Ryan Dungey, Ryan Villopoto and Chad Reed Celebrate on the Anaheim Podium

QUICK LINKS IN THE WIND 20 STEVE MCQUEEN EDITION TRIUM

ANAHEIM SUPERCROSS VILLOPOTO THE DOMINATOR MPH 70 VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012

FIRSTF RIDE 2012 HONDA CBR1000RR A LOOK AT TEAM ALESSI 2012

CONTENTS P4 RACED 38 38 ANAHEIM I SUPERCROSS And so it all begins…

TESTED

54 2012 HONDA CBR1000RR The legend continues.

66 DUNLOP ROADSMART II Trying out Dunlop’s latest rubber.

70 STEVE MCQUEEN EDITION TRIUMPH Be like Captain Virgil Hilts, aka Steve McQueen.

FEATURED

62 ALESSI RACING A peek inside the Alessis’ program for 2012.

DEPARTMENTALIZED

6 CAPTURED 8 CAPTURED 10 CAPTURED 12 CAPTURED 16 VOICES 18 THE INSIDE TWEET 20 IN THE WIND 76 PRODUCT REVIEW 78 STUFF 82 BIKES OF THE STARS 84 ARCHIVES 86 CLASSIFIED ADS 88 IN THE PADDOCK

90 WHAT’S NEXT QUICK LINKS IN THE WIND 20 STEVE MCQUEEN EDITION TRIUMPH 70 VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012

FIRST RIDE 2012 HONDA CBR1000RR A LOOK AT TEAM ALESSI 2012 On The Cover: Ryan Villopoto (1) showed exactly why he is the defending AMA Supercross Champion with a dominating victory in the season opener in Anaheim, California. ANAHEIM SUPERCROSS VILLOPOTO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIT PALMER THE DOMINATOR VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P5 P6

CAPTURED

Happy New Years! Freestyler Robbie Maddison and snowmobiler Levi LaVallee ﬂy through the night over a portion of the waterfront with their simultaneous distance jumps on New Year’s Eve in San Diego, California. The jumps were billed as Red Bull’s New Years No Limits.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARTH MILAN/RED BULL CONTENT POOL VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P7 P8

CAPTURED

Dakar! If it’s January, it must be Dakar. Francisco “Chaleco” Lopez rides his Aprilia under the watchful eye of a helicopter in the ﬁrst stage of the Dakar Rally, which for the past several years has been held in South America and not Africa.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCELO MARAGNI/RED BULL CONTENT POOL VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P9 P10

CAPTURED VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P11

CR22 JR. Tate Reed, Chad and Ellie Reed’s son, looks pretty comfortable on dad’s TwoTwo Motorsports Honda CRF450F. Maybe it’s time to look forward to the Anaheim Supercross, circa 2030.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA WILSON P12

CAPTURED VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P13

Much More Monster With the announcement coming prior to the Anaheim Supercross that Monster Energy has signed up for four more years of being the title sponsor of the AMA Supercross Series, that means four more years of Monster Girls. Just sayin…

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA WILSON P14

CAPTURED VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P15

Hurry Up And Wait Mike Alessi, donned in his new JT Racing gear, waits for his chance to get on the track at the Anaheim I Supercross. Alessi pulled one of his patented holeshots in his heat race and had a good race with eventual winner Chad Reed. Alessi got another good start in the main but later slid out, ﬁnishing ninth on his new MotoConcepts Suzuki.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA WILSON CN III VOICES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR P16

“The photos in it are friggin’ amazing.”

FIREBALL we all witnessed Casey Stoner changes for the 2012 MotoGP The photo on page 20 (Issue win on. I embarrassingly have class and I am wondering… 44, December 13) with the underestimated Casey’s talent “Will the CRT riders be scored beautiful motocross bikes is and I think it’s safe to assume separately from high-tech well done. On the wall in that that Rossi did too. How could guys?” I’m thinking it might picture is a poster titled “Road this be? How could Rossi not end up like a local motocross Racing” and it shows a road get one win this entire year? track does it here in Ohio… racer with a fire ball behind it. Hence the new prospective: the winner’s trophy says first Do you know the story behind It’s not all the rider… or is it place and everyone else’s that and what is happening? just in this one instance? Yes says, “almost won!” Thank you for your time. there are so many variables Will they be scored togeth- Steven Hoelter to consider. I have thought of er? Did I miss the explanation? Englewood, CO asking a physics professor to Joe Wahrer take all the variables and come Via the Internet That poster features Mark up with an answer. I need to Brelsford and his Harley- know! So why not ask the ex- The riders on the Claiming Davidson XR750 on fire at perts – Cycle News? Please Rules Teams (CRT) will be Daytona in 1973 after he col- put together a case study on scored along with the factory lided with Larry Darr... Editor a rider with a basic bike and bikes in the MotoGP class. record lap times and then put No separate scoring ap- WHAT WENT WRONG? him on modified, semi-factory plies…. Editor My hat’s off to Michael Scott machinery and record lap on the article on Valentino times. Or an A rider and a B PHOTOS RULE Rossi (“What Went Wrong,” Is- rider and a C rider and do the Cycle News rules! I just got sue 44, December 13). It was same. Will the differences be to page 28 (Issue 44, Decem- so well written and interesting negligible or will there be an ber 13) and had to write. The to read. It’s not too often I read obvious difference? Whatever photos in it are friggin’ amaz- an article that will make me the results, I’m aware this will ing. Any chance of these rethink certain things that have not be the final answer, but it being sold as posters - with been cemented in my brain. might give all of us some new no tire manufacturers name on Like “It’s all the rider.” prospective. them? It is still called photog- For well over 20 years, I Jaime Ponce raphy, right? Via the Internet Dan Jendre have stuck with the thought Cleveland, OH that you could put Rossi on I think we just need to relax anything and magic would and see how Rossi performs Yes, it’s still photography… happen - either a win on this season on a bike that Editor sub-par machinery or a great he’s had some time to de- show. In 2011 that changed; velop… Editor RIDER OF THE YEAR I saw neither. I witnessed my Your feature on Greg Han- hero crashing and getting CRT SCORING cock - 2011 Speedway World frustrated on machinery that I am trying to stay up on all the Champion - in the year-end VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P17 PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HIPKISS BY PHOTOGRAPHY

Greg Hancock was our 2011 Rider of the Year. issue was great and brings up and they are just trying to ﬁll RIDER OF THE YEAR III a giant irritation to me: Why we the time. Greg Hancock’s dedication have no TV coverage of the Could you give your close and enthusiasm are an inspira- Speedway GP series in this personal friend Dave Despain tion to all racers and riders. country. A couple of years ago a ring and get that handled Great choice! HD Theatre (now Velocity) car- please. Thanks in advance for Elliott Iverson ried it and I seem to remember your attention to this problem. Riverside, CA some other network having Tom Mabry ALL WET coverage eight or nine years Vacaville, CA On page 160 of the year-end ago... but for the last couple issue, you mentioned a steer- of years there is nothing. RIDER OF THE YEAR II ing dampener. What’s getting Seems like right now (with Awesome choice. Greg Han- wet? an American World Champion) cock is a true American hero. Cheers. would be a absolutely perfect World Speedway is so exciting Paul Ward time for Speed to show the to watch, I sure hope HD Net Via the Internet series, especially during the shows the races this year. winter when there is very little J. Haaker Good catch… yes, it’s damp- domestic racing to present Gilroy, CA er. Not dampener… Editor

!"#$%£ £'GEditor P18 The Inside

Chad Reed @CRtwotwo Tate and I watched a bunch of YouTube vids from the early 90s damn I wish I raced that era tracks were way cool!

Dennis Noyes @DennisNoyes Australian journo Don Cox was making list of road racers injured with MX bikes. Quit to start shorter list of road racers not injured by MX

Chaz Davies @chazdavies Just seen about Dovi. Tennis players play tennis, golfers play golf, F1 guys have simulators. Road racers should stay @ home in cotton wool!

James Stewart @js7 What an awesome day!!! Press, then autograph session at the dealer, then dinner with my fans. Thanks everyone for showing up. Huge turn out!

Nicky Hayden @NickyHayden69 Thanks to Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel for loaning me a ride while on the west coast... #Amg

Kevin Windham @kdub_14 Press day says everyone is ready, bikes are good, no stone is unturned in prep for 2012 and I have my transfer lined up.

Quinn Cody @quinncody Realized I look like a beat up boxer walking through the airport with a huge black eye, stitches, and my hands so swollen you can’t see my knuckle.

Make sure and follow @CycleNews on Twitter and also on Facebook. All Dirt Star™ rims are compatible with stock OEM hubs and spokes. America’s Motorcycle News Source Whether you're competing in world CONGRATULATIONSCONGRATULATIONS RYANRYAN VILLOPOTOVILLOPOTO && class racing MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI ON YOURYOUR ANAHEIMANAHEIM 11 SUPERCROSSSUPERCROSS WIN!WIN! Volume XLVIII competition or trail riding in your favorite spot, there's EDITORIAL a D.I.D Dirt Star™ PAUL CARRUTHERS Rim designed to meet EDITOR the challenge. [email protected] KIT PALMER OFF-ROAD EDITOR [email protected]

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IN THE WIND

Red Bull-backed KTM out of the mud as Coma DAKAR RALLY: ALL sped through unscathed. By the end of the stage, Despres was 17 minutes and 20 seconds behind CHANGE. AGAIN. Coma – his nearly eight minute lead in the overall t’s funny how quickly things can change in what standings a distant memory. He trailed by 9:30 af- Iis arguably the longest, most grueling motorcycle ter a complete reversal of fortune. Then it changed race in the world. And then change back. again with race ofﬁcials giving Despres back some

KTM factory rider Cyril Despres found that out of that time because the bog wasn’t on the road M. MARAGNI/KTM IMAGES BY PHOTOGRAPHY on Monday, January 9. After the halfway stage of map and the Frenchman and only a few others the 14-stage rally in South America, Despres – a were penalized by it. three-time winner of the event and one of its mega- Now Coma leads by just 1:26 in the overall stand- stars – was leading his rival and fellow KTM rider ings and it’s game on. Again. Marc Coma by seven minutes and 48 seconds. Six The rally will be fought out between those two miles into stage eight and that lead was gone in a men – both three-time Dakar Champions. mud bog. Yamaha’s Helder Rodrigues was third overall af- Despres spent roughly eight minutes getting his ter the eighth stage after steadily climbing up the HAYDEN ON THE MEND he good news was that Ducati Marlboro’s Nicky THayden wouldn’t need surgery on the left scapula he broke over the holidays. The bad news was that he doesn’t know if natural healing would allow PHOTOGRAPHY BY GOLD & GOOSE BY PHOTOGRAPHY him to ride the Ducati Marlboro Desmosedici GP12 at the first MotoGP test of the year in Sepang at the end of the month. “Overall, I would say it was a pretty good visit,” Hayden said after seeing Dr. Arthur Ting on Jan- uary 4, eight days after the accident that put his left arm in a sling. “I was pretty happy that I didn’t Nicky Hayden suffered a shoulder injury on December 27. need an operation, so if that was the case Malaysia path, with the 2006 MotoGP World Champion would’ve probably definitely been out of the ques- making contact and going down hard on his left tion. Now just do the rehab and do all the stuff and side. Besides the broken scapula, Hayden broke that’s the goal.” three ribs and had a slight fracture in his left wrist. The accident happened on December 27 while he was riding with friends and family from Owens- Hayden flew to his winter training base in Or- boro, including his brother Tommy and J.D. Beach, ange, California, early in the new year and visited at an indoor facility they’d rented in nearby Green- Dr. Ting a few days later. Ting wanted to wait a ville, Kentucky. Riding his Honda XR100, Hayden week after the accident to judge the progress and came up on a slower rider, who tried to move out recommend a course of action. Surgery would’ve of the way. Instead the rider moved into Hayden’s set Hayden’s recovery back, which is why he was VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P21

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Fast Babies cross.” The damage may A baby girl, Ava May not keep him out of the Haslam, was born to first MotoGP test of 2012 World Superbike racer in Sepang, Malaysia on Leon Haslam and his January 31-February 1-2. wife, Oli, on December “He will have an op on Sat- 12, 2011; a baby girl, Lucia urday [January 7], should Leigh Parkes, was born to be okay for Sepang. World Supersport racer Fingers crossed!” team Broc Parkes and his wife, owner Herve Poncharal Marc Coma regained Courtney, on December said in an e-mail mes- control of the Dakar 19. sage. Though not all Rally in stage eight. the teams will take part Erion Out At Dunlop - there’s some question Dunlop issued a press about all the CRTs being th th standings after finishing 15 and 12 in the first two release on January 3 an- ready - it will be the first stages. The Portuguese rider, however, was 51 min- nouncing that, “Erion look at the 2012 MotoGP utes and 37 seconds behind Coma after stage eight. Racing is no longer an grid on their revised race authorized distributor for bikes nearly three months pleased Ting didn’t recommend it. Dunlop road race prod- after the final group test of The right wrist, which survived the crash, had ucts. Until such time that 2011 following the season- Dunlop designates a been broken when he and teammate Valentino ending 2011 Grand Prix of new distributor, custom- Valencia. Rossi were knocked down in the first corner of the ers seeking to purchase season-ending Valencia Grand Prix, putting him out Dunlop road race prod- Lehman Passes of the post-Valencia test. Having not ridden the new uct should contact Race John K. Lehman, 60, the GP12 with the perimeter frame, Hayden was anx- Tire Service, Inc.” Erion founder and director of ious to test in Malaysia, but knows that it’s now just a took over the Dunlop deal Lehman Trikes passed waiting game. He was only allowed to begin cardio for the Western U.S. in away on Thursday, Janu- training on Friday, January 6. January of 2011. For more ary 5, in Arizona. The “Sepang is definitely in the cards. Just with figur- information, call 800/772- suspected cause of death 8473. ing it up, I leave three weeks from today,” he said was a heart failure brought on by an embolism. He is of his January 26 departure date for the January Dovi Also Hurt survived by his wife Lin- 31/February 1-2 test.” I’ll see how it’s healing in two Ducati Marlboro’s Nicky da, son Quinten, daugh- weeks and then check back in with Dr. Ting and see Hayden isn’t the only ter Leann, three sisters if it’s possible. rider with a broken wing. Gladys, Linda, Carol, and “I’m in a sling and stuff now. So the main thing is Monster Yamaha Tech three grandchildren. I can’t go there for a test and just go try to ride. It’s 3’s Andrea Dovizioso not like I got to go there and try to get points. I’ve tweeted on January 5 that Alexander And got to go there and be ready to go fast and test out a he’d broken his right col- Michael Jordan larbone in a motocross new bike, so I need to wait and see. I would like to, Road racer Corey Alex- accident. The English ander will ride a National because I already missed Valencia and don’t want part of the Tweet - the first Guard Fairhills Group to miss another test. But it’s going to be tough, it’s part is in his native Italian - Racing Suzuki in this going to be tight.” read, “f---, I broke my right year’s AMA Pro Super- As to what he’ll be testing, Hayden said, “I’ve spo- collarbone doing moto- sport Series thanks to ken to ‘em a bit. I mean, we’ll definitely have a few continued on next page continued on next page P22

