind the engine and chassis designs to further championship leader in the premier F1 class. In the boost engine performance and handling. F2 category Yamaha’s hopes lie with Belgian rider The two-stroke YZ range hasn’t been for- Nick Jacobs, who also finished as class runner up in gotten either, with both the YZ250 and the opening round. The Corona Extra European tour YZ125 featuring a number of chassis- has five rounds this season, including a new venue at focused upgrades aimed at improving the Milton Keynes in the United Kingdom. For details of already ultra-light handling characteris- the venues and reports from each race, to take a look tics For further information, visit: at www.yamaha-motor-europe.com/marine-racing www.yamaha-motor-europe.com and learn more about this fascinating sport.

14 INSIDER INSIDER 15 Digging Deep In only his second full season of GP racing Antonio Cairoli won the MX2 world title. The spectacular Italian showed great determination and strength in 2005, but ‘Tony’ will have to dig even deeper this year facing the strongest competition the MX2 class has ever seen in recent years. Luckily the Yamaha-De Carli rider has a proven track record of exceeding expectations Words: Tom Jacobs Pictures : Pixelpony

No longer than 40 years ago young Italians came to to work in the coal mines. Now Italy’s aspiring about riding MX champions move to the land of beer in the sand.” When and fries to improve their sand riding. It’s a neighbour of the Cairoli a big commitment, but with a significant family bought a dirtbike, Tonino (Italian number of GP races on sand, or at least diminutive for Antonio) was immediately loose surface, it’s understood to be crucial infected. He chased their neighbour to succeed at the highest level. These days whenever he went riding and he loved the Cairoli is actually one of the very few sound. “I remember how he made small riders who can win, no matter what type obstacles to jump with his bike,” says of soil. Then again Antonio is untypical in Cairoli’s dad, Benedetto. Benedetto was many ways. In Italy, where the difference a self-confessed racer in his younger in living standard between the north years as well, getting the best out of the and south is quite outspoken, motocross parental on the winding roads of stars traditionally hail from the northern Sicily beating his challengers who came part of the country. Cairoli literally came from all corners of the island. Benedetto’s out of nowhere; because Sicily is much dad was less impressed, furious even when overlooked on Italy’s motocross map. Never his sononce again wrecked his beloved before was there a Sicilian rider to emerge form of transport. “My dad wouldn’t let me from regional level, let alone one to race race, he just forbid me and I've regretted it internationally or step up to GP level. ever since. That’s why I was so supportive “Motocross is not a big sport in Sicily,” of Tonino,” says ‘papa Cairoli’ who bought Antonio explains. “People ride dirt bikes Antonio an at the age of four. Little for fun or they ride at the beach. We Antonio first played around on the bike, the even have a series of beach races, called champion in the making only entering his ‘supermare cross’, in Sicily. This helped me first local race three years later. “He made a bit because at least I knew something jumps on his minibike even grown men8

16 INSIDER INSIDER 17 Digging Deep

MX2 meets MX1; De Carli talking to Carlo Rinaldi and Mino Raspanti

did not dare to make!” remembers friend of the family: “Tony’s dad would “I was looking for a professional team and in Rome, where the De Carli team is based, and Yamaha, I trained very hard during winter, if you’re in front. It’s a huge advantage.” To Benedetto. Antonio started winning from have sold water to make him race! He did Martin is one of the best teams in Italy, but the YZ250F brought out the best in his riding. practicing with Claudio Federici helped me this day Antonio holds fond memories of his his second race on and he rode his first the right thing because Antonio is a very it’s not easy to live 1200 kilometers from Antonio became the revelation of the Italian a lot and De Carli gave me great advice. My breakthrough season sporting the number 222 race outside of Sicily in 1997. “For me special guy.” By 1998 Cairoli became Italian your family when you’re fifteen. I stayed pre-season races and he made his first mark results were a big surprise for a lot of people tattooed on his arm in Roman numbers. it’s strange when I hear fathers who push minicross champion and he was ready to there one week and then I came back on the world stage in 2004 at the opening but it didn’t come as a shock to me, I always The 2004 season went smoothly enough their children to become champions. I just do what no other Sicilian rider had done one week to go to school. The mentality GP in Zolder. Cairoli claimed the holeshot and knew I could do it.” Blistering speed and for Tony, who knew he had the tools to wanted to race and win because that’s what before: be successful on the mainland. “For in Padova was also completely different showed excellent speed in both heats. The spectacular jumps set the young Italian apart, challenge for the world title the following I had in me. Nobody ever told me to do this me it was a big thing to win outside of to what I was used to in Sicily. People icing on the cake after a month's practice even more so because he scored an impressive year. However 2005 saw no more plain sailing. or to do that. After school I would watch Sicily. When I first raced around Milan a lot were cold and closed.” Homesickness was with the De Carli team at their Belgian base string of holeshots in 2004. Betting on Cairoli’s Cairoli started the season with an ankle injury, not the only problem for Tony who spent in Lommel. Bengt van Velthoven, Cairoli’s iconic 222 number plate to round the first he got excluded from the French GP and he “I want to be the most successful Italian two luckless years with Martin. “I was landlord in Belgium and a long time associate corner in leading position almost seemed risk finished the season with a cracked scaphoid motocross rider of all time” just switching to big bikes and I was the of the De Carli team remembers: “I was a little free. “The secret of my holeshots?” he smiles, in his left wrist. “I was really impressed with third rider behind two experienced riders bit worried when I saw Antonio riding in the “There is no secret. Even in 80cc I was a good his determination early on in the season,” videos from American supercross, I analyzed of riders were very disrespectful and they (Jorgensen and Jelen). I felt left out and I sand for the first time. He was going at my starter and it’s not just weight. Compared says 1994 125cc World Champion Bob Moore. them and I watched them over and over were laughing at me. That made me even wasn’t getting up to speed like I wanted to.” speed! Which means expert level and certainly “Few young riders realize how valuable almost untill the tape broke! Then I went more determined to prove them wrong. Cairoli only qualified twice in two seasons nowhere near GP pace. I thought he was every point is, even at the beginning of the “Of course out and tried to ride like McGrath, I copied It was very satisfying to beat them! That and failed to score points in the world never going to qualify but Lino, his mechanic, season, but Antonio hung in there when there’s more his moves and control of the bike. He was was also when I made my mind up that I championship. To make things even worse assured me he was quite a fast learner.” he injured his ankle in Zolder. I think a lot pressure if you have my big example, but in the end I taught wanted to become a professional motocross he broke his wrist in 2003. Lino was right and Cairoli indeed proved of people underestimate his strength and the number one” myself how to race.” rider, although my parents did not have The Sicilian was not even remotely to be a fast learner in his first full season of will power because somehow it doesn’t fit From an early age Antonio’s racing the means.” Italian 125 'Cadet' and 'Junior' considered the next big thing in GP racing GP racing. The Italian teenager won his first with his image. He’s always smiling and he’s career put a big strain on the family as titles followed in 2001 and 2002. However at the end of 2003, nevertheless he was heat in Loket and wrote GP history in Namur to 2004 I’m 10 kilos heavier now! I’m fully- not so tall, but I’m very sure there’s a fierce competitions forced the supportive Cairoli’s challenges for the young rider were more picked up by Claudio De Carli who had becoming the first rookie to claim victory on grown and I've gained a lot of muscle. It’s just competitor underneath.” to travel several hundred miles every than just economical. To further his career guided Chiodi to his first world title in the mythical track. Antonio eventually finished down to reactions and maybe the fact that I There was no doubt anymore about Cairoli’s weekend. Zep Gori’s feature on Cairoli in Antonio had to move north permanently. 1997. The move sparked a new found third overall behind Townley and Rattray. realize how important it is. You save so much speed either, but the Sicilian raised more the Italian magazine Motocross quotes a He ended up with Martin in Padova. confidence in Cairoli who felt more at home “Everything clicked in 2004, I felt good on the energy and you can immediately start pushing than a few eyebrows when he lost his 8

18 INSIDER INSIDER 19 Digging formula, just look at the progress Deep or Grant Langston made here. You learn a lot from riding against guys like Stefan Everts and the tough conditions of the sand prepare you for anything. I like Belgium, there’s a lot of motocross culture and it’s a great place to practice. I just don’t like the weather but I temper during the qualifying race in him to develop his set up skills. On a personal endure that for another world championship!” France. Remarkably enough the ‘kicking level he’s still the same, he’s a funny guy The 2006 season is in full swing and some Tony's Tutor incident’ and the loss of a potential 50 and no troublemaker. You could say he’s the things have changed for Cairoli. Antonio is no points triggered an unseen motivation. perfect tenant!” longer the underdog. 13 heat wins from 32 In the eighties Claudio De Carli was the Antonio wanted to have his revenge on A lot of Cairoli’s progress has been down to heats contested and 6 GP wins in 2005, Cairoli first Italian to win a heat in a 500cc track, he put his head down and trained his hard work in Belgium. He reckons it’s the is clearly in a league of his own. However GP. After his riding career the eternal harder than ever before to make up for the place to be if you want to run with the best. Antonio started the 2006 season playing privateer moved into tuning and team points he had lost. Team manager Claudio “It’s amazing, when you go training during the catch up for his wrist injury. On top of that management. De Carli has been one of De Carli: “Antonio was frustrated because week it’s like you're at a GP. The first time I he has the number one plate and the added the most - if not the most - important of his disqualification and he wanted to saw Everts up close carving through the sand pressure of having to defend his title. Victory person in Cairoli's outstanding career. The win everything from that point on. He I was in awe. I couldn’t believe it and I barely or defeat, the 20-year old can pride himself soft-spoken Roman prefers to do his work wanted to show who the real leader was Italy. The likeable Sicilian kid was featured YZ85s. In particulair his 11-year old cousin, dared talk to him! He was and he still is one of on a realistic outlook. “Of course there’s in the shadows, but he gets enthousiastic in MX2.” Right on his return Cairoli won on Italy’s national TV station RAI and he Jeremy Palazzolo who shows a lot of talent, my idols.” Antonio got to know his idol even more pressure if you have the number one. when we ask him about Tony. “Antonio the Swedish GP, claiming both heats, he received a full page in the famous Gazetta but Antonio himself has many dreams left is very talented, there's no doubt about came third in South-Africa and scored dello Sport. Antonio is also a national before he turns team manager full time. “I don’t know when I will go to America, that. He also has an incredible will to win. three wins in a row to put him in pole celebrity in Sicily now, where a huge “I want to be the most successful Italian but I will only go when I’m 100% ready. It doesn’t matter whether it’s motocross position for the title against fellow Yamaha celebration party was organized in his motocross rider of all time, so I have to If I go I want to win.” mounted duo McFarlane and Chiodi. Even hometown Patti. “Being a sporting celebrity beat Chiodi’s three world titles! Eventually or a Playstation game. He wants to win, an exceptional mechanical failure at the in Sicily is not that hard” Cairoli smiles, I would like to go to America to succeed in better when he and Everts were invited to It’s not only negative though, because then you always and everywhere, that’s his instinct. Isle of Wight couldn’t distress the Italian “it’s a small island and there are not many supercross. I really like supercross and I have Japan by Yamaha in celebration of their world push yourself even harder. I like competition; When he came to us he clearly lacked youngster. “Normally it’s the manager who world champions in any sport! Although my own practice track at home. However titles. Early this year the two of them even to me motocross is about the battle with the experience, but he’s a very fast learner. has to comfort his rider when something I hope that I can make motocross more I’m still focused on the GP’s in Europe right trained together in Rome. “After nine world other riders. That’s the real adrenalin rush. This What he doesn’t know yet, he will learn goes wrong,” recalls De Carli “but here was popular in Sicily and Italy. There's also a now. I don’t know when I'll go to America, titles and so many GP wins, Stefan is still a year will be different, because Rattray was and he doesn’t make the same mistake Tony himself assuring everyone in the team new generation of strong Italian riders but I'll only go when I’m 100% ready. If I go normal guy and he keeps on pushing like he injured most of last year, the Pourcel brothers twice.” The De Carli team has eight Italian that it would be OK! We will beat them alongside me, Philippaerts, Guarneri and I want to win.” wants to win his first race. He’s so strong and will be better… That’s why I have to keep on titles, 17 GP victories (as at 2/7/2006), anyway he kept on saying.” Credit to his self Given his potential Cairoli still has many he trains incredibly hard, Stefan also made me improving physically and technically. I also two MX of Nations titles and a world title confidence and focus Cairoli battled on in “Antonio could tricks up his sleeve although the last two realize that I have to work on my endurance,” made small adjustments to my riding style, to with (1997) on its tally, Lierop - despite his wrist injury - to wrap up barely speak any seasons saw huge changes from the Italian says Cairoli who has been followed to Belgium consume less energy. I'll be riding a bit more but Cairoli’s 2005 championship is by the MX2 crown. This made the Yamaha-De on and off the track. Bengt van Velthoven by many other Italian riders. His friend like Stefan (Everts) I guess! At the end of last English when he came far the most special experience. “Tony’s Carli rider the first Italian to win a world to Belgium” names a few: “Antonio could barely speak Philippaerts (KTM MX2 factory rider) just lives season I said I wanted to be around 2 seconds World Championship win was not only title since (500) and Alessio any English when he came to Belgium, around the corner, just like Claudio Federici faster in qualifying. At the moment I’m very professionally satisfying, we worked really Chiodi (125) in 1999. He's also the youngest Bonini. Motocross will never be as big as but he learned quickly and his English is and Matteo Bonini (Cairoli's team mate in the close to my goal on hard tracks. In the sand I hard together and it has been a very ever Italian to become motocross World MotoGP, but I think a lot of people would pretty good now. His training has become De Carli Team). In fact the Italian motocross don’t feel completely at ease yet, I think I can tough year emotionally as well. So many Champion and only the fifth ever (the other like our sport if they got to know it better.” a lot more physical compared to 2004 and federation recently institutionalized this set do a lot better there. In the end you can only things happened in 2005, but in the end two were Michele Rinaldi and Alessandro Cairoli actually puts his money where his I think he can make even more headway up, forming their own permanent training give it your best and if that doesn’t work out… we made it happen with a young rider Puzar) in the history of the motorcycle mad mouth is, because he also supports local with his fitness. There’s also a lot of room academy in Overpelt (Belgium) allowing you focus on the next race and try to make it country. racing. This winter he started his own Siculo for improvement in his bike set up. Antonio young riders to gain experience on sand better. I’m never angry or frustrated after a bad who had very little experience. He came to Cairoli’s title didn’t go unnoticed and he Sugno (dialect for ‘I am Sicilian’) team, will basically ride anything, but he’s getting tracks. Andrea Bartolini is one of the tutors of race, because it doesn’t help you. I go dancing us when he was still a bit of a rookie, and

made waves in the mainstream media in helping out three young riders who race on more critical and De Carli his really helping the academy. “Coming to Belgium is the right and try to have fun.” g we have built him up step by step.

