Ducati Corse shows off its 2019 MotoGP factory prototype
Take a peek at photos of Ducati’s 2019 MotoGP racer in this Desmosedici GP MotoGP First Look article.
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com
2019 Ducati Desmosedici GP19 MotoGP First Look
Welcome dual Dakar winner Price on return to Australia
Fans encouraged to meet Red Bull KTM legend at Brisbane Airport.
Image: Supplied.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Toby Price is scheduled to arrive home this Sunday, fresh from picking up a second-career victory in the 2019 Dakar Rally, and fans are being encouraged to greet him on arrival at Brisbane Airport.
The 31-year-old captured a spectacular victory in Peru on Thursday and – now without his customary mullet hair-do courtesy of a lost bet with fellow KTM star Laia Sanz – Price is due home tomorrow afternoon.
If you would like to welcome Price home on arrival, his personal management crew at Owlpine Group have confirmed he will be flying in on Qantas QF524 at the Brisbane Domestic Terminal and is scheduled for Sunday, 20 January, at 12:30pm. Fans are being welcomed and encouraged to await his homecoming.
Price has delivered a list of remarkable results since debuting at Dakar in 2015, scoring third on debut before winning the 2016 edition. He was injured in 2017, but bounced back for third in 2018 and then went on to claim a gritty win in 2019 despite breaking his wrist a month prior to the race’s start.
Source: MotoOnline.com.au
New-look Mission Winnow Ducati MotoGP team uncovered
Factory duo Dovizioso and Petrucci showcase revamped 2019 livery in Switzerland.
Image: Supplied.
Ducati’s factory MotoGP program will take on a new title and livery entering the 2019 season, launching the Mission Winnow Ducati team in Switzerland overnight.
Taking place at Philip Morris International’s research and development centre, the Cube, riders Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci unveiled the brand-new Desmosedici GP19 machine in its all-red colourway.
“Mission Winnow is about driving change by constantly searching for better ways of doing things,” Miroslaw Zielinski, PMI president of science and innovation explained.
“Ducati is one of the most inspiring and resilient brands in MotoGP, with a 70-year history in racing. The team’s determination to do better every race, to think unconventionally and to continuously push the boundaries of technology perfectly exemplify Mission Winnow.”
Image: Supplied.
The Mission Winnow slogan of Phillip Morris first appeared at last year’s Japanese Grand Prix with the Ferrari’s Formula 1 team – which shares the same major backer – and the updated branding of Ducati’s MotoGP effort marks a continuation of the brand’s partnership with PMI that began in 2003.
Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali added: “Racing has always been part of Ducati’s DNA. The solutions and expertise gathered on track represent an asset that is directly tied to our product line and the MotoGP project is crucial for us to produce models that are more performing, exciting and safe to ride for all our passionate fans.
“Looking back at the results achieved in 2018 on track, we can be proud because our Desmosedici GP proved to be one of the most competitive bikes, but we cannot settle and we want to make another, decisive step forward. I believe our know-how and the spirit that characterises the people of Ducati Corse are an extra value compared with our rivals.
“I want to take this occasion to thank all the partners that are supporting us in this new challenge in MotoGP – including Audi Sport, which starting from this season will be main sponsor – and to send my best wishes to the whole Mission Winnow Ducati team for an unforgettable season.”
The Mission Winnow Ducati team will soon leave for Sepang in Malaysia, where on 6-9 February the first collective pre-season tests will unfold.
Source: CycleOnline.com.au
Riding sharpens focus, relieves stress
We probably didn’t need a scientific study to tell us motorcycle riding reduces stress and distraction, while increasing our focus and attention.
There have been plenty of independent studies over the years that show similar correlations.
Now Harley-Davidson has funded a new neurobiological study by three researchers from UCLA’s Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, so we can expect some positive results!
The study shows that riding lifts our focus and attention, and decreases relative levels of the hormone cortisol which is mainly released at times of stress.
UCLA research
The UCLA researchers used mobile EEG technology to record the brain activity and hormone levels of 50 experienced motorcyclists before, during and after riding, driving and resting.
After 20 minutes, riders adrenaline levels increased 27% and heart rate increased 11% which is similar to light exercise.
Researchers also found an increase in brain activity similar to drinking a coffee. This led to increased sensory focus and resistance to distraction.
At the same time, cortisol hormone levels dropped 28%, reducing stress.
