This weekend – the 8th and 9th of May – sees the Thundersprint take place in the town centre of Northwich, Cheshire; over the last few years this event has become one of the most popular and well-attended events on the motorcycling calendar.
Over 100 classic, custom and race machines will be on display alongside the Bikesafe Interactive Learning Experience and numerous trade stands. On Saturday afternoon there’s the chance to meet the stars of the show, with plenty of places to eat, drink and watch the two-wheeled world go by on offer. The individually timed sprints, run over a 400m course, take place on Sunday and racers taking part will include the ever popular BSB racer Chris Walker (riding the brand new Norton 961) and BBC MotoGP commentator Steve Parrish, on a Yamaha R1. Admission on both days is free.
Phoenix Distribution, the UK importer of Arai helmets is based very close to the Thundersprint and has been a long term supporter of the event – the Arai Race Support Service that is usually seen at BSB paddocks will be in attendance, assisting any member of the public with an Arai that needs advice, service or attention. In addition, Arai is providing the trophies for winners of the following Thundersprint Races; Sidecar, Golden Age, Classic 250, 350 and 500, Lightweight and Modern Classics.
Thundersprint Organiser, Frank Melling said: “We are delighted to have Arai sponsor our race trophies again. It so pleasing to have one of motorcycling’s most iconic companies being so closely involved with the Thundersprint: truly, the world’s greatest “Grand Prix in a Car Park.”
John Wakefield, Managing Director of Phoenix Distribution, is as equally happy to be involved: “It’s great being part of this event with our Arai sponsorship and Race Service. It’s a day out the whole family can enjoy and showcases all the positive things about motorcycling – it’s certainly a unique occasion.”
For more information on the Thundersprint please visit http://www.thundersprint.com
For more information about Arai and our range of helmets please visit www.whyarai.co.uk
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
BSB ROUND 3, OULTON PARK, Monday 3rd May
A mixed outing for Arai riders, much like the weather…
JOSH BROOKES, HM PLANT HONDA
Race 1: Sixth Race 2: Eighth Championship Position: Third
“IT’S BEEN A DIFFICULT AND FRUSTRATING DAY”
Honda’s HM Plant team had a challenging day at Oulton; in the opening race of the day Josh Brookes was running in the top four early on, but as the race progressed he continued to suffer with chatter which inevitably dropped him down the field to finish sixth while Stuart Easton took his first win of the season. In the second race, Brookes was struggling for rear grip as the conditions continued to change, leaving him eighth at the end of the shortened second race, which was won by Michael Laverty.
“It has been a difficult and frustrating day for me. I think that somewhere along the line we made the wrong decision on the setting and I was desperate to go out and make amends for it in race two, but that didn’t happen. In the second race it was difficult as we were on a wet tyre on a drying track and by the end everyone’s tyres were destroyed as expected, but ours went off very quickly. I feel annoyed that I couldn’t get back up there in the second race, despite the whole team putting in a huge amount of effort and hard work. The reality is that these things happen sometimes though, so we just need to learn from today so it doesn’t happen again and get back up there at Cadwell Park.”
ALASTAIR SEELEY, RELENTLESS SUZUKI BY TAS
Race 1: Fourth Race 2: Sixth Championship Position: Fifth
“I GOT MY HEAD DOWN AND TRIED TO BE SMOOTH”
In race one Alastair Seeley looked odds on for his second BSB podium of the year, but a missed gear on the final lap allowed John Laverty to steal his thunder, leaving the Carrickfergus man to narrowly pip his team-mate Michael Laverty to the line for fourth.
In race two, Seeley fought his way through from mid pack to take ten very valuable points in sixth place.
“I am a bit frustrated about not getting on the podium in race one, but there’s no point moaning about it. I missed a gear and fought back to fourth so we have to be pleased with that after a tough weekend at the previous round. In race two I spun up going off the line and ended up bashing bars and fairings mid-pack. I got my head down and just tried to be smooth on the throttle and when I got onto the back of Brookes he was all over the place. His tyre was obviously in worse condition than mine at that stage, so to get past for sixth was a good result in difficult conditions. I’m learning all the time about this
superbike and I’ve stayed fit and healthy with the North West 200 just over a week away – so that’s a big positive.”
Quay Garage Racing rider Tommy Bridewell scored his first points of the season with a superb double top ten placing. Despite having the little finger on his right hand amputated following a crash at Thruxton two weeks ago, the 21 year old finished tenth in race one and seventh in race two.
Steve Brogan, racing back in the EVO-class with the issues surrounding the series-supplied Motec ECU on his Jentin Racing BMW S1000RR resolved, had a solid weekend – he finished 15th in both races and moves up to third place in the EVO championship.
Steve Plater rode his HM Plant Honda Fireblade to a third consecutive podium finish in the National Superstock 1000 Championship with a hard-fought second place, to keep a 19 point advantage in the overall standings. Plater had dropped back to eighth on the opening laps but a determined performance saw him carve his way through the field as the race progressed. He was reasonably happy with his efforts; “For sure that was a tough race as I dropped back a bit in the opening laps but I came through. It was hard work and busy in the opening laps but I just kept my head and stayed out of trouble and that did the trick. I really wanted to catch Jon (Kirkham) for the win and I thought if there were backmarkers then I might be able to just do it, but I really needed another lap as I wasn’t close enough to make the move. I am happy to be back on the podium though and still have the championship lead for HM Plant Honda.” Ian Hutchinson, riding a Pagetts Honda FireBlade finished fourth.
Ben Wilson won the British Supersport race on his Gearlink Kawasaki and lies third in the championship; Jack Kennedy was third, Daniel Cooper fourth while Glen Richards – who slipped off his Padgetts Honda on the warm-up lap – remounted and stormed through to fifth place. Tom Grant finished in sixth position.
The 125GP race was won by John Mcphee riding a KRP/Bradley Smith Racing Honda. Deane Brown finished third and Racing Steps Foundation-backed KRP rookie Wayne Ryan ended up seventh, followed by Dakota Mamola in eighth – RSF’s Fraser Rogers posted a DNF and now lies fourth in the championship overall.
The next round of the BSB championship takes place on the 23rd of May, at the spectacular Cadwell Park, Lincolnshire.