IN THE WIND new bits to try, but I don’t know all the details.” in the Italian Dolomites. Hayden and Rossi hold The details will likely be revealed, to Hayden and separate news conferences on Tuesday, January Rossi, at least, at this week’s Wrooom 2012, the an- 10, where he’ll likely have an update on the prog- nual ski meeting/team intro of the Ducati and Fer- ress of his recovery. rari Marlboro teams in Madonna di Campiglio, high Henny Ray Abrams STREET CALLS IT A CAREER mechanical problem knocked me right there.” AJonah Street out of this Then came his retirement an- year’s Dakar Rally. A lack of nouncement. funds to allow him to do future “I’m officially retiring from rallies the way he feels he needs rally racing,” Street said. “I be- to do them prompted him to also lieve now is an appropriate time announce his retirement from the to make this announcement in sport. a positive light despite today’s “I don’t really know what hap- events. The most important rea- pened with the bike, yet,” Street son to do this, for me, is that now said after mechanical woes is the time people are tuned into knocked him out of the rally in Dakar. For my supporters, spon- just the second stage. “It’s some- sors, family and friends that work thing electrical for sure. It started year-round to get the recognition acting up at about 220 km [136 they deserve, expressing my sin- Jonah Street is out of this year’s miles] into the special test today, cere gratitude now is the right Dakar Rally and has also an- and then at about 224 km [138 thing to do. nounced his retirement. miles] the bike died. It took me “It’s an endless venture to try stepped up in a big way the last about three hours to get from that to find the right race budget as a two years and without their help point to the 256 km [159 miles] privateer to do Dakar right. The my last stage win and the start mark. From there, it just kept get- budget I really need to compete of this rally definitely wouldn’t ting worse - going only a tenth of is never there - never has been have happened. These types of a kilometer at times and waiting - and so I am generally broke all efforts are above and beyond. I sometimes for 15 minutes to get year. If I told you that fact didn’t will never be able to fully repay it fired again. At 256 km there have a lot to do with my deci- or thank everyone that has made was a turn where I could go into sion, I would be lying. I have a my career so spectacular. But I’ll the village where the finish line great family of supporters behind keep trying.” was for the day or I could turn me that have made my six Da- In his six Dakars, Street’s best and go through the sand dunes kar starts possible. The RiffRaff finish came in 2010 when he fin- to attempt to finish the stage. I members are my number one ished seventh. Last year he was knew the bike wouldn’t make it monetary sponsor each year 14th overall, but took the second through the dunes so, unfortu- and my friends and family are stage victory of his career (he nately, the Dakar rally ended for the heart of my team. Yamaha also won a stage in 2009). VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P23

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CODY’S GREAT a partnership between do this, at least for now,” ESCAPE! Michael Jordan Motors- said. Jay Hall, president ntil watching the video footage of his horrific ports (MJM) with the Army of the Illinois Motorcycle National Guard, Fairhills Dealers Association. “We crash in stage three of the Dakar Rally, Quinn U Group and Celtic Racing. take great pride in what Cody had no idea what happened. And he’s still Celtic Racing will provide we have been able to do not sure. the technical and logistical for this sport, but for 2013 “I really have no idea,” Cody said after returning services for the team with we will focus on mile rac- home to California. “I don’t remember crashing Fairhills Group, a New es, which is the most his- or anything. To me it looks like I hit a ledge or a York-based alternative toric and why Springfield rock and it bucked me straight over. It happened investment management is so well known.” Tick- so quick.” firm founded by Edward ets for all four IMDA-pro- It’s hard to believe that after crashing at that Bronson, is the co-title moted Grand Nationals sponsor with the National at Springfield are now on speed in that terrain that Cody escaped with just Guard. Alexander, 17, won sale by calling 217/753- a broken right collarbone, a concussion and a cut his first AMA National and 8866. under his eye that required 10 stitches went on to finish third in “I don’t remember sitting there at all,” he said. the AMA West Coast Su- More Monster “The first thing I remember was sitting on the side perSport Championship Monster Energy has of the road and I looked over and the helicopter in 2011. signed on for four more was on the ground and they were working on me years as the title sponsor there – the medics. I was like… ‘whoa!’ What Happens In of the AMA Monster En- Cody has time to recuperate, as his next sched- Vegas… ergy Supercross. “Having Feld Motor Sports has a stable, long-term spon- uled race is the San Felipe 250, which is some announced a three-year sor is vital to Supercross nine weeks away. agreement for the Hard - it’s vital to any motors- “I just have to take it easy,” Cody said. “My doc- Rock Hotel & Casino Las ports property and we tor thinks the collarbone will heal okay without Vegas, to be the official have been blessed since surgery. I’m just going to take it easy and let the host hotel of the Monster 2008 to have Monster concussion get back to normal and let the collar- Energy AMA Supercross Energy as the title spon- bone heal.” Series beginning with the sor of Supercross and the After finishing the first stage fourth, Cody’s rally 2012 finale on May 5 at official energy drink of Ar- unraveled the next day with a myriad of mechani- Sam Boyd Stadium. enacross,” said Feld Mo- torsports Chief Operating cal issues. No More TT/Short Officer Ken Hudgens. “It’s “I had a couple of issues that day,” Cody ex- Track For Springfield my pleasure to announce plained. “First I was on the liaison stage and just According to a release today that Feld Motors- going down the highway when the rear tire just from AMA Pro Racing, this ports and Monster Energy popped off the bead. It popped off and the medal year’s short track and TT are extending that agree- bead wrapped around and put a hole in the gas races at the Illinois State ment to the year 2016. tank. It was one thing after another. I ended up Fairgrounds in Spring- It’s a big deal in all of our borrowing a tire and mousse from the KTM truck field, Illinois, will be the worlds. Monster is heavily and they helped me change it and everything. last ones. “We regret that invested in the sport from we have been forced to every aspect, whether it That got me back in the race. During that special make this decision, but be the athletes, the teams [stage], I was blowing fuel and I think it had an air in order to keep our asso- and the property itself. bubble or something in it and it wouldn’t run with ciation going we have to What we look for in a title the fuel pump so I ended up taking some fuel line continued on next page continued on page 27 P24

IN THE WIND

and bypassing the fuel pump.” Frustration set it, but Cody also realized there was plenty of rally left. “I lost about 20 minutes,” he said. “I was a little bit frustrated. I started back in the dust and was passing guys. I wasn’t too worried about it because gaps open up so quick in the rally. I think right now back to third is over an hour so… I wasn’t too worried about the time. It was just frustra- a lucky man. that video and it’s hard to be tion with… ‘what else is going to “It’s a bummer because of all bummed. I’m walking and talking go wrong?’ “ the preparation and everything, and I’m okay. I feel lucky.” But the bottom line is, Cody is but at the same time I look at Paul Carruthers

PROFESSOR SCHWANTZ or as long as he can remem- everybody out there,” he began Fber, Kevin Schwantz thinks “and I think there’s so many of us motorcycles and motorcyclists out there that don’t ride well and have gotten a bum rap, but now do stupid things. he’s using his school to change “I think as motorcyclists we that. have responsibilities to each oth- Schwantz will let students at er. We’re never going to change the 2012 Schwantz Schools use the image of motorcycles, but we their own motorcycles as a way sure can do our best to try.” of allowing them to ﬁnd their lim- Schwantz’s parents, Jim and its when they’re on more familiar Shirley, opened a Yamaha fran- turf, and provide for better out- chise in 1964, the year he was comes. It’s a big change for the born. He remembers being os- school, which began with Suzu- tracized by his friends’ parents. kis and later added Hondas, but “And to me, that’s not the way it’s one Schwantz thinks will help motorcycling is portrayed almost move motorcycling forward in the everywhere else in the world. public eye. We’re that one society that has Want to learn to ride from a World “If you asked me when I start- motorcyclists as kinda bad peo- Champion? ed school what my intentions ple. And I think the better we stoppies and burnouts and all were, my intentions were to try ride, the safer that we are and that stuff on the street will help. and make us a community that the more responsible, and that There’s places to do that. You was much more respected by we’re not doing wheelies and have competitions for stunting. continued on page 26

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IN THE WIND

They have places if you want to “Everything about it was we really tgrup Safety Schools at each of go race. If you want to do things added something to the equa- the four Spanish GPs, Jerez, Bar- on your streetbike make sure you tion. Whereas Barber was pretty celona, Aragon, and Valencia. do it in the right environment has much Barber, and it’s pristine There will be two days of schools, always kind of been my bit of ad- and it almost looks like a golf but a single-day curriculum “so vice, if I had any.” course when you drive in and that we can bring more people in. The school is returning to its there’s not much we can do to They have a school that’s already original home at Road Atlanta, improve. Having us and having set up, we’re just trying to make it where they always had a differ- our school and having the image a little more special.” ent relationship than they’ve had of the Schwantz school wasn’t a for the past three years at Barber big beneﬁt to them.” The following are the dates Motorsports Park. Eventually the school hopes to for the 2012 Schwantz Schools: “Most of the time, especially move to the Circuit of the Ameri- Road Atlanta - April 16-17; May at Road Atlanta, we were always cas in Austin, Texas, Schwantz’s 26-28 (three day); June 30-July there, we were trying to help, we hometown. 1; September 1-2: Indianapolis were trying to help them make Schwantz will also serve as the Motor Speedway - August 20-21. things better and safer,” he said. guest instructor for the Club Pon- Henny Ray Abrams

Five-time World Champion Mika Ahola has AHOLA announced his retirement from racing. RETIRES! ive-time World Enduro Cham- Fpion Mika Ahola announced on January 1 that he was retiring from the sport. The Finnish rider, who won his five championships consecu- tively starting in 2007, won titles in three different classes (E1, E2 and E3). He is also a seven-time winner of the ISDE with Team Finland and a three-time individ- At 37, Ahola won last year’s E3 on and see what else the world ual winner of the event. has to offer,” he wrote. “I gave it my all, and even title on a Honda to become the Ahola started his career with though the sport took a lot, it oldest-ever World Enduro Cham- Husqvarna before moving to TM also rewarded me with more than pion. He’s also the first rider to I could have ever imagined when win in all three classes of the and VOR. For the 2004 season I first started,”Ahola wrote in an World Enduro Championship. the Finn went back to Husky for email that he sent out on New “I have fulfilled my ambitions two more seasons before spend- Year’s Eve. and I feel that it is time to move ing the last five years with Honda. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P27

Brieﬂy...

sponsor is stability and facsimile number, email somebody who can take address (riders accepted the sport to places we into the program will be can’t take it on our own. notified by email), date of Monster gives us all of birth, series raced, class- that. They market to a fan es raced, current stand- base that we can’t get to ings in each series and ourselves; they activate class raced, the year and around that fan base in a model of all motorcycles way that we could never raced, and the top-three do. A 47-year-old guy like racing achievements for me can’t make Super- the applicant. Resumes Ben Bostrom recently returned to Homestead Miami cross cool, but Monster can be submitted to Tim Raceway for a test with his Michael Jordan Suzuki team. can. They bring every- Gearhart, at tgearhart@ thing to the table that we jgrmx.com or by mail to are looking for and they JGRMX, attention Tim BOSTROM DOES are great partners.” Gearhart, 11515 Vanstory Drive, Suite 145 Hunters- HOMESTEAD Jendro Promoted ville, NC 28078. omestead Miami Speedway, which returns to In a separate announce- Hthe AMA Superbike calendar after a 16-year ment made at the pre- Where’s That Hill? absence, may not be ready for prime time accord- Anaheim Supercross A nine-race AMA Pro Hillclimb ing to a Homestead race winner from 1996 who press conference, Ken schedule has Hudgens also announced been released. The expects to be a factor in this year’s Superbike that Todd Jendro had rounds are as follows: race. been promoted to Vice White Rose MC, Jeffer- Jordan Suzuki’s Ben Bostrom is one of the few President of Feld Motor- son, Pennsylvania, June current riders who took part in the lone AMA week- sports. “It’s long overdue 3; Bushkill Valley MC, end on the 15-turn, 2.21-mile road course back in and very well deserved,” Freemansburg, Penn- 1996, but he didn’t remember much about the cir- Hudgens said. sylvania, June 10; Ridge cuit. And what he found wasn’t entirely positive. Runner Prom, Canaan, “All I remember was there was a really fast turn Pirelli Wanting… New Hampshire, June Pirelli JGRMX one, because on a 600 back then - okay, the tires and 13 (a Wednesday event); have developed a rider- Dayton MC, Oregonia, bikes weren’t as fast - but you could literally hold support program and are Ohio, June 23; Ogemaw the throttle wide open going through turn one,” now accepting resumes. Hills Bike Week, W e s t Bostrom said. “The back straight is actually scari- Any rider accepted into Branch, Michigan, July er than the front straight.” the program will receive 15; Muskegon MC, Mus- But the scariest spot is in the infield where “it preferred pricing on se- kegon, Michigan, August felt pretty tight in a couple of spots and there is lect Pirelli motocross tires, 5; Bushkill Valley MC, one wall that’s pretty close, that the trajectory. It’s as well as free shipping Freemansburg, Penn- not so good if you have a highside early, I’ll tell you on orders of 10 or more sylvania, September 9; that,” he said. “It’s a bit like Tron, like you’re racing tires. All resumes must White Rose MC, Jeffer- be received by January son, Pennsylvania, Sep- a slot car. 31, be neatly typed and tember 30; Dayton MC, “There’s a double right in the infield [turns six include name, address, Oregonia, Ohio, October and seven] and coming off the second right, the phone and if applicable 14. wall’s way too close. I mean, the track itself is continued on next page P28

IN THE WIND quite fun. It’s got huge braking, September but also an official se- memory, and not in a good way. so there should be some excit- ries test in March soon after the “I’m pretty sure I won the 883 ing passes and it’s got some real Daytona 200 race weekend. As race and my biggest memory scary corners. Turn one and the is our standard practice during from there was two guys were turn on the back straight… it’s all official AMA Pro activities, we going really fast in practice, it hairy. You just got to have a big will be consulting with our profes- was my first year in 600, and it sack and bury it off in there. But I sional athletes to evaluate evolv- was Miguel [Duhamel] and I,” think it’s probably going to create ing track conditions in order to he said. “I was like, ‘At least a great race. It’s just the one cor- carefully determine raceability.” we’re guaranteed first or second ner is a little hectic. I don’t want Adding to the excitement of here.’ Then the worst thing that to see anyone else crash there.” Bostrom’s test was that condi- could happen. I was talking to Because it was a private test, tions weren’t ideal. [American Honda team manag- the track would not have been “The whole test it was really er] Gary Mathers in the pits and set up to the safety standards of windy,” Bostrom said. “It add- we were chat, chat, chat, so he an AMA Pro Road Race. ed to the fear factor coming off said, ‘Ben, you got to stop talk- In an e-mail provided by AMA the back straight and the front Pro Racing, Dave McGrath, Di- straight. You didn’t know if you ing or otherwise you’re going to rector of Road Racing said, “I had a big headwind or the wind miss the start,’ and I missed the and other key members of the died down for a second or you start. I was so mad at myself af- AMA Pro Racing staff have vis- had a tailwind coming off the terwards because Miguel won by ited Homestead-Miami Speed- front. It would go from - I don’t a mile [Duhamel also won the Su- way on a number of occasions know - probably five to 20 mph perbike race]. It was only going during the past several months gusts. It just added to the excite- to be a race between him and I. in order to evaluate the track and ment.” So I had strong memories of the consider its suitability for our se- Bostrom won the 883 Sport- place, I just couldn’t remember ries. We are looking forward to ster race in 1996, but it’s the Su- the track. It’s crazy.” not only the race in Homestead in persport race that’s etched in his Henny Ray Abrams

MONSTER MAN Herve Poncharal likes the idea of the CRT. ON CRT he gnashing of teeth and wringing of Thands over the impending arrival of Claiming Rule Teams (CRT) in MotoGP will likely continue for years to come. Does it signal the end of the World Championships, GOLD & GOOSE BY PHOTOGRAPHY as some suggest? Will riders retire rather than race with a hopped-up street engine? How long before the front-runners, notably World Champion Casey Stoner, blasts the less-talented riders on the less highly developed motorcycles? Only one of those ques- continued on page 30 The rear’s shoulder knobs are soft, while its center knobs are infused with an even softer compound. You’ll hook up for holeshots and stay locked-in through the corners.