Research team leader Dr Don Vaughn says the differences in participants’ neurological and physiological responses between riding and either driving or resting “were quite pronounced”.
Chemical process
“The chemicals that make you feel happy – oxytocin, dopamine, endorphin and serotonin – are produced by the endocrine system,” she says.
“Not all of these chemicals are released at the same time and each has a different outcome.
“However, more of these chemicals are produced when we look forward to doing something we enjoy, we get up early, we go outside in the sunshine and fresh air, we challenge ourselves, we meditate, we concentrate on an activity that requires skill and generally do things that motivate us.
“That pretty much sounds like motorcycling to me,” she says.
Stress and speed
However, a little bit of stress can be good for us.
The faster we ride, the more focussed we become, according to long-time motorcycle rider and flight instructor Peter Callil.
His theory is based on research into stress levels by human behaviour researcher Chris Welford. It shows that people perform better when their stress level is moderate and worse when it is too low and too high.
“In a road safety context, pressure relates to speed, and performance relates to our ability to operate a vehicle safely,” Peter says.
Therefore, a rider’s performance is degraded whether they are riding too fast or too slow for the conditions. That makes them more vulnerable to crashing.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
Tenneco ownership to boost Öhlins suspension
Riders looking for premium motorcycle suspension should welcome the new ownership of Swedish company Öhlins Racing by tech company Tenneco.
The American company has worked with Öhlins on their CES valves over the past 20 years.
It will lend technological and logistic support that should lead to more products for more models, more outlets, faster delivery and probably cheaper prices.
Öhlins boss Henrik Johansson has welcomed the “strong owner”.
“Tenneco has everything we need that we currently do not have,” he says.
“We have technology, engineering capacity and a global brand name. Tenneco has global production, technology and a distribution network.
“By using Tenneco’s capabilities in purchasing and product development, we can reduce cost, increase profit and increase penetration of Öhlins products.”
He says the ownership deal will also bring new products to market faster.
“Competition is getting stronger, lead times are getting shorter; technology is getting to market faster,” he says.
“Tenneco will benefit from our ability – as a smaller, more agile organisation – to act much quicker and more efficiently in bringing new products and technologies to market.
“My objective is to continue to develop technology, open new doors in some areas and keep them open.”
Öhlins ownership
Öhlins is well known in racing and recreational circles as one of the world’s top suspension companies for motorcycles, mountain bikes, cars and in motorsport for the past 43 years.
It not only provides aftermarket suspension components but also factory-fitted suspension.
Manufacturers using Öhlins include Aprilia, Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Moto Guzzi, MV Agusta, Norton, Triumph and Yamaha who used to own 5% of the Swedish company before it was bought back in 2007.
Öhlins will be incorporated into Tenneco’s Aftermarket and Ride Performance company which will begin operations this year.
Despite the new ownership, Öhlins will continue to operate as a stand-alone business.
Tenneco boss Brian Kesseler says Öhlins will remain a premium product and there are no plans to bring it into the mid-market, mass-market motorcycle segment.
Tenneco also bought Italian motorcycle and bicycle suspension company Marzocchi in 2009.
Racing support
The company will continue to play an important part in motorsport.
“Öhlins has never sponsored a rider or a team,” Henrik says.
“We actually sell what we produce for Formula 1, Formula E, MotoGP, Nascar and others because we make the best products.
“I’m convinced that Tenneco will continue with that strategy and we can work on further building the Öhlins name in racing.”
The ownership deal is yet to be approved by the EU.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
2019 Triumph Speed Twin | First Ride Review
In Triumph’s nomenclature, some motorcycle names result from a mix-and-match game using four simple words–Speed, Street, Triple and Twin. Models with “Speed” in their name tend to be larger than their “Street” counterparts, while “Triple” and “Twin” refer to the number of cylinders. Combinations of these four words identify three-cylinder naked sportbikes–the 1,050cc Speed Triple and the 765cc Street Triple–as well as the Street Twin, a “modern classic” Bonneville with a 900cc parallel twin.
