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Crutchlow impresses in front of home fans at Silverstone

Cal Crutchlow thrilled an expectant home crowd at the Silverstone circuit today, the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team rider mastering unpredictable weather to finish inside the top six in dry and wet conditions.

This morning's session was held in cool but dry conditions and it didn't take long for Crutchlow to settle into a fast and consistent rhythm, the 25-year-old finishing sixth quickest with a best time of 2.05.007.

Crutchlow was confident of making further big improvements this afternoon, but forecast rain showers duly arrived in the earlier 125cc session. The second MotoGP session got underway on a wet track, but with some sections drying quickly, Crutchlow was presented wi th unpredictable riding conditions.

Despite minimal experience of riding his Monster Yamaha Tech 3 YZR-M1 in the wet, Crutchlow displayed all his skills and versatility to produce an outstanding performance on his way to setting the fourth quickest time. He ended with a best time of 2.18.109 and was only behind Casey Stoner, Marco Simoncelli and Nicky Hayden at the end of the session.

Colin Edwards understandably adopted a cautious approach to proceedings today, the American riding just a week after he broke his right collarbone in a practice crash for the Catalunya round.

This morning's session was a physically demanding exercise for the 37-year-old and he rode at a steady pace to gauge the strength in his right shoulder and build up his confidence again after last week's heavy crash at the Montmelo circuit.

Edwards welcomed the arrival of the rai n more than anyone else, with wet conditions easing the physical demands of tackling the super fast and technical Silverstone track. He finished 16th in both sessions but is confident in wet or dry conditions that he can fight for a points scoring finish in Sunday's race, which is the sixth round of the 2011 MotoGP World Championship.

Cal Crutchlow 6th 2.05.007 - 30 laps:

“I wasn't too happy with this morning even though I was in the top six. I had some stability issues with the bike and without that I felt I could have been in the top four this morning as well. We had a few issues to solve and it would have been good to have a dry session this afternoon to work on improving the bike. At least we got an opportunity to do some laps in the wet, so we'll have some experience of the track in those conditions if we get rain on Sunday. I'd li ke it to be a dry race so I can show what I can do, but I feel we're competitive in the wet as well. The conditions this afternoon were unbelievable. It was soaking wet in parts but in other parts, how quickly it dried out was incredible. One corner would be wet and then the next dry, so it was a case of understanding when and where you could push to gain time. The Bridgestone rain tyres held up brilliantly on the drier parts but going from dry to wet conditions is not easy because there is so much heat being generated in the tyres, it is easy to make a mistake. The support from the British crowd has been fantastic so far and I've been making solid progress, so I want to aim for the front row tomorrow.”

Colin Edwards 16th 2.09.310 – 25-laps:

“Today was all about getting back on the bike and building up some confidence after last week's crash. I wasn't going to do any thing too crazy but the shoulder definitely hurts a bit. I'm in a bit of pain in the braking zone for right-handers and unfortunately this a right-handed track. Honestly speaking though the shoulder feels better than I thought it would. In the dry and the wet I was just riding really timid, particularly this afternoon on the wet track. The conditions were just about the worst imaginable because one corner would be dry and the next wet. Some parts were drying really quick while others it was still soaking wet. I had nothing to prove but at least with that wet session we've got a feel for the track if it rains on Sunday. Right now, I certainly won't be upset if the race is wet on Sunday. I'll take a wet race right now because the stress on the shoulder is a lot less than in the dry, but we'llhave to wait and see what happens with the weather."

Xavier Boog Just Misses Podium in his Home GP

Xavier Boog gave the 2012 KX450F-SR a stunning debut in the French GP at St Jean D'Angely as he narrowly missed the podium after two strong rides.

The 23 year old made a good start in the opening moto and was soon putting pressure on the rider in 4th place, but the first three had already made good their escape before he could dispose of the other rider initially ahead of him. Hopes of an even stronger showing in race two were dented in the chase to turn one when he found himself the first ten and after quickly charging to 9th, Xavier took a tumble which cost him four places, a slip which undoubtedly cost him a place on the podium as he remounted to again show his refound speed as he advanced six places again before the chequered flag.