20 INSIDER INSIDER 21 The art of engineering Exquisite materials and ingenious craftmanship, combine into stunning pieces of art Pictures: John de Koning Words: Tom Borst

R1- With one ring less than standard this forged WSB racing spec piston is 33 grams lighter. A special black coating on the side face is added to withstand the high rpm in race conditions, it moves up and down about 14.000 times per minute

M1- Crafted out of the finest aluminium alloy, the CNC machined engine firmly grips the rear Öhlins shock absorber

22 INSIDER INSIDER 23 v

The art of engineering

vR1- Race spec gearbox similar to standard, but lighter and manufactured with smaller tolerances. For each ratio there are five options to make sure an optimal setting can be found for each individual track

M1- It is not all gold that glitters; the YZR-M1 dry clutch, worth 2000 Euros, only lasts three mind- blowing starts

M1- Compressed under 550 degrees Celsius, the 900 gram weighing carbon front brake disk provides extreme stopping power. 300 to 100 km/h in just four seconds, which equals a distance of only 200 meters

24 INSIDER INSIDERINSIDER 2 525 The art of engineering

M1- The YZR-M1 Magneti Marelli engine management system is fed by 14 sensors, all wired with aerospace worthy connectors

R1- 24 hours are spent per standard cylinder head to smoothen the ports to gain intake efficiency

M1- 'Air force'. The carbon air induct R1- Race spec camshaft with provides pressurized oxygen for the higher lift and a special coating injection system, which shoots the fuel to reduce friction, they rotate up mixture in the compression chambers to 7.000 times per minute under 1.04 bar of pressure

26 INSIDER INSIDER 27 This year’s MotoGP world championship looks like being one of the toughest in years. With more top riders and top bikes than ever before, it is important to define your opponent’s strengths and the possible lack of them. An analytical view helps in defeating your rivals. Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards give their opinion on the capability of other riders to set up their bikes, ride their machines and mentally cope with the pressure Words: Enrico Borghi Pictures: Milagro

28 INSIDER INSIDER 29

Valentino explains: Colin explains: was your teammate in 2003. Being American, he rides 'dirty'. He’s good at tough, this is his strong area. He’s not the one to Valentino Rossi is an amazing rider. What do speaking, if he starts well he can stay ahead and get was the big surprise last year. What's your opinion on his ability to set braking and at keeping control when the bike back off, and in fact, he’s done many fine passes. you think makes him such an exceptional racer? a good pace going, whereas if he's coming from the What do you think brought him up to the front? up a bike, his race strategy and riding style? spins. He got these skills from his superbike As for race strategies, he hasn’t got many. Usually He knows what he wants, how his bike should back and having to pass other guys he may not be Those two races he won last year, he won them He’s no reference in setting up, because he experience. His problem is consistency. This is an he wants to start ahead and stay in first position, be, and he works straight to the point. He's very so strong. outright, showing he could manage the pace and can adjust himself to the bike even if it’s not issue he ought to work at. On a good day just like keeping a fast pace. It’s not easy to ride like that, clever and knowledgeable. Actually, we work in control his rivals. On the other hand, many other completely ok. This is because he comes from in Turkey he stays ahead, he’s not afraid of the and if you bother him he gets a little stressed. similar ways, and at the end of the last season I was your teammate during the times he lost focus. His setting up ability, again, I superbike, and he’s used to riding bikes that others, and he’s brave and aggressive. He’s done could have used his settings for my M1. As for 2004 season. Did you have things in common, wouldn't know. I know he works closely with his swing a bit. So he's never worked really deep on many good passes. He even passed me, once, in Marco Melandri is a guy you've known since riding style, he hasn't just got one, but many, all riding around on the same type of bikes? chief engineer but I can't tell exactly how much the setup and thus he’s not so experienced. As far Laguna Seca as well. Colin, as opposed to Hayden, you were a kid. What do you think about him different. He can adjust himself to what's going He’s definately ok, but our styles are very different Marco brings in terms of setting. He sure is very as riding technique is concerned his best feature likes to be ahead. So he tries to set the pace, and now, as a professional rider? on, he's great at managing tyre wear, and the race and he uses different settings. When we were good and fast, both in the corners and all over the is bike control when it's spinning. Having done this is way more difficult than just following He doesn’t always get to the point, he fixates pace. He's won with all kinds of bikes and he's put teammates I couldn’t ride his bike while he couldn’t track. He still maintains a bit of 250 style which dirt track in the past, he’s good at controlling the another guy. on details, even if unimportant. He doesn’t set his 125, 250 and 500 experiences to good use. ride mine! So, he’s very capable in setting up the might be his strength. And he's great at late braking. bike while sliding across the track. As for mental priorities well enough. He can 'feel' the bike, but Everybody out there knows that Valentino has more. bike for himself, for his style. He comes from 500, As far as mental strength is concerned, I can say strength, he looks like one who can concentrate What about your main contender in the last sometimes gets stuck. He goes into the corner He's won seven world championships and he’s never and you can tell. Those were less forgiving bikes, so that it depends on how he arrives at the race and easily, plus he’s tough and brave. Concerning his two seasons, Sete Gibernau ? very fast and he turns fast throughout. He rides spent a year losing! You look at all the other riders, now he's comfortable with MotoGP 4-stroke bikes, on how well his bike is set up. If he feels sure, if ability to pass, I haven’t seen him doing a lot of His bikes are always quite well set up, and this clean and keeps control when spinning. He's we've all spent one or two years struggling to make he keeps total control of the bike even if it moves or he's calm, then he's alright. Otherwise, he becomes this so far, it’s hard to judge. His race strategy is means he’s good at it. Watching his riding style, great at late braking. When in good shape he’s something work, he never had to. Concerning his spins. He wasn't so good back in the days with 500's, influenced by problems too much and ends up not bad, if the guy ahead speeds up he’s able to you can tell he practiced in dirt tracks a lot. As really tough, but he's not so constant during ability to pass, Valentino is unbelievable. I’ve been he had more problems then. No comment about his making some mistake. Just one problem, and he change his pace, and that’s good. a matter of fact he’s spent a long time in the the whole season. He's very good at passing, he behind him a few times in the first lap and saw him mental strength... well, let's just say it's his weak loses confidence a bit. He's very good at passing, U.S. at Roberts’, who’s got a track where you can always tries and he can succeed anytime because pass two or three guys at once while I was thinking area. I'm still good friends with Sete, but I think that because he's great at braking. He always tries and is back on a Yamaha this year practice. He’s actually taken advantage of four he can slip through from any side. He’s constantly “no way he’s gonna make it…”. He always keeps his he should just be himself instead of kinda projecting he's got the ability of delaying the braking just up and he was also your first teammate when you stroke bikes, which you can ride while spinning aggressive, always fighting, so he’s always hard cool and is calm, he’s really good at finding the this macho image of himself that really isn't him. to the limit. He's one of the best for sure! g came to the Yamaha team… and he’s good at this. He's got quite a physical to beat. strengths and the weaknesses of his competitors, He's really good at overtaking. He puts pressure on He’s always used strange methods in the setup, style, though and just like in real life: he's especially his followers, and he always uses what you and takes advantage of any hesitation you may maybe because his riding style is a bit strange presumptuous. So, as soon as you start giving he's learnt at the first possible occasion. have. As for racing strategies, he hasn't got many, as well: quite clean, not very good at braking him a hard time, he gets into trouble. He’s very he's not so versatile as a rider. Unlike Valentino he though. Rarely pushes it to the limit, so his bike What do you think about your fellow countryman, can't decide his strategy on the fly and he's not is a bit different from the others. He rides really Nicky Hayden? Has he got what it takes to set up quick at changing it. He's usually best when he's accurate race lines, but his braking could be the ideal race bike? ahead and with a certain lead. better. Mentally he's not so strong. This is his I honestly don't know much about his ability to set weak spot in a way: he can get nervous before a up his bike, because I haven't had the chance to Carlos Checa was Valentino’s teammate, in the race and his performance sometimes ends up not work with Nicky in that area. Even in 2004, when year before you moved to Yamaha. Have you got as good as it should be. As for his ability to pass, I was a Honda rider, I didn't really get a feel for an idea on how Carlos does his set up work? I have to say he's not a master at this, because of if he was good or bad at setting up the bike. So I I don't really know, I heard something from Valen- his limits when braking. can't actually answer this question. Nicky is more tino but I can't tell how much experience he has. Racing strategy: he’s a guy who can ride ahead American-style, more dirt track. He likes to ride He's got more of a Superbike riding style: get it in, of the others, he tries to set his own pace and if controlling the braking, with the bike spinning. In turn it, then go, not caring too much about corner he’s all right he succeeds. Like all those with a fact, he keeps control of the bike even when the speed. But I think he’s slowly changing that a little clean style, if he’s allowed to ride his own lines he tyres are worn out. To me, you can do this kind of bit. Mentally he could be better. Maybe because he's becomes very fast and constant, but if someone stuff in Superbike, but in MotoGP, you have to be been around for a long time but not won so much. bothers him then he may get in trouble. so much more precise and 'connect the dots'. If you He's often fallen at important moments, or got connect the dots you don't have to spin... there's tense before a race. As for racing strategy, he looks In 2005 you asked Colin Edwards to become something about Nicky, he’s been on bikes forever. at what's going on, and acts accordingly. He just your teammate at Yamaha. What did you see Put him on a Supermotard, dirt track or a motocross sees an opening and goes for it, sometimes it works in Colin that made you request him? bike, and he can beat anybody. But Road Race, I and sometimes it doesn’t. He’s good at passing, if Colin is a good test rider because he can spot the think it’s different, and although he's made progress, you leave him some space he goes for it. sensations the bike gives him, and instruct the he isn’t completely up to it, yet. As for passing engineers correctly. I saw this both with Yamaha skills, he hasn't got any problems. He's talented and engineers and with Michelin's. He’s great, then. generally able to find the right moment. Generally

30 INSIDER INSIDER 31 Feel small alone in the desert Dutchman Henk Verschuren came up with the concept of organizing a Dakar raid specifically for the XT500 when some of his friends claimed the Yamaha XT500 could still win a stage in the Dakar rally today. "Surely", the former Dakar participant answered, "but only if the others are riding an XT500 as well!" An idea was born Words: Natasha Kayser Pictures: Ad Kievit

Fellow off-road enthusiasts Roel den Braven and multiple Dakar the Dakar famous. The choice to ride this historic Paris-Dakar winner Hubert Auriol helped Henk to develop the Heroes Legend on XT500's seemed logical: Cyril Neveu had won the inaugural concept of giving relatively inexperienced riders the opportunity Dakar (1979) on a Yamaha XT500 and the bike celebrates its 30th to live their dream: riding the Paris-Dakar rally and experiencing anniversary this year. Having participated in the Dakar himself with the heroic feeling when Dakar is reached on a legendary Yamaha the XT500, Hubert Auriol knows the trusty single-cylinder inside XT500. Each of the 24 participating teams consisted of one XT500, out: It is still a very reliable bike and very efficient for this type of a 4x4 car and three people who can ride a motorcycle as well as raid, he explains. "Back in my day, I was one of the few who was wrench. To revive the spirit of the first Dakar raids, Heroes Legend able to start it, but that's no longer an issue nowadays. The XT has picked an historic course linking most of the places that made been a great choice, just as it was 30 years ago!"8