Read our 2019 Triumph Street Twin first ride review
The newest member of the Bonneville family, the 1,200cc Speed Twin, not only adds the fourth and final piece to the name-game puzzle, the appellation holds a place of reverence in Triumph’s long history. Developed by legendary designer Edward Turner, the 1938 Speed Twin was a lightweight 500cc parallel twin that set new benchmarks for power and handling and established a template for British motorcycles that spanned decades. In the spirit of the original, Triumph developed the new Speed Twin to offer engine performance and handling comparable to the Thruxton café racer but with an upright riding position, less weight and a lower price. Claimed dry weight for the Thruxton is 454 pounds and for the Speed Twin is 432 pounds, which even undercuts the smaller-displacement Street Twin by 5 pounds. And at $12,100, the Speed Twin’s base price is $900 lower than the Thruxton’s.
Read our 2017 Triumph Thruxton vs BMW R nineT Racer comparison review
Though not a parts-bin special per se, the Speed Twin nonetheless shares engine and chassis features with other Bonnevilles. Like the new Scrambler 1200, the Speed Twin is powered by a “high power” version of Triumph’s liquid-cooled, 1,200cc parallel twin with a high-compression head, a low-inertia crankshaft, a lighter clutch assembly and lightweight covers, and the engine is carried in a tubular-steel frame with aluminum cradles. But the Speed Twin’s “Thruxton tune” delivers more output than the Scrambler 1200–96 horsepower at 6,750 rpm and 83 lb-ft of torque at 4,950 rpm (claimed).
Read our 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE first ride review
Greg’s Gear
Helmet: Arai Corsair-X
Jacket: Spidi Thunderbird
Pants: Spidi Furious Tex Jeans
Boots: Rev’It Mohawk 2
Like other Bonnevilles, the Speed Twin’s 270-degree crank generates a robust rumble from its 2-into-2 exhaust and power is sent to the rear wheel through a 6-speed transmission and chain final drive. In addition to the aluminum frame cradles and “mass optimized” engine, further weight savings come from a lighter battery and new cast aluminum wheels. Compared to the Thruxton, the Speed Twin’s front wheel and disc assembly save 6.4 pounds and its rear wheel saves 3.7 pounds, reducing both unsprung weight and inertia for better handling.
To put the new Speed Twin to the test, Triumph invited us to the island of Mallorca, off the coast of Spain, for a first ride. The cold, blustery January day made me wish for some wind protection, but at least Triumph was kind enough to install accessory heated grips on our test bikes. And I was fortunate enough to grab the key for a bike with the gorgeous Korosi Red/Storm Grey paint job on the tank, which adds $500 to the price (same goes for the Silver Ice/Storm Grey paint scheme; base price is for Jet Black).
With its round headlight, sculpted tank, bench seat and dual shocks, the Speed Twin has the stance of a classic sport standard, and its bar-end mirrors, fork gaiters and analog gauges give it some café racer flair. Perched at 31.8 inches, the flat seat is supportive, and the tapered aluminum handlebar is positioned at a comfortable height and reach. The footpegs, well forward and a tad lower than those on the Thruxton, contribute to a natural riding position.
As with other modern Bonnevilles, there’s plenty of 21st-century tech, tastefully applied so as not to interfere with the essential riding experience. Things like LEDs for the daytime running light, taillight and rear turn signals; ABS and switchable traction control; riding modes (Sport, Road and Rain, which adjust throttle response and TC); an assist-and-slipper clutch; dual multi-function LCD panels in the instruments; a USB charging socket under the seat and an ignition immobilizer. Alas, no cruise control.
With cold pavement it took a while for the Pirelli Diablo Rosso 3 tires to warm up, but once they did grip was spot-on and cornering response was smooth and predictable. Squeezing the tank with my knees, keeping a light grip on the bars and applying feathery pressure to the rear brake, the Speed Twin masterfully negotiated the many hairpins and first-gear corners carved into the rocky mountains of northern Mallorca. With a wheelbase of 56.3 inches, 22.8 degrees of rake and 3.7 inches of trail, the Speed Twin is slightly longer and more relaxed than the Thruxton, giving it a bit more stability through fast sweepers. Although Triumph says tuning is unique to the Speed Twin, the suspension–a 41mm non-adjustable fork and dual preload-adjustable shocks, both with 4.7 inches of travel–is essentially the same as that of the Thruxton, with well-controlled damping that’s a happy medium between tautness and comfort. Twin Brembo 4-piston, 4-pad front calipers gripping 305mm discs and a single Nissin 2-piston rear caliper provide responsive braking, backed up by ABS.