For more news and information on Arai helmets please visit www.whyarai.co.uk
JOSH BROOKES, HM PLANT HONDA
Race 1: Sixth Race 2: Eighth Championship Position: Third
“IT’S BEEN A DIFFICULT AND FRUSTRATING DAY”
Honda’s HM Plant team had a challenging day at Oulton; in the opening race of the day Josh Brookes was running in the top four early on, but as the race progressed he continued to suffer with chatter which inevitably dropped him down the field to finish sixth while Stuart Easton took his first win of the season. In the second race, Brookes was struggling for rear grip as the conditions continued to change, leaving him eighth at the end of the shortened second race, which was won by Michael Laverty.
“It has been a difficult and frustrating day for me. I think that somewhere along the line we made the wrong decision on the setting and I was desperate to go out and make amends for it in race two, but that didn’t happen. In the second race it was difficult as we were on a wet tyre on a drying track and by the end everyone’s tyres were destroyed as expected, but ours went off very quickly. I feel annoyed that I couldn’t get back up there in the second race, despite the whole team putting in a huge amount of effort and hard work. The reality is that these things happen sometimes though, so we just need to learn from today so it doesn’t happen again and get back up there at Cadwell Park.”
ALASTAIR SEELEY, RELENTLESS SUZUKI BY TAS
Race 1: Fourth Race 2: Sixth Championship Position: Fifth
“I GOT MY HEAD DOWN AND TRIED TO BE SMOOTH”
In race one Alastair Seeley looked odds on for his second BSB podium of the year, but a missed gear on the final lap allowed John Laverty to steal his thunder, leaving the Carrickfergus man to narrowly pip his team-mate Michael Laverty to the line for fourth.
In race two, Seeley fought his way through from mid pack to take ten very valuable points in sixth place.
“I am a bit frustrated about not getting on the podium in race one, but there’s no point moaning about it. I missed a gear and fought back to fourth so we have to be pleased with that after a tough weekend at the previous round. In race two I spun up going off the line and ended up bashing bars and fairings mid-pack. I got my head down and just tried to be smooth on the throttle and when I got onto the back of Brookes he was all over the place. His tyre was obviously in worse condition than mine at that stage, so to get past for sixth was a good result in difficult conditions. I’m learning all the time about this
superbike and I’ve stayed fit and healthy with the North West 200 just over a week away – so that’s a big positive.”
Quay Garage Racing rider Tommy Bridewell scored his first points of the season with a superb double top ten placing. Despite having the little finger on his right hand amputated following a crash at Thruxton two weeks ago, the 21 year old finished tenth in race one and seventh in race two.
Steve Brogan, racing back in the EVO-class with the issues surrounding the series-supplied Motec ECU on his Jentin Racing BMW S1000RR resolved, had a solid weekend – he finished 15th in both races and moves up to third place in the EVO championship.
Steve Plater rode his HM Plant Honda Fireblade to a third consecutive podium finish in the National Superstock 1000 Championship with a hard-fought second place, to keep a 19 point advantage in the overall standings. Plater had dropped back to eighth on the opening laps but a determined performance saw him carve his way through the field as the race progressed. He was reasonably happy with his efforts; “For sure that was a tough race as I dropped back a bit in the opening laps but I came through. It was hard work and busy in the opening laps but I just kept my head and stayed out of trouble and that did the trick. I really wanted to catch Jon (Kirkham) for the win and I thought if there were backmarkers then I might be able to just do it, but I really needed another lap as I wasn’t close enough to make the move. I am happy to be back on the podium though and still have the championship lead for HM Plant Honda.” Ian Hutchinson, riding a Pagetts Honda FireBlade finished fourth.
Ben Wilson won the British Supersport race on his Gearlink Kawasaki and lies third in the championship; Jack Kennedy was third, Daniel Cooper fourth while Glen Richards – who slipped off his Padgetts Honda on the warm-up lap – remounted and stormed through to fifth place. Tom Grant finished in sixth position.
The 125GP race was won by John Mcphee riding a KRP/Bradley Smith Racing Honda. Deane Brown finished third and Racing Steps Foundation-backed KRP rookie Wayne Ryan ended up seventh, followed by Dakota Mamola in eighth – RSF’s Fraser Rogers posted a DNF and now lies fourth in the championship overall.
The next round of the BSB championship takes place on the 23rd of May, at the spectacular Cadwell Park, Lincolnshire.
For more news and information on Arai helmets please visit www.whyarai.co.uk
MOTOGP ROUND 2, JEREZ, SUNDAY 3rd MAY
A good day’s work for Arai riders in Spain
DANI PEDROSA, REPSOL HONDA
Race Position: Second Championship Position: Third
“MMM, MAYBE THIS IS GOING TO BE DIFFICULT!”
Dani Pedrosa took second place in a gripping Grand Prix of Spain at Jerez, crossing the line just half a second behind the winner and setting the fastest lap of the race along the way. From pole position, Pedrosa led the race right until the final few corners of the last lap, when fellow Spaniard Jorge Lorenzo slipped by to win. The second round of the MotoGP World Championship was a nail-biting affair with Pedrosa’s lead never growing to more than two seconds as Valentino Rossi slotted in behind the fast-starting Spaniard. Pedrosa would edge the gap open only for Rossi to pull back a few tenths, while all the time Lorenzo was creeping his way towards the leading pair. As Lorenzo mounted his challenge on the penultimate lap, Pedrosa held him off as best he could and the pair touched fairings as they battled for the lead.
“Well this result is a little bit surprising for me and, even though I came so close to winning, I’m pleased to be on the podium and so close to the top step. I didn’t think I was going to be able to lead the race for this long and I was nervous at the start because I knew that to maintain a front-running rhythm was going to be very difficult for us. So I was pleased to be out in front of the race, but then I saw on the pit board that Lorenzo was closing at a pace that was half a second faster than me and Rossi and I thought, “Mmm, maybe this is going to be difficult!” I tried to hold him off for as long as possible but in the end I couldn’t. Second place after leading for all but half a lap is disappointing obviously, but after the first race at Qatar this is a good result for us. I’d like to thank all the fans who came here and supported us, and all the people around me in the Repsol Honda Team. We must keep working really hard so that we can improve for Le Mans.”