32 INSIDER INSIDER 33 his bike. The former AMA Supercross champion Live and learn says he's seen enough of the stage types like In spite of his huge Dakar experience, 16 participations and the One of the Heroes Legend participants was Dutchman the one we have today. Besides he wants me first man to claim victories on both two and four wheels plus an to enjoy it. Pierre is smaller and the suspen- additional nine years as a race director, ‘Heroes Legend’ was a Peter van den Bosch: an avid motocross rider who feels right sion has been set up for him so the bike works different kind of experience for 53-year old Hubert Auriol. a little different than mine. However I will be Setting off with a small, inexperienced group of riders is quite at home in the Dutch deep sand. When signing up for the eternally grateful for Pierre's gesture, because something else compared to a huge number of people competing Dakar raid the 38-year old entrepreneur without any desert- it was really worthwhile! It's a competitive in a race. “We do have standings, but it’s not like you are out of the Hubert Auriol stage and we have to be on the gas to make competition when man or machine can’t ride one day,” explains Auriol. ,,It’s not about speed, sand and navigation experience had no idea what he was in for. By glancing the time limit, but the balance between dis- it’s about skills. Getting your bike to Dakar, that's what counts. So it’s not an individual race, in Peter's diaries we learn of the emotions the Dakar has to offer. Childlike tance and speed suits me perfectly." but a ride for a team.” Exactly that same spirit made the first Paris-Dakar from 1979 so exceptional. Auriol was excitement, pride, despair, confusion, pain, human kindness and sheer joy all form Day 9: Ocean View - Boujdour one of the competitors back then: “Heroes-Legends reminds me a lot of my first Paris-Dakar. part of the rally's menu. Here's how he and his trusty XT500 made it to Dakar ,,My bike is fixed, luckily because we have two You can see the same intensity and passion people shared back then. When I took part the tests ahead of us. One is a fast track sprayed first time, it was my dream to discover Africa with an XT500. It was quite a struggle to lay my with stones. Fellow competitors Harry and hands on one. To see people living that dream now is really nice.” Jerome get lost, almost literally since both of Before his Paris-Dakar adventure Auriol was just an amateur enduro and trials rider who estate near Perpignan. We are riding fast, is the first night we camp in a bivouac made them are planted in 'chott': thick mud under a made a living as a sales representative in the textile business. After his seventh place in stony single-track so you still have the time up of small tents and it's a memorable night. thin, hard crunch. The second stage presents us 1979 he became professional. Only two years later (1981) he won the legendary race for to learn how to read the road book and how We get caught by a storm, but there's not too the real fine dune sand synonymous with the the first time. Born in Addis Abeba (Ethiopia), Auriol grew up in Africa and he has always to use GPS. Just like the others I'm a newbie much damage." Dakar. At the end of the day we blast across been fascinated by the continent. The Dakar was more than just a race to him, it was an when it comes to satellite navigation." the beach that's covered with ship wrecks. I opportunity for discovery, reaching your own limits and meeting different cultures. “In spite of Day 6: Yaa Koub – Tinherir feel like a kid in a candy store while the XT's all the various nationalities we had in the group all 'Heroes Legend' riders got along. We gave Day 4: Valencia – Almeria / Nador ,,Standing around Joyce Kuipers, the only fe- are doing overtime." them the opportunity to live their Paris-Dakar dream, an unforgettable adventure you share ,,Aras de los Olmos, that's the name of the male rider in the group, and helping her out with others.” The nature of the ride and the inexperience of most competitors also asked for a mountainous region near Valencia. It's a beau- with a broken sprocket we lose too much time Day 10: Boujdour – Dakhla learning curve from Auriol’s side: “As organizers we constantly had to adapt to the people in tiful test mixing fast tracks with technical and miss the start of the test. No harm's been ,,No stage today, so we have time for a nice the group, their skills and circumstances because what we were used to was all new for others. Day 1: Parijs – Orléans trials, but it's also freezing cold. Most of the done because the route has been changed. long lie-in. It's also time to reorganize and The route was planned as such that everyday they met a new challenge, till the very last stage. ,,Knowing that the raid would depart from time I'm trailing Bart Franssen and Pierre Kars- We can't cross the mountains because there's repack. About right because by now it seems They learned to read the roadbook, how to use the GPS, how to ride in a variety of conditions, Place du Trocadero, the very same place the makers who are experienced riders who have too much snow, so we receive a different as if I can't find a single thing! We still have they got a taste for Africa and they learned to appreciate camaraderie.” Auriol was more first Paris-Dakar took off on the 26th Decem- competed in the real Dakar, and consequently route. It's an interesting track filled with a bit of riding to do in order to reach the next than satisfied with the first edition of ‘Heroes Legend’. “We have proved the concept works, ber 1978, makes my adventure even more know more about navigation than I do. It's a stones and confronting us with the evolution bivouac 300 km on. Nothing special today, all 24 teams who started in Paris reached the finish at Lac Rose. What more could I wish for.” special. Actually it didn't take Heroes Legend great deal of help for me to check if I'm doing of technology. My 25-year old bike does not I'm used to off-road and the tarmac is mind Preparations for the second edition in 2007 are already in full swing, find out more at: founders Henk Verschuren and Roel den the right thing. It takes me some time to get have the level of suspension I'm used to and numbing so I decide to create my own track www.heroeslegend.com Braven a lot of effort to convince me. I always used to keeping my eyes on three things at the it's me who takes the beating." and I ride through the dirt parallel with the wanted to go to the Dakar, to do it on a 25- same time. I'm looking right in front of me, at main road.'' year old XT500 is exactly the kind of adventure the trail ahead and on my road book of course. Day 7: Tinherir – Akka I was craving for. The start itself doesn't disap- Still, I'm having a blast. This has been the best ,,The scheduled time for the liaison is too nar- Day 11: Dakhla – Bir el Gareb and livestock for a livelihood. point either, escorted by police we run across day so far, surprisingly I'm even topping the row but still we're going flat out. In fact we ,,Again we only have a liaison (500 km) ahead Meanwhile I'm being overwhelmed by the Paris while the hectic 'Périferique' ring-road is classification at the end of the day!" are pushing so hard to make it to the start in of us. It's a frustrating experience because I'm magnitude and isolation of the desert. There's blocked just for us. What a feeling!" time we are almost wrecking the bikes. But so used to racing and pushing my own limits. nothing in sight except for sand and the oc- Day 5: Nador – Yaa Koub what a ride! It's cold and foggy when we leave I'm longing for the next challenge, still there casional shack, literally in the middle of no- Day 2: Orléans – Chateau de Lastours ,,Africa, at last! I have only just begun to make but after about 20 minutes we are treated are some other things to keep me busy. We where. I'm counting my own blessings." ,,Stage one was held at La Gremuse, it was also my way onto African soil when I notice there's with a surreal view: atop a valley we feel the cross the border to Mauritania and it strikes the location where the first stage of the first too much weight over the handlebars. When sun breaking through and lighting the trees Day 12: Bir el Gareb – Faidherbe Dakar rally took place. Because of the rain the crossing a dry river bed everything drops off: and all that's green around us. Riding through ,,After two relatively quiet days I find it hard stage was cut short and it left me hungry for my road book and GPS. I'm lucky, Lutz Semt- the valley is even more spectacular, a lot of to get back into the groove. In spite of the more. Anyhow, the five kilometers through ner is around. The helpful German has the hairpins through tiny villages and a river bed beauty of the stage that takes us through 160 mud were sufficient to get a feel for the bike right bolts and I can continue, although I have take us to the finish. You have to stay focused, km of dunes. On top of that my day is filled and to grasp the nostalgia that surrounds to ditch my road one mistake and you might end up 20 meters with technical gremlins: only eight kilometers 'Heroes Legend'. 27 years ago race director book in my back- below. I'm simply in a state of bliss. At night after the start the gasket of my exhaust is yet I'm not scared because I know the race Hubert Auriol rode this stage with exactly pack. The weather we find out how much the bike has been suf- blown out. I make my way back to the start direction can track me down with GPS. Giving the same bike." is bad and the fering from the high paced liaison because we to repair my exhaust, but I forget to take fuel them a call and saying I'm lost in the middle roads are slippery. have to change the engine." with me for the extra 16 kilometers. To make of nowhere feels like giving in. While sipping Day 3: Chateau de Lastours – Valencia Half way we have things even worse my mileage indicator breaks some water I try to clear my head wondering ,,Gradually I'm becoming acquainted with formed a group of Day 8: Akka – Ocean View down and the batteries of my gps come loose. how I will get out of this? I get going and the other competitors and the skills I need. seven, but we can't ,,Before breakfast we realize that my bike me how the world has changed since we left Just when I'm running on empty I realize I'm for the sun. After a while I can spot the It certainly adds to the fun. Today's stage is seem to agree on won't work. A complete bummer, though the glamour of Paris. The majority of the Mauri- actually lost! I'm standing all by myself in this assistance cars in the distance, I manage to situated at Chateau de Lastours, a scenic the direction. This Pierre Karsmakers saves the day and lends me tanian population still depends on agriculture huge sand pit. I feel small and uncomfortable, finish after all."8

34 INSIDER INSIDER 35 XT500 history Regina Chain - In one sense Yamaha’s XT500 models, launched at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1975, con tinued the theme of the marque’s trail bikes since the DT-1 made its debut in 1968. At - the same time the XT500 was a completely new bike offering riders rideability and reli ability never seen before. Right from the start of the 'XT' project in autumn 1974 the Chains for Champions Dakar Japanese engineering group worked closely with a team in the US, the primary market for this new bike. Recreational riding in wide open spaces was booming in America milestone bikes and the XT would be the perfect machine for long distance races in the desert like the legendary Baja 1000 in Mexico. Although technology by then had already moved on to multi-cylinder engines, Yamaha engineers thought a large single-cylinder four-stroke was the way to go. Stefan Everts Andrew Pitt A vigorously intensive test programme in the US resulted in a lightweight, compact Yamaha Intur Sports - ® Yamaha Motor Italia WSB Team and highly durable engine. Not only the development of a powerful 500cc single-cylin Motocross Team OINT

der power unit proved to be challenging but the XT also needed an extraordinary chassis. W P

The frame had to be strong and resistant, yet as light as possible. The development team VIE XT500 - 1979 came up with original solutions like making the crankcase cover of the TT500 enduro bike out of magnesium and using aluminum for the fuel tank. Meanwhile, one of the measures tried to help create a slimmer machine body was a semi-cradle frame. Both the XT500 and its enduro brother, the TT500, became instant hit models in America and

Japan. However, more surprising was the success the bike met in Europe. Off-road rallies in Africa had become ‘en vogue’ in the second half of the seventies and when the young Thierry Sabine got lost in the desert during the Abidjan-Nice rally in - 1977 he came up with the idea for a race that would focus on the desert. The first mo torcyclist to win Thierry Sabine’s inaugural 1979 Paris-Dakar, was the 21-year old Cyril Neveu. The unknown Neveu rode his XT500 to victory as a privateer. Neveu repeated his XT600Z - 1983 - shock win one year later, ahead of three other XT500 mounted riders. The European leg end of the XT was born spawning a hug following in countries like France and Germany. The Yamaha Ténére brand that grew out of the XT500 would become synonymous with the word adventure among European motorcycle fans in the years to come. More than 60.000 XT's were sold in Europe alone.

Noriyuki Haga Day 13: Faidherbe – Saint Louis/ Bango the Dakar rally with my own eyes. We did it, Yamaha Motor Italia WSB Team XTZ660-1986 ,,It strikes me again how tight I sleep in the all 24 Heroes as well as all 24 Legends!'' desert. The nights are magnificent, with a lot of stars and deadly silence surrounding us. Day 15: Lac Rose – Lac Rose The bivouac is very cosy, with all tents ,,This can't be true! For the very last stage standing together in a circle. I'm having around Lac Rose we have to get through Antonio Cairoli fun on the stage as well, although I find it the demanding dunes and at this very mo- Yamaha De Carli Team a little too straight forward. On our way to ment my XT decides he has had enough, the Senegal border we cross a reservation. only ten kilometers from the finish with no YZE750T-1991 We see all kinds of animals: birds, wild pigs, time to get it repaired. Not what you hope Regina has always co-operated with winning teams. strange cows and even some monkeys. for, but it's a reminder that we did cover Winning riders such as Stefan Everts, Antonio Cairoli, The road book creates some confusion, 6000 punishing kilometers on a 25-year old Noriyuki Haga, and Andrew Pitt all use Regina chain. sending us almost into a swamp! The day bike. On the one hand it's cruel to be left ends in Senegal at a resort with a swimming standing in the sand so close to the finish, Because of our very long experience in competition pool. For the first time in ages I feel fresh on the other: there are no winners or losers Regina has developed innovative techniques for and clean." in the Heroes series production. Legend. Even 135RX3 has been developed for motocross bikes, Day 14: Saint Louis/ Bango – Lac Rose when I cross with special chromised pins and pre-formed bushes XTZ850-1997 ,,The start at the beach is magnificent. A the finish couple of hundred people come to watch with a jeep elongation is minimised. and we distribute food packs and clothing. with my bike This chain is the best choice in this eld. Local fishermen will probably have been packed on For Superbikes the ZR chain series has been less pleased because someone accidentally the back I still developed, with Regina patented Z ring seals, and crosses one of their lines. Making it through feel a sense special alloy pin material, high strength, long the dunes is tough, for 15 long kilometers of pride and our aged Legends are really put to the test. I achievement. My XT brought me to Dakar lasting performance, and maximum exibility REGINA S.I.C.C. SpA get an enormous sense of well-being when and it was me who got it there." g are assured. Via Monza 90 - 23870 Cernusco Lombardone (LC) WR450F 2-Trac -2005 suddenly the scenic Lac Rose pops into view. Regina chains: Champions’experience for your needs. Tel. +39 039 9907579 - Fax +39 039 9906782 Finally I'm seeing the iconic landmark of www.reginachain.it - [email protected] 36 INSIDER INSIDER 37 Supermoto Face-off You’d think that race mechanics would want to relax after a long race season, but some members of the Camel Yamaha MotoGP team and the Yamaha Mo- tor Italia world superbike boys had better ideas when it came to passing away the winter months. Besides all the serious test work done for the main race bikes, they each decided to build their riders the fastest, best looking supermoto toys in the business... and it turned into something of a heavyweight contest! Words: Paul Taylor Pictures: Matteo Cavadini