With the big parallel twin generating a fair amount of engine braking, I found the Sport riding mode to be too abrupt for my taste. Rain mode was too dull, for obvious reasons, but Road mode felt just right (all modes provide full power). The Speed Twin was well-mannered in the best English tradition thanks to excellent fueling, a linear increase in power and a wide, flat torque curve. No dips, no flat spots, just smooth, steady grunt whenever you need it and an exhaust note that’s assertive without being rude. A light pull from the clutch and a buttery transmission further add to the Speed Twin’s polished demeanor.
Filling the shoes of a legend is no small task, but Triumph’s new Speed Twin honors the original’s reputation for being light, powerful and dynamic. It also provides yet another option in Triumph’s burgeoning Bonneville family, which now includes 14 models. Bigger and more powerful than a Street Twin, lighter, more comfortable and less expensive than a Thruxton, the Speed Twin is a one sweet machine.
Check out Rider’s Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles for 2019
2019 Triumph Speed Twin Specs
Base Price: $12,100
Price as Tested: $12,880 (two-tone, heated grips)
Website: triumphmotorcycles.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse parallel twin, SOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
Displacement: 1,200cc
Bore x Stroke: 97.6 x 80mm
Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated assist-and-slipper wet clutch
Final Drive: X-ring chain
Wheelbase: 56.3 in.
Rake/Trail: 22.8 degrees/3.7 in.
Seat Height: 31.8 in.
Claimed Dry Weight: 432 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 3.8 gals.
MPG: NA
Source: RiderMagazine.com
2019 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Entry List Announced
Some interesting things to note about this press release:
- Chris Fillmore, the reigning fastest person up the mountain on two wheels, is returning to the mountain once again, this time on a KTM 450SX-F in an attempt to grab the Lightweight Division record. If he’s successful, he’ll be the first rider in race history to own all three records (Heavyweight, Middleweight, and Lightweight)
- Carlin Dunne is also returning, again riding a Ducati, looking to defend his 2018 Heavyweight crown.
- Rennie Scaysbrook is coming back again after missing out on the 2018 overall win by one-tenth of a second. However, instead of the KTM he had been riding before, he will campaign an Aprilia Tuono in 2019.
- Maybe most interesting of all is Cory West entering the race as a rookie – aboard the new Zero SR/F. While we don’t yet know details about the SR/F, the fact Zero is taking it racing in its debut, and hiring a top name like West, indicate the latest from Zero should be impressive.
Begin press release:
Driver Simone Faggioli of Italy and superstar motorcycle rider Chris Fillmore head up an accomplished roster of competitors for the 97th running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, on June 30.
Faggioli soared to a blistering 8:37.230 clocking as a rookie in the Unlimited Class last year, behind only the extraordinary all-time record 7:57.148 established by Romain Dumas of France in his Volkswagen I.D. R on America’s Mountain. The Italian driver returns in a loaded Unlimited lineup that also features Switzerland’s Fabien Bouduban, who was third last year.
Motorcycle star Chris Fillmore (Oxford, MI), the fastest rider in race history, will try to become the first triple record holder in Pikes Peak history when he competes in the Lightweight Division. He owns motorcycle records in two divisions, (9:49.625) Heavyweight Division, 2017 and (10:04.038) Middleweight Division, 2018.
The world’s most famous hill climb is still basking in the glow of the fabulous performance last summer by Dumas in his VW Electric auto. It was ranked third in the world among Autoweek’s Top Ten motorsports stories of 2018. More than 7,000 spectators from 23 countries and more than 40 states were on hand to see Dumas stage one of the most dramatic moments in the history of the race.
“We never know what amazing moments will become part of the race’s history,” said PPIHC Executive Director Megan Leatham, “and we have a wonderful lineup of competitors from around the world coming to Pikes Peak this summer to take on the mountain, so buckle up.”
View the 2019 Competitor List here.
Here’s a look at some of the top competitors for the 2019 Race to the Clouds:
Automobile Drivers
Simone Faggioli, Italy – Unlimited: Second in the prestigious Unlimited Division last year with a fabulous 8:37.230 clocking behind only the record 7:57.148 recorded by Romain Dumas. He’s a ten-time European mountain champion and will be behind the wheel of a 2018 Norma M20 SF PKB, the same auto that he piloted last summer on America’s Mountain to the fantastic sub-nine minute finish, third fastest in PPIHC history, and Rookie of the Year honors.