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IN THE WIND tions will be known shortly, the we would be only 12 on the grid two,” Poncharal said. “So clearly others will be debated for some and you can’t have a champion- the beginning, the first GPs with time. One thing is certain, how- ship with 12 bikes on the grid; this CRT, will be difficult for them. ever, without the CRT machines is no way. So we have to support But we have to support that and the grid would be embarrassingly that and we have to try to think clearly they will improve. And we thin, which is one of the reasons how to allow the manufacturers have to find some ways from ’13 it has the support of Monster Ya- to still remain here, but give the to make the rules, the technical maha Tech 3 team owner Herve CRT the possibility, technically, rules more open for CRT to be Poncharal. to be closer from ’13 to the real competitive, and I think this is Poncharal has a unique view prototypes. It is an interesting Carmelo’s [Ezpeleta] main thing. of the paddock. Not only does time for all of us. I think the world I’m sure he’s going to make some he own a MotoGP team with a is having a lot of big decisions to right decisions to allow that.” major sponsor, Monster Energy, take, so does MotoGP.” Ezpeleta, the CEO of Dorna, and factory equipment, leased He added that he was “really was praised by Poncharal for from Yamaha, but he also runs curious, like everybody else, to embracing the CRT concept at a a Moto2 squad for which his see how good or what’s going to time when the grid had dwindled technical team builds the chas- be the difference between CRTs to 17 prototypes, in 2011, and the sis. And he’s also the president and prototypes in year one. We prospect of many fewer in 2012. of IRTA, the team’s association are talking and thinking and dis- “We all have to sit and think, that’s one of the cornerstones of cussing a lot about the future, but think using our heads,” all decision-making in the pad- because from ‘13 we will do ev- Poncharal said. “And a lot more dock. erything we can to make the gap people should open the window At Motegi last year, before the smaller between prototypes and and have a look at the real world. best of the CRT bikes had been CRTs. I think Aprilia and Aspar Okay, we love racing, we love the tested, Poncharal said the hope together are a really good thing technical part, we love develop- in 2012 was that the first CRT ma- for CRT, because clearly they will ment, we love a lot of things, but chine would beat the last proto- be, together along with Suter/ the bottom line is we love racing. type. Early tests didn’t look prom- BMW with Colin [Edwards], the If we don’t think before we act, if ising, though later tests were two leading CRT teams.” we don’t take the right decision, much better. Now, with the first Poncharal compared the gen- racing could be dying soon.” MotoGP test of 2012 beginning esis of CRT to 2010 when Moto2 Now was not the time to delay on January 31 in Sepang, Ma- made its debut. The class was these important decisions, he laysia, Poncharal, like everyone widely derided, but has provided said. Rather now was the time to else, is anxious for a preview of very close racing, despite the make decisions, “that will for sure the coming season. less than world-caliber techni- make our future easier, better “It’s going to be exciting. It’s cal level of the control Honda and hopefully healthier, and that not going to be easy in year CBR600RR engines. will bring a better show. I’m quite one,” Poncharal said in a phone “When you look at Moto2, with pessimistic if we don’t do any- interview from his shop in the keeping the same engine, the thing. But I’m very excited by the Provence region of southeastern same tuning, the same suspen- fact that together with the FIM, France. “Clearly the gap is quite sion, the same tire, we almost Dorna and the MSMA we can big, but I mean, we have to be improve 1.5 to 2 seconds ev- find some new route. And Car- positive, because without CRT erywhere from year one to year melo is very, very, very excited

P34

IN THE WIND about that too.” The team will build its own while, there will be discussions Poncharal is the only team chassis, Poncharal said, “be- between Dorna and MSMA, so owner in Moto2 to build his own cause I think we can do it and I don’t know what’s going to be chassis, a route he plans to fol- it’s more exciting and it’s more ’13. But if the bike is ready I would low in CRT. He has a deal with motivating for the whole team. like to enter the championship Yamaha Motor Company Japan So we have now a lot of facilities, with our CRT in ’13. But if I’ve got to lease prototypes in 2012 and a lot of tools that we’ve bought the two M1s, maybe I will have to ’13. Andrea Dovizioso and Cal for Moto2 that we can use from find a deal with a team to use our Crutchlow are signed up for 2012 Moto2. So during ‘12 we’re go- bikes. Everything is open, but and Bradley Smith for 2013, with ing to build a CRT, we’re going to clearly during 2012 we’re going another rider to come, ‘so I’m go testing, hopefully late spring, to work and test the CRT.” here for the next two years.” and see how it goes. And mean- Henny Ray Abrams THE PLIGHT OF AUSTIN othing has been easy about the con- Nstruction or financing of the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), the ambitious world-class multi-use facility being built outside of Aus- tin, Texas. The infighting among the project’s GOLD & GOOSE BY PHOTOGRAPHY original backers and developers has played out for all to see, with significant changes in the financiers, as well as the inaugural For- mula One race being in jeopardy before an 11th hour rescue. That rescue appears to have provided a happy ending, though that Kevin Schwantz is hopeful that MotoGP will indeed won’t be certain until the lights go out on the inau- make it to Austin, Texas. gural F1 race on November 18, 2012. But what of the 2013 MotoGP race? A spokesman for Dorna, the MotoGP rightshold- Austin resident Kevin Schwantz has been in- ers, said Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta was un- volved with the track since its inception through concerned with the COTA drama and believes that his close friendship with Tavo Hellmund, one of Dorna has a contract to hold the race in 2013 and the original principals in the project. Hellmund beyond. In a December interview with the Spanish has been squeezed out of the F1 picture, but re- daily ‘Marca,’ Ezpeleta said that it was certain that mains involved in the MotoGP race, according to Argentina and Texas would be on the calendar in Schwantz. 2013. He added Dorna was still talking to tracks in The current contractual status is that Schwantz India and Brazil. and Dorna have assigned the rights to Full Throt- Schwantz said he spoke to Hellmund “pretty tle Productions, Hellmund’s company, “so really much twice a day” and doesn’t think it can “wait what’s got to happen is the Circuit of the Americas much later than after the new year, because I think needs to get Tavo to sign that contract.” [COTA] is still trying to find a way to get some fi- VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P35

nancing in place. And having the yeah, yeah.’ said, especially if rain holds up real big portion of your business “I more want to see how every- the project, “because being model not committed yet I think thing’s going to be run and what ready for November 18 is going will affect that.” it’s going to be like. I think of it as to be no easy feat for sure. They Asked about the contract of home for my school.” think it’s all about getting pave- the status, a COTA spokesper- Schwantz said in the past he’s ment down. The logistics side. son replied by e-mail, “Unfortu- been able to tolerate “facilities nately the details of that contract that don’t just want to work with There’s so many other things.” are proprietary.” us every way possible. But the And Schwantz believes the At this point, Schwantz himself last thing I want to do is bring the track will be built with the same is “trying to…help them solve the environment of MotoGP here if safety margins that he and Hell- problems, to try and keep it go- that’s going to be the case. Be- mund designed into the 3.4-mile ing. I never have been ﬁnancially cause I can correct it for a couple Herman Tilke layout. involved,” he said. More impor- of days for a school - I can over- “So much of the work that tantly, he added, “I hold the rights look things - but I can’t when the Tavo [Hellmund] and I put into it to MotoGP when it comes to Tex- best motorcyclists in the world in getting the layout of the track as. And, of course, our hope is are coming here.” and making sure safety was cor- that it gets to happen at Circuit of As for concerns that the track the Americas. So we’ll just have won’t get built, Schwantz is dis- rect is already in place; they’ll to wait and see right now.” missive. still build the same track. There Schwantz said the circuit has “I see the fact that they’ve was some concern that possi- focused all of its attention on F1 committed to Formula One and bly with funds being a little tight and a few other series, includ- signing that contract with Bernie maybe they weren’t going to con- ing the Australian V8 Supercar [Ecclestone] as, it’s more expen- cern themselves with F1 and they series, which will bring their sive now not to build the track,” weren’t going to build that huge championship to Texas starting he said. “So I think there’s been pit complex and they weren’t go- in 2013. some concern up until that hap- ing to do all that stuff that was “And I think a big part of their pened that maybe this place business model is MotoGP,” wasn’t going to be built. I think going to make it F1 caliber. Now Schwantz said. “So, I keep get- once they make that commitment that they’ve agreed to Bernie’s ting phone calls from different I don’t see how they cannot build terms, I think the sky’s the limit people there. ‘You still want to it now.” right now.” have MotoGP or don’t you? Yeah, But it won’t be easy, Schwantz Henny Ray Abrams VIDEO OF THE WEEK: WHAT A CROC wo things stand out in this one: Why would Tyou ride your Honda Elite scooter on Mulhol- land Blvd.?; and, if you chose to do so, why would you wear shorts and Crocs? P36

IN THE WIND COMA’S NUMBERS o just how far had defending race cham- Spion Marc Coma covered in the ﬁrst half of the Dakar Rally? How much fuel had he used? It’s all here – thanks to the work of his team in giving us the information. We’ve saved you the work in doing the metric conversions… After seven days and six stages (one stage was cancelled due to inclement weather), Coma had covered a total of 2786 miles; 963 through 104 gallons of fuel and 10.5 quarts of oil. miles of those were spent full-on racing in special The team had also used 28 brake pads and seven stages while another 1823 miles were spent in front and seven rear wheels thus far with Coma what they call connections – or getting from one spending 18 hours, 20 minutes and 26 seconds stage to the other. With half the race gone, Coma on the bike. had 2353 miles remaining in the race. The most important number of all, however – at The highest altitude reached thus far in the race the halfway mark, Coma trailed race leader Cyril was 15,557 feet; Coma’s factory KTM had gone Despres by seven minutes and 48 seconds. KIDS SPEEDWAY: A REVIVAL ormer World Speedway speedway tryouts for kids 8 to 15 a lot of talented motorcyclists FChampion Billy Hamill is do- years old. out there who could make it in ing all he can to revive youth “We are looking for kids with World Championship Speedway speedway in the U.S., including motorcycle experience who - if only they were exposed to it,” offering motorcycles and instruc- want to try and get it sideways Hamill said. “We make it as easy tion – for cheap. under professional instruction,” as possible for kids to try it and Hamill said. “We provide entry Hamill, in conjunction with see if it appeals to them. Ameri- level 150cc speedway motorcy- Hagon Shocks, will be holding can Speedway needs fresh new cles, fuel, oil and boots with talent.” a steel shoe. All the partici- The tryouts will be held on pants need to bring is some kind of motorcycle experi- January 15 and January 29 at 10 ence, safety gear, and a good a.m. at Inland Motorcycle Speed- attitude.” way at Orange National Show in The cost is just for the $40 San Bernardino, California. Par- track fee. Hamill and his staff ticipants must RSVP by phone do the rest – for free. (760/798-8015) or via email to “We feel that there are [email protected]. Youth speedway is alive and well thanks to Billy Hamill and Hagon Shocks.

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HE’S THE VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 12, 2012 P39 D CHAMPIONSHIP (Left to right) Ryan Dungey, Ryan Villopoto and Chad Reed celebrate on the Anaheim podium. It was KTM’s ﬁrst time ever on an AMA Supercross podium in the premier class.

A FAST AND IMPRESSIVE START FOR RYAN VILLOPOTO AT ANAHEIM I. BY KIT PALMER ONE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA WILSON AND PALMER ROUND 1/JANUARY 7, 2012 ANGEL STADIUM OF ANAHEIM/ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA P40 SUPERCROSS MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES, AN FIM WORLD

Winner Cole Seely (34) leads second-place ﬁnisher Tyla Rattray in the West Lites main.

or the first time in his ca- cluded three former Supercross reer, Ryan Villopoto lined Champions - Chad Reed, Ryan Reed (22), Dungey (5) and James Fup for a 450 main event in Dungey and James Stewart - and Stewart (7) spent much of the race this close. Supercross sporting the presti- three past Supercross winners gious number one on his bike. - Kevin Windham, Davi Millsaps Then he wasted little time in re- and Josh Grant. If Villopoto had minding everyone why it’s there any first-race-of-the-season jit- after running away with the open- ters they certainly didn’t show, as ing round of the 2012 Monster he rode a nearly flawless 20 laps, Energy AMA Supercross Series finishing a whopping 12.223 sec- at a jammed-packed Angel Sta- onds ahead of Reed, who was dium of Anaheim. closely chased across the finish The sellout crowd 45,050 – line by Dungey. though there was surely a lot Villopoto had some help along more than that in the house - saw the way, though. While he had Villopoto ride the track like he clear sailing up front, his main was on rails, making the win look rivals, who had settled in behind easy after claiming the holeshot him after a few laps, all had their on his Monster Energy Kawasaki share of mishaps as they fought KX450F and pulling away from a closely for second through stacked field of racers, which in- fourth. Reed, who started off in VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 12, 2012 P41 D CHAMPIONSHIP Briefly... Racers were greeted by a track that was rather different than your traditional Supercross track, and it wasn’t received well by most of them. The track was long, with lap times hovering just over the one-minute mark, and it zigged- zagged and snaked all over the Angel Stadium floor. There were no long straights or any significant whoop sections, leaving little opportunities for passing from what many of the racers said. “I liked the track on the safe side of things,” said Ryan Villopoto, who tried finding the positives. “It (Left to right) Reed and Dungey talk about their battle in the main, seemed like it was fairly safe, but I including Dungey’s team manager (and Reed’s former team manager) think they can still make it safe and Roger DeCoster. make it with longer straightaways; instead, there was a lot of turning. second, Dungey third and Stew- Dungey was first to make a move To race a 450 on a track like this is art fourth, all fell at one point or as he slowly reeled in Reed, only really hard, because of the weight another. to slide out on the moist dirt, giv- [of the bike] and because of the Of the three close pursuers, ing his spot to Stewart. Once power. You’re always switching directions, so it’s pretty hard to race a 450, from going to right to left, and the power, exploding, it makes it hard.” Chad Reed said, “I truly believe it’s subpar. It’s not acceptable how pathetic this racetrack is, and it’s a shame. We spend four months working our asses off going in a direction that a Supercross track should challenge you, then suddenly we get a curve ball. You could’ve thrown in some trees and logs and you would’ve had a good Enduro- Cross track.” “It was weird,” said Cole Seely. “It wasn’t your typical 90-degree, 180-degree turn track. The whole infield was like a snake section. It was different for everyone, but I kind of liked it, it was all right. There were no whoops, so I’m kind of bummed on that. I like whoops and they are just another place to pass. I know continued on next page ROUND 1/JANUARY 7, 2012 ANGEL STADIUM OF ANAHEIM/ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA P42 SUPERCROSS MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES, AN FIM WORLD

again, Dungey went on the attack who had also tipped over. running third and veered off into and actually caught and passed Dungey and Stewart contin- the Tuff Blocks, damaging his Stewart, as those two suddenly ued to duke it out until the 15th bike and severely slowing his found themselves close to Reed, lap when Stewart bobbled while momentum. By the time he gath-

happy just to come out of A1 with a they’re not all going to be that easy - Ryan Villopoto: podium finish and healthy. Instead, not that that [this win] was easy - but “Believe me, the defending champ came out with I feel like I’m in a very good position.” an impressive win (and healthy), defi- This year’s A1 track was tight and they’re not all nitely establishing himself as, without twisty, making passing difficult at going to be that doubt, the guy to beat in 2012. best, so getting nothing less than ” “I rode smooth and flawless,” the holeshot was on everyone’s easy Villopoto said. “I made only one mis- mind. But no one got out of the gate Knowing all the hype, pressure take and almost went down. Other quicker than Villopoto. and anticipation that always goes than that I felt good. “I lined up next to the box, but along with the opening round of the “Anaheim I is probably one of there was a little hole right in front of AMA Supercross Series, and know- the hardest races to win,” he said. my gate,” Villopoto said of his start ing well and good that things that can “There’s a lot of hype around it, lot strategy, “but I felt like the space the go wrong at A1- 2009 quickly comes of pressure, lot of pressure to see side of the box gives you on the right to mind when the top two stars, where everyone is at, and I’m glad was better for me than to line up in James Stewart and Chad Reed, it’s out of the way. I feel good where another gate. I just tried to leave the took themselves out - Ryan Villopoto we as a team are at. Believe me, gate smoothly without wheelying, be- said before the race that he’d be VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 12, 2012 P43 D CHAMPIONSHIP