NICKY HAYDEN, MARLBORO DUCATI
Race Position: Fourth Championship Position: Fifth
“I THOUGHT WE MIGHT FIND A LITTLE EXTRA”
Nicky Hayden looks like he’s now got the package he needs to race consistently up at the front of the MotoGP field, and made his qualifying speed stick when the red lights went out at Jerez. He made a great start and was lapping in third place over the early laps, but didn’t quite have the pace to stick with the leaders, eventually finishing fourth, nine seconds behind Lorenzo.
“Fourth place is no disaster but I was hoping to stay closer to the top three towards the end and put up a bit of a fight. I’m not happy to be nine seconds adrift but we’re trying to build something here and we’ve had another solid weekend. The team, the bike, everything has been great this weekend but we just fell a couple of tenths short on race day. To be honest I thought we might find a little extra for the race, like we did in Qatar, but it wasn’t to be. My guys worked like dogs to put me in this position and we’ve got more to do so I want to give a big thanks to them. This is the Ducati factory team and we don’t jump up and down at fourth place but we’ll take it. We got some great data to work from that should help us be stronger at Le Mans and hopefully we can keep this upward trend going.”
COLIN EDWARDS, MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3
Race Position: Twelfth Championship Position: Seventh
“I’D JUST LIKE TO BE IN A RACE…”
Colin Edwards fought a determined battle at the rear of a frenetic battle for seventh position; the Texan eventually had to settle for 12th after he encountered small rear grip issues in the crucial final stages that left him unable to mount a sustained offensive on the exciting mid-pack dice.
“I think I’ve had one good race at Jerez in my entire career and today wasn’t it. This weekend has been a struggle and I’ve never been comfortable on the bike to show the pace I know I am capable of. Right from the start I had issues with the rear grip and I couldn’t hold any load on the tyre at full lean angle. That also created some problems with the front-end, so I just struggled with the balance of the bike. It’s the exact same issue that I had in Qatar even though the set-up I’m running is quite a bit different. I’d just like to be in a race. At the moment I just feel like I’m riding around and suffering. I can only look forward to Le Mans knowing that I go really well at that track and so does the Yamaha.”
HIROSHI AOYAMA, INTERWETTEN HONDA
Race Position: Fourteenth Championship Position: Thirteenth
“THIS WAS NOT AN EASY RACE FOR ME”
A braking misjudgement meant Hiroshi Aoyama lost touch with the riders ahead of him early in Sunday's Spanish Grand prix at Jerez. The MotoGP rookie, who had qualified in twelfth, was already 17th and last at the end of the first lap – then ran wide to avoid colliding with another rider at turn eight. From then on it was a lonely ride to 14th place for the Interwetten Honda rider.
“I didn’t have a good start and I made a mistake. After braking too hard I had to avoid crashing into another rider and went wide. After that I lost the connection. This was not an easy race for me. I am so sorry for my team to have destroyed all their work of the weekend with this mistake – I really hope the next race will be better again.”
Top placed Arai man in the action-packed second race of the brand new 600cc Moto2 championship was Yuki Takahashi in fourth place, while the spectacular supermoto riding style of Yonny Henandez bought the reward of tenth.
The next MotoGP round is at Le Mans, on the 23rd of May.
For more Arai Helmet news and information please visit www.whyarai.co.uk
DANI PEDROSA, REPSOL HONDA
Race Position: Second Championship Position: Third
“MMM, MAYBE THIS IS GOING TO BE DIFFICULT!”
Dani Pedrosa took second place in a gripping Grand Prix of Spain at Jerez, crossing the line just half a second behind the winner and setting the fastest lap of the race along the way. From pole position, Pedrosa led the race right until the final few corners of the last lap, when fellow Spaniard Jorge Lorenzo slipped by to win. The second round of the MotoGP World Championship was a nail-biting affair with Pedrosa’s lead never growing to more than two seconds as Valentino Rossi slotted in behind the fast-starting Spaniard. Pedrosa would edge the gap open only for Rossi to pull back a few tenths, while all the time Lorenzo was creeping his way towards the leading pair. As Lorenzo mounted his challenge on the penultimate lap, Pedrosa held him off as best he could and the pair touched fairings as they battled for the lead.
“Well this result is a little bit surprising for me and, even though I came so close to winning, I’m pleased to be on the podium and so close to the top step. I didn’t think I was going to be able to lead the race for this long and I was nervous at the start because I knew that to maintain a front-running rhythm was going to be very difficult for us. So I was pleased to be out in front of the race, but then I saw on the pit board that Lorenzo was closing at a pace that was half a second faster than me and Rossi and I thought, “Mmm, maybe this is going to be difficult!” I tried to hold him off for as long as possible but in the end I couldn’t. Second place after leading for all but half a lap is disappointing obviously, but after the first race at Qatar this is a good result for us. I’d like to thank all the fans who came here and supported us, and all the people around me in the Repsol Honda Team. We must keep working really hard so that we can improve for Le Mans.”
NICKY HAYDEN, MARLBORO DUCATI
Race Position: Fourth Championship Position: Fifth
“I THOUGHT WE MIGHT FIND A LITTLE EXTRA”
Nicky Hayden looks like he’s now got the package he needs to race consistently up at the front of the MotoGP field, and made his qualifying speed stick when the red lights went out at Jerez. He made a great start and was lapping in third place over the early laps, but didn’t quite have the pace to stick with the leaders, eventually finishing fourth, nine seconds behind Lorenzo.
“Fourth place is no disaster but I was hoping to stay closer to the top three towards the end and put up a bit of a fight. I’m not happy to be nine seconds adrift but we’re trying to build something here and we’ve had another solid weekend. The team, the bike, everything has been great this weekend but we just fell a couple of tenths short on race day. To be honest I thought we might find a little extra for the race, like we did in Qatar, but it wasn’t to be. My guys worked like dogs to put me in this position and we’ve got more to do so I want to give a big thanks to them. This is the Ducati factory team and we don’t jump up and down at fourth place but we’ll take it. We got some great data to work from that should help us be stronger at Le Mans and hopefully we can keep this upward trend going.”