Fabien Bouduban, Switzerland – Unlimited: A member of the Faggioli Racing Team who took third last year in the Unlimited Division with a clocking of 9:28.254 in a 2018 Norma M20 SF PKB identical to Simone Faggioli’s auto. He will drive the same car this summer in his second trip to Pikes Peak.
David Donohue, West Chester, PA – Pikes Peak Open: The champion in Time Attack 1 last year with a time of 9:37.152 driving a 2017 Porsche GT3 R, he’ll race a 2016 Porsche 911 this summer as he moves over to Pikes Peak Open. Donohue took second on Pikes Peak in 2017 in Time Attack 1. Son of racing legend Mark Donohue, David won the 1998 24 Hours of Le Mans GT2 Class and was second in 2000. He won the 2009 Daytona 24 Hours race on the 40th anniversary of his father’s win.
Peter Cunningham, Milwaukee, WI – Pikes Peak Open: Defending his 2018 crown on Pikes Peak in a 2019 Acura TLX GT, Cunningham clocked a 9:27.352, the third fastest time in the race and a Class record last year driving a 2018 Acura. As a PPIHC rookie in 2017, he won the Open Class with a time of 9:33.797. As a high school graduate in June 1980, Cunningham happened upon an autocross, a driving contest held in a parking lot around a pylon-defined course against the clock. After winning his class on that first day, he became enamored with and engulfed in the sport. Cunningham has 19 starts and five podium finishes in the American Le Mans Series.
Ray Evernham, Mooresville, NC – Exhibition: Back again in his 1936 Chevrolet Sedan, “The Ghost,” after taking the crown in the Pikes Peak Challenge Exhibition Class last summer (10:11.334). The Ghost is a custom-built race car designed to look like a modified that would have raced in the 1960s but features state-of-the-art mechanics and electronics. Evernham is a three-time Winston Cup Series Champion with driver Jeff Gordon. In 1999, Evernham won the NASCAR Winston Cup Illustrated “Person of the Year,” and was inducted to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Class of 2018.
Raphaël Astier, France – Time Attack 1: Second in Pikes Peak Open last summer, driving a 2007 Porsche 911 GT3 RS to a clocking of 9:53.718, Astier moves to TA1. This year he will drive a Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Turbo on the Peak in search of a championship. Last year, the French pair of Astier and Frédéric Vauclaire, in the Abarth 124 rally belonging to Team Milano Racing, won the FIA R-GT world championship. Astier was second in 2016 in the Time Attack 1 field as the PPIHC Rookie of the Year.
Greg Tracy, Long Beach, CA – Unlimited: Tracy is the only person in Pikes Peak Hill Climb history to complete the race in under ten minutes racing both a car (Mitsubishi Electric, 9:08.188- 2014) and a motorcycle (Ducati, 9:58.262- 2012). He has seven motorcycle championships on Pikes Peak, beginning in 1996 with a victory in the 250cc Class. Tracy is one of the top stunt drivers in Hollywood, having spent the last two decades working in several hundred commercials, TV shows, and many of the top stunt driving films including Marvel’s Black Panther, Jack Reacher, The Avengers, The Fast and the Furious, Talladega Nights and The Bourne Ultimatum, a project that earned him a World Stunt Award. He’ll drive a 2019 Palatov D2EV in his move to Unlimited this year.
Jeff Zwart, Corona del Mar, CA – Pikes Peak Open: Zwart, who was inducted into the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame in 2018, will make his 16th appearance on Pikes Peak since his debut in 1989 and his first since 2015. He has won eight crowns in that span, most recently his 2015 win in the Time Attack 1 Division. Porsche enthusiast Zwart has worn many hats on Pikes Peak, first as a photographer for Road and Track magazine, then as a competitor, champion and most recently as a Porsche driving coach. Zwart’s Hill Climb experience covers competition in at least six classes, with all eight Class Championships captured behind the wheel of a Porsche. This year, he’s entered a 2010 Porsche. He dominated the High-Performance Showroom Stock Classes in the mid and late 1990s with four wins, including three division records. A visionary filmmaker, Jeff has directed multiple films and commercials on Pikes Peak, including Ken Block’s film “ClimbKhana” which was released in 2017 and has nearly 18 million views to date.