Eli Tomac had a tough night but was Briefly... very fast and ended up squeaking onto the Lites podium. a lot of teams base a lot of their test- MRI on Monday, January 9. ing around the whoops.” ered himself up and finished rip- Muscle Milk Honda’s Trey Canard ping off the left radiator shroud For the first time since breaking did not suit up for the Anaheim I that had been torn lose in the fall, his leg while attempting a back race. A few weeks ago, Canard he had dropped several positions flip in 2010, Josh Hill returned to broke his collarbone while testing and would eventually finish sixth. the track, but the day did not go and was somewhat secretive about smoothly for the Hart & Hunting- whether or not he was going to ride Again, Dungey was on the ton/Dodge Motorsports/Sycuan right up to the last moment. After move during the remaining laps. Casino/Bel-Ray Kawasaki team the race, Canard said that he has He had his sights on Reed once rider. He admitted that he felt out ridden some after getting the okay more, but time - or the lack there- of sync in practice and that he was from his doctor but felt that he was of - was his enemy on this night still suffering the effects from nerve only about 60 percent and decided and had to settle for a close third damage in the leg that he broke. He not push it and wait. He has not yet in what was a very impressive still has a hard time feeling the shift- decided if he’ll join the series next showing in his first official Super- lever and making quick moves with weekend at Phoenix. cross race on this new Red Bull his foot. Hill made it through timed qualifying and into the night pro- KTM 450 SX. Dungey’s podium Troy Lee Design/Lucas Oil Honda’s gram, but was involved in a multi- Christian Craig was back in ac- was also KTM’s first-ever in AMA rider crash in his heat race, injuring tion at Anaheim. The Lites-class Supercross in the premier class. the leg again. He tried finishing the rider had only started riding again Justin Brayton, competing in race but pulled off. X-rays revealed a few weeks before the race, hav- his first official Supercross race no broken bones and, after re- ing broken his wrist a while back. on the Muscle Milk Honda, was ceiving a shot of heavy-duty anti- Craig qualified for the main event also impressive. Having crashed inflammatory medicine, lined up for but jammed the wrist, forcing him in his heat race, forcing him to the LCQ, but the pain was just too to retire early. Craig was scheduled ride the LCQ (which he won), much, and he returned to the track to have the wrist reevaluated by his after a lap. According to his team Brayton had a less than desir- doctor on Monday. manager, Hill was set to undergo an OneO of the biggest surprises of the cause the dirt was really tacky there. dayd was seeing Bevo Forti sport I was able to do that.” 100%10 logos on his hat and shirt. ” Once he got out in front, Vil- Bevo,B whose name is synonymous lopoto focused on not making any withw Scott goggles, has left the mistakes. companyc after 30 years of service. “I just wanted to keep pushing,” “100%““1 came out with a new goggle he said. “The track was long, right anda I’ve decided to join them do- about a minute, and those are long ingin development and sales,” Forti lap times, so you just have to stay said.s “I’m very happy; I worked for focused. There was a lot of moisture a good goggle company and now coming up through the track. When I feel I’m working for a little better we did the hot lap, you could see one.o I’m happy to be back out on that [the surface] was shiny and re- theth circuit. After 30 years at Scott ally slippery. You just had to stay on anda now one day at 100% - I believe your toes and ride the outside lines. inin them.” Justin Brayton is one of “Overall, it was a great race for theth company’s first riders to wear - me.” theth 100% goggles.

FOLLOW FMF RACING ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER WWW.FMFRACING.COM ROUND 1/JANUARY 7, 2012 ANGEL STADIUM OF ANAHEIM/ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA P46 SUPERCROSS MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES, AN FIM WORLD

Josh Hansen (100) and Ben Lamay (52) fight for positions in a 450 heat race. able gate pick for the main event. Without many gates left to chose from, Brayton lined up on the far outside and made the best of it by holding the throttle on a little longer through the far right side of the left-hand turn to come out a respectable eighth. After some hard-fought battles with Ivan Te- desco, Andrew Short and Jake Weimer, Brayton finished out the night in fourth. For Monster Energy Kawasa- ki’s Jake Weimer, the night was all about the number five. He was fifth fastest in combined qualifying and was fifth fastest in the main event after rounding out the

Chad Reed: to ride the track and find the “It was a rough limits where you could push. ” [Ryan] Villopoto was real day for me strong in the tight sections and It might have been a “rough was smooth, and he seemed day” for Chad Reed, but to to have more traction than any- come away with second place body I was around all night.” after being at odds with the Reed and Ryan Dungey track from start to finish, it had some close battles on was actually a pretty good day the track, and the two of them - at least many other racers could be seeing talking at would think so. length with each other after “I feel good,” he said. “I thought it was a great night the race, but no hard feelings seemed to be present. as far as coming out and getting a good start in both “It was all good,” Reed said. “We kept it clean. races, winning a heat race, and then coming back Ryan - both Ryans - we both seem to keep it pretty and getting another good start and being a distant clean and try to keep it hard and aggressive.” second. I’ll take that with a crash and a few mistakes Any remote chance Reed had of challenging for the here and there. win ended when he washed out midway through the “But, it was a rough day for me. It wasn’t like I was race, which allowed Dungey and Stewart to close in struggling with myself or anything like that - it was just on him. that I really fought this track all day long. It was a dif- “It is a shame I lost the front end. I felt like I was try- ficult track for me to find motivation on, so I was happy ing to pick it up a little bit and be faster in some of the to have results with starts like that. turns, but there was a limit, and my limit was not high “I wanted to be on the podium. I was just trying enough today.” VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 12, 2012 P47 D CHAMPIONSHIP

first lap in 10th place. GEICO Powersports Honda’s Hansen, who had battled through Stewart, and his battle-scarred Kevin Windham, MotoConcepts’ flu-like symptoms in the days bike, limped across the finish line Mike Alessi and Hart & Hunting- leading up to the race. in sixth ahead of Supercross. ton/Dodge Motorsports/Sycuan West Lites Supercross com Honda’s Andrew Short, Casino/Bel-Ray Kawasaki’s Josh Cole Seely might not have

My Own Race: He pulled one of his typical Alessi holeshots in the first heat race and opened up a small lead over Chad Reed that he 10 JUSTIN BRAYTON 4TH SX held for a few laps. He was seeded fourth going into the Justin Brayton did a commendable job holding down the main. Unfortunately, he couldn’t pull off another holeshot but fort at the Muscle Milk Honda rig. While his teammate Trey still came around the first lap in fifth. A small wash out later Canard heals up from a broken collarbone, Brayton made in the race cost him some time and he eventually finished his first official Supercross appearance as a factory-backed ninth. Honda rider, and he did his new team proud, finishing one spot out of a podium. Brayton was fourth quickest in timed 9 IVAN TEDESCO 13TH SX qualifying and was full of confidence going into his first heat Ivan Tedesco, on his new Hart & Huntington/Dodge Motor- race. But a first-turn crash left him heading into the LCQ, sports/Sycuan Casino/Bel-Ray Kawasaki, looked strong all which he won. “I had a bad gate pick, so I chose the far night, contrary to what his results might appear. He got off to outside and the plan was just to hold it open on the outside a fast start in the main event, nearly pulling off the holeshot. through the first turn,” Brayton said. “It worked out pretty well He held third for a while, holding both Dungey and Stewart and came out inside the top 10. I felt pretty good and made at bay for a couple of laps. He ran in the top five for much of some passes and got into fourth, and I’m pretty happy with the race before crashing when, because of a slower rider, that considering.” miss-timed a triple jump and went down hard.

21 JAKE WEIMER 5TH SX Ryan Villopoto’s teammate under the Monster Energy Ka- 17 ELI TOMAC 3RD SX LITES wasaki awning, Jake Weimer kind of flew under the radar GEICO Powersports Honda’s Eli Tomac was favored by many all day. Having sat out all of the 2011 Supercross season to win the opening round of the West Lites Series, but things just didn’t go his way over the course of the evening. He with an injury, Weimer rode in the B group during qualify- tangled with another rider right off the gate in his heat race ing and when everyone’s times were added up, Weimer was and was left behind picking up his bike. Later in the race, fifth-quickest overall. A 10th-place start in the main left him his bike quit running and was forced to ride the LCQ, which obscured in the pack, but without much fanfare, he quietly he won over Ryan Sipes. In the main, Tomac was caught by worked his way up through the pack to finish a strong fifth. a late-falling gate and had to come from behind, pressuring Dean Wilson into a mistake on the last lap to squeeze onto 29 ANDREW SHORT 7TH SX the podium. “It was a tough night, but Dean slid out at the Andrew Short had a promising start with his new Jeremy end and gave it to me the easy way,” Tomac said. McGrath/Larry Brooks-run Supercross.com Honda team. The former factory Honda rider was impressive in the sec- 38 MARVIN MUSQUIN 4TH SX LITES ond heat race, grabbing the holeshot and holding off James Red Bull KTM’s Marvin Musquin made his first official start Stewart and Ryan Dungey for many laps. A midpack start in AMA Supercross in the Lites class, and the former MX2 in the main pretty much sealed his fate and he ended up World Champion was impressive. He came out swinging in finishing a solid seventh. “The night went really well for me the first timed qualifying session, setting the quickest time and the whole team came together,” Short said. “The heat and nearly did it again in the session. He finished third be- race was the highlight of the night for me. I got a good start hind Wil Hahn and Tyla Rattray in the first heat race, but a and led some laps and felt comfortable, and my eyes were bad start in the main resulted in a fourth-place finish. “It was huge. The main event I didn’t have a very good start and had a good night,” he said. “I had fun on my bike, it was awe- to ride hard and then just rode tight, which is kind of to be some, and I felt really good on it. I just need better starts. expected. Overall, there were a lot of positives to take away. But I feel good getting fourth in my first main event ever. It’s I know I’m only going to get better week in and week out.” really nice. I really enjoyed the racing and feel healthy and I’m ready to go. I just need to get a good start. First qualifier 800 MIKE ALESSI 9TH SX I had a really good lap time and the first heat race I was third, Riding a black-colored Suzuki for MotoConcepts, Mike Ales- it’s good. Now I just have to get ready for Phoenix. I learned si showed some of his old form over the course of the night. a lot and it’s going to good.” ROUND 1/JANUARY 7, 2012 ANGEL STADIUM OF ANAHEIM/ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA P48 SUPERCROSS MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES, AN FIM WORLD

“I just lost the front end a little bit,” the first race and just try to be there. James Stewart: Stewart said of the crash that cost But, unfortunately, I made a mistake. “I’m not” frustrated him a possible podium finish. “I kind I was a tough track to pass on, but at all of got cross-rutted off that rut. I was we’ll be better. We know what we In his first race in eight months, just uncomfortable in the main; we need to work on. I got through this James Stewart looked fast and just didn’t have the right setup, so I first race healthy and, I mean, this loose on his new heavily modified was just riding around and waiting is my first race in eight months - it’s Toyota/JGRMX Racing Yamaha for those guys to make mistakes and been a while.” YZ450F. Despite admitting later that capitalize. And they did. They gave In his heat and main, Stewart he was struggling with bike set-up, me an opportunity to try and get could not get out of the hole quickly. he laid down the quickest lap time second and get Chad [Reed]. I got a “I think Chad cut me off pretty in qualifying (by more than a second bad start and was battling with those good [off the start],” he said of the over Ryan Villopoto) and won his guys and let Ryan [Villopoto] go. main. “I got off okay, but something heat race, but not without some “I was riding all right,” he added. happened right over the gate. [How- resistance by early leader Andrew “I really wasn’t pushing it at all, even ever] I feel like speedwise - by far Short. But bad starts and one very when I caught up to Ryan and Chad. we’re good.” untimely crash in the main ruined I just kind of rode around. I felt like… Stewart summed up his night: what otherwise was a promising I’ve got a lot more speed in me. I “We’re there, just a lot of little things beginning to the season for Stewart. just felt like I was uncomfortable and add up to big things. But I figure I didn’t want to do anything stupid we’ll get it done, and I feel confi- VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 12, 2012 P49 D CHAMPIONSHIP

Angel Stadium was more than members of the mighty Monster Results packed for the opening round of the Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki 2012 series. Supercross Main squad. But that just didn’t seem 1. Ryan Villopoto (Kaw) been on the top of many people’s to matter to Seely. If anything it 2. Chad Reed (Hon) list as to who might pull off the win only motivated him. Seely started 3. Ryan Dungey (KTM) in the opening round of the West off behind both the Kawasaki rid- 4. Justin Brayton (Hon) 5. Jake Weimer (Kaw) Lites Supercross Series, but he ers, but made short work of them 6. James Stewart (Yam) should have been. Some might and slowly edged away, ﬁnishing 7. Andrew Short (Hon) say that Seely’s Lites main-event 4.059 seconds ahead of Rattray 8. Kevin Windham (Hon) win came as a surprise, but those on his Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil 9. Mike Alessi (Suz) people had undoubtedly forgot- Honda. 10. Josh Hansen (Kaw) ten that Seely already has two Li- Rattray worked hard for his sec- West Lites Main tes wins under his belt, so a third ond-place ﬁnish. He was pushed 1. Coley Seeley (Hon) victory was only a matter of time. from behind by his teammate Wil- 2. Tyla Rattray (Kaw) However, what might have been son the entire way - not to mention 3. Eli Tomac (Hon) surprising was how Seely pulled Eli Tomac, who was hovering in 4. Marvin Musquin (KTM) 5. Ryan Sipes (Yam) off the victory at Anaheim I - by fourth place. 6. Dean Wilson (Kaw) passing two of the fastest riders in Tomac made a charge at the end 7. Jason Anderson (Suz) the class and then pulling away like of the race that carried him right 8. Wil Hahn (Hon) it was no big deal. up to Wilson’s rear wheel. On the 9. Zach Osborne (Yam) Those two riders were Dean last lap, Tomac pressured Wilson 10. Travis Baker (Hon) Wilson, the 2011 AMA 250 Na- into making a mistake that caused For complete results, click tional Motocross Champion, and him to run off the track and land in Tyla Rattray, the 2008 MX2 World an awkward position on the Tuff Champion, and both riders are Blocks. Wilson struggled to get

dent. The race was pretty easy, reported that Stewart wasn’t physically wise - I just started off the happy with the Pirelli rubber back and let the guy get out in front at Anaheim. According to and made a few mistakes. I’m going reliable sources, he rode the to take a lot of positives from this first non-timed practice ses- - I’m not frustrated at all, we’ll get sion with a Bridgestone front there. I’ve won this race, I’ve DNF’ed and a Pirelli rear; then, in the this race, and I’ve won champion- second session, which was ships either way. I’ve been around also the first timed session, long enough to know that once we he ran Pirellis front and rear, get things set up, we’re going to be recording the second-fastest hard to beat. time behind Villopoto. In the “We’ll get it done next week.” third and final session, he ran Stewart did not talk about any a Pirelli front and a Dunlop specifics when it came to what prob- rear, clicking off the fastest lems he was having with bike setup, lap time of the afternoon quali- but we do know that Stewart was fiers by more than a second struggling with tire selection all day. over Villopoto. However, he The team runs Pirellis on Stewart switched back to full Pirellis and Davi Millsaps’ YZs and it’s been for the main. ROUND 1/JANUARY 7, 2012 ANGEL STADIUM OF ANAHEIM/ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA P50 SUPERCROSS MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES, AN FIM WORLD

start,” he added. “I think I Cole Seely: came out fifth or sixth in the “The smarter I first turn, made some good rode the easi- passes in the opening laps ” and just tried to ride a smart er it got and mature race after that. Emerging from the Lites “It was hard to pull away qualifiers second fastest was once I got ahead of those probably the key to Cole guys,” he admitted. “I just Seely’s success in the Lites kept making mistakes and class. That boosted his confi- had to keep telling myself to dence two-fold, which he car- take it down a notch and ride ried into and put to good use in the 15-lap main event. consistently, don’t make mistakes and ride smart. The “The day started off good,” Seely said. “I qualified smarter I rode the easier it got and the faster I went. I well, which is good for me, since I don’t typically do just tried to ride that way the last laps.” well in qualifying. I was pumped I got one good lap in, Seely also admitted that Anaheim I is one of the but I knew I could run that consistently. tougher races. “In my heat race, I got a little bit of a bad start and “There is just so much hype and nerves going into worked my way up, but I knew by the way I was riding A1, and to come out on top is just awesome. Just to that I could definitely win tonight. get through it is awesome, but to get through it on top “I just went out in the main and tried to get a good is even better.” VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 12, 2012 P51 D CHAMPIONSHIP