38 INSIDER INSIDER 39 Supermotard is a phenomenon in bike racing. The sport is proving to build the ultimate YZ450F supermotard for their riders. Using titanium Termignoni exhaust systems. Special items, such as the a direct line to the main man himself. Unlike Rossi’s YZ450F, the Haga a popular class thanks to its frantic action and low costs. Competitors their extensive list of contacts the teams begged, borrowed and beautifully detailed engraved triple clamps on the Rossi bike, are bike retains the standard bike’s 449cc capacity. But to make up for can buy a big bore motocross bike, like Yamaha’s YZ450F, fit some created the trickest of trick parts in their bid to create two pieces of works of art. Haga’s bike runs on Pirelli slicks, with Rossi running the lack of outright grunt they’ve sent their YZ450F on a crash diet racing wheels and have some big fun racing. There’s even a world moving art. Despite the standard blue YZ bodywork, Valentino Rossi’s Michelins. Braking supply the calipers and discs for the Yamaha and sourced a carbon fibre fuel tank and titanium subframe straight championship, organised by the same people who run Grand Prix plaything could not belong to anyone but the Italian superstar. With Motor Italia squad’s YZ450F with the MotoGP world champion from Stefan Everts’ factory motocrosser. That’s saved over four motocross. Supermotard proves to be popular with professional racers the mesmerizing yellow number 46 and ‘The Doctor’ logos, Rossi’s preferring the Brembo Goldline system. Rossi’s bike has had the most kilogrammes from the standard parts. They’ve also used magnesium too, like Noriyuki Haga and Valentino Rossi, who ride supermoto for bike is a real eye-catcher. Top quality components and attention to engine tuning, with a Yamaha Rinaldi Research and Development wheels from Marchesini, which are a few hundred grammes lighter fun and as part of their winter training programme. Being based next detail is what separates factory race machines from the rest of the (YRRD) big bore kit taking the motor out to 479cc and around than Rossi’s aluminium Marchesinis. The results are stunning, but door to each other, the Yamaha Motor Italia and MotoGP mechanics pack. Reflecting the choice of suppliers for their actual race bikes, 70bhp. But while Rossi’s crew sourced much of their engine from which is better? Nori’s Italian Stallion or Rossi’s Big Bore Baby… got more than a little competitive with each other as they set-out both motards feature öhlins suspension front and rear and special Michele Rinaldi’s YRRD squad, Nori Haga’s mechanics clearly have turn over for the judge’s verdict.

40 INSIDER INSIDER 41 Projet1 23/05/06 14:58 Page 1

Valentino Rossi Model: 2005 YZ450F Engine: YRRD 479CC engine kit STM slipper clutch MB Motorsport radiator Exhaust: Full titanium Termignoni Chassis: Marchesini alu wheels Front öhlins 48mm ‘The Doctor’ triple clamps Rear öhlins 80kg spring Cycle parts: Domino handlebar BEA sprockets Regina 502 chain Brakes: ‘Brembo goldline’ 16mm master cylinder GP four piston radial mounted caliper 320mm front disk

And the winner is… Choosing between these supermotards was always going to be Noriyuki Haga Crédit photo : Fun Jet Marine. a difficult job, but ultimately there has to be a winner and a Model: 2005 YZ450F loser. Both started out as standard 2005-model YZ450Fs and Engine: MB Motorsport radiator both have been lovingly fettled by some of the world’s top race Clutch/crank cover (YRRD) technicians. Both have the best components money can buy: BMC air filter top of the range Ohlins suspension, juicy factory brakes and the Exhaust: Full titanium Termignoni choicest selection of YRRD engine parts. Chassis: Marchesini magnesium wheels The 479cc engine in Rossi’s bike looked like providing the killer Front öhlins 48mm blow, but in the end our judge’s decision came down to the Rear öhlins 80kg spring detailing. The superbike boys fought back with a custom paint 'Bud’ adjustable triple clamps job in the distinctive red Santander livery and money-can’t-buy Cycle parts: Carbon fuel tank (ex Everts) Titanium sub frame (ex Everts) ex-Everts titanium subframe and a carbon fueltank, while magne- Domino handlebar sium Marchesini wheels were a final blow for The Doctor’s crew. Yamaha Marine préconise BEA sprockets 14/46 Regina 502 chain So a win on points for the Yamaha Motor Italia squad then, but Brakes: ‘Braking’ 16mm behind the scenes a rematch looks like it’s on the cards next master cylinder winter. Seconds out, round two…! four piston radial mounted caliper Disagree? Please visit yamaha-racing.com and vote yourself in 305mm front wave disk the Supermotard face-off poll.

42 INSIDER www.yamaha-marine.com INSIDER 43 .2.01,12 2.01.23 2.00.95 2.03.65 2.01.12 2.00.33...... Knowledge is power... Set- up in wsb Knowledge is power...

In the high-tech world of bike racing, machine set-up can make or break all chances of success. To help them find the optimum settings, top teams employ the latest data acquisition systems to monitor exactly what their bikes are doing. , a former GP250 winner and now technical consultant for Yamaha Motor Europe’s racing division, explains the process teams go through to make sure they give their best on race day Words: Paul Taylor Pictures: Pixelpony

44 INSIDER INSIDER 45 Haga debriefs his crew chief Sylvano Galbusera

Data transfer from bike to laptop

"Data recording is a vital part of mod- used the previous year, or at a test or in bike set-up and is important for future way by making mistakes and crashing. Now they have access to each other’s data, not afraid to make big changes to the bike be- ern racing. When the computers are at- the previous races. A professional team will engine development work, but generally a team of experienced engineers can look at much of it is usable as both guys have gone tween the races. At last year he tached to a bike every time they come into be able to take all the information, along technicians are looking to make sure that the data and find out exactly what the bike is in a completely different direction regarding changed the gearing after the first race and the pits they allow the mechanics to see with their knowledge of the rider to make the performance levels are what could be doing and make up for their rider’s inexperi- the set-up." Wilco Zeelenberg speaks from used that to win the second race. At Valencia every single thing that the bike has done a good estimate for a base setting. expected and trying to find any possible ence. Of course, these guys are still very fast experience after having tested Haga’s bike at this year he changed front fork specification- during the session. Like an aeroplane’s There are numerous different areas that failures before they occur on the track. and talented riders, but by having these ref- the end of the 2005 season; "Andrew Pitt has between races. Bearing in mind that he hadn’t black box system, the data recording sys- can have an effect on bike performance Each of the bike's sensors send data to erence points it helps them get the most out a classic style, taking fast flowing lines into tested them in qualifying that would be a big tem keeps track of every major function of (see p.48) but it’s vital that the team look the main datalogging unit, where it is of their bikes. the corners. By contrast Haga’s bike is not gamble for most riders, but Nori is very expe- the bike – nothing is secret. The chassis data is of most benefit when it what you would call a standard set-up. He rienced and has an unusual understanding of But this isn’t some lie detector used to "The team can accurately determine comes to bike set-up. Sensors attached to has very radical ideas and I think it was dif- exactly what the bike is doing. keep track of the rider and ensure he where an improvement can be made" the bike show the exact amount of move- ficult for the team to grasp this at first, but Noriyuki is also very familiar with the data- keeps trying hard enough, rather a road ment from the suspension at any given once you understand how he likes his bike logging programs. Friday and Saturday eve- map to ensure that they find the correct at what’s holding them back most. Only stored until a technician connects a laptop point on the circuit. This is shown as a line set-up you can appreciate how he can ride nings and in between races he’ll often sit on settings come race day. In the world of once they solve that can they start trying and downloads the information at the end on the screen, which can be interpreted as the way he does. his own in the back of the garage, poring over bike racing, knowledge is power. And with to improve in other areas. of each session. To the untrained eye, the the amount of travel from the suspension. the data. I think he uses that to confirm his modern data recording equipment, teams The Yamaha Motor Italia squad uses a data logging information is simply a col- Likewise all other factors can be checked, "Nori’s mechanics are own thoughts and help him decide on where can have as much knowledge as their MotoGP-specification Magneti Marelli lection of lines across the screen – rather including wheelspin, G-force and lean angle. the hardest worked he wants to go with the bike. One thing’s for technicians can cope with. Marvel 4 system, which combines engine like a heart rate monitor you’d see in a Using this information, and feedback from in the paddock" sure, Nori’s mechanics are the hardest worked management and data logging functions hospital – but a trained operator can tell the rider, the team can accurately determine in the paddock. I don’t think there’s another Data recording is in the same unit. Datalogging covers all exactly what the bike is doing from the where an improvement can be made. When you first ride the bike it just feels rider who makes as many changes over a a vital part of aspects of the bike, both chassis and engine, information. Data recording has become Within the Yamaha Motor Italia team each wrong. The way he has it set-up, it is initially weekend as he does and he wouldn’t be able modern racing and the bike is covered with sensors to mea- much more accessible. Now even the of the two riders has free access to his team- very slow to turn into the corner, but when to make those changes if his team didn’t know sure the movements of each parameter. smallest of teams run basic data acquisi- mate’s data. It means that a rider can overlay you get to the middle of the corner you have exactly what the bike is doing through the use Normally teams will start the first session For the engine it is largely diagnostic, tion systems and this allows young riders to a trace of their own fastest lap with that of the complete freedom to do whatever you of datalogging systems."8 using a set-up based on data they already that is to check that everything is run- compete at the top earlier in their careers. his team-mate to see where the other brakes like with the bike and this is why he can take have. It could be based on the ones they ning ok. This information can be used for In the old days we found out the hard or opens the throttle, for example. Although tighter lines than most riders. He’s also not