Rookies To Watch
Liam Doran, Great Britain – Unlimited: Doran is a professional rallycross driver competing in the FIA World Rallycross Championship, Global Rallycross Championship, X Games, and European Rallycross Championship. He is the son of British rallycross driver and Lydden Hill Race Circuit owner Pat Doran. He won a gold medal in the 2011 X Games in Los Angeles in Rally Car Racing. Alongside his driving duties, Liam also heads up the UK-based LD Motorsports squad and oversees the race preparation of no less than eight cars. Doran will drive a 1987 Ford RS200 Evolution on Pikes Peak in his debut.
William Au-Yeung, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada – Unlimited: 2017 & 2018 Global Time Attack Pro Unlimited Champion. Took second place in Pro Am at WTAC 2017. Recorded the fastest North American time in 2018 at the Sydney Motorsports Park, where he took second in the ProAm Class. Fastest Time Attack Driver in Canada. Au-Yeung will drive a 2012 Honda Civic SI, one of the fastest time attack cars in the world.
Darren Law, Chandler, AZ – Time Attack 1: A Canadian-born American racing driver, he has been involved in the automotive and racing industry for more than two decades. Law established himself with his success as both a racing driver and a business man. Starting in Go-karts at age 11 he went on to win two karting championships as a teenager then further developed his professional driving career progressing into sports cars. Having spent more than a decade driving for several top tier teams, the majority of his time was spent behind the wheel of a Flying Lizard Motorsports Porsche, one of the most highly recognized Porsche factory-supported GT racing programs. He also spent several years racing prototypes primarily with Brumos Porsche and Action Express. He achieved many successes including two driver’s championships, three trips to LeMans and the overall win at the 24 Hours of Daytona in 2009 driving the Brumos Porsche Daytona Prototype. He will be behind the wheel of a 2013 McLaren 12C in his Pikes Peak debut.
Motorcycle Riders
Chris Fillmore, Oxford, MI – Pikes Peak Lightweight: The fastest rider in Pikes Peak history, Fillmore is aiming to become the first triple record holder in America’s Mountain. He currently holds Heavyweight and Middleweight titles on Pikes Peak and is hoping to add the Lightweight Division trophy this year. He’ll enter a KTM 450SX-F Factory Edition motorcycle this summer in his attempt at another record. He got started racing motocross before turning pro, spending seven years in the AMA Pro Supermoto series and five in AMA Superbike, campaigning KTMs all the way.
“I enjoy the challenge of Pikes Peak,” says Fillmore. “Figuring out how to go fast and learn something new. Watching the sun rise every morning for a week on top of a 14,000-foot mountain is pretty amazing too.”
Carlin Dunne, Santa Barbara, CA – Exhibition Powersport: Back to the Peak aboard a 2019 Ducati comes Dunne, one of the most accomplished riders in the history of the race with four victories. Dunne won the PP Heavyweight crown last year with a time of 9:59.000 on his Ducati MTS-1260 Pikes Peak. He holds the Pikes Peak record for Electric Motorcycle (10:00.694, 2013) and held others until Chris Fillmore exploded on the scene in 2017. He was the 1205cc winner in 2011 and 2012 and became the first rider to crack the ten-minute barrier in 2012 (9:52.819) on a Ducati Multistrada 1200. Born into motorcycling, Dunne’s father, a South African road racer and former Isle of Man competitor, made sure there was a small bike waiting for Carlin when he was born. Living above his family’s 1,000 sq. ft. motorcycle repair shop until the age of seven, it’s no surprise that his toys growing up consisted of old engine parts.
Codie Vahsholtz, Woodland Park, CO – Pikes Peak Heavyweight: He’s a third-generation member of the famed Vahsholtz family, which owns more Pikes Peak titles than any family in history. He was third last year in the Heavyweight Division (10:12.703) and holds the record in the former Pikes Peak 250cc class, set in 2013. He also established series victories with the record time in 2017 for the Middleweight Division, the record time in 2015 for the Lightweight Division and in 2013 for the 250 Pro Class. With the 19 victories of his grandfather, Leonard Vahsholtz and the 23 wins of his father, Clint Vahsholtz, he carries on the family legacy on America’s Mountain again this summer. He will ride a 2019 Ducati Multistrada MTS-1260.