(Left) Josh Grant (33) and teammate Kyle Chisholm made their debut on the new Jeff Ward Rac- ing Kawasaki team. (Far left) Dungey (5), Mike Alessi (800) and Ivan Tedesco (9) mix it up in a heat race. Both Alessi and Tedesco looked strong. back going again and lost a few positions, ending up an eventual sixth. Tomac, who logged the fastest lap time of the race, went on to finish third. Red Bull KTM’s Marvin Mus- quin, competing in his first official AMA Supercross race, finished fourth after getting off to an eighth-place start. Ryan Sipes, the top Lites qualifier, rounded out the top five on his Rockstar/Valli/Star

Ryan Dungey: “Just need” to eliminate the mistakes Although he didn’t win, the Anaheim race was a good one for Ryan Dungey. He looked fast and comfortable on the KTM, and seemed far more aggressive than we’ve seen from him in the past. He actually reeled in and passed James Stewart once, and caught Chad Reed twice. Had he not slid out, the finish might have been a lot more exciting than it already was. “I feel like we got off to a pretty decent start in the main,” Dungey said. “I kind of got boxed out there on the outside [through the first turn], but we were able us three battling it out trying to get that second-place to tuck under and come out about third or fourth. spot. But we ended up third. I don’t think that was too From that point forward, it was just trying to be work- bad. ing ahead and making passes. Villopoto, he kind of “Chad and I had a good race,” he added. “Every- got out there right away and so did Chad [Reed]. I thing was fine afterward. Towards the end, I was trying got around Ivan [Tedesco, who had gotten off to a to put the pressure on and obviously he knew I was fast start] and I was working on my way to Chad and, there. I was trying everything I could to get by. It was a about halfway in, I tucked my front - I missed the rut tough track to pass on. It was great racing. Just need and the whole rear came out and made a mistake and to eliminate the mistakes.” fell over. The was unfortunate. You never want to lose Dungey added that he feels very right at home on that much time, but we rebounded and came back the KTM. up, passed James and got up to Chad - he made a “To be honest, it’s the most comfortable I’ve ever mistake too - and then from that point forward it was felt on a 450.” ROUND 1/JANUARY 7, 2012 ANGEL STADIUM OF ANAHEIM/ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA P52 SUPERCROSS MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES, AN FIM WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Josh Hill returned to racing but pulled off after possibly re-injuring his leg.

Racing Yamaha, followed by Wil- son, Rockstar Energy Suzuki’s Jason Anderson, and GEICO Powersports Honda’s Wil Hahn, who had fallen and broken his nose earlier in the race. GP regular Zach Osborne ﬁn- ished ninth, while Travis Baker, on the Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda rounded out the top 10 overall. CN

In a nutshell, all riders will Getting be asked to take a “test” while Serious About healthy and the results will be Concussions held on ﬁle, so when/if a rider At Anaheim, Dr. Bodnar, of hits his head on race day, the Asterisk Mobile Medical he’ll be required to take that Unit, announced a new pro- same test. If the Asterisk crew gram for evaluating concus- doesn’t like what they see in sions. For now the program comparison, they will have the is strictly on a volunteer basis authority to tell that rider that for the riders, but starting with he/she can’t ride until they’ve this year’s outdoor series it had a chance to recover. will be mandatory. The program calls for every rider “We want to treat concussions just like any other to be tested to establish a baseline value so that if injury,” Bodnar said. “In the past, ringing your bell that rider takes a hit to the head during a race they was just considered that, ringing your bell, and not will be required to get retested so that value can be something that was taken too seriously. Now we real- compared to their baseline, which will then be a factor ize it’s just like breaking your leg and you need time to used to determine if and when they will be allowed to recover from it. Just because you’re still walking and return to racing. talking doesn’t mean it’s safe to ride. In my mind, this “Over the last six months we’ve been working program is going to extend a rider’s career, because on upgrading our concussion policy,” said Bodnar. we have riders who have fallen by the wayside due to “Things have changed over the past 10 years, as all not handling concussions properly, and now they have medicine has, and we’re looking at ways to manage problems concentrating and they can’t ride the way concussions, like you see in a lot of sports now like they once could.” the NFL and hockey. With the help of Dr. Rhymer, the Thanks to a donation from Shoei Safety Helmet medical advisor for the program, we have changed Corporation, all baseline testing done during the the way we look at concussions from the old Grade 1, Supercross season, as well as any necessary follow 2, and 3, to more of a multi-faceted approach, using up tests, will be free of charge for all AMA licensed multiple formulas and testing to evaluate how bad a hit riders. a rider has taken.” Custom Valving, Built to Order RACING or RIDING

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Honda reﬁned its 2012 CBR1000RR and let us loose at Inﬁneon Raceway to see if we liked it. We did. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P55

BY TOM MONTANO German Superbike Championship aboard PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN J. NELSON an ABS-equipped CBR. So without engaging in any kind of great f it ain’t broke, don’t fix. It’s a saying you overhaul or redesign of the current CBR, often hear when someone is trying to Honda has come up with some exceptional Imake something better and it all goes hor- upgrades that they believe will keep them ribly wrong. In the highly competitive world at the top of the heap in the open sportbike of open-class sportbikes, this could mean class. the introduction of costly redesigns and use- Unlike many of its rivals, Honda decided less new parts that make things more com- to forgo the ever-popular electronic riding plicated and ultimately have an outcome of aides and stick to the basics. Thus, traction very little improvement. It appears the men at control, engine mapping and power-mode Honda had this in mind when they decided controls are all absent from the new CBR, to leave good enough alone with its 2012 but that doesn’t mean you will be left behind. CBR1000RR. Instead what you will find is what Honda calls Why completely change what already “a perfect balance of power and handling works when a few subtle upgrades will do designed to work together as a complete the job just fine? package.” Honda has opted to build on the same ba- Back in 1992 when Honda introduced the sic platform that has taken Johnny Rea and original CBR900RR, the main goal was to his Ten Kate CBR1000RR to several victo- build a bike that worked great everywhere. ries in the World Superbike Championship. Whether on the track or in town, Honda The same bike that Karl Muggeridge also wanted the rider to feel at ease with the bike achieved success on by claiming the 2011 while having the confidence to take full ad- ABOUTNO MESSIN’ HONDA DIDN’T SCRAP ITS CBR1000RR, IT JUST REFINED IT FIRST RIDE P56 2012 HONDA CBR1000RR

and the superior bump compli- ance of the new Big Piston Fork is also a welcomed attribute. At the rear of the bike, Honda still incorporates its Unit Pro- Link suspension, but with a new Showa Balance-Free shock. This patented new design sports a unique double-tube damper case, plus an internal cylinder for added damping response. It’s much like an Ohlins TTX racing shock except it comes as standard kit on the 2012 CBR1000RR. Both front and rear suspension components are equipped with external compression and rebound adjustments, and pre-load may also be adjusted on both The newest of the CBR1000s – available with ABS or without. units to suit your riding needs. New 12-spoke cast aluminum vantage of the available perfor- ing the elements crucial to being wheels also play an important mance at hand. The new model a great streetbike – things like part in the handling of the bike. marks the 20th anniversary of comfort and ridability. It’s been a The theory is that the added rigid- the CBR1000 and the rationale few years since the CBR1000RR ity of the 12-spoke design - com- behind the original CBR900RR has been updated and without fit- bined with the new suspension still rings true today. With some ting electronics what could they - allows the rider to better trans- of the same engineers heading do to sweeten the prize? late what is going on underneath up development, the new 2012 First off, Honda engineers de- him/her. CBR1000RR project should be cided to enhance the handling Another notable update is the a step forward in the continuing characteristics of the CBR by fit- new layered-fairing design that success of the CBR family. Or is ting a new Showa 43mm Big Pis- increases cooling, reduces drag it? ton Fork (BPF) up front. The new and creates a nice pocket of calm The previous CBR1000RR was BPF fork offers a larger damp- air around the rider for improved a good bike and it had reason- ing volume that will reduce the comfort. The new fairing also able success at the racetrack. hydraulic pressure generated as sports an integrated chin spoiler But the street market is where it the fork legs compress and ex- in the nose for reduced aerody- really counts. After all, if the bikes tend. The increased surface area namic lift to further enhance the don’t sell there won’t be any rac- of the larger piston helps control handling. ing. oil flow through the cartridge, al- Okay let’s put the new updates Over the years Honda has man- lowing for a better damping ef- to the test. The press launch for aged for the most part to design fect. This in effect translates to the new CBR1000RR was held motorcycles that perform well at increased feel and stability under at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, the racetrack while still retain- heavy braking and corner entry, California - a great track for test- VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P57

The CBR1000 has always been ing motorcycles. What isn’t so a very capable streetbike. That great is the fact that the weather hasn’t changed. in mid-December in Northern California can be a bit dodgy. And dodgy it was. I awoke to morning fog and heavy mist and by the time we got to the track it hadn’t lifted, which prevented us from riding. Eventually we made it out, but the weather didn’t make it very productive or much fun. But one thing I could test in the iffy conditions was the revised fuel injection mapping with better throttle performance. Infi- neon Raceway is sketchy when it is wet so the smoother you are on the throttle, the better off you are. I quickly found the new fuel- injection settings to be spot on. There was plenty of power when you wanted it and it came on smoothly and in a linear fashion. The fact that Honda had brought some 2011 CBR1000RRs to compare the new one with was insightful on their part because you could really feel the difference between the two bikes. The new CBR was definitely smoother, yet more responsive. As the sun started to break through and the track warmed, the fun started. While we found the new bike to be smoother and easier to ride in less than ideal conditions, just how would it handle the abuses of a proper track- day thrashing? might be a bit too soft to be so ity of the new Showa fork and When the conditions were composed at less than full tilt. I rear shock to handle a plethora less than ideal, the 2012 model quickly discovered that the new of situations. Infineon has a lot soaked up the bumps and felt at suspension has a wide range of elevation changes, turns, and ease with the conditions at hand, of operating parameters. As the not much in the way of straights but I thought the suspension speed increased so did the abil- to rest - so you’re working all the FIRST RIDE P58 2012 HONDA CBR1000RR

time. Thus you want a bike that’s fear of craping open the throttle shines in places like the hard- easy to ride and won’t wear you on an open-class sportbike. They braking turn nine chicane. The out. got it right – and that’s just part of fork reacts predictably entering The new Balance-Free rear the perfect balance of power and corners with a nice controlled shock is a big improvement handling they were talking about. dive. As soon as you are done over the 2011 model. The new By mid afternoon I was really with your trail braking, the fork CBR1000RR soaked up the feeling good about the new CBR. settles in and allows the rider to bumps and kept its composure Inﬁneon has lots of turns and a continue through the corner with when you nailed it out of the few fast transitions to deal with so excellent feel and control. corners. The way the rear wheel a nimble bike is a real plus. Get- Every now and then I would tracked over the bumps was ting hard on the gas out of turn forget what gear I was in, but the great and when you came off the seven that leads down to the turn fact that the new multi-function corners on the gas it was like you eight esses is always a struggle, LCD instrument cluster has a were being pushed forward with and muscling the bike back and gear indicator would save me. plenty of usable traction – just forth is tough – not so on the It’s a nice addition, allowing you like a proper race bike. CBR. It’s really a joy to throw to look down and compare the One note of interest was the around. revs of the motor on the new bar- throttle response when transi- Once again, it’s here that the graph-like tachometer to what tioning from off the gas to back new rear shock plays a key role gear you are in and adjust your on while exiting the corners. The in keeping the attitude of the bike riding accordingly. I am a big fan fact that it is so smooth really neutral enough to be able to put it of the old style needle-type tach, helps keep the bike from lurching where you want - when you want. but the new dash layout on the back and forth, taking away the The Showa Big Piston Fork also 2012 CBR was very cool. There

That was then, this is now: The new CBR1000RR and the one that started it all 20 years ago – the CBR900RR. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P59

The author bends the SPECIFICATIONS CBR into one of Inﬁneon’s corners. 2012 CBR1000RR

Engine: ...... 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder Bore and Stroke: ...... 76mm x 55.1mm Compression Ratio: ...... 12.3:1 Valve Train: ...... DOHC; four valves per cylinder Induction: ...... Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) Ignition: ..... Computer-controlled digital transistorized with 3-D mapping Transmission: ...... Close-ratio six-speed Final Drive: ...... Chain are also options for a lap timer, braking system. On the previous five-level shift light indicator, fuel CBR1000RR the brake bias be- SUSPENSION consummation and efficiency, tween the front and rear was a Front: ...... 43mm inverted Big Piston and several other readouts. bit too heavy on the front brake Fork with spring preload, rebound and The next thing on my com- when engaging the rear brake. compression damping adjustability parison list was the newly re- The 2012 C-ABS model has de- Rear: Unit Pro-Link Balance-Free Rear vised optional C-ABS linked creased the amount of pressure Shock with spring preload, rebound applied to the front brake when and compression damping adjustability hard on the rear brake. Mean- while, when you are hard on the BRAKES front brake the rear brake is en- Front: ..Dual radial-mounted four-piston gaged just enough to settle the calipers with full-floating 320mm discs bike a bit, which I like because Rear: ...... Single 220mm disc Optional I’m a rear brake kind of guy. Honda Electronic Combined ABS Once you get your head around the C-ABS system you TIRES will come to realize how impres- Front: ...... 120/70ZR-17 radial sive it really is. The one flaw is Rear: ...... 190/50ZR-17 radial that the lever pull is somewhat Wheelbase: ...... 55.5 inches compromised by the fact that you Rake: ...... 23° 3’ don’t quite have the initial bite Trail: ...... 96.0mm (3.8 inches) and feel as you get into the lever as on the no-ABS system. But Seat Height: ...... 32.3 inches after you understand the differ- Fuel Capacity: ...... 4.7 gallons, including ence in feel between the C-ABS 1.06-gallon reserve equipped bike and the no- ABS Weight (wet): ..441 pounds/467 pounds model you can really hammer the (with C-ABS) brakes. Even the added weight FIRST RIDE P60 2012 HONDA CBR1000RR