46 INSIDER INSIDER 47 Key set-up areas..telemetry in wsb....

Wilco reckons that there are six key areas you don’t have to brake for corners, it's like Friday free practice 19 laps position 3 that are vital for a good set-up. “You have you can tip the bike into the corner and 1:38.120 +1.557 to tackle the one that is giving you the the tyre just scrubs off the speed. Without Haga’s team arrive at Silverstone with the most problems,” he says. “Once you’ve front end feeling you can’t push as hard chassis settings used at the previous round sorted that out you have to go onto the as you’d like, you have to wait until the in Monza and the gearbox ratios from last next one." bike has slowed down before you turn in year’s Silverstone race. The base setting and that makes you lose valuable time. It’s of the machine is now so good that the Gearing difficult to create this feeling, especially in team only make a few small changes to the "If the gearing is too long then you'll carry superbikes where you don't have much tyre chassis between the races. Haga’s spare bike too much speed into the corner and miss specifications to choose from. Contary to essentially has the same settings, although the apex, too short and you may hit the rev there are some small changes, most notably limiter down the straight or at an inappro- with the swingarm. The number 1 bike runs a priate time. As a rider this is the first thing specially fabricated swingarm, while the 2nd I would want to sort out as the gearing has bike runs a slightly modified standard item. a lot of influence on the bike set-up and Both have their advantages and disadvantages the way that it reacts, especially on these but after testing Haga is preferring the special 1000cc four-cylinder bikes. Other aspects of swingarm. Heavy rain means that the team the set-up can also affect the gearing, for can’t get as much information as they’d like but they still want to take steps forward to get out and evaluate the changes they example a new tyre with a wider contact from the session but the team soften the bike’s and Haga does 7 laps to see if they have made on Friday evening but were unable patch will alter the rpm when the bike suspension and power delivery and Haga goes made an improvement to the wet weather to test in the rain. Haga must evaluate the is leaned over or improved engine map- MotorGP, in World Superbike you can’t go out for 19 laps, setting the 3rd fastest time. set-up. Noriyuki is still asking more from his revised suspension settings and fuel mappings, ping can allow you to run shorter gearing to your tyre supplier and ask for a specific bike, especially with regards to traction, but as well as trying to find a suitable specification thanks to a smoother throttle action. Gear- tyre to be developed for each circuit. In- Friday first qualifying 25 laps overall things are not bad and the times are rear tyre for the race. Despite not being able ing can also work in association with the stead you must use production slicks that position 4 competitive in the wet and dry. to tryout all the tyre choices, Haga declares engine mapping, which allows engineers to have softer and rounder carcasses than 1:27.364 +0.353 himself ready to fight for victory in the race. adjust the power characteristics through MotoGP tyres, which in turn means less But for a few damp spots, the track is dry Saturday second free practice the engine management and fuel injection feeling from the tyre. Haga found that us- for the afternoon’s qualifying session. The 14 laps position 6 1:42.699 +1.840 Sunday race 1 position 2 +0.890 systems. Mapping allows them to move the ing a specially created wide triple clamp The rain hasn’t stopped and with a wet Haga studies telemetry data meticulously team is back with the settings they arrived at Happy with the warm-up, the team makes no power around the rev range. Depending on on the forks of his R1 made a big improve- Silverstone with and the feeling with Haga is superpole session on the cards everyone is further changes to the set-up for race 1. Haga the circuit the engineers may decide to set ment to front end feel." generally positive. Like all top riders Noriyuki out to try and get a feeling for the conditions makes a good start and leads the opening the mapping for mid-range power at the these problems, either to make the bike turn is a perfectionist and never satisfied with ahead of the grid deciding 50-minute session. laps, before championship leader expense of some ultimate horsepower." Chatter or to hold the line. Problems on the corner the settings. Like most of his fellow Japanese Traction is still Haga’s biggest problem, but makes a pass at mid distance. Haga stalks the "When riders experience chatter from exit come when you open the throttle and riders, Haga has been disciplined into working with water streaming across the circuit it’s a Australian and looks like he might be able to Traction the rear tyre they know that the bike is the bike runs wide. Sometimes you might completely towards the race set-up, rather problem affecting every rider on the grid. The pass on the brakes. But a small mistake on the "Riders are always bouncing around and on the limit. What find that you’ve got a problem with two than doing quick one-off laps. It’s a policy that rider feels a slight vibration with the bike late penultimate lap allows Bayliss to make a break looking for good rear happens is that the rear tyre vibrates under of these aspects and the others are ok, but often sees Japanese riders qualifying lower on in the session, so as a precaution the team and the R1 rider comes home an impressive grip, because no grip deceleration into the corner. It used to generally you should target finding a good the grid than their European rivals but which takes the engine out to check. 2nd, less than a second behind the leader. equals no speed. Of happen a lot in the old days when the tyre balance." pays dividends on race day, where they can Haga comes into the pits and is pretty happy course, all circuits and performance was much better than the achieve their full potential. Rear end traction Saturday superpole position 4 with the bike but naturally still searching for tyres offer different suspension and these days nine times out Engine braking is the main area of concern for Haga and 1:38.546 +0.545 more. As he goes for lunch and some rest the levels of grip so the of ten it is caused by the rear suspension "The engine braking produced by a standard during the session the team is able to make The rain stops just before the session but the team make a few final changes. rider must go on his being too hard and pushing the front end. R1 is so immense that you almost don’t small suspension changes to try and improve waterlogged track shows no signs of drying. past experience, as With chatter you have no damping left have to use the brakes to slow down, you the bike. After the session the team has a full Superpole is declared wet, which means a Sunday race 2 position 2 +1.585 well as looking at how and the movement can cause the oil in the can just roll off the throttle. On a superbike debrief and agree to try some new engine change of tactics. Rather than the usual 1 A few minor tweaks to the front fork and the other riders’ bikes shock to foam up and even boil." R1, with its higher compression ratio, this maps and suspension settings the following flying lap, a 50-minute session is held with fuel mapping are made ahead of race 2. are performing. Generally if you are side- effect is even greater. Racers try to reduce day. They are not major adjustments and the each rider allowed a maximum of 12 laps to The 2nd outing follows the pattern of the ways all the time and struggling to match Handling the effect of the engine braking and con- mechanics will have an early night. set their fastest time. Haga and Pitt both wait first and Haga is not quite able to run the times of your rivals then you have a "For handling you can break the problems sequently the level of back wheel lock up. 20 minutes before going out, hoping that the with Bayliss’ Ducati, coming home second traction problem. On a closed throttle and down into four areas: corner entry, mid- Too much engine braking causes the bike to track will dry. Haga takes two runs, of three again. The minor changes he made were an at maximum lean all riders will be getting corner, corner exit and changing direction. push into the corners so we use the elec- Saturday second qualifying 7 laps and six laps, to make his time. The spare bike improvement and the final Silverstone set-up similar levels of grip. If the bike is sliding Problems on entry are often caused by the tronics to reduce this. We’re not trying to position 3 provides slightly less feeling than the one he will be used as the base for a test at Brno when you open the throttle then the bike bike diving into the corner, although at the get it like a two-stroke, which has virtually 1:46.090 +0.288 has used over the weekend but a valuable three weeks later. More dry weather running won’t turn and you have to stay on the apex it can be fine. Mid-corner instability no engine braking, because we still want The track is wet, much wetter than yesterday, front row start is secured. would have allowed more fine-tuning of the critical part of the tyre longer." can be caused by the front being too soft some feeling. Although it’s mostly the en- and with sunshine predicted for race day only set-up, especially in the complex electronics, and the rear perhaps being too high. You gine management that restricts the engine a handful of riders take to the track. Among Sunday warm-up 14 laps position 4 and would have provided improved lap times Front end feel will often see riders moving their bodies braking, superbikes are also fitted with a those are Haga and his Yamaha Motor Italia 1:27.539 +0.287 and tyre longevity – although the Yamaha "It’s critical to have a good feeling with the around and fighting with the bike in the back torque limiter (also known as a slipper team-mate Andrew Pitt. The team is unable Dry conditions greet the riders for the 20 team are in the same boat as their rivals. g

front tyre. When it is good it is almost as if middle of the corner to compensate for clutch) to help control this." g to evaluate the changes they made last night minute practice session, so the team is eager

48 INSIDER INSIDER 49 Michele Rinaldi a man in full Michele Rinaldi won one world title in his racing career, but he achieved so much more as a team manager. Rinaldi has guided his riders to an impressive nine world titles in only fifteen years. At the end of this season Michele will step down from his operational involvement with Yamaha’s factory motocross team and leave this to his brother Carlo. Michele himself will concentrate on technical development and his role as motocross consultant for Yamaha Motor Europe. Insider looks back on Rinaldi’s rich and eventful career Words: Tom Jacobs Pictures: Massimo Zanzani

50 INSIDER INSIDER 51 Unlike many riders Rinaldi did not inherit He started competing in GP’s in 1978 and, his love for racing from his father. He actually a rarity for an Italian rider back at the time, had to fight for his right to ride. Or at least was allowed to enter the complete beg and plead relentlessly. Luckily Michele's championship in 1979. ”Back home I was brother Luca, four years his senior, paved one of the better riders, but I still had so the way for him. ”My father didn't want me much to learn. My eyes opened when I was to ride, motocross was forbidden. He was invited to Belgium with other TGM riders to a doctor and he was very concerned about train for a week with . Can Michele and Carlo in their earlier days the risks. After long arguments Luca you imagine? I got to meet my idol. I saw Late Donnie Schmit on the throttle managed to convince my father to let him his house and his trophies. I was touched. to think any differently. Being a champion is have a light enduro bike. After a while my We went running and training together and have working for you, how big your company also about keeping your focus. To be self-cen- brother even received permission to com- one day Roger brought us to Lommel. I had is or how much money you have. You need to tered is not evil, at least not for a sportsman. pete in local enduro races. But Luca was never been to a track with such deep sand, know how you can reach your target.” When I look back I realize I was too generous. crashing a lot,” smiles Michele. When his so it turned into a complete disaster. I im- I took my time to talk with media or fans and father finally bought him a second-hand mediately understood that if I wanted to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde I wanted to please them. It's part of my per- Ancillotti, Michele had to promise never have top results I had to go outside of Italy Michele was under the impression that Luca, Michele, and Carlo Rinaldi brothers in arms sonality and I don't regret what I did because ever to go racing. For the time being to train with the best.” Michele persisted Italian companies at that time did not have it's me. Sometimes you have to be impolite and Michele was over the moon, riding his and went back to Belgium. As soon as he the drive nor the technology needed to suc- First Italian World champion The first Italian motocross world champion not go to dinner late at night. This brings me 50cc moped through the woods near his had his driver's license he drove down, all ceed. So he grabbed the opportunity with With his bikes and previous year's spares moved up to the 250 class for 1985. With two to a theory I have about champions. I feel that home town Casatico (North West of Italy, by himself without a mechanic, using his both hands when the squad offered Michele set off on his title challenge. Rinaldi fourths (1985-1987) and another runner-up it's a lot harder for Latin people to stay at the close to Parma). His competition debut only week of ski holiday from school to practice him a factory ride for 1983 alongside Erik surprised in the 1984 pre-season races with title in 1986 Rinaldi underlined his worth. top, compared to riders from northern parts of materialized after even more moaning and and race in the Eldorado of motocross. Geboers. A battle developed, but a mid-sea- blistering speed and a healthy dose of aggres- However a crash in the Paris-Dakar rally had Europe. People in the south are extremely pas- begging and only because youth races ran ”I was missing some good opportunities for son injury blew Rinaldi’s chances and again sion. But at the very first Bercy Supercross caused further damage to his shoulder and sionate about their heroes. It gets to a point with restricted carburetor dimensions as national races, but I knew I was going for he had to settle for second. “We decided it event he jumped on a hay bale and dislocated Michele decided to retire at the end of the where it disturbs the focus you need. Personally well. The bikes provided virtually no power, my future. I recall being lapped by Gaston was best to get surgery on my knee quickly, his left shoulder. It was hard to judge how 1987 season. I didn’t want a trainer or somebody to manage but Michele quickly made a name for him- Rahier and many other riders, but I was not so I missed the last GP, but I was upbeat serious this type of injury is, so Michele con- me. I think it’s important for you to be your self in local races. “A small motorcycle com- afraid of losing my name. Simply because about the next season.” At least he was for tinued racing. Eight more times the shoulder What legends are made of own man, to learn by yourself. Nobody expects pany from Parma, TGM, was starting out in I had no name. To me it didn't matter how a while, because Michele got the shock of would pop out and finally there was no other ”Winning races or being a good rider is not you to be a hero in 24 hours. It’s actually good motocross and they asked if I was interested much time and effort I had to spend. I just his life when Suzuki pulled out of world choice than to have surgery. Three rounds that difficult,” he reckons. ”Being a champion to spend time bleeding a little bit. To experience in riding their motocross bike. Completely wanted to be motocross champion.” Rinaldi motocross after the first year. Because of his went by and when the racer/owner of a ‘sec- is really something else. To win races and to yourself is better than following the recipe of would quickly reap the fruits of his labour. two-year contract the Japanese manufac- ond hand’ team came back he was trailing by keep on doing it, takes a very special kind of ”You need to know In 1980 he came second to Stefan's dad turer couldn’t deny Rinaldi the right to his 105 points. Despite his bad luck Michele did person. Honestly, people have no idea how "Nobody expects how you can reach in the 125cc World Champion- bikes, spares and truck. Equally he was free not give up. He concentrated on individual hard it is to do what Stefan does. Year after you to be a hero your target.” ship. The young Italian had caught the eye to leave. Exactly what the other top riders races and started racking up heat wins. By year. I’m still amazed when I see what he pulls in 24 hours" of the larger Italian company and did, except Rinaldi. ”I still can’t explain why the very last GP of the season in Luxemburg, off. Personally I was never a champion." says for free, absolutely no cost. I was 13 and moved on with them. Although his switch I chose to go my own way. It just seemed the gap between Rinaldi and leader Maddii the always modest Michele. "I have tried re- someone else and achieving overnight success.” this was my big chance! They went to my to Gilera didn't bring him the world title, better to try and find the money to set up had shrunk to 33 points. “On Sunday morning ally hard, and I have put all my energy into From rider to team manager Rinaldi's transi- father to get his approval, but he refused. Rinaldi gained recognition and motocross my own team and to keep the bike that I Maddii got hurt and retired. I refused to start achieving my goals but I came up short. It’s tion into team management was a swift one. Luca and I kept pushing, so in the end my became more popular in Italy. “In terms liked so much. You can't imagine how dif- at first, because it felt wrong to take advan- hard to define what makes a true champion. Taking care of his own team for three years father said: We can see for one season. I did of promotion it was a masterstroke. Gilera ficult it was because I had no experience in tage of Maddii’s misery. I won the first heat, Certainly determination and personality top gave him the backbone to cater to the needs of very well on a regional level and I thought made motocross and me famous in Italy team management. I felt like Dr Jekyll and but I really struggled in the second. I was the list. Only people who have tried the same, top riders. The structure of the team was already it was obvious that I would go on. Still my through TV, magazines and newspapers. Mr. Hyde! Part of the day I was the athlete behind Jan Postema in sixth, but I was rid- know this kind of challenge. Still, how many in place when he quit as a rider. He simply had father said no. My father really had to give Unfortunately the results were not as good preparing to win the world title, the other ing so bad that I couldn’t get through. In the people can truly say they've tried everything? to change what could be improved, thus re- his blessing season by season. Eventually as they could have been. It became clear to part I was the business man. It was extreme- end Jan let me pass! I had just enough points Before anything else, you must simply be the placing the rider. American rider Rodney Smith he gave in.” Just a couple of years later me what kind of support you need to win. ly tough, but I don't regret it because it got to take the title. I simply couldn’t be happy best you can. This will get you a lot further than was drafted in from Brazil, where he had won Rinaldi’s international career was launched. It not only matters how many people you me to where I am now.” about it, not even in the days after the race.” you could ever imagine. A champion can’t afford five national titles. The enigmatic American8