Joseph Toner, Scotland – Pikes Peak Lightweight: Toner was the winner last summer in the PPC Exhibition Powersport competition, riding a 2007 Aprilia SXV Custom motorcycle. He will ride the same machine this year as he moves into the Lightweight Division, his 8th appearance on Pikes Peak. A Scotsman, he has fashioned a noted career, winning one Scottish Production Championship title as well as the British Endurance Championship.
Greg Chicoine, Jefferson, SD – Pikes Peak Lightweight: This veteran competitor will be back on Pikes Peak for his 20th appearance, again riding his Kawasaki. He won the 1998 250cc Amateur title, then rattled off championships in 1999-2000-2001 in the 750cc Division. He tacked on a title in the 2007 450cc field. He owns Champion Cycle in South Sioux City, Nebraska.
Rennie Scaysbrook, Sydney, Australia – Pikes Peak Heavyweight: He’s been the runner-up in the division for the last three years, so maybe the fourth time will produce a crown for the Australian rider. He was the Rookie of the Year in 2016 when he logged a nifty 10:28.407 on his 2015 KTM Super Duke 1290 R. Scaysbrook became only the fifth rider in the history of the Hill Climb to break the 9-minute barrier in 2017 when he chalked up a 9:57.712. He will ride a 2018 Aprilia Tuono.
Rennie says: “Relaxation is probably the best way to describe it. Some people like to do yoga, other people like to run marathons. I like to ride motorbikes. It blocks out all the negative stuff in my life and just lets me do what I’m good at, which is get out there and ride. I like putting the helmet on and just being on my own. I’m probably a bit of a loner in that regard. But it’s not wasted energy. You could sit there and play PlayStation all day and it’s not going to mean anything in real life. On the track, I’m improving the skills that make me better at my job, which is a bit of a double win.”
Rafael Paschoalin, São Paulo, Brazil – Pikes Peak Middleweight: Finished third last year in the division with a time of 10:38.380. Also took third in 2017 and sixth in 2016, so he’s aiming at a breakthrough on the Peak this year, riding a 2019 Yamaha MT-07. He’s also a veteran of the famed Isle of Man TT races over his career, averaging 119.499 mph in the TT2015 PokerStars Senior TT competition in the 2015 race.
A Rookie To Watch
Cory West, Eureka Springs, AR – Pikes Peak Heavyweight: A fourth-generation motorcycle racer who began in 2000. He began riding at age 4 and then started competing in his early teenage years. What started as some local flat track racing in nearby Oklahoma and Texas, quickly led to regional and national championships in flat track and road racing. Then came 15 years of professional road racing at national and international levels that took him to tracks in Spain, England, and China. West has ridden for two national championship-winning endurance teams, recording many victories. He collected Superbike Rookie of the Year honors in 2004 and earned five AMA Pro podiums with a best championship result of 5th. Besides racing, he has ridden as a test rider for multiple tire manufacturers, motorcycle manufacturers, magazines, and currently works as an instructor at Colin Edwards’ Texas Tornado Boot Camp. He’ll ride a 2020 Zero SR/F in his debut at Pikes Peak.
Learn More: For information about the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, or to purchase tickets, visit www.ppihc.org.
The post 2019 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Entry List Announced appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.
Ducati Officially Introduces 2019 MotoGP Team
Mission Winnow is now title sponsor, and the red machines are now even…uh…redder.
Begin press release:
The Mission Winnow Ducati team, which will compete in the 2019 MotoGP World Championship, was presented today at the iconic Cube, Philip Morris International’s Research and Development centre in the lakeside Swiss town. Riders Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci unveiled the brand-new Desmosedici GP19 machine – in its captivating red livery – in front of an audience of international media, guests, sponsors and partners. Everything is now ready for an exciting new season, with the first of 19 races scheduled for March 10 in Qatar. In two weeks’ time, Dovizioso and Petrucci will resume testing action with the Desmosedici GP19 at Sepang (Malaysia).
Miroslaw Zielinski, PMI President Science and Innovation, welcomed the audience: “Mission Winnow is about driving change by constantly searching for better ways of doing things. Ducati is one of the most inspiring and resilient brands in MotoGP, with a 70-year history in racing. The team’s determination to do better every race, to think unconventionally and to continuously push the boundaries of technology perfectly exemplify Mission Winnow.”