There are plenty of bumps, off- camber turns, blind corners, and wet patches to navigate and you need to feel confident with your ride when attacking those conditions. Well, the new CBR1000RR with its revised fuel injection and new Showa suspension was up The digital dash now has a gear- to the task. position indicator. All the usual obstacles were met with ease. The smooth throttle response was a big plus and the way the suspension soaked up the bumps kept the ride exciting but never scary in such pre- carious conditions. Just like at The front fork is new – a 43mm Showa Big Piston Fork. the racetrack, both ends of the bike tracked well over the bumps inquired about the presence of a and stayed planted to the ground Twenty years of CBRs. slipper clutch and was informed all while driving forward. that the new CBR comes stan- I encountered several spots dard with Honda’s patented cen- throughout the ride that required ter cam-assist mechanical type quick and precise action… i.e. slipper clutch. Instead of moving blind corners and debris in the the plates from side to side as on road. The new ABS was great, regular slippers, Honda’s clutch allowing you to brake as needed moves both the center cam as- while not throwing it down the sist and the pressure plates to road if you happened to get into a provide additional slipper effect. panic situation. I have to say that Stylish in red. It worked well and I had no trou- the perfect balance of power and ble with rear wheel hopping. I left handling that the men from Hon- of the C-ABS (an additional 26 the track very satisfied with the da talked about earlier was very pounds) is barely noticeable. new 2012 CRB1000RR. evident on the new CBR1000RR. While on the subject of brak- The weather was even worse Well done, boys. ing and corner entry, I began the next morning for our street The new 2012 CBR1000RR to question whether or not the ride and it was a bit daunting becomes in three-color combina- big Honda was fitted with a slip- cause it had rained and the roads tions: Black, red and pearl white per clutch. As you pushed the were damp. But it didn’t stop us with a splash of blue and red. corner entry deeper and really and we headed out from the ho- The MSRP for the standard 2012 put the Tokico radial-mounted, tel to explore the back roads and CBR1000RR is $13,800 while four-piston calipers and 320mm coastline of Northern California. the C-ABS equipped model will brake rotors to the test, the The roads there are ideal for run you $14,800. For just a grand new CBR1000 was every bit as testing just how user-friendly and more, sign me up for the ABS- smooth as you could imagine. I forgiving a motorcycle can be. equipped model. CN

FEATURE P62

TEAM ALESSI Mike Alessi will be re-united with his brother Jeff at Moto- Concepts. TONY ALESSI HAS CARTE BLANCHE AT MOTOCONCEPTS: A WINNING COMBINATION OR A RECIPE FOR DISASTER?

NEW YEAR, NEW ALESSIS? VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P63

BY JEAN TURNER has finally been given the chance take our own 450 - a MotoCon- PHOTOGRAPHY BY RESMARKET to do so. cepts Racing 450 - and to try to “This is a great opportunity develop a program that can beat t’s a new year, a new season, for us, bar none,” Tony said at the top talent and the top equip- and Tony Alessi has finally the MotoConcepts team intro at ment in the world,” Tony contin- Ibeen given what he’s wanted Milestone MX. “We have an op- ued. “It’s not going to be easy by since 2004 - free reign over his portunity now for Mike and Jeff any means, but we’re up for the son’s race program. Plenty might and myself to pursue a dream challenge and we’re going to go see that as a frightening idea that we’ve been after for a while.” for it. I really want to thank Mike given the Alessi family’s notoriety, MotoConcepts team owner Genova for the opportunity.” and their history of strained rela- Mike Genova shares the Alessis’ What led Genova to empower tionships with factory teams. The perspective that the “shackles” the Alessis so freely? He has mere mention of the Alessi name that come with a factory team plenty of experience in racing, is synonymous with a parable of are what have been holding them and is certainly not blind to the talent being hindered by clashing back. Without the freedom to call stigma associated with the Alessi egos, which typically stars Tony their own shots, Mike didn’t have name. He has his own perspec- as the overbearing father. The the tools to put together a solid tive on the matter and was quite story played over and over again season. It might seem like excus- candid about his rationale at the through message boards and in- es and finger pointing, but Tony team’s press day. dustry rumor mills as Mike Alessi went on to bring up a valid point. “I see on those blogs people went from one factory team to an- “In 2004, we took a privateer talking about what kind of people other. All the while, flashes of bril- effort - we took our own bike - the Alessis are or aren’t, and I liance served as convincing re- to Steel City with a kid that was read some of these blogs about minders that his potential was still in ninth grade who weighed 125 how Mike needs to be away from there, but the proverbial question pounds,” Tony recalls. “We took Tony or that Tony is not a good always lurked overhead: What that effort that was ours and put guy,” Genova said. “But I gotta would it take to finally put it all to- it on the podium. And beat many, tell ya; I’ve been around pro rac- gether? many factory riders that day. ing about four or five years now This year, the Alessis have a Since that day, obviously we’ve and these are some of the best new plan - one that brought Mike, had some good results and good guys in the sport, in my opinion. his brother Jeff, and Tony all back performances along the way, Jeff, Mike, they get a bad, bad together on the same team. Crit- but it didn’t come with our own rep. And you see [Tony] up here ics will say that they exhausted all program. It came with shackles. with so much emotion. And part their options with factory teams Now we have an opportunity to of that emotion is that people and were relegated to their cur- do what we’ve always wanted to didn’t believe in him, didn’t trust rent deal, but Tony maintains they do.” him and didn’t understand him had several options (including The unique 2012 program is and didn’t support him.” more financially rewarding ones), isn’t one that any of the Alessis Genova went on to talk about and chose to deal with Mike are taking lightly. The significance the synergy between Tony and Genova and MotoConcepts for of this long awaited chance was Mike, and how giving them free- one very important reason - carte clear from Tony’s emotion-filled dom rather than restrictions is the blanche. Tony Alessi has always speech at the team’s media day. key to unlocking Mike’s potential. longed for the freedom to devel- “It’s an opportunity for us to “Those guys are committed so op Mike’s program and now he take our own program and to you don’t have to babysit them on FEATURE P64

TEAM ALESSI Alessi said he could’ve chosen whether they’re working or try- any bike he wanted - he chose ing or focusing,” Genova said the Suzuki RM-Z450. of the Alessis. “They’re self- motivated and self-reliant.” Of course, it’s not just about Mike and Tony. Jeff Alessi has been reunited with his dad and brother and is also looking forward to a lucrative year in the 450 class. “It’s been, like, four years, maybe even more [since being on a team with his brother]. I’m pretty pumped on it. I think it will be good for all of us.” Jeff has played a key role in developing the MotoConcepts 450 with Mike and his dad since also led them to accessorize with hour is: Will it work? The Ales- September. In accordance with whatever they wish, and without sis have been granted free reign, the carte blanche policy, they naming specifics, Genova re- and plenty will scoff at the idea... tested a number of bikes before vealed that the #800 and #801 but if there’s one thing we’ve making their choice, with no in- bikes are not even 100 percent learned in the past few years, it’s fluence or obligation from any Suzuki-based. that not all champions blossom brand sponsorship. In another renegade move, the under a factory tent. Riders like Pre-season testing led the team is heading into the season Ricky Carmichael, James Stew- Alessis to abandon the existing without a team manager. Former art and Chad Reed showed that MotoConcepts Yamaha YZ450F manager David Vuillemin parted building a team around their own for the Suzuki RM-Z450, which ways with the MotoConcepts needs can work even better than team several months ago, and serves as the base model for a standard issue factory ride. his position has been filled by a Mike’s and Jeff’s race bikes. And it makes enough sense for “Some of the riders we had collaborative effort. the Alessis to break with conven- struggled with how the Yamaha “Yeah, we’re kind of mixing it tion since convention hasn’t pro- rode,” Genova said. “So we up a little bit,” Genova said. “Da- duced their desired results yet. made a decision that we wanted vid did a great job for us but we’re to have a bike that best suited the going in a different direction. We Will it work? Is now the time? rider because we were mostly have so much infrastructure up in Will Tony Alessi be able to pro- supporting the cost on our own, our home base in Spokane, and duce a winner and say, “I told we said we’re going to get the I’m more involved than ever. So you so,” to all the factory teams? bike that we want.” I’m becoming the owner/man- Stranger things have happened. But without any official back- ager and we’re relying on our in- Mike, Tony and Jeff are feeling ing from the manufacturer, you shop guys to do a lot of the man- the weight of this long awaited won’t hear any mention of “the S agement of the inventory and the opportunity on their shoulders, word” under the MotoConcepts bikes.” and none of them plan to take it tent. The unbridled freedom has So now the question of the for granted. CN COMPETITION

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CONTINGENCY TEST P66 DUNLOP ROADSMART II

BY BILL STERMER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN WING

t’s no mystery what riders want in a tire. We want to increase the envelope in which the Itire will handle well and predictably, we want it to last a greater number of miles, and we GET want it to stick to the pavement like a pit bull on a mailman’s pants—in the wet or dry. Back in 2008, Dunlop introduced its original Roadsmart sport-touring tire, which did a reasonable job in all three areas. However, since then, the number of sport-touring bikes has expanded, and their performance has GRIPPY been enhanced. Also, Dunlop has released a number of new tires in the interim including the Sportmax Q2 and D211, and racing slicks including the KR106 and 108, and the KR448F and KR449. According to Dunlop, the technology gleaned from developing these sport- WITH ing and racing tires, along with other tires in their line, has now been incorporated into the successor to the original Roadsmart tire, which they call the Roadsmart II. At the tire’s introduction in mid-December in Southern California, the good folks at Dun- lop told us that they had invested more than IT $30 million in their tire plant in Buffalo, New York, and that their Dunlop Proving Grounds >Dunlop is the only motorcycle tire testing facility in the >enhances the United States. We were also told that, “Rac- ing is part of who we are; it’s part of our DNA. >art of sport- We have a ‘race-to-road’ strategy.” Dunlop personnel stated that they can cascade tech- >touring rubber nology, utilizing what works on one kind of tire in the development of another.” And, we were told, the Roadsmart II beneﬁts from this racing technology. Because the Roadsmart II is a sport-touring tire it has to work well in the wet, deliver exceptional longevity and of course stick well. That means it needs to deliver sufﬁcient lati- tude so that it can be utilized on sportbikes, sport-tourers and touring machines. Accord- VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P67 Y

We sampled the Dunlop Roadsmart IIs on a variety of motorcycles. TEST P68 DUNLOP ROADSMART II

(Above) The front tire’s tread pattern features long lateral grooves to evacuate water and to promote regular wear. (Right) The rear gets a softer compound on the outsides for grip and harder rubber in the middle for tread life.

ing to Dunlop’s Mike Manning, from expanding at high speeds, really leaned over—at about a the need to deliver this great lati- thus controlling carcass distor- 40-degree angle—the contact tude means, “a sport-touring tire tion and heat buildup. It’s all in- patch actually becomes larger for is the most challenging type of tended to keep the contact patch greater grip. tire to build.” stiff while allowing the sidewalls The front tire’s tread pattern For starters, Dunlop has re- to flex (they’re part of the suspen- features long lateral grooves to designed the tread pattern front sion system) and to lay down a evacuate water and to promote and rear. While still utilizing the larger footprint when leaned over. regular wear. For the rear tire, “cosecant-curve” groove pat- The rear tire also features JLB, Dunlop engineers removed some tern, the placement and shape of but with multi-tread compound- of the grooves from the center those grooves has been altered ing that produces a harder com- area to stiffen it for greater wear. to reduce tire squirm, which pro- pound in the center for longer They found that because the front motes more even wear and lon- wear and softer on the edges for tire evacuates water when the ger life. grip. In the profile area the goal bike is ridden straight up, the rear The front Roadsmart II utilizes is for the tire to offer sporty han- does not need as much channel- Flex Steel-Jointless Belt (FS- dling, yet provide linear feel and ing as it follows the same path. JLB) technology that carries two comfortable handling. The Dun- Both front and rear compounds body plies arranged at opposing lop folks call it “intuitive response utilize silica for greater wet grip angles for both grip and shock profile,” which means that the and extended wear. absorption. The intent is to keep tire responds in a way that is in- The other major change from the tread from squirming, while tuitive for the rider—it delivers no the original Roadsmart is slightly not allowing the ride to become surprises. The Roadsmart II is increased tread depth—how- too stiff. Meanwhile, the FS-JLB designed to provide a linear feel ever, if the tread is overly deep technology also prevents the tire to the contact patch, but when it can begin to squirm and de- VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P69

tract from handling. According into the local mountains, the provided very predictable and to Dunlop personnel they tested route was around 100 miles over- secure grip, and I felt at home the Roadsmart II at their Hunts- all. During the course of the rid- immediately on each of the bikes ville, Alabama test track and the ing day I was able to explore the I rode. Granted, a 100-mile stint results were improved lap times Roadsmart II’s performance on a on a variety of bikes is far from a in the wet over the previous tire, variety of bikes. Because they’re comprehensive test—after all, the and they were also able to gener- sport-touring tires I tried them on day was dry, and longevity did not ate greater G-forces while leaned a Yamaha FJR1300 and Triumph enter into the equation. However, over. In short, the tire was able to Sprint ST. Because they’re also regarding feel and handling, the handle greater acceleration and meant for heavier touring bikes I tires did perform as advertised. deceleration forces, while deliv- did a stint on BMW’s new K1600 From the technical informa- ering increased grip and longev- six-cylinder; to throw a little sport ity. into the mix I also jumped aboard tion presented and our brief sad- As part of the introduction the a Yamaha YZ8. dle time with them, it seems that press was invited to ride the new As usual this press ride soon Dunlop has done its homework Roadsmart II on a number of dif- turned into a race, with the jour- with the Roadsmart IIs. Their ferent motorcycles on a primo nalists scalding the backroads as handling was certainly intuitive, backroad course from Westlake hard and fast as the law allows— and grip assured. I’d be happy Village to Ojai, California, and and then some. In all cases the for the opportunity to wear out a back again. Including a stint up Roadsmart IIs turned in easily, set. CN

The author liked the feel and the handling of the newest Dunlops provided. TEST P70 2012 TRIUMPH STEVE MCQUEENTM EDITION

Triumph’s tribute to Steve McQueen – the Steve McQueen Edition. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P71 Icon

The Triumph Bonneville that pays tribute to Steve McQueen and his love of motorcycles BY ALAN CATHCART PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYOICHI NAKAMURA

very time we see the movie, we think, ‘This time, surely he’ll make it,’ as we urge on American air- Eman Captain Virgil Hilts, aka Steve McQueen, in his ﬁnal daredevil bid for freedom in The Great Escape, as he tries to leap to freedom after gunning his stolen motorcycle back and forth across the undulating hill- sides as he hunts for a gap in the barbed wire border fence lying between him and Switzerland - away from the German soldiers closing in on all sides. But, of course, it all ends in tears every time, as Virgil’s heroic attempt to leap the fence ends in a painful crash, and a return to the very POW camp he’d already escaped from… Two decades after his tragic early death from can- cer in November 1980, at just 50 years old, the world’s on-going fascination with McQueen lives on. As the TEST P72 2012 TRIUMPH STEVE MCQUEENTM EDITION

The author went back in time for this one.