COLIN EDWARDS, MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3
Race Position: Twelfth Championship Position: Seventh
“I’D JUST LIKE TO BE IN A RACE…”
Colin Edwards fought a determined battle at the rear of a frenetic battle for seventh position; the Texan eventually had to settle for 12th after he encountered small rear grip issues in the crucial final stages that left him unable to mount a sustained offensive on the exciting mid-pack dice.
“I think I’ve had one good race at Jerez in my entire career and today wasn’t it. This weekend has been a struggle and I’ve never been comfortable on the bike to show the pace I know I am capable of. Right from the start I had issues with the rear grip and I couldn’t hold any load on the tyre at full lean angle. That also created some problems with the front-end, so I just struggled with the balance of the bike. It’s the exact same issue that I had in Qatar even though the set-up I’m running is quite a bit different. I’d just like to be in a race. At the moment I just feel like I’m riding around and suffering. I can only look forward to Le Mans knowing that I go really well at that track and so does the Yamaha.”
HIROSHI AOYAMA, INTERWETTEN HONDA
Race Position: Fourteenth Championship Position: Thirteenth
“THIS WAS NOT AN EASY RACE FOR ME”
A braking misjudgement meant Hiroshi Aoyama lost touch with the riders ahead of him early in Sunday's Spanish Grand prix at Jerez. The MotoGP rookie, who had qualified in twelfth, was already 17th and last at the end of the first lap – then ran wide to avoid colliding with another rider at turn eight. From then on it was a lonely ride to 14th place for the Interwetten Honda rider.
“I didn’t have a good start and I made a mistake. After braking too hard I had to avoid crashing into another rider and went wide. After that I lost the connection. This was not an easy race for me. I am so sorry for my team to have destroyed all their work of the weekend with this mistake – I really hope the next race will be better again.”
Top placed Arai man in the action-packed second race of the brand new 600cc Moto2 championship was Yuki Takahashi in fourth place, while the spectacular supermoto riding style of Yonny Henandez bought the reward of tenth.
The next MotoGP round is at Le Mans, on the 23rd of May.
For more Arai Helmet news and information please visit www.whyarai.co.uk
Friday, April 30, 2010
WSB ROUND 4, ASSEN, SUNDAY 25TH APRIL
Arai riders super strong in Holland
LEON HASLAM, ALSTARE SUZUKI
Race 1: Eleventh Race 2: Second Championship Position: First
“ELBOWS WERE EVERYWHERE!”
Leon Haslam recovered from a disappointing 11th place in race one of the Assen World Superbike to take runner-up spot in race two and extend his championship lead. Haslam’s position in the first race was a result of a loss of air pressure in his front tyre which meant he couldn’t push hard at all; at first he thought it was a brake problem, but kept going and collected five valuable points. Race two was an absolute scorcher – one of the best in World Supers history: Rea won it, but only after the ‘Mother of Battles’ with Haslam, Troy Corser and Toseland, which saw plenty of close contact involving elbows and handlebars.
“Today was very, very hard, but I am happy because I’ve extended my lead in the series. In race one I had a problem with the front end and was struggling in 16th after five laps. I wasn’t sure if it was a brake problem, but when the bike was checked over after the race, the team discovered that air had escaped from the front tyre. It was a real struggle to keep going especially when I was with a couple of other riders, but I was determined to bring the bike home one way or another. The team changed the front discs and pads – in case they were part of the problem – for race two and I was able to do a normal race. It was a fantastic race, with plenty of close contact. Elbows were everywhere and we were close enough to touch each other’s handlebars. It was very hard, but fair, and we all enjoyed it a lot. It must have been great for the fans and of course, having both podiums filled by Brits was also great.”
JONATHAN REA, TEN KATE HONDA
Race 1: First Race 2: First Championship Position: Third
“I’M AS PROUD AS PUNCH”
Hannspree Ten Kate Honda’s Jonathan Rea stamped an indelible mark on the World Superbike championship by winning both races at Assen – his third and fourth championship wins, the first of this season and his debut double. Rea’s stunning weekend performance also included his maiden WSB pole position and the fastest lap of the weekend in a dramatic and thrilling race two – setting a new lap record for the revised 4.452km Dutch circuit. Rea’s results have leapfrogged him from fifth to third in the championship standings.
“You know, it’s been great, but I couldn’t have done it without my team; they gave me a fantastic bike today, so thanks to everyone – my crew chief, data guy, suspension guy, everyone involved. We changed the balance of the bike quite a lot for this weekend and it’s made it more comfortable to ride. I guess you could say that today’s two races were probably the smartest I’ve ever ridden; I never got frustrated or caught in traffic and, when it was time to pull the pin, I did, and I’m really, really happy with the double. It’s a clean sweep with pole position, a double win and, I think the fastest lap, so I’m as proud as punch and I can’t wait to take this home. I’m looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and going to Monza but we’ll definitely savour the moment and I’ll stick around the hospitality this evening and definitely buy the big boss a drink!”
CAL CRUTCHLOW, STERILGARDA YAMAHA
Race 1: Eighth Race 2: DNF Championship Position: Tenth
“IT’S BEEN A VERY FRUSTRATING END TO THE WEEKEND”
Cal Crutchlow made a great start in race one, making it up to sixth on the first corner before a bunched up pack of riders pushed him wide, dropping him to 13th. He fought back with a determined push and was the fastest lapping rider mid-way through. He finally crossed the line in eighth having made up five positions. He was less fortunate in the second race, when a technical issue with the rear suspension forced an early retirement.
“It’s been a very frustrating end to the weekend for me, I know I had the pace to achieve really good results and be up there fighting with the front guys in both races. I made a good start but lost a lot of places on the first corner when the pack pushed me wide, but fought back. Race two was even more frustrating as I was determined and ready to fight for a podium. Unfortunately the technical issue was out of my control so there was nothing I could do.”