Claudio Domenicali, Ducati Motor Holding CEO, added: “Racing has always been part of Ducati’s DNA. The solutions and expertise gathered on track represent an asset that is directly tied to our product line, and the MotoGP project is crucial for us to produce models that are more performing, exciting and safe to ride for all our passionate fans. Looking back at the results achieved in 2018 on track, we can be proud because our Desmosedici GP proved to be one of the most competitive bikes, but we cannot settle and we want to make another, decisive step forward. I believe our know-how and the spirit that characterizes the people of Ducati Corse are an extra value compared with our rivals. I want to take this occasion to thank all the partners that are supporting us in this new challenge in MotoGP – including Audi Sport, which starting from this season will be main sponsor – and to send my best wishes to the whole Mission Winnow Ducati team for an unforgettable season.”
Luigi Dall’Igna, Ducati Corse General Manager: “2018 was another important season for us in MotoGP, one that saw us grow and improve again – both from a technical and a sporting point of view – for the fourth consecutive season. We were very competitive even on tracks that have traditionally been more difficult for us, and we achieved more victories and podiums overall compared with 2017. However, our direct competitors have also improved. We must do better and improve more than what we have done in recent years, bringing new ideas and evolutions to cover all the possible areas. With Andrea and Danilo, we’re confident we have the right team to optimize the resources for the development of the bike. Our goals must be ambitious, as always, and we want to bring the MotoGP title back to Borgo Panigale.”
Andrea Dovizioso (#04, Mission Winnow Ducati): “2018 was a very positive year for me. We started with a victory and, even if we had some ups and downs, the difficulties pushed us to look in new directions and half-way through the season we made a big step forward. I’m very happy with the work done with the team, we fought for the win basically throughout the second half of the championship and I think we’ll make more improvements in the next tests to begin the season in the best possible way. The expectations are high, I have a great feeling with both the bike and my crew, and we can count on more experience. I’m happy to have Danilo alongside me in the garage, we know each other well and I believe we can fight on track but also work together to develop the package.”
Danilo Petrucci (#9, Mission Winnow Ducati): “Last season was very important for me, my best ever in terms of points scored. Even if I barely missed my goal to finish first among independent riders, I still finished 2018 on an undoubtedly positive note. Racing with the factory colours makes me really proud and I can’t wait to get started: I have a great feeling with my new crew, and the technical level is higher than ever. As for me, I know where I can still improve and I changed my conditioning program to make sure I’ll be in my best shape ever come the first race. I’m very happy to pair with Andrea: not only is he a phenomenal rider, but also a wonderful person. We’ve known each other for a long time, and we started to train together with one goal: to both have a really strong season.”
The Mission Winnow Ducati team will soon leave for Malaysia where, on February 6-9 at Sepang, the first collective pre-season tests will unfold.
The post Ducati Officially Introduces 2019 MotoGP Team appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.
AHRMA Looking For Volunteers To Man International Motorcycle Shows
Are you a vintage motorcycle nut (bonus points if you have one and/or enjoy vintage racing)? AHRMA is looking for you. Read on to find out more.
Begin press release:
Yowza race maniacs! AHRMA is looking for on and off road race bikes and sidecars to display at the Cleveland (January 25-27) and the Washington DC International Motorcycle Shows (IMS)(February 1-3). We are also looking for motivated volunteers to staff the AHRMA booth and spread the word of vintage racing excitement & camaraderie. If you have a motorcycle (or 3) to display, or time to volunteer, please give Brady Walker a call asap. This is an awesome opportunity for AHRMA and we need your help! Get off your behind and let’s rock! Brady 310-980-7129 brad
The post AHRMA Looking For Volunteers To Man International Motorcycle Shows appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.
The 2019 Mission Winnow Ducati team presented at Neuchâtel
Claudio Domenicali, Ducati Motor Holding CEO, added: “Racing has always been part of Ducati’s DNA. The solutions and expertise gathered on track represent an asset that is directly tied to our product line, and the MotoGP project is crucial for us to produce models that are more performing, exciting and safe to ride for all our passionate fans. Looking back at the results achieved in 2018 on track, we can be proud because our Desmosedici GP proved to be one of the most competitive bikes, but we cannot settle and we want to make another, decisive step forward. I believe our know-how and the spirit that characterizes the people of Ducati Corse are an extra value compared with our rivals. I want to take this occasion to thank all the partners that are supporting us in this new challenge in MotoGP – including Audi Sport, which starting from this season will be main sponsor – and to send my best wishes to the whole Mission Winnow Ducati team for an unforgettable season.”
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here