iconic Hollywood biker whose matter the generation. today’s classic Bonneville T100 movie exploits were matched by With Triumph motorcycles play- air-cooled parallel-twin, which his all-round two-wheeled riding ing a key role in McQueen’s life pays tribute to the late actor’s skills, especially off-road, the star away from the ﬁlm set, perhaps love for British bikes. With the ap- of The Great Escape and the ul- it’s inevitable that Triumph Mo- proval of McQueen’s son Chad, timate motorcycle movie, On Any torcycles has now joined forces 1100 individually-numbered ex- Sunday, retains a special fascina- with McQueen’s estate to create amples of the Steve McQueen™ tion for all bike enthusiasts. No an ofﬁcially licenced version of Edition – dig that trademark - are VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P73

with a distinctly ‘60s feel even if must admit I thought he’d made its design is inspired by the Tro- That Jump, not stuntman Bud phy TR6 that McQueen and Ek- Ekins. McQueen later became ins rode in The Great Escape. a folk hero for me after his part The McQueen bike features a in bankrolling and also appearing series of modified parts aimed at in On Any Sunday in 1971. Memo- taking it a step beyond a normal ries… Bonneville model, painted in a So the chance to pay tribute military-style matte Khaki Green to McQueen by riding Triumph’s livery, with a rough cut-looking new Steve McQueen™ Edition, stencil-style Triumph decal on trademark sign and all, was wel- the tank, and the actor’s signa- come, especially as the sunny ture on the side covers. English winter day I did so on Sporting a specially-designed allowed Warwickshire to mas- solo seat and black luggage rack, querade as California. Time to the McQueen Edition comes own up, though – before doing with a rugged-looking skid plate so, I delved into our attic to pull and smaller black-bodied head- out my durable cowhide ‘70s rid- lamp. It also features a host of ing jacket – anyone remember other blacked out components, Bates leathers? – that I used to like the wheel rims and hubs, wear riding around McQueen’s handlebars, rear springs, mirrors San Francisco base back in and front fender supports. And the 1970s. Sadly, though, it had to confirm its provenance, each shrunk during the 30 years it had limited edition bike is individually been squirreled away out of sight numbered via a plaque on the tri- – and, yes!, my Hermans riding ple clamp, while owners will also boots still fitted. Add an open- receive a certificate of authentic- faced Arai, a pair of Octopus ity with their machine. goggles, and this living leap into With deliveries of the Mc- all our yesterdays was ready for Queen Edition not scheduled to the road. begin until April, the chance to The Steve McQueen™ Edition borrow the pre-production proto- is based on the older Swingin’ type carrying the number 1 plate Sixties-style T100 wire-wheeled from the Triumph factory (before version of the then born-again scheduled to be sold worldwide it ends up in Chad McQueen’s British manufacturer’s Bonneville in the coming year. garage as part of the deal) gave model launched in 2000 as the The McQueen Edition (just a me a special kind of ride down foundation of its Modern Clas- bit over a $1000 more than the memory lane. When The Great sic line-up. Since then, Triumph stock Bonneville T100) is an un- Escape was released I remem- has built more than 120,000 air/ deniably cool-looking bike that ber coming out of the theater oil-cooled 790/865cc parallel- is more utilitarian warhorse than with stars in my eyes, marvelling twins, spread between its Bonn- custom model in appearance, at McQueen’s daredevil skills – I eville, Scrambler, T100, Thrux- TEST P74 2012 TRIUMPH STEVE MCQUEENTM EDITION

(Far left) The fuel-injected 865cc parallel twin powers the McQueen bike.

(Left) Just 1100 of the bike will be produced and each is numbered accordingly.

(Bottom left) A retro seat and luggage rack.

(Bottom right) Engine protection for going scramblin’.

ton, America and Speedmaster significantly altered handling via adjustable 41mm Kayaba fork that models – one-fifth of total Tri- the single most obvious change offers 120mm of travel set a rang- umph production in just half the to the aesthetics - those seven- ier 28-degree rake angle - one time the reborn company has spoke cast aluminum wheels degree more than on the current been alive, illustrating the air- each carrying 17-inch tires. cast-wheeled version. The larger cooled parallel-twins’ broad on- The wire wheels fitted to the diameter front wheel also has the going appeal. McQueen model are both shod effect of kicking out the wheel- Most recently, this has been with Metzelers, but the front one base a couple of inches, to 59 spearheaded by the cast alumi- is a 19-incher delivering more inches from 57.2 inches. num-wheeled Bonneville update languid, relaxed steering that’s On top of that, the riding posi- launched in 2009, subtly adapt- further promoted by the more tion has also been altered. The ed to deliver a quite different conservative front-end geometry stock T100’s very authentic ‘60s- more ‘70s-type look, as well as of the older model, with the non- looking flat platform wasn’t very VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P75

comfortable for very long and shafts), remains at the heart of however, deliver adequate stop- that’s been replaced by a much the bike - complete with the 4mm ping power for this type of bike. more welcoming period-style overbore adopted across the There’s lots of bite as well as single seat that at 30.5 inches range in 2005, and unchanged feel from the front brake, which in height, is already not only 1.3 internally from then. It still has a is single-finger stuff thanks to an inches taller than today’s stock 360-degree two-up crank that appropriate choice of master cyl- Bonneville, but has also been delivers a satisfying if muted tra- inder. The rear is easy to use and narrowed at the front to make it ditional Brit bike thump to the feels pretty responsive. easier for shorter riders to touch exhaust note. But thanks to the The Bonneville’s broad spread their feet down at rest. Especially engine’s twin gear-driven coun- of torque and accessible power, women. Well, Steve McQueen ter-balancers, there’s absolutely with just 67 horsepower to its had his female fans, too – lots of no undue vibration of any kind felt name, makes it a relaxing, satis- them, in fact. through the seat, handlebar or fying ride thanks to the Keihin EFI The luggage rack behind the footpegs, even revved out to its that arrived on the Bonnies for seat is a useful as well as very 7500 rpm power peak (at which the 2008 model year. The pack- retro-looking item, plus the dif- point 68PS/67 hp/50kW is on age is both responsive and zest- ferent foam density used in the tap). The torque summit is a little ful. Triumph has been at pains to plush seat padding makes you lower, with 68Nm or 50 foot/ make the throttle bodies look as think this is a gel seat, though Tri- pounds delivered at 5800 rpm. if they were carbs, and the Keihin umph’s product manager Simon But 90 percent of that torque closed loop multipoint sequen- Warburton confirmed otherwise. figure is already delivered at just tial EFI that’s been calibrated “We didn’t want to sacrifice 2500 rpm, says Warburton, and in-house at Hinckley (to be five any comfort in making the seat, this is maintained all the way times cleaner than the previous so we tested countless different through to the 8000 rpm redline, carburetted version), is Euro 3 foam densities until we hit on this providing smooth, effortless ac- compliant thanks to the single one,” he said. celeration as you run up the un- Little things mean a lot. changed ratios in the five-speed three-way catalyst. The sense Visually, though, the most gearbox. of willingness conveyed by the striking features of the Steve Mc- This tranny has an exception- well-mapped fuel-injected motor, Queen™ Edition styling are the ally smooth, crisp shift action that which comes without being over- traditional peashooter exhaust made it the best of any Triumph aggressive or snatchy, makes silencers on either side, plus Bonneville I’ve yet sampled. that ride down memory lane re- the fact that the bike’s painted all Clutch action was also light and laxing and fun. over in the very distinctive mat- progressive, which stops your Limited to a manufacturing run ter Khaki Green livery, with the hand cramping up while riding of just 1100 models, the Bonn- engine powder-coated black all in stop-and-go traffic. Note that eville T100 Steve McQueen™ over with the exception of the both brake and clutch levers Edition is sure to jump straight cylinder finning. are adjustable, and the single to the top of the wish list of ev- Triumph’s established 865cc 310mm Sunstar front disc has a ery one of the Hollywood movie air/oil-cooled eight-valve paral- carrier with what Triumph terms a actor’s fans - and who knows, lel twin motor (measuring 90 x ‘swooshing’ design – still gripped maybe finally over that border 68mm, with modular chain/gear by a seemingly low-rent Nissin fence. Let’s see you try it one drive to the twin overhead cam- two-piston caliper. But it does, more time, Virgil. CN CN III PRODUCT REVIEW P76

SIDI ADVENTURE RAIN BOOTS

Sidi makes some of the ﬁnest motorcycle riding boots you can ﬁnd and the Adventure Rain boot is designed for Adventure and Dual Sport riding. The stiff sole, heal cup and pivoting ankle section are constructed to provide ample support and protection for the foot and ankles. The boots are made with split grain leather and Lorica and include a membrane to create a water resistant yet breathable barrier to the elements. Cambrelle is used for the interior lining, which does not include any additional “bootie” to keep the boot slim and cool. Two cam-lock buckles are used along with a Velcro top closure and the buckles and any other removable parts are available for replacement if needed.

$400 Website: www.motonation.com

Standout Feature A comfortable boot that you can wear all day that provides significant protection. Rider Analysis Slipping your foot into the Sidi Adventure Rain Boot immediately provides a comfortable yet very supportive feeling around your foot and ankle. The pivoting ankle support is very natural feeling and comfortable even when the boots are new. The stiff feeling sole does not take away the necessary feel for the footpegs, brake lever or shifter. The buckles are easy to open or close and there are no issues with getting into or out of the boots. The upper area is slim enough to fit inside of boot cut pants or riding suits if desired, or they are stylish enough to tuck riding pants inside the boot. The aggressive sole provides plenty of traction for walking or hiking in loose dirt but are not designed for sliding your feet on the ground like a typical motocross/off-road boot. Some people may find the toe box is a little tall to fit under the shifter but you will likely either get used to it or can adjust the shifter position. Overall, the Sidi Adventure Rain boots provide great protection and you can wear them all day and not feel the need to take them off due to any comfort issues. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P77

The new Sidi Adventure Rain Boots are designed to keep you dry and comfortable.

ÝExcellent impact and twisting protection provided ÝPricey by the stiff sole, heel cup and ankle hinge ÝSome people may ﬁnd the tall Comfortable even after several long days of riding toe box takes a little getting used Ý to when shifting ÝOutstanding protection from the elements CN III STUFF P78

DUBYA USA TALON FACTORY WHEEL SETS Price: $899 Phone: 714.279.0200 Website: www.dubyausa.com

Dubya USA is now offering Talon Factory Wheel Sets in OEM colors for late-model MX bikes. These wheel sets feature Talon billet hubs, Talon Factory rims and high-quality stainless- steel spokes and nipples.

LUCAS CHAIN LUBE Price: Call Your Local Lucas Oils Dealer For Pricing Phone: 951.270.0154 Website: www.lucasoil.com

Lucas Chain Lube is a low-odor, semi- synthetic spray lubricant designed to meet the demands of today’s high-performance motorcycle sprockets and chains, including O-ring types. Tested by professionals and competitive race teams, Lucas Chain Lube Aerosol is designed to penetrate deeply into pins and bushing of the chains. The lube inhibits rust and corrosion while leaving a protective ﬁlm to lessen wear and drag. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P79

DUKE VIDEOS 2011 FIM MOTOCROSS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DVD Price: $29.99 Phone: 800.561.0754 Website: www.DukeVideoUSA.com

The 2011 FIM Motocross World Championship two-disc set from Duke Videos is out, and includes footage from all 15 rounds/60 motos of the MX1 and MX2, from Bulgaria to Italy. The ofﬁcial review documents how Antonio Cairoli fought back from a knee injury at the opening GP to mount a season-long title battle with Steven Frossard and Clement Desalle, and all the other highlights and stories from the 2011 World MX1/MX2 season.

PRO CIRCUIT SHIFT LEVER Price: $99.95 Phone: 951.738.8050 Website: www.procircuit.com

Used by the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/ Kawasaki Race Team, the Pro Circuit Shift Lever is now available to the public. The hard-anodized levers are CNC-machined from billet 6061-T6511 aluminum. Their stainless-steel springs and hardware make them stronger than stock and more resistant to wear, bending and corrosion. The free-folding, knurled shift tip is replaceable and rebuildable. In addition, this design helps prevent dirt from clogging it up. Levers are available for 2009-12 Kawasaki 250/450 models, with Honda 250/450 ﬁtments coming soon. CN III STUFF P80

ROTOPAX GAS CAN FROM ALTRIDER Price: $49.97-$109.97 Phone: 206.922.3618 Website: www.altrider.com

Rather than swapping out your bike’s stock fuel tank for a bigger one, just bring along extra fuel only when you need it with the RotopaX Gas Can from AltRider. The plastic RotopaX cans are leakproof and come in a variety of sizes. They are EPA and CARB compliant and easily mount to AltRider luggage racks. RotopaX water tanks are also available.

GPR STABILIZER KIT FOR TRIUMPH 675 Price: $495 Phone: 619.661.0101 Website: www.GPRstabilizer.com

New Triumph 675 kits from GPR Stabilizer are now out. They come with a GPRv4 steering damper, billet-machined pin-less mounting system, and all the necessary installation hardware. The GPRv4 steering damper is available in eight anodized colors. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P81

REC MX BILLET OIL FILTER COVER FOR HONDA CRF250R Price: $54.95 Phone: Call Your Local REC MX Dealer Website: www.rec-mx.com

A Billet Oil Filter Cover from REC MX is now available for the Honda CRF250. This is the same cover that you will see in the 2012 AMA Supercross Lites Series on the bikes of Michael Leib, Alex Martin, Brad Ripple, and Nick Click. They have “S” shaped cooling ﬁns to direct air ﬂow over a larger surface area and are CNC-machined from 6061 T6 aluminum for more strength and better heat transfer than the stock ones. They come with a new O-ring and are available in either red or black.