52 INSIDER INSIDER 53 Power people who managed the racing activities. I can unfortunately there had always been some- to the people honestly say we don't always have the biggest thing between us, so I was really happy when budget, but we always try to spend it wisely.” he joined our team. Writing him off like some did was stupid because his abilities were still The Everts era intact. He just needed his confidence back. From 1995 to 1998 the team went through a For a great champion it takes a lot of courage dry spell. They still won GP's but another world to come back from zero, but he did it. In ‘02 title only followed in 1999. The 1997 season and ‘03 Everts struggled with his early season marked Yamaha's first GP season with the performance, but we came up with solutions. revolutionary prototype YZM400F four-stroke Working with Stefan is not always easy. He’s motocrosser. A project that had also been of- extremely demanding and he knows what he Michele Rinaldi and his nine world championship winning machines fered to Rinaldi, but at that time he was too wants. Like in every relationship, there has to Naturally the GP activities from the Rinaldi-managed involved in fielding two-stroke bikes. Michele be a little give and take. Altogether it’s been Yamaha Motocross Team receive the most attention, gave the Rinaldi team its first podium spot A simple plan rider adapt to the bike. The machine should felt sorry he had to refuse the opportunity. amazing what Stefan has achieved and I’m but what the team learns on the track doesn’t stay overall: Smith finished the 1988 250 season Former Yamaha motocross manager, now adapt to the man. You cannot make a bike Nevertheless Rinaldi and his team effectively proud we are a part of his incredible story.” within the team. Since 1995 Michele Rinaldi and Yamaha in third. A lot more was to come from 1989 managing director of for a rider you have never seen, from whom ran Yamaha's official four-stroke entry two ”To me the confidence that Michele Motor Europe have joined forces to form Yamaha recruit Alessandro Puzar as well. Puzar was srl, Lin Jarvis approached Michele Rinaldi you don’t know his preferences, or for the years later. Fellow Italian Andrea Bartolini showed when he signed me at the end of Rinaldi Research & Development. YRRD acts as an independent unit in the Rinaldi group, with Luca Rin- a true character in every sense of the word. to ride for Yamaha in 1990, but it wasn't specific European tracks he is riding.” Rinaldi's brought home the 500cc world title in Rinaldi’s 2000 was a great encouragement,” recalls aldi taking care of the commercial racing kit. The very “Sandro was - no let me correct that- is to until 1992 that the iconic Chesterfield outfit approach to running a team is straight- debut year with the programme. Yamaha’s first Everts. ”I was even surprised I was offered a first project of YRRD was the highly collectable YZ125 this very day a wild guy! He was carefree debuted with Yamaha machinery and im- forward, professional and pragmatic while four-stroke world title marked the start of factory contract after the two disastrous years Chesterfield replica bike inspired by the machine that with a gypsy attitude and he pulled some mediately became even more successful. The keeping in touch with human values. Despite the four-stroke revolution in the sport and a I've had. I learnt a lot from him about manag- propelled Bob Moore to his 1994 world title. Now 11 years on Rinaldi engine kit parts are used by crazy stunts. Puzar was hugely talented; it dream team of Donnie Schmit, Bob Moore the success he has brought to Yamaha's blue dominance that continues to this current ing my expectations and how to handle the Japanese GP winner Billy Mackenzie, Kenneth Gunder- wasn't me who made his career. I just pol- and Puzar dominated the 250 class, bringing motocross activities Rinaldi is not one to different stages of the championship. What sen and three-time world champion Alessio Chiodi. Also ished the diamond. He needed to learn what home first, second and fourth respectively. claim he did it all by himself. ”The task of "Michele has makes Rinaldi special is not only his experi- Stefan Everts uses a range of specially made YRRD parts to eat and how to train. I've devoted a lot “Donnie won, but all three of them could a team manager is quite simply to make educated everybody ence in motocross but also his wisdom and from camshaft, cylinder head, crankshaft, valves and programmable CDI to a carbon fuel tank and titanium of time to help Puzar improve and when he have done it because this was an amazingly the rider happy. Give him what he needs to in the team" composure. I had a hard time at first when rear subframe. YRRD not only supply special project won the world title it was a great personal strong line-up.” Rinaldi's first year with win. Therefore we need to optimize what he didn’t come back with answers right away. engines and parts to supported riders, they also develop satisfaction. Yamaha started with a bang, despite the lim- we get from Japan, what the team can add season. But around that time another major Gradually I learnt how Michele likes to weigh high performance customer kit parts derived from the After he came second in 1989 (125) I was ited experience of the team, when it came and what our partners supply. It’s like put- step was being made by the Rinaldi group up his decisions and take the time to think. official GP machines. The programme has been expand- convinced that he needed to compete in to both the bikes and the parts. Not blind to ting together the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. and Yamaha Europe. More and more specific The complete team has a great spirit and the ing year after year, building a rock solid reputation. Michele Rinaldi: ”It’s great to see the success riders have the 250 world championship. I remember possible improvements though, Rinaldi and The team is there to give the best possible technical development had to be carried out idea that for every problem there is a solution thanks to our kits. More than anything the YRRD pro- that he was panicking at the beginning of Yamaha Europe set up a different system for support. That's all there is to it. We try to outside of Japan. The relationship was further gives you a lot of strength. I could not have gramme is about helping Yamaha riders to accomplish the 1990 season. We were practicing at a the 1993 season, trading factory bikes minimize what could keep us from winning. strengthened and step by step the original hoped for a better team to work with.” their goals in racing. So we feel a lot of responsibility. sand track and Puzar stopped in the middle But you still need a degree of luck of course. 400cc engine was increased by the Italians to It’s hard to describe exactly what has made That’s why we don't take chances, we test very thor- oughly. When the first production bikes arrive in May or of the track. Things were not going well "We try to minimize I believe that our service to our riders ex- more than 500cc. Requiring not only a special the Yamaha Intur Sports Motocross Team the June we take our experience from the GP’s and see what because his lap times were seven seconds what can keep us ceeds what other teams do. We have no time cylinder, piston, cylinder head and special cam- smooth operating crew it is today. ”Clearly a we can add to improve them. Since last year we have slower than his team mate John van den from winning" limits, we are available 24/7 and everyone shafts, but even a different crank case as well. lot of the working methods and the atmo- been working closely with Andrea Bartolini who is our Berk. When we ran up to him he was hang- in the team is used to going the distance. Everts‘ championship winning years also saw sphere of the team are inspired by Michele, dedicated test rider for YRRD and the GP team. By Oc- ing over his handlebars and he was crying. for modified production . “We Of course not all riders who join our team the growing involvement of Michele’s younger even when he is physically not present,” con- tober we'll have completed the package and production will start. Finally the kits will be ready to be shipped to Then he started yelling at me saying that I wanted to create a stable environment for have had the success we hoped for. But until brother Carlo, who has now taken over the role firms Carlo. ”Michele has educated everybody clients by early February. By all accounts it’s a huge job; had forced him to move to 250s and that the team, Yamaha Europe and Yamaha the very last day we keep on trying. I should as the leading team manager. Of course the in the team. First off he brings a lot of pro- because we are not a factory, just a small group of peo- he'd been better of staying in the 125 class. Japan to work together. From the very start also point out that we've enjoyed a great astonishing performance of Everts has not al- fessionalism and passion to the group. And ple. We aim to offer our clients the best in performance I talked a lot with him in the following our aim was to prepare the best possible working relationship with Yamaha Europe. ways been as easy as looked from the outside. secondly it's his attitude about going for the and reliability at a reasonable cost.” YZ125, YZ250F and YZ450F riders can obtain the YRRD race kits through weeks and his spirit soared again. Puzar bike specifically for each individual rider. From Gary Benn at first, then Tom Borst and Michele Rinaldi: ”Even if he was coming back best. It’s not always easy, but gradually it the European Yamaha distributors and selected dealers. never looked back and that year he crushed This led to the 125cc World Championship Laurens Klein Koerkamp today we have al- after two years of injury I was still keen to race becomes a way of life.” g Please visit www.yamaha-racingparts.com the competition winning the world title.” with Moore in 1994. It’s nonsense to let the ways been on the same wavelength with the with Stefan Everts. We had talked before, but for more information.

54 INSIDER INSIDER 55 g

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Phazer FX. The legend returns.

56 INSIDER INSIDER 57 Behind closed doors "All these bikes look pretty much the same when you see them going around the race track but it's that work that goes on behind the scenes that helps turn my Yamaha R6 into what is hopefully this year’s championship winner". Yamaha’s main title challenger in the World Supersport Championship, Australian Kevin Curtain, but, if we’re at the races and someone has two big crashes, like really big Achim assembles the engines for both Broc and I and he can build a explains to us what is needed to win at the top level in Supersport racing. ones, then it’s normal for the other mechanics to help out. No one’s go- complete engine from scratch in one day. Then they'll put it on the en- ing to leave early if there’s work to be done. Behind the main workshop gine dyno to run it in and make sure everything’s ok. There’s no point Words: Kevin Curtain Pictures: Pixelpony we have the area where the engines are assembled. Every time we come taking eight engines to the circuit and only discovering there’s a prob- "My team is run by Yamaha Motor Germany, which is the distributor seen for a supersport team and can probably be compared to any back from the circuit the engines get stripped down, checked and reas- lem when you get there. for all Yamaha motor products in, well, Germany! The team is man- of the top world superbike outfits. When you first come in, the -im sembled. Because you can’t change so much in supersport, most of the This place is probably every mechanic’s dream. We have a machine aged by Terrell Thien and employs eight people full-time. Yamaha mediate thing you see is the main workshop area. This is where the parts are standard R6. What we can change we generally get made to shop, you can weld, make parts, whatever you need. Everything can Germany’s headquarters is based in Neuss, close to Dusseldorf. mechanics work on the chassis and where the engines are put in and our specification by specialist companies or areYEC ��������������������� (Yamaha Engineer- be done in house and that really helps us accelerate the development. The workshop itself is very modern. The whole thing was only taken out. If there’s crash damage then they would get all stripped ing Company) racing kit parts�. Just off to the side is a little place I call the dirty room. It's where all opened in 2001 and is a pretty good environment. If I was a me- down, given new fairing, stickers and so on. It’s very clean and We’ve got eight engines per rider although this year we’re using just the development takes place on the cylinder heads, like the porting chanic looking to get into a team I don’t think I could ask for any well organized here. I have two bikes and two mechanics, as does one engine per weekend. Last year we would change the engine after and the grinding. The hardest thing about what Marcus does is that it better than this, as all the tools you need to do the job properly my teammate Broc Parkes. We’ve each got a chief mechanic, who qualifying as a precaution, but the new engine is that much better and is so time consuming. To create a new configuration of cylinder head, are here. I live just five minutes down the road and pop in most oversees the work done by the other guy. There’s always got to be we’re getting much more life out of it. Our technical director Marcus every port has to be identical for it to perform the best. That’s why it’s days to see how the guys are doing and to discuss the develop- one guy who’s really responsible for everything otherwise it can go Eschenbacher does all the development and he has trained one of my me- so dirty in here, because he’s always using his grinders. I trained as a ment progress with the team. It’s certainly the best set-up I’ve ever pear shaped. Normally they will only work on their own rider’s bikes chanics, Achim Kariger, to assemble them to perfection. mechanic and used to do this myself years ago. I grew up racing 8