NORIYUKI HAGA, XEROX DUCATI
Race 1: Tenth Race 2: DNF Championship Position: Sixth
“IT’S VERY DISAPPOINTING”
Getting off the line in 13th in race one, Noriyuki Haga made up several places to move from sixteenth at the end of lap two to tenth, the position he held from lap seventeen until the finish. In race two Haga went wide at the first corner when he tried to pass riders by going around the outside; feeling strong vibrations from his engine, which only became worse during the first couple of laps, he was forced to return to the box, thus retiring from the race.
“It was very difficult for us today. In race one I didn’t make the good start that I needed to, and from the fourth row I had to push very hard even to make up one or two positions. In race two, I realized already during the warm-up lap that the engine vibrations I was feeling were maybe stronger than normal. I hoped it wouldn’t be a problem and started the race but it became worse as I rode and I knew there was something wrong technically. It’s very disappointing of course because this year, more than ever, it’s important to be consistent – there are so many of us fighting for the positions that count and it’s becoming more and more of a battle.”
The WSB paddock now heads to Monza, with racing on May 9th.
For more news and information on Arai Helmets please visit www.whyarai.co.uk
LEON HASLAM, ALSTARE SUZUKI
Race 1: Eleventh Race 2: Second Championship Position: First
“ELBOWS WERE EVERYWHERE!”
Leon Haslam recovered from a disappointing 11th place in race one of the Assen World Superbike to take runner-up spot in race two and extend his championship lead. Haslam’s position in the first race was a result of a loss of air pressure in his front tyre which meant he couldn’t push hard at all; at first he thought it was a brake problem, but kept going and collected five valuable points. Race two was an absolute scorcher – one of the best in World Supers history: Rea won it, but only after the ‘Mother of Battles’ with Haslam, Troy Corser and Toseland, which saw plenty of close contact involving elbows and handlebars.
“Today was very, very hard, but I am happy because I’ve extended my lead in the series. In race one I had a problem with the front end and was struggling in 16th after five laps. I wasn’t sure if it was a brake problem, but when the bike was checked over after the race, the team discovered that air had escaped from the front tyre. It was a real struggle to keep going especially when I was with a couple of other riders, but I was determined to bring the bike home one way or another. The team changed the front discs and pads – in case they were part of the problem – for race two and I was able to do a normal race. It was a fantastic race, with plenty of close contact. Elbows were everywhere and we were close enough to touch each other’s handlebars. It was very hard, but fair, and we all enjoyed it a lot. It must have been great for the fans and of course, having both podiums filled by Brits was also great.”
JONATHAN REA, TEN KATE HONDA
Race 1: First Race 2: First Championship Position: Third
“I’M AS PROUD AS PUNCH”
Hannspree Ten Kate Honda’s Jonathan Rea stamped an indelible mark on the World Superbike championship by winning both races at Assen – his third and fourth championship wins, the first of this season and his debut double. Rea’s stunning weekend performance also included his maiden WSB pole position and the fastest lap of the weekend in a dramatic and thrilling race two – setting a new lap record for the revised 4.452km Dutch circuit. Rea’s results have leapfrogged him from fifth to third in the championship standings.
“You know, it’s been great, but I couldn’t have done it without my team; they gave me a fantastic bike today, so thanks to everyone – my crew chief, data guy, suspension guy, everyone involved. We changed the balance of the bike quite a lot for this weekend and it’s made it more comfortable to ride. I guess you could say that today’s two races were probably the smartest I’ve ever ridden; I never got frustrated or caught in traffic and, when it was time to pull the pin, I did, and I’m really, really happy with the double. It’s a clean sweep with pole position, a double win and, I think the fastest lap, so I’m as proud as punch and I can’t wait to take this home. I’m looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and going to Monza but we’ll definitely savour the moment and I’ll stick around the hospitality this evening and definitely buy the big boss a drink!”
CAL CRUTCHLOW, STERILGARDA YAMAHA
Race 1: Eighth Race 2: DNF Championship Position: Tenth
“IT’S BEEN A VERY FRUSTRATING END TO THE WEEKEND”
Cal Crutchlow made a great start in race one, making it up to sixth on the first corner before a bunched up pack of riders pushed him wide, dropping him to 13th. He fought back with a determined push and was the fastest lapping rider mid-way through. He finally crossed the line in eighth having made up five positions. He was less fortunate in the second race, when a technical issue with the rear suspension forced an early retirement.
“It’s been a very frustrating end to the weekend for me, I know I had the pace to achieve really good results and be up there fighting with the front guys in both races. I made a good start but lost a lot of places on the first corner when the pack pushed me wide, but fought back. Race two was even more frustrating as I was determined and ready to fight for a podium. Unfortunately the technical issue was out of my control so there was nothing I could do.”
NORIYUKI HAGA, XEROX DUCATI
Race 1: Tenth Race 2: DNF Championship Position: Sixth
“IT’S VERY DISAPPOINTING”
Getting off the line in 13th in race one, Noriyuki Haga made up several places to move from sixteenth at the end of lap two to tenth, the position he held from lap seventeen until the finish. In race two Haga went wide at the first corner when he tried to pass riders by going around the outside; feeling strong vibrations from his engine, which only became worse during the first couple of laps, he was forced to return to the box, thus retiring from the race.
“It was very difficult for us today. In race one I didn’t make the good start that I needed to, and from the fourth row I had to push very hard even to make up one or two positions. In race two, I realized already during the warm-up lap that the engine vibrations I was feeling were maybe stronger than normal. I hoped it wouldn’t be a problem and started the race but it became worse as I rode and I knew there was something wrong technically. It’s very disappointing of course because this year, more than ever, it’s important to be consistent – there are so many of us fighting for the positions that count and it’s becoming more and more of a battle.”
The WSB paddock now heads to Monza, with racing on May 9th.
For more news and information on Arai Helmets please visit www.whyarai.co.uk
Monday, April 19, 2010
BSB ROUND 2, THRUXTON, SUNDAY 18TH APRIL
Another great day for Arai riders
JOSH BROOKES, HM PLANT HONDA
Race 1: Second Race 2: First Championship Position: Second
“I JUST GOT MY HEAD DOWN AND STAYED CONSISTENT.”