MOOSE RACING KTM GRAB HANDLE Price: $39.95 Phone: Call Your Local Parts Unlimited Dealer Website: www.MooseRacing.com

The Moose Racing KTM Grab Handle lets you leverage your KTM onto its stand or out of the mud without grabbing onto the hot pipe. It’s made from 6061T6 aluminum and attaches with longer bolts on the silencer mounts through CNC-machined spacers. It ﬁts 2011 KTM XC/XCF/SX/SXF models and all 2012 models. BIKEs OF THE STARS P82

KTM MRW RALLY DAKAR TEAM 2012 KTM 450 FACTORY RALLY

RIDER: Marc Coma SPONSORS/HARD PARTS: MRW, RedBull, AMV, Repsol, Loctite, IPC, Alpinestars, TCX, Scorpion EXO, Michelin, GAES, Akrapovic, SuperSprox, HG Stickers, WP, X Trig, Acerbis, Selle Dalla Valle. VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P83 CN III ARCHIVES P84

BY LARRY LAWRENCE

Doug Brauneck at speed BIONIC BRAUNECK on the Moto Guzzi at Road America in 1988. ome riders set the racing convinced people that I Sworld on its ear and enter did.” like a fast-moving storm. Oth- The motivation for dis- ers simmer, learn, progress guising himself as a sea- and eventually reach their full soned young mechanic potential. Doug Brauneck, a was, of course, so that former AMA Pro Twins and 250 he could take “test rides” Grand Prix Champi- afafter the work on, definitely falls in wwas done. career in 19801980, in the AMA 250 the latter category. Brauneck learned Grand Prix class, and gradu- Brauneck came fafast, both as a me- ally made his way through the onto the racing cchanic and rider. It ranks. While most of his results were unremarkable, one early scene in the late ddidn’t take long before pro race showed Brauneck’s 1970s, learned his hhe was legitimately a potential. He finished second craft in the club ggo-to guy in Macon ranks and made no to Craig Morris in the AMA 250 Doug Brauneck wwhen you needed great splash when Grand Prix final at Talladega in wwork done on your March of 1981. he turned Pro. In- bike. After high school, Brau- stead Brauneck took his time, Soon after Brauneck added neck worked as a dirt track rid- learned his craft, running on a a Yamaha TZ750 to his racing er’s mechanic for a time before shoestring and seven or eight stable and ran both the AMA getting a Yamaha TD350 and years later became an “over- F-1 road races and 250 class. It entering his first road race, a was on the 750 that Brauneck night success” when he won WERA event, in 1976. had one of the more famous the 1987 AMA Pro Twins Cham- In his third-race ever Brau- crashes ever in the 1982 Day- pionship on the famous Dr. tona 200. “I’ll never live that one John Wittner Moto Guzzi. Three neck finished second to another young rider named Freddie down,” Brauneck says with a years after that triumph Brau- smile. “I was running third, only neck went back to his first love, Spencer, but Spencer’s bike was disqualified in a post-race because I was a lap late coming the AMA 250 Grand Prix Series in for fuel. I came in and hit some and - at 35 - became a two-time tech inspection and Brauneck was declared winner. “I found sand and crashed at about 120 AMA road racing champion. mph and ran off onto the mo- out later that my motorcycle Brauneck grew up in Macon, tocross track that had been wasn’t legal either,” Brauneck Georgia. He loved motorcycles, leveled off. It went from bad to but there was just one prob- admits. “I’d built my RD from an worse. I went flying and my hel- lem, he had no money, so he article on production racing on met came off and then the bike improvised. “When I was 10 I the west coast and it turns out started flipping and hit a parked started repairing motorcycles,” they allowed some things that fire truck. To this day when I go Brauneck said before adding, WERA didn’t. So we were both to a race people don’t ask me “…which was funny because I illegal, but Freddie was the only about my championships; the really didn’t know how to work one who got caught.” first thing they want to hear is on motorcycles, but I somehow Brauneck launched his Pro about my Daytona crash.” VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P85

Brauneck recovered from his was doing AMA/CCS Endur- “That was the year after Daytona embarrassment and ance racing and needed a fill-in [John] Kocinski left and then very nearly won his first National rider. They called on Brauneck. Kenny Roberts pulled his team the next year on the big TZ. It Doug did well enough that in and Rich Oliver was racing was at Pocono and he and his 1987 he was asked to race the WERA,” Brauneck said. “It was best buddy Gregg Smrz were Pro Twins series on a totally re- wide open and a bunch of rid- battling back and forth for sec- vamped Guzzi. ers won, but I don’t think any- ond. Miles Baldwin was leading “In ’86 when I rode the bike it one won more than a couple of when a brake hose started to was pretty tricky because of the races.” fail. He slowed and Brauneck torque effect of the driveshaft After winning that champion- took over the lead. Brauneck’s under acceleration,” Brauneck ship Brauneck felt he had ac- brake pads wore through and explained. “The rear end rose complished what he’d set out to he ran off at the chicane giving up and became like a hardtail.” do. “We were spending a lot of Smrz the chance he needed to Wittner went back to Moto money and John said he’d keep take over the lead. Brauneck re- Guzzi and came back with a the team going if I could find a covered, but ended up second. hand-built custom frame, a full sponsor and I didn’t. I was get- Again in ’84 at Loudon, in what floater drive shaft and integrat- ting pretty old then too, so it was he described as a race of attri- ed braking system. “It was night the right time to get out.” tion, Brauneck finished second and day,” Brauneck remem- After his racing career Brau- to factory Honda’s Mike Bald- bers. “It was like racing a little neck worked as a mechanic on win. 250 Grand Prix bike with a giant the GP circuit for a few years, “It was a hot, greasy day motor in it.” primarily with Kenny Roberts on that track and Mike was so With the new weapon Brau- Jr. One day he realized he’d smooth on that little three-cylin- neck went on to beat Pro Twins been living his entire life out of der Honda, plus he had special stars Jimmy Adamo and John a suitcase and had a desire to tires from the GPs. He took off Long for the championship, win- try a more normal life. Today and about halfway through all ning Loudon and Road America Brauneck runs a restaurant in the rest of the guys had tires go along the way. the Florida panhandle and oc- away and they just started fall- At one point in ’87 Brauneck casionally gets back to watch ing. I was running around cau- was racing Pro Twins, Super- races. He looks back with only tiously in endurance mode, and bike, 600 Supersport, 250 one minor regret - that the prime all of a sudden I was in second. It Grand Prix and endurance all of his career came during a dry was so slippery I was just trying on a single pro weekend. Cycle spell in American road racing. to be smooth and not fall down. World’s Kevin Cameron nick- “Before I raced there were a Mike came by and lapped me, named him “Bionic Brauneck.” lot of factory rides and then it and it wasn’t even the last lap. “When I took the 600 Supers- kind of all dried up and then as He went by with maybe three or port bike out once without gas soon as I got out of it the money four laps to go. It was a bit of a in it, I decided I needed to drop came back,” he laughs. “I made surprise.” at least one of them.” more money as a mechanic Brauneck finished fourth in Brauneck closed out his rac- then I did as a rider. Still I had the AMA Formula 1 final stand- ing career on a high note. He great times over the years and I ings in 1983 and fifth in ’84. rode a John Hasty-sponsored met some really interesting peo- His big break came in 1986 Yamaha to the 1990 AMA 250 ple. There was nothing like living when Dr. John’s Moto Guzzi Grand Prix Championship. a life in racing.” CN CLASSIFIED ADS P86

2011 kx250f $5,200.00 2011 kx250f very low hours super clean need it to go asap. i am asking 5200 will go a little bit lower no low ball offers please.it only has 8hrs on it i know this cause when the bike was bought new i am the original owner i installed and hour meter. Read more...

2006 CBR 1000RR $5,000.00 this is a very clean bike with only 9000 miles on it.has aftermarket exhaust,rear fender delete,turn signal delete, tinted windsheild and license plate relocator.looking to sell but might trade. Read more...

2010 HONDA VFR1200F HOND CRF 250R 2007 $10,500.00 $3,200.00 Spring will be here before you know Honda Crf 250r 2007 it. Brand new. Right off the showroom Pro taper bars, asv, clark desert tank. ﬂoor. Never titled. Factory warranty. great condition never been riden in Only 37 miles. Super fast and super fun. sand or raced. Desert only. Will take trades plus cash. Interested in selling to buy a newer bike 2005 KTM 65 SX Fords/Mustangs primarily but will look at $3200 or obo $1,995.00 all trades. Read more... Brought from dealer. One owner. Rarely Read more... ridden and never raced or crashed. The bike is in perfect condition and runs fan- tastic. Read more... VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P87

Plate and new Titanium Throttle Tube. Hauler body by Lou Olyenik, completed - New Carburetor 2 hours. Had a prob- on March 1st of 1977. 26 ft long Brown lem with the original carb that I couldn’t van body with Oak strip floor, beaver- figure out so I replaced it with a new one tail and risers, winch built into the floor at the front of the right side riser. (See and now it’s fine. Read more... photos) Thirty inch sleeper bunk with vertical hanger closet and upper cabi- nets at the front of the garage compart- ment with a lower storage compart- ment as well. Custom aluminum fuel tank covers and seat cover, odometer showing 24,523 (actual 124,523-verifi- 2004 CRF100 able through California smog program) $1,200.00 Read more... 2004 crf100 with very few hours bought for my kids (girls) to learn to ride, well they have and now have out grown and worse do not ride any longer. my AULT & JAMES SPEED SHOP/ daughter dropped in turning in a park- OLEYNIK HAULER ing lot so it does have scratches, it’s all $10,000.00 stock and read to go. Ault & James Speed shop C65 Olyenik Read more... enclosed hauler. Owned and cared for since 1984 by Jim DeFrank (DeFrank & Sons racing, Cali- fornia Car Cover, Beverly Hill Motoring KENDON STAND-UP SINGLE Accessories) Jim has saved a number MOTORCYCLE TRAILER of vehicles that were special to him and $2,350.00 is now “letting go” of some of his life’s The price above is for California and favorite racing related vehicles. Florida factory pick up only. Dont (we bought,refurbished then sold the want to drive to California or Florida? Sam Gianinno GMC/Oleynik hauler Want the convenience of picking up from Jims collection in 2009, as well as your trailer near you? Have us deliver the “TONY” SS/D 1968 SS396 Cama- your trailer to a location close to you, ro 2 short years ago, which was stored 2010 KX250F your home, work, anywhere with our inside this truck for many years, as well wholesale shipping or dive a little save a $3,800.00 as a very nice El Camino SS). lot, meet us half way and cut the cost of Gary Semics’ 2010 KX250F for sale. Based on a 1977 C65 Chevrolet me- freight in half. dium duty truck chassis with the “truck” Read more... - Factory Connection Suspension with 366 ci engine with a 5 speed manual FC Needle Bearing Spring Ring. Set up trans and electric 2 speed rear axle. for 150 LBS Vet Pro Level. This truck appears to have been or- - Leo Vince Exhaust with about 25 Hrs. dered through Tom Myl at Batey Chev- - SDG Seat. rolet in Carnegie, Pa. in the fall of 1977. - Renthal Chain and Sprocket with GVW is 22,000 lbs and while licensed about 7 Hrs. commercial in California, it could easily - Works Connection Clutch Perch and be converted to motorhome classifica- Hot Start. WC Engine Guards and Skid tion. CN III IN THE PADDOCK P88 BY MICHAEL SCOTT WHAT’S NEXT? olstice celebrations are mercifully over in both Shemispheres, but it’s still a couple of weeks before the gladi- ators of MotoGP are released from their winter quarters and given the keys to their new motorcycles. That means it’s time to marry the reflection of the past down time with the prospects of the racing season to come. What can we expect of Grand Prix racing in 2012? We already know it is a year of transition. A first season for the new long-stroke 1000s (that’s a nice way of saying “small-bore”), Ducati to ride, and a long interval won the championship in 2010, and for the new-generation prod- since his World Championship in but the number-one plate com- die-based Claiming Rule Teams 2006. We’ll come back to Ducati. bined with his personality (he’s (CRT) privateer bikes. And per- The other bad news, so far, intelligent and enigmatic, but haps the last for full factory pro- is from Yamaha. Having already entirely lacking in Rossi’s natu- totypes. Dorna’s proposed rev lost main title sponsor Fiat along ral magnetism) were not enough limit and control ECU are a clear with Valentino Rossi at the end to keep Fiat on board. Or, as it threat to their dominance, and of 2010, now Malaysian oil gi- turned out, Petronas. if circumstances don’t improve ant Petronas, the biggest name Happily for Lorenzo and team- soon the remaining three facto- on the fairing last year, has also mate Ben Spies – and for satellite ries may be happy to have the departed, taking with them an team new boy Andrea Dovizioso, excuse to follow Suzuki out of the estimated sum well in excess of freshly dumped by Honda and park. 5 million Euros. This is a major on a vengeance mission (though What came before 2012 was blow to any budget. also suffering a shoulder injury an already dumbed-down version One can only imagine how in a motocross training accident) of purebred Grand Prix racing. racing team chief Lin Jarvis might – the development work on the What will come after will be very have tried to sex this up for the new 2012 1000 has already been different. Yamaha factory board (“Great done. The signs are not good for For some, this transitory time news, bosses. We can run an- 2013. has already started badly. other year with our corporate Over at Ducati the problems Nicky Hayden faces the new colors on the fairing!”). But this are very different, after last year’s season as he finishes the old sequence of events is ominous. dreams turned to a handful of one: hurt. A training crash and Yamaha’s plight is an indicator dust. shoulder fracture compounds of what will happen when Rossi The Italians and the mainly the problems for a man with a retires. Jorge Lorenzo may have Australian Rossi crew led by VOL. 49 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 10, 2012 P89

Jerry Burgess combined forces under the flag of LOOKING BACK Valentino, only to get thoroughly lost in a world of engineering confusion. They ended the year with 40 Years Ago a crescendo of discontented rumblings from the January 18, 1972 ground staff after a series of second-guess design Whitey Martino got 1972 start- changes had led precisely nowhere. ed with a win at the Vikings MC They can turn it round, of course, given time. But Smokeless Hare Scrambles in California. A young Larry Ro- an over-winter answer would be a miracle; it’s going eseler was second 100cc rid- to take a lot longer firstly to regain direction and then ing a Harley Baja… We reported to recapture lost ground. that Bob Bates, founder of Batess IndustriesIndustries, was If Ducati is to fulfill the dream with Rossi they will killed in an auto accident driving home from a des- need to commit to 2013. But can the smallest factory ert race in December… Scott Harris was quickest afford it? And just who will they be racing against? to the top at the Pikes Peak Snow Run. In the Kingdom of Casey, Honda’s castle seems 30 Years Ago secure enough. Their ultimate 800 was a superlative January 20, 1982 racing prototype in the old-fashioned mode... cost- Johnny O’Mara, Bob Han- no-object. We can be confident that their initial 1000 nah and Brad Lackey were will be the same. the stars at the CMC/Preston The Repsol team’s riding strength is enviable. Dani Petty Golden State MX Series Pedrosa is worriedly fragile, but formidable as long at Madera, California. In Trials as he stays in one piece. Stoner seems impregna- action, Derreck Bernard won the Schreiber Cup, and Dwaine ble. He’s riding superbly, within himself and powered Walters topped the El Trial de Espana at Saddle- by pure natural talent. He’s gained maturity to boot: a back Park. couple of years ago he seemed to be still somewhat erratic, but nobody could think that now. Especially 20 Years Ago since Rossi has proven just how difficult it is to win January 15, 1992 on a Duke. Brian Swink and Tim Ferry stole the show at the open- But there are rumblings of discontent here as well, ing round of the Florida Winter and they come from the very top rather than the AMA MX Series at Gatorback… shop floor. HRC vice-president Shuhei Nakamoto Damon Bradshaw earned has made known his displeasure at Dorna’s propos- $5000 for winning 250cc Pro als, and suggested that Honda might also decide to Invitational Supercross at Perris walk. Raceway. If this is a gloomy prospect to take into a new sea- 10 Years Ago son, there is another way of looking at it. January 9 2002 Times are tough and getting tougher, in every We previewed the 2002 Super- sphere. Motorcycle racing needs to roll with the cross season. Team Shark/Pla- punches. Like it or not (and I for one don’t like it no-Honda, Amsoil/Dr. Martens- much), the factories are not what make racing. They Honda, Bud Light-Yamaha, Team make motorcycles. The rest is up to the racers, SoBe/Blimpe-Suzuki, Motoworl- dracing.com-Suzuki, Blackfoot whether they are at the drawing board, wielding the Racing, Team ECC and Fast By FerracciFiH Husqvar- spanners or twisting the throttle. na were some of the top talked-about teams. We’ll have to trust them to carry us through. CN P90 WHAT’S NEXT

CALENDAR OF EVENTSS

Supercross Chase Field Phoenix, Arizona January 14, 2012

Round two of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series heads to the Arizona desert and Chase Field, where the battle for the 2012 title resumes. The jitters of the opening round is behind the riders and some say the real racing starts here.

For more information, visit: www.supercrossonline.com

Hare Scrambles Arizona Cycle Park Buckeye, Arizona January 15, 2012

The 2012 off-road season gets underway with the opening round of the AMA Racing West Hare Scrambles Championship Series at Arizona Cycle Park in Buckeye, Arizona. Many of the West’s top off-road racers will be getting back to business.

For more information, visit: arizonacyclepark.com

Enduro Johnson Valley OHVA Johnson Valley, California January 14-15, 2012

One of California’s premier enduros takes place at the Johnson Valley OHVA at Andersonn Dry Lake. The AMA/D-37 Not-So-Tuff-E-Nuff Enduro is the ﬁrst round of the AMA Western Checkpoint Enduro Championship, and features a family enduro on Saturday and the big one Sunday.

For more information, visit: district37ama.org.

For a comprehensive schedule of events, visit www.cyclenews.com/calendar