58 INSIDER INSIDER 59 dirt bikes and motocross so I used to port the cylinders on my own bikes. One of the most important areas for us is the dyno room. There are two dynos here. The chassis dyno is the same type that you’d find in some of the big dealer- ships or tuning shops. Sometimes these are State of the art engine dyno is invaluable Yamaha Motor Germany run the latest 2D datalogging and to top teams Motec engine management systems called rolling road dynos, as they have a 600kg roller that provides resistance and in turn can be used to measure the bike’s output. We use this for testing out all the little things that the boys make, running the engines in and so on, but not for the actual development work. Next door to that we have a very sophis- ticated engine dyno where Marcus spends most of his time. Here, the engine is tested out of the chassis but what you can do Workshop environment is spotlessly clean Yamaha Motor Germany's workshop also features a rolling road dyno Kevin and Marcus discuss the latest dyno results with it is amazing. You can control the air temperature and wind speed, so you can accurately simulate the conditions you find stick in some new parts and try it out on you need to keep working hard. Develop- high-tech when they completely create or middle of the bike. The suspension guy has to suspension person has to be really good to at a race track. Marcus can control it all at the dyno. For example, trying out a new set ment is an ongoing process and the minute reproduce a new fuel map. I don’t know how work hard to set the bike up around the tyre. make sure you get the tyre lasting longer. a computer outside the room and he can of camshafts is at least a day’s work by the you fall asleep the other teams will get to do that… probably because I can’t use a Supersport rules mean that we must keep It’s an ongoing thing. The more horsepower see what’s going on through a window. time the mapping and everything else gets ahead, so Marcus is always trying to make computer! the chassis standard. Our race bikes use the you get the more grip you need and the The computer shows him everything that’s sorted out. We use a sophisticated Motec improvements to the engine. �������������������������������������������The engine is currently producing 140 bhp, completely standard frame, swingarm, wheels more tyre life you need. going on: revs, temperature, power, torque engine management system and have the As a basic standard package the R6 is an which is quite an improvement over the stan- and brake calipers. We’re allowed to change The bike is developing all the time and and so on, while he has a throttle to control latest 2D data recording unit which helps awesome bike. But when our guys put in dard bike. Engine and suspension are your the rear shock and fork internals, which we the difference between us and Sebastien it with. It’s so noisy when it’s running that enormously. But even so, it is still very the extra technology to make it a race bike two key development areas. With the engine have replaced with factory Ohlins stuff, and Charpentier (who won the title last year) it would be dangerous to be in the room time consuming. it steps it up another level, so much that it is yet to overcome. I am positive that we'll at the same time, not only because of the The rules in supersport are really tight is hard to compare the standard bike to our “You need the power where it counts” be able to catch up and have a fierce battle noise but also in case the engine breaks and don’t allow you to change much. We race bike. Marcus will try lots of things out for the championship this year. You’ve got during an extreme dyno test. We use this to can change the electronics and some en- here before giving it to us to test. Normally we make up most of our time going from we have a suspension set-up specialist work- to play the game right. It’s a long series, 12 gine parts. The bottom end of the motor the improvements are so gradual that you corner to corner. Most racetracks only have ing with us throughout the race weekend. As rounds this year, and you can’t win it in the "The engine is currently is pretty much standard and while you’re can’t really notice them on the track. You one, maybe two really long straights, so if you a race bike, this R6 works much better than first few races, not even in the first six – it’s producing 140 bhp" allowed to change things like the valves can move power around, and if he was to can’t get off the corners well then you won’t the one I rode last year. The front end grip is impossible. For me it's not just about win- and camshafts, you’re not allowed high-lift take five horsepower from the middle and get anywhere. You need the power, where it amazing and the only problem I’ve had in the ning races. Sometimes you can’t so you’ve see the results of any new parts we make cams, bigger or much lighter valves than on stick it down the bottom, or the top, then counts, coming off corners rather than just at first races was crashing out due to a lack of got to use your head and think about the and also do stuff like endurance testing of the standard bike. The teams have to make we'd notice, but if it's only two horsepower the top end. ground clearance. We’ve fixed that now by overall goal. When I ride it’s a fine line be- the engines. If you want to race at a high a lot of small changes to the bike to give us then a rider normally can’t notice. Suspension is all about rider preference. using a modified YEC generator cover that tween pleasure and pain. If you slip off the level and work with today's injection sys- an advantage and the dynos are������������� essential But if he changes the fuel map and its not Some like it soft and some like it very rigid. stops the engine touching down on right bike you might not even make the race, so tems then you really need an engine dyno. equipment in that.��������������������� A lot of teams don’t running quite right, say, between 10,000 I’m probably somewhere in between. Broc hand corners. you’ve got to push yourself but you’ve also It allows you to make mappings and set up have a facility like this and it costs them so and 14,000 rpm then we can tell. Even if it’s and I have completely different riding styles. We only have two tyre options to choose got to be careful. The team knows this and the electronics because you can completely much time and money because they have to just a little bit we can usually tell by If you watch us out on the circuit, you’ll see from at the circuit and if you can’t get good we’re all working towards the same goal." g control it and set it to run at any revolution travel here and there to test new parts. Un- the way the throttle feels. After each run that he hangs right off the side of the bike tyre life then you’re not going to be there at you need. Developing new engine parts re- less you’re winning every race by a country they attach the computer to download and puts a lot of weight over the front wheel. the end of the race. If your tyre goes off after ally is a time consuming job. You don’t just mile then there’s no reason to be happy and the data and find any problems. It’s fairly I have more of a neutral style, staying in the ten laps then it’s like ‘see ya later’, so your

60 INSIDER INSIDER 61 Insider Database

Welcome to Database, the section of Insider that tells you all you need to know about Yamaha’s official 2006 racing activities

Riders 60-63 From Abe to Voss, Database brings you the lowdown on the official Yamaha riders in all classes for 2006

64-65 Bikes Full technical rundowns on Yamaha’s YZR-M1, YZF-R1, YZF-R6, YZ450FM, YZ250F, WR450F and WR250F machines

Calendar 66 What’s happening where and when in the world of MotoGP, World Superbike, World Supersport, MX-GP, World Endurance and World Enduro

More detailed rider biographies and technical specifications of bikes from all classes can be found on the www.yamaha-racing.com website. Yamaha-racing.com also has an extensive collection of copyright-free (for editorial and private use) photography available for download. The gallery includes an historic archive as well. Insiders and members of the media can subscribe to our free e-mail news and race report service, on all featured classes (except AMA-Supercross). Insiders and media subscribers can also benefit from a more comprehensive photo archive.

62 INSIDER INSIDER 63 Riders

Camel Yamaha Team Yamaha Motor Italia Yamaha Motor Germany Lorenzini by Leoni Noriyuki Haga Kevin Curtain Gianluca Viziello Valentino Rossi Date of birth: 22 May 1966 Date of birth: 02 March 1975 Date of birth: 3 March 1980 Place of birth: Sydney, Australia Date of birth: 16 February 1979 Place of birth: Aichi, Japan Place of birth: Policoro, Italy Residence: Lake Macquarie, Australia Place of birth: Urbino, Italy Residence: Milan, Italy Residence: Policoro, Italy Height: 170cm Residence: London, UK Height: 168cm Height: 174cm Weight: 60kg Height: 182cm Weight: 65kg Weight: 71kg Bike: YZF-R6 Weight: 59kg Bike: YZF-R1 41 11 Bike: YZF-R6 45 Bike: YZR-M1 Superbike legend Haga impressed with third place in the championship last year, This veteran Aussie had his best ever year on the world stage in 2005, finishing Flamboyant Italian Vizziello makes the step up to supersport with the same 46 outscoring eventual champion over the latter half of the season. second in the Supersport World Championship. With the new R6 at his disposal, team that took him to second in the 2004 European superstock series. A tough The greatest of his generation, arguably of all time, seven-time champion With the R1 now fully developed as a superbike, the Japanese ace should be a title the ever popular Curtain will surely be among the favourites for the 2006 title and determined competitor, Gianluca will not be fazed by his new rivals. Rossi enters 2006 looking to make it a hat-trick of MotoGP titles with contender in 2006 and will be guaranteed to provide thrills wherever he goes. despite celebrating his 40th birthday during the season. Yamaha. The Italian has won 125, 250, 500 and MotoGP world titles and Massimo Roccoli ranks alongside names like David Beckham, Michael Schumacher and Tiger Broc Parkes Andrew Pitt Date of birth: 25 August 1983 Woods as a genuine sporting superstar and brand in his own right. Date of birth: 24 December 1981 Place of birth: Rimini, Italy Date of birth: 19 February 1976 Place of birth: Hunter Valley, Australia Residence: Verucchio, Italy Place of birth: Kempsey, Australia Residence: Hunter Valley, Australia Height: 168cm Colin Edwards Residence: Douglas, Isle of Man, UK Height: 170cm Weight: 56kg Height: 178cm Date of birth: 27 February 1974 Weight: 64kg Bike: YZF-R6 Place of birth: Houston, USA Weight: 65kg 55 Bike: YZF-R6 23 Italian young gun moves to supersport after an impressive debut in superstock Residence: Texas, USA Bike: YZF-R1 88 A protégé of former 500cc world champion Wayne Gardener, Parkes showed last year. A tough rider who should find the less physical nature of the R6 better Height: 179cm Pitt showed grit and consistency in his debut superbike season. Finishing considerable strength last year as he adapted to the R6 in his first year with Yamaha. suited to him than the R1 he rode last year. Massimo scored his first win in Misano. Weight: 66kg eighth overall, the hardworking Aussie was a regular top six finisher by the His determination paid off with a win at the final round. Bike: YZR-M1 end of the year and won his first race at Misano this year. Pitt won the super- 5 sport world title in 2001. Now he’s targeting the same in superbike. Two-time superbike world champion Edwards looks to continue his MotoGP Lorenzini by Leoni progression in his second year with the Yamaha factory team. The Texan GMT 94 finished fifth in 2004 before improving to fourth overall last season, playing Yamaha Motor France Ipone Claudio Corti an important role in guiding Yamaha to the team and manufacturer titles. David Checa Date of birth: 27 Januari 1983 Is top three on the cards for 2006? Norifumi Abe Date of birth: 20 April 1980 Place of birth: Rimini, Italy Place of birth: Barcelona, Spain Date of birth: 7 September 1975 Residence: Rimini, Italy Residence: Barcelona, Spain Place of birth: Tokyo, Japan Height: 168cm Height: 178cm Residence: Sitges, Spain Weight: 58kg Weight: 68kg Height: 174cm Bike: YZF-R1 77 Bike: YZF-R6 Weight: 58kg 94 Italian youngster Corti shot to fame by winning the 2005 European Superstock Yamaha Team Bike: YZF-R1 Younger brother of MotoGP rider Carlos, David Checa has a long-standing 600 Championship on a Yamaha YZF-R6. His reward is a two-year contact with 3 relationship with GMT94, with whom he returns to world supersport. Hugely Yamaha Motor Italia, the first of which will be spent with the satellite Double 500cc Grand Prix winner Norick Abe switched to superbikes in 2005, experienced with experience of MotoGP, 250s, superbike and world endurance. Lorenzini by Leoni operation in the FIM Superstock 1000 Cup. Carlos Checa lacking consistency but showing well on the tracks he knew from his GP days. Date of birth: 15 October 1972 With a year racing the R1 and knowledge of the circuits, Abe will be expect-

MOTOGP / SUPERBIKE / MOTOGP Place of birth: Sant Fruitos, Spain ed to push for podiums and improve on his 13th place ranking. Residence: London, UK Height: 174cm Sébastien Gimbert Weight: 69kg Date of birth: 9 September 1977 Bike: YZR-M1 Place of birth: Puy de Velay, France 7 Residence: Puy de Velay, France MotoGP’s most experienced rider is back with Yamaha for 2006. Although Height: 179cm a winner in the 500cc days, running on developmental Dunlop tyres he Weight: 72kg will not be expected to be a regular front runner anymore, but his vast Bike: YZF-R1 16 knowledge is a huge boost for the tyre company’s programme and could A lap record in the opening round suggested Gimbert could be a force in pay dividends later. 2005, but injuries stopped the Frenchman showing his best speed over the following rounds. Now fully-fit and experienced on all the superbike cir- James Ellison cuits, Sebastien will hope to display that form week-in, week-out. Date of birth: 19 September 1980 Place of birth: Kendal, England Shinichi Nakatomi

Height: 172cm Date of birth: 30 October 1978 SUPERSPORT / SUPERSTOCK Weight: 67kg Place of birth: Fukuoka Pref., Japan Bike: YZR-M1 Height: 179cm Weight: 72kg 77 Bike: YZF-R1 38 The standings may only show seven MotoGP points to Ellison’s name last Nakatomi is a new name to world superbike this year. The former Japanese year, but that didn’t tell the full story. Riding his Blata every bit as hard as 250 champion has raced R1s in his homeland since 2003, finishing with a the leading riders, the Brit caught the eye of Dunlop and Tech 3 Yamaha, best of third in the JSB1000 championship in 2004. Having never raced out- who will race together in 2006 with Ellison at the helm. side of Japan expect a learning year for Nakatomi.

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Riders

MX MX

Yamaha Intur Sports Motocross Team Yamaha De Carli Van Beers Yamaha UFO Corse Yamaha 2 Team 2 Antonio Cairoli Aigar Leok Arnau Vilanova Stefan Everts Date of birth: 23 September 1985 Date of birth: 9 August 1985 Date of birth: 3 October 1981 Place of birth: Patti (Sicily), Italy Place of birth: Võru, Estonia Place of birth: Andorra la Vella, Spain Date of birth: 25 November 1972 Residence: Rome, Italy Residence: Eersel, the Netherlands Residence: La Seu, Spain Place of birth: Neeroeteren, Belgium Height: 170cm Height: 185cm Height: 175cm Residence: Monte Carlo, Weight: 64kg Weight: 78kg Weight: 75kg Height: 182cm Bike: YZ250F Bike: YZ250F Bike: WR250F Weight: 78kg 1 17 9 Bike: YZ450FM is the hottest property in the sport of motocross. Shooting to Aigar is the youngest in a family of Estonian racers. The 20 year old has Vilanova is out to prove himself in 2006. Finishing third as a privateer in the 72 prominence in 2004, the Sicilian fulfilled his promise last year by winning competed at Grand Prix level for two years and joins Yamaha’s ranks for the 2004 Enduro 2 championship, Arnau did not race full-time last year. first time this season. Unfortunately he also missed the start of the 2006 season. Already holding every record worth having in his sport, Belgian legend the MX2 title. Back to defend his number one plate in this most competitive

Everts is going for a record-extending 10th world title in what will be his class, success will see him confirmed as the next Italian superstar. MX Maurizio Micheluz final season in the sport. Having delivered a world title each year since join- Date of birth: 16 February 1983 ing Yamaha for the 2001 season, he is statistically the company’s greatest Matteo Bonini Date of birth: 20 September 1985 Casola Yamaha Place of birth: Pordenone, Italy rider of all time.