Josh Brookes secured his maiden BSB victory at Thruxton in race two by just 0.391 seconds, on the back of running a close second to the series leader Tommy Hill in the opening race. His win gave the HM Plant Honda team its first BSB race victory since the penultimate round in 2008, with Brookes also becoming the first Australian to win a BSB race since Troy Bayliss at Cadwell Park during the 1999 season. He was a happy man Sunday evening, and perhaps a very small monkey has been removed from the back of his leathers…
“I was feeling confident; I didn’t quite get qualifying right but I knew we would have the pace to be up there as I know the bike has the speed. There were some tough moves out there in the first race but I made them stick and when I got in the lead I had plus zero on my board and I knew it was going to be close. BSB is so competitive this season so I was expecting someone to have a go back at me. I was happy for second though and my first podium of the year, I just wanted to go one better in the second race. To win race two felt good as I have been waiting a long time to win in BSB – it was great for me to lead the race from the start to the finish and I knew Tommy was breathing down my neck so I just got my head down and stayed consistent. It’s amazing to have finished the day like this – I hadn’t put any pressure on myself to win as I knew I was capable of it, but at least now I have a trophy to prove it!”
ALASTAIR SEELEY, RELENTLESS SUZUKI BY TAS
Race 1: Twelfth Race 2: Ninth Championship Position: Fifth
“IT’S BEEN A TOUGH WEEKEND…!”
Alastair Seeley battled courageously after qualifying crashes and a number of minor problems during both races, scoring solid points that keep him at the sharp-end in the championship table. Seeley gambled with set-up in race one and the series rookie battled to 12th place; for the second outing he reverted to his qualifying set-up, and although he found Thruxton a tough proposition on his full superbike debut, ninth place keeps him well in the championship hunt.
“I tried a different set-up for the first race but it didn’t work for me, so we reverted back to the old set-up for race two. It hooked up a lot better and instead of the tyre going off at half distance, we were right on the money until it deteriorated about four laps from the end. The traction control works overtime around here and it’s a tough circuit to perfect your set-up on – but at least we got more points in the bag and remain top-five in the championship. Thanks to all the boys in the team as it’s been a tough weekend with all the travel problems and burning the midnight oil fixing bikes.”
Steve Brogan suffered an issue with the EVO-class ECU on his Jentin Racing BMW S1000RR and had to compete as a full Superbike runner; he finished 16th and 14th and moves back to fourth place in the EVO championship.
Steve Plater and his HM Plant Honda FireBlade took the top step of the podium for a second consecutive race in the National Superstock 1000 championship, further extending his series lead. The veteran campaigner was pushed wide at the start, undoing his pole position – he then fought hard through the pack to eventually trade the lead with Howie Mainwaring. The two riders then had a battle royale, with Plater ultimately coming out on top. “That was a tough race and I had to put in some hard moves after I didn’t make the best of starts off the line, but we got there and another win is good for me and the team. We put in a lot of hard work during practice and qualifying and that definitely paid dividends today.”
Ian Hutchinson finished sixth on his Padgetts Honda CBR600RR in the British Supersport championship, followed by Ben Wilson in seventh. Glen Richards, suffering shoulder damage sustained from his crash at Brands Hatch, was a frustrated spectator.
In the 125GP class Fraser Rogers turned adversity into triumph to claim another podium; the Racing Steps Foundation-backed KRP rookie finished top of the under-17 riders and sixth overall after overcoming a first lap slip-up that cost him 22 places. Rogers now heads the Academy Cup rider standings and lies second in the British 125GP Championship.
“It wasn’t the ideal opening lap but I’m pleased with the end result,” he reckoned afterwards. “I could maybe have done better still but by the time I’d got up to sixth I’d pretty much used up all my energy. That’s something I’ve obviously got to work a lot harder at. But the bike was fantastic, so a big thank you to KRP.”
The next round of the BSB championship takes place on the 3rd of May, at the picturesque and flowing Oulton Park, Cheshire.
For more information on Arai helmets and associated products please visit www.whyarai.co.uk and www.phoenixnw.co.uk
JOSH BROOKES, HM PLANT HONDA
Race 1: Second Race 2: First Championship Position: Second
“I JUST GOT MY HEAD DOWN AND STAYED CONSISTENT.”
Josh Brookes secured his maiden BSB victory at Thruxton in race two by just 0.391 seconds, on the back of running a close second to the series leader Tommy Hill in the opening race. His win gave the HM Plant Honda team its first BSB race victory since the penultimate round in 2008, with Brookes also becoming the first Australian to win a BSB race since Troy Bayliss at Cadwell Park during the 1999 season. He was a happy man Sunday evening, and perhaps a very small monkey has been removed from the back of his leathers…
“I was feeling confident; I didn’t quite get qualifying right but I knew we would have the pace to be up there as I know the bike has the speed. There were some tough moves out there in the first race but I made them stick and when I got in the lead I had plus zero on my board and I knew it was going to be close. BSB is so competitive this season so I was expecting someone to have a go back at me. I was happy for second though and my first podium of the year, I just wanted to go one better in the second race. To win race two felt good as I have been waiting a long time to win in BSB – it was great for me to lead the race from the start to the finish and I knew Tommy was breathing down my neck so I just got my head down and stayed consistent. It’s amazing to have finished the day like this – I hadn’t put any pressure on myself to win as I knew I was capable of it, but at least now I have a trophy to prove it!”
ALASTAIR SEELEY, RELENTLESS SUZUKI BY TAS
Race 1: Twelfth Race 2: Ninth Championship Position: Fifth
“IT’S BEEN A TOUGH WEEKEND…!”
Alastair Seeley battled courageously after qualifying crashes and a number of minor problems during both races, scoring solid points that keep him at the sharp-end in the championship table. Seeley gambled with set-up in race one and the series rookie battled to 12th place; for the second outing he reverted to his qualifying set-up, and although he found Thruxton a tough proposition on his full superbike debut, ninth place keeps him well in the championship hunt.
“I tried a different set-up for the first race but it didn’t work for me, so we reverted back to the old set-up for race two. It hooked up a lot better and instead of the tyre going off at half distance, we were right on the money until it deteriorated about four laps from the end. The traction control works overtime around here and it’s a tough circuit to perfect your set-up on – but at least we got more points in the bag and remain top-five in the championship. Thanks to all the boys in the team as it’s been a tough weekend with all the travel problems and burning the midnight oil fixing bikes.”
Steve Brogan suffered an issue with the EVO-class ECU on his Jentin Racing BMW S1000RR and had to compete as a full Superbike runner; he finished 16th and 14th and moves back to fourth place in the EVO championship.
Steve Plater and his HM Plant Honda FireBlade took the top step of the podium for a second consecutive race in the National Superstock 1000 championship, further extending his series lead. The veteran campaigner was pushed wide at the start, undoing his pole position – he then fought hard through the pack to eventually trade the lead with Howie Mainwaring. The two riders then had a battle royale, with Plater ultimately coming out on top. “That was a tough race and I had to put in some hard moves after I didn’t make the best of starts off the line, but we got there and another win is good for me and the team. We put in a lot of hard work during practice and qualifying and that definitely paid dividends today.”
Ian Hutchinson finished sixth on his Padgetts Honda CBR600RR in the British Supersport championship, followed by Ben Wilson in seventh. Glen Richards, suffering shoulder damage sustained from his crash at Brands Hatch, was a frustrated spectator.
In the 125GP class Fraser Rogers turned adversity into triumph to claim another podium; the Racing Steps Foundation-backed KRP rookie finished top of the under-17 riders and sixth overall after overcoming a first lap slip-up that cost him 22 places. Rogers now heads the Academy Cup rider standings and lies second in the British 125GP Championship.
“It wasn’t the ideal opening lap but I’m pleased with the end result,” he reckoned afterwards. “I could maybe have done better still but by the time I’d got up to sixth I’d pretty much used up all my energy. That’s something I’ve obviously got to work a lot harder at. But the bike was fantastic, so a big thank you to KRP.”
The next round of the BSB championship takes place on the 3rd of May, at the picturesque and flowing Oulton Park, Cheshire.
For more information on Arai helmets and associated products please visit www.whyarai.co.uk and www.phoenixnw.co.uk
Up, Up and away...
GEORGE WHITE SUPERBIKES LIFT OFF
The innovative motorcycle, accessory and clothing retailer George White Superbikes,
chalked up another incredible first last week by test flying their very own hot-air balloon.
The hot air balloon, built by Chester-based specialists Lindstrand Balloons, will fly, weather permitting, at all rounds of the British Superbike Championship and other selected events in the UK and Europe.
The first official appearance was at round two of the BSB series at Thruxton, Hants, home round to George White's Swindon Head Quarters. (April 17 18)
The 37m high x 47m wide balloon was one of the most complex ever made by Linstrand Hot Air Balloons, founded by Per Lindstand over 25 years ago. It is a bike and rider scaled up 23 times and takes about twice as long to prepare and inflate than a 'conventional' balloon.
The pilot Chris Sanger-Davies says, "as one of the biggest shapes in the world you have to be aware of the size and scale of what is above you - but essentially it is still a hot air balloon and has the same characteristics as standard round balloons of similar lifting capacity, although it is much more weather susceptible."
The balloon will also be in action for day one (Saturday) of the George White Open Weekend held at its Swindon HQ over the weekend of April 24 and 25. One lucky visitor to the showroom will win a ride in the balloon over the store that will be visited by most of the BSB front runners over the course of the weekend.
On Sunday 25th April it will fly over the start to the annual London marathon - putting motorcycling in front of 46,000 runners and with BBC images fed to over 150 countries world-wide.
Monday, April 12, 2010
WSB ROUND 3, VALENCIA, SUNDAY 11TH APRIL
Arai riders claim both wins!
LEON HASLAM, ALSTARE SUZUKI
Race 1: First Race 2: Fourth Championship Position: First
“I EXPECTED THAT I WOULD COME UNDER ATTACK”
Leon Haslam stormed his way to victory in the first World Superbike race at Valencia and then followed it up with a hard-fought-for fourth in the second which increased his series lead to 18 points after three rounds. But for braking problems in race two, Haslam would have been well on course for another podium. He’s happy enough, though.
“I made a reasonable start and was fourth at the end of the lap one and then just worked my way up to first by lap five. Once I was in the lead, I realised that the pace was not great and it all felt pretty easy for me. I expected that I would come under attack, but my pit board signals showed that my lead was increasing! We made some small changes to the bike for race two – because of the hotter conditions – and managed to pass about five riders quite quickly despite not making a very good start. Then the race was stopped and we had to start again. We put a bit more preload on the front, but I began having brake problems before too long. I am happy to be leading the series; delighted that I have increased the lead; and really looking forward to Assen – a circuit where I think our bike will go really well.”
JONATHAN REA, TEN KATE HONDA
Race 1: Sixth Race 2: Fifth Championship Position: Fifth
“I’VE GOT A LOT OUT OF BOTH RACES TODAY”
Starting from the second row on the grid, Rea lost places at the beginning of the opening 23-lap encounter, finishing the first lap in 10th place. The 23-year-old once again fought his way past a number of riders, however, moving up to sixth at the flag. His race two start was better, and Rea was in a leading position when the race was red flagged – with results subsequently based on aggregate times, Rea’s result moved him up to fifth place in the championship standings.
“We’ve had a few gremlins this weekend, which ended up costing us time but I feel I’ve got a lot out of both races today. It’s been a difficult weekend and it’s been clear we didn’t have the pace of the frontrunners, but we’ve found out how to make the bike better. The new electronics have definitely made the bike easier to ride but we’ve had problems getting acceleration and grip on corner exits. It’s still early days though, and we know what to work on when we test at Assen this week. I’m really looking forward to that and the next race there, and I’d really like to thank my team for all their efforts this weekend. When morale’s been low, there’s always been a smile on their faces and I’m very grateful for that.”
CAL CRUTCHLOW, STERILGARDA YAMAHA
Race 1: Seventh Race 2: Ninth Championship Position: Tenth
“I WAS DISAPPOINTED I LOST THE TOW”
Cal Crutchlow had a tough first race. A less than perfect start saw him drop from pole to seventh going into the first corner of the race; he fought hard for the duration despite suffering from a lack of grip, riding as high as fifth before dropping back to claim seventh at the line. The hot track temperatures of the second race proved challenging for grip levels but Crutchlow hung on to take ninth at the flag.