Place of birth: Casteinuovo ne’Monti, Italy 2 Residence: Aviano, Italy Height: 174cm Cédric Melotte Residence: Carpineto, Italy Anthony Boissiere Height: 181cm Date of birth: 16 October 1985 Weight: 75kg Date of birth: 10 August 1978 Weight: 72kg Place of birth: Ganges, France Bike: WR250F 6 Place of birth: Namur, Belgium Bike: YZ250F 18 Residence: Moules et Baucels, France Maurizio Micheluz is one of Italy’s brightest enduro talents. Entering his Residence: Fernelmont, Belgium Height: 173cm Another fast young Italian choosing Yamaha, Bonini is a relative unknown on second season as a UFO Corse rider, the former 125cc European champion Height: 178cm Weight: 68kg the world stage. Injured in 2004, he came back to end 2005 18th in the MX2 was seventh in the series last year. Weight: 77kg Bike: YZ250F 9 Bike: YZ450FM world championship and fourth in the Italian series. Now part of Claudio de Carli’s academy, Bonini will look to follow in the tracks of team-mate Tony Cairoli. Despite injury problems in recent years Boissière emerged with two MX2 moto 4 wins in 2005. One of a new breed of Yamaha's Grand Prix winners, Boissière Hard-charging Melotte returns to the MX1 class for what is his third year with MX shone in France and , making him one to watch for 2006. Yamaha Factory Race Team

Yamaha’s factory team. Injuries thwarted the French-speaking Belgian’s MX2 Yamaha Team Ricci

title chances last year but a switch back to MX1, where he won a Grand Prix in 2 AMA Chad Reed 2004, should suit his all-action style more than the smaller-capacity class. Alessio Chiodi UFO Corse Yamaha Date of birth: 15 March 1982 Date of birth: 17 March 1973 Place of birth: Kurri Kurri, Australia Place of birth: Salo, Italy Stefan Merriman Residence: Dade City, Florida, USA Residence: Langhirano, Italy Height: 180cm Date of birth: 24 March 1973

Bike-it Yamaha UK Dixon racing Height: 164cm Weight: 77kg Place of birth: Tauranga, New Zealand Motocross Weight: 66kg Bike: YZ450F Residence: Sarzana, Italy 22 Bike: YZ250F Julien Bill 5 Height: 168cm Former world and AMA champion, Aussie Reed is one of the three giants of Chiodi is a three time 125cc world champion and, while arguably not as Weight: 70kg supercross racing. Reed won the Supercross GP world title in 2003 and the Date of birth: 2 May 1983 fast as in his prime, Chicco is still a force with his tremendous gating ability, Bike: WR450F 2004 AMA 250 Supercross championship. OORS X/MX2 MX1/ MOTOCROSS Place of birth: Geneva, Swiss 2 superb consistency and tactical nous. That should make him a podium Residence: Geneva, Swiss regular and possible title challenger. Having missed out on the world title last season due to injury, Merriman is Heath Voss Height: 180cm as determined as ever to bag a fourth world title. Fast and versatile, it Date of birth: 17 February 1978 Weight: 72kg Kenneth Gundersen would take a brave man to bet against this tough Kiwi. Place of birth: Worthington, Minnesota, USA Bike: YZ450F 99 Date of birth: 2 October 1981 Residence: Mico, Texas, USA Place of birth: Fjellhamar, Norway Johnny Aubert Height: 182cm Young Swiss rider Bill moves to the premier class after finishing third in the Residence: Belgium Date of birth: 31 March 1980 Weight: 84kg MX3 class last year. Linking up with the Yamaha Motor UK-supported Bike Height: 183cm Place of birth: Maubeuge, France Bike: YZ450F It… Dixon Racing squad, the 23-year-old will receive technical support from 13 Weight: 80kg Residence: Saulnes, France / Pecrot, Belgium the Yamaha Rinaldi Research and Development programme. Texas resident Voss joins the factory squad after a sterling career as a Yamaha- Bike: YZ250F Height: 183cm 12 Weight: 77kg mounted privateer. World Supercross GP champion in 2004 he is a solid top

Gundersen makes his comeback in the MX2 category after injuries stopped 10 performer but was held back by injury in 2006. MX Bike: WR450F him fulfilling his potential in the MX1 class. The Norwegian finished fourth 42 in the 2001 125cc championship, winning three Grand Prixs at still just 25 Former motocross Grand Prix racer Aubert enters the Enduro 1 world cham-

Bike-it Yamaha UK Dixon racing pionship. With this kind of pedigree, it came as no surprise that he was 2 years old, a fully fit Gundersen could be among the front runners again. challenging for the title from the word go. Billy Mackenzie Davide Guarneri Date of birth: 25 March 1985 Fabrizio Dini For more detailed rider biographies and Date of birth: 7 April 1984 Date of birth: 9 April 1976

Place of birth: Bergamo, Italy AMA SUPERCROSS / WORLD ENDURO Place of birth: Edinburgh, UK Place of birth: Montevarchi, Italy technical bike specifications from all classes visit the Residence: Longniddry, UK Residence: Darfo Boario Terme, Italy Height: 180cm Residence: Abbadia Agnano, Italy www.yamaha-racing.com website Height: 180cm Height: 190cm Weight: 80kg Weight: 76kg Bike: YZ250F Weight: 82kg Bike: YZ250F 250 Bike: WR450F 211 Guarneri made a major breakthrough in 2005, standing on the top step of 37 This young Brit finally confirmed himself on the world stage by winning the the podium after winning heat two of the MX2 European GP at Another motocrosser switching to enduro, Dini has been racing in the Japanese MX2 Grand Prix last year. If he can stay clear of injury and improve Teutschenthal. With more focus on his physical conditioning, Guarneri will motocross MX1 class for the past two years. If he can adapt then the popular his consistency, big Bill should be a title contender in 2006. look to build on this for 2006. Italian should be a top rider in the class.

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Engine MotoGP Superbike Supersport Superstock MX1 MX2 SX Enduro2 Enduro1 Engine type Four-cylinder, Four-cylinder, Four-cylinder, Four-cylinder, Single-cylinder, Single-cylinder, Single-cylinder, Single-cylinder, Single-cylinder, four-stroke 16-valve DOHC four-stroke 20-valve DOHC four-stroke 16-valve DOHC four-stroke 20-valve DOHC Liquid cooled 4-stroke, five-valve DOHC four-stroke, five-valve DOHC two-stroke with piston reed valves four-stroke, five-valve DOHC four-stroke, five-valve DOHC Displacement 990cc 998cc 599cc 998cc 449cc 249cc 449cc 449cc 249cc Bore and stroke Not disclosed 77.0mm x 53.6mm 65.5mm x 44.5mm 77.0mm x 53.6mm 95mm x 63.4mm 77.0mm x 53.6mm 95mm x 63,4mm 95mm x 63.4mm 77.0mm x 53.6mm Ignition Magneti Marelli with adjustable Magneti Marelli with adjustable Motec ECU with revised fuel Yamaha CDI YRRD Computer adjustable CDI De Carli Racing Computer Yamaha CDI Vortex Ufo corse spec. Vortex Ufo corse spec. mapping mapping injection mapping adjustable CDI Carburation Fuel injection Fuel injection Fuel injection Fuel injection Single Keihin FCR 39mm carburetor Keihin FCR 38mm Single Keihin FCR 39mm carburetor Single Keihin MX39/1 Keihin FCR37H Lubrication system Wet sump Wet sump Wet sump Wet sump Semi-pressurized wet sump Semi-pressurized wet sump Premix Semi-pressurised wet sump Semi-pressurised wet sump Maximum power Around 240hp More than 200hp More than 140hp 193hp 60hp 43hp 53hp 58hp 40hp Maximum speed Over 330 km/h Over 310 km/h Over 285 km/h Over 295 km/h N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Transmission Type 6-speed cassette-type gearbox, 6-speed 6-speed 6-speed 5-speed 5-speed 5-speed 5-speed 5-speed with alternative gear ratios Primary drive Gear Gear Gear Gear Gear Gear Gear Gear Gear Clutch Dry, multi-plate slipper clutch Wet, multi-plate slipper clutch Wet, multi-plate slipper clutch Wet, multi-plate slipper clutch Hydraulic wet, multiplate Wet, multiplate Wet, multi-plate Wet, multi-plate Wet, multiplate Final drive Chain Chain Chain Chain Chain Chain Chain Chain Chain Chassis and running gear Frame type Twin-tube aluminium frame with Twin-spar Deltabox V aluminium Diamond shaped cast aluminium Twin-spar Deltabox V aluminium Aluminium semi-double cradle Aluminium semi-double cradle Aluminium semi-double cradle Steel semi-double cradle Steel semi-double cradle aluminium swingarm frame Deltabox III chassis frame Front suspension Fully-adjustable öhlins inverted Fully-adjustable 42mm öhlins Fully-adjustable 41mm inverted Fully-adjustable 43mm öhlins Factory fully-adjustable 50mm Factory Solva suspension Factory fully-adjustable 50mm Factory fully-adjustable 48mm Factory fully-adjustable 48mm telescopic forks inverted telescopic forks telescopic forks inverted telescopic forks upside-down Kayaba forks upside-down Kayaba forks upside-down Kayaba Ufo corse spec. upside-down Kayaba Ufo corse spec. Rear suspension Braced aluminium swingarm Braced aluminium swingarm Braced aluminium swingarm Braced aluminium swingarm Monocross with Factory Kayaba gas Monocross Factory Solva suspension Kayaba single shock Kayaba Ufo corse spec. rear gas Kayaba Ufo corse spec. rear gas with single öhlins shock and with single öhlins shock and with mono-shock and with single öhlins shock and shock absorber with titanium spring shock absorber shock absorber rising-rate linkage rising-rate linkage rising-rate linkage rising-rate linkage Front/rear tyres 16.5” front, 16.5” rear available in 120/75 16.5” front, 190/65 16.5” rear 120/70 17” front, 180/55 17” rear 120/70 17” front, 190/55 17” rear 20/21” front, 19“ rear 20/21” front, 19“ rear 21” front, 19“ rear 20” front, 18“ rear 20/21” front, 18“ rear a variety of rim widths Front/rear wheels 16.5” front, 16.5” rear 16.5” front, 16.5” rear 17” front, 17” rear 17” front, 17” rear Front brake Twin 320mm carbon discs with Twin 320mm steel discs with Twin 310mm steel discs with radial Twin 320mm steel discs with Single 270mm steel disc with Single 270mm steel disc with Single 250mm steel disc Single 260mm steel disc Single 260mm steel disc radial mounted four-piston radial mounted four-piston mounted four-piston Brembo radial mounted four-piston Brembo radial caliper Brembo radial caliper Brembo calipers Brembo calipers calipers Brembo calipers Rear brake Single 220mm ventilated stainless Single 220mm steel disc Single 220mm steel disc Single 220mm steel disc Single 245mm steel disc Single 245mm steel disc Single 245mm steel disc Single 220mm steel disc Single 220mm steel disc with twin-piston Brembo caliper Weight 148kg 165kg 162kg 173kg 102kg 94kg 96kg 105kg 101kg Fuel capacity 22 litres 24 litres 17 litres 18 litres 8 litres 8 litres 8 litres 8 litres 8 litres

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February 25 Qatar-QAT * March 05 Phillip Island-AUS 26 Jerez-ESP April 02 Zolder-BEL 08 Qatar-QAT * 16 Bellpuig-ESP 17 Assen-NED (500 km) 18 Ostersund-SWE 19 Ostersund-SWE 23 Valencia-ESP Le Mans (24h)-FRA Aqueda-POR 30 Istanbul-TUR May 06 Guimaraes-POR 07 Monza-ITA Teutschental-GER Guimaraes-POR 13 Gernika-ESP 14 Shanghai-CHN Gernika-ESP 20 Albacete (8h)-ESP * 21 Le Mans-FRA Sugo-JAP 28 Silverstone-UK June 04 Mugello-ITA Sevlievo-BUL 11 Montevarchi-ITA 17 Rovetta-ITA 18 Catalunya-ESP Zolder (6h)-BEL Matterley Basin-UK Rovetta-ITA 24 Assen-NED * 25 San Marino-SM July 02 -UK U uddevalla-SWE 15 Parry Sound-CAN 16 Sachsenring-GER Sun City-SA Parry Sound-CAN 22 Hancock-USA 23 Laguna Seca-USA Brno-CZE Hancock-USA 30 Suzuka (8h)-JPN Loket-CZE August 06 Namur-BEL 12 Brands Hatch-UK Oschersleben (24h)-GER 13 Oschersleben (24h)-GER 20 Brno-CZE 27 Desert Martin-UK Sept. 02 Krompachy-SLO 03 Assen-NED Lierop-NED Krompachy-SLO 10 Sepang-MAL Lausitzring-GER 16 Bol d'Or Magny Cours (24h)-FRA 17 Phillip Island-AUS Bol d'Or Magny Cours (24h)-FRA Ernée-FRA 23 Boussac-FRA 24 Motegi-JAP Matterley Basin-UK (MX N.) Boussac-FRA October 01 Imola-ITA 08 Magny Cours-FRA 15 Estoril-ESP 29 Valencia-SPA November 14-19 Lake Taupo-NZL (six days) * Saturday race

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