“Race one was ok, I was disappointed I lost the tow to the leaders at the start. We’ve got bad rear tyre problems again and we seem to be spinning a lot more than the other competitors from the go – the higher grip levels in Portugal suited us better. We’re looking forward to hopefully improving it, quickly. A difficult weekend, the second race was much the same, no grip from the start.”
NORIYUKI HAGA, XEROX DUCATI
Race 1: Fifth Race 2: First Championship Position: Fourth
“I AM MR VALENCIA…!”
Having scored a solid fifth place finish in race one, Haga triumphed in race two finishing 25 thousandths of a second ahead of Carlos Checa. The win, on board his Ducati 1198R, was far from easy but after 20 laps of the second heat Haga had done just enough to collect the silverware on aggregate. At last it seems Haga’s season is heading in the right direction.
“I like Valencia a lot, I am Mr Valencia! The track was a lot warmer in race one than in the morning’s warm-up and I was lacking rear grip. The more I pushed, the more my bike slid around and this needed to be fixed before race two. Before that race we made a change, reverting to the setting we’d used in the warm-up and it worked well. I was able to push hard, stick with Biaggi and Checa and eventually pass them. I was not thinking about the time difference, I just new I had to go at the front. I’m very happy to have been able to win today. I thank my team, Ducati of course, and all the sponsors who helped contribute to this great result.”
Jakub Smrz had a much better weekend on his PATA Ducati and, after failing to finish either race at Portimao, brought it home in tenth place at the end of both races at Valencia.
The WSB paddock now rolls north to set up for business in Assen, on April 28th.
For more information n Arai Helmets and other products we distribute in the UK view our new websites www.whyarai.co.uk and www.phoenixnw.co.uk
LEON HASLAM, ALSTARE SUZUKI
Race 1: First Race 2: Fourth Championship Position: First
“I EXPECTED THAT I WOULD COME UNDER ATTACK”
Leon Haslam stormed his way to victory in the first World Superbike race at Valencia and then followed it up with a hard-fought-for fourth in the second which increased his series lead to 18 points after three rounds. But for braking problems in race two, Haslam would have been well on course for another podium. He’s happy enough, though.
“I made a reasonable start and was fourth at the end of the lap one and then just worked my way up to first by lap five. Once I was in the lead, I realised that the pace was not great and it all felt pretty easy for me. I expected that I would come under attack, but my pit board signals showed that my lead was increasing! We made some small changes to the bike for race two – because of the hotter conditions – and managed to pass about five riders quite quickly despite not making a very good start. Then the race was stopped and we had to start again. We put a bit more preload on the front, but I began having brake problems before too long. I am happy to be leading the series; delighted that I have increased the lead; and really looking forward to Assen – a circuit where I think our bike will go really well.”
JONATHAN REA, TEN KATE HONDA
Race 1: Sixth Race 2: Fifth Championship Position: Fifth
“I’VE GOT A LOT OUT OF BOTH RACES TODAY”
Starting from the second row on the grid, Rea lost places at the beginning of the opening 23-lap encounter, finishing the first lap in 10th place. The 23-year-old once again fought his way past a number of riders, however, moving up to sixth at the flag. His race two start was better, and Rea was in a leading position when the race was red flagged – with results subsequently based on aggregate times, Rea’s result moved him up to fifth place in the championship standings.
“We’ve had a few gremlins this weekend, which ended up costing us time but I feel I’ve got a lot out of both races today. It’s been a difficult weekend and it’s been clear we didn’t have the pace of the frontrunners, but we’ve found out how to make the bike better. The new electronics have definitely made the bike easier to ride but we’ve had problems getting acceleration and grip on corner exits. It’s still early days though, and we know what to work on when we test at Assen this week. I’m really looking forward to that and the next race there, and I’d really like to thank my team for all their efforts this weekend. When morale’s been low, there’s always been a smile on their faces and I’m very grateful for that.”
CAL CRUTCHLOW, STERILGARDA YAMAHA
Race 1: Seventh Race 2: Ninth Championship Position: Tenth
“I WAS DISAPPOINTED I LOST THE TOW”
Cal Crutchlow had a tough first race. A less than perfect start saw him drop from pole to seventh going into the first corner of the race; he fought hard for the duration despite suffering from a lack of grip, riding as high as fifth before dropping back to claim seventh at the line. The hot track temperatures of the second race proved challenging for grip levels but Crutchlow hung on to take ninth at the flag.
“Race one was ok, I was disappointed I lost the tow to the leaders at the start. We’ve got bad rear tyre problems again and we seem to be spinning a lot more than the other competitors from the go – the higher grip levels in Portugal suited us better. We’re looking forward to hopefully improving it, quickly. A difficult weekend, the second race was much the same, no grip from the start.”
NORIYUKI HAGA, XEROX DUCATI
Race 1: Fifth Race 2: First Championship Position: Fourth
“I AM MR VALENCIA…!”
Having scored a solid fifth place finish in race one, Haga triumphed in race two finishing 25 thousandths of a second ahead of Carlos Checa. The win, on board his Ducati 1198R, was far from easy but after 20 laps of the second heat Haga had done just enough to collect the silverware on aggregate. At last it seems Haga’s season is heading in the right direction.
“I like Valencia a lot, I am Mr Valencia! The track was a lot warmer in race one than in the morning’s warm-up and I was lacking rear grip. The more I pushed, the more my bike slid around and this needed to be fixed before race two. Before that race we made a change, reverting to the setting we’d used in the warm-up and it worked well. I was able to push hard, stick with Biaggi and Checa and eventually pass them. I was not thinking about the time difference, I just new I had to go at the front. I’m very happy to have been able to win today. I thank my team, Ducati of course, and all the sponsors who helped contribute to this great result.”
Jakub Smrz had a much better weekend on his PATA Ducati and, after failing to finish either race at Portimao, brought it home in tenth place at the end of both races at Valencia.
The WSB paddock now rolls north to set up for business in Assen, on April 28th.
For more information n Arai Helmets and other products we distribute in the UK view our new websites www.whyarai.co.uk and www.phoenixnw.co.uk
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