Teammate Jonathan Barragan had also shown good speed during the practice sessions, but the Spaniard never settled into a rhythm after a poor start and could finish a mere 15th. He proved his own potential and that of the 2012 Kawasaki in race two as he held down a solid 6th place at the finish of the second gruelling 40 minute race.

Xavier Boog: "A crash cost me the overall podium, but it was a good weekend. I found a good rhythm and rode two strong races; in the first one I had a good start; maybe I didn't believe enough in myself to stay with the first three riders. My second start was not quite as good, then after ten minutes I had a crash which cost me four positions; my lap times were good and I managed to come all the way back from thirteenth to seventh, which was pretty good. I had a good feeling on the 2012 model which we used this weekend and I feel I showed my real speed for the first time in a GP this season."

Jonathan Barragan: "The first race was difficult for me, as I had a bad start and then didn't find the good lines. The second one was much better; I had a good speed and after a good start I got a top six result, which is my best performance since Bulgaria. I enjoyed riding the new model, and I hope to come closer to a podium in Portugal or Spain."

François Lemariey: "We were really close to collect our second podium of the season with Xavier, until he made a small mistake. But for us the main thing is that this weekend we saw another Xavier! He raced this GP without pressure, and shows everyone how fast he can be; it's perfect for him and great for the team, we're sure he will be soon on the podium. For Jonathan it was more difficult, he did a strong second race but during the first one he had a bad start and struggled. Let's hope that he will be happier in his home GP."

Double Podium for Martin and Relentless Suzuki at the Isle of Man TT

Guy Martin and the whole Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing team covered themselves in glory during today's Supersport and Superstock races on the Isle of Man with two fine podium finishes. The Lincolnshire rider took a hard fought brace of third places on the team's all-new GSX-R600 and GSX-R1000 respectively.

It was a day of lengthy delays all round, and although the Supersport race got underway at 10.45am, it was 8.20pm before the final press conference for the Superstock race was completed.

The opening Supersport race was red flagged after less than two laps due to an incident at Gorse Lea. It was later re-started over a shortened race distance of three laps, with Guy hovering in around the podium positions for the duration. And when others faltered Guy was ready to pick up the pieces, giving Suzuki's all-new GSX-R600 its second International Road Racing podium of the season.

The four lap Superstock race got underway after a lengthy delay at 6.30pm, but the Isle of Man TT fans were served up a real exhibition of pure road racing. At the first checkpoint at Glen Helen on lap one, less than three seconds covered the top five and by the end of the lap Guy had forced his GSX-R1000 to the top of the leaderboard, with a lap of 127.953mph from a standing start.

From there he got embroiled in a battle royale with John McGuinness and Michael Dunlop, eventually coming home in third place, struggling slightly in the latter stages to find the same level of performance he had done on lap one to challenge for the win.

Guy Martin

"I couldn't have taken the little 600 round there any faster today. When Cameron blew up in front of me I thought it was going to end in tears for both of us. I hit the kerb trying to get round him, but a podium is a good effort for us. We'll change a few things and see what we can do on Wednesday."

"In the Superstock race the early grip and stability were great and the bike was just mega. The whole job was coming easy enough and I wasn't having to hang it out anywhere and I wasn't bouncing off any kerbs! I started to struggle a little bit in the latter stages with grip and stability – what you'd expect I suppose – so I was just glad to get it home on the podium. It's not a shabby job at all. I haven't won one yet but it'll come. This is a proper team effort and all the Relentless Suzuki by TAS boys are a great bunch of lads."

Philip Neill – Team Manager

"It's been a long day obviously tainted with sadness, which is always the case when a competitor loses his life – so our thoughts and prayers are with Derek Brien's family at this time. Two podiums is a strong day for us. Yes we are here to win but overall you've got to be happy with podiums at the TT. All you can do is make your package competitive enough for a podium finish; after that it's really down to the circumstances of the race."

"A lot of things must be taken into consideration, but getting into a lengthy dice on the road didn't help Guy's chances of second place in the Superstock race. But that's the way it goes sometimes, although it would make me consider our start numbers for next year. We used to dominate the Superstock class with the GSX-R1000 so it's good to be back on the podium and also very pleasing to give the new GSX-R600 another international road racing podium, especially here at the TT."

"We have a few more tweaks to do to the 600 for Wednesday and we'll fit a new generator on the Superbike for Friday and look to end this TT on a positive note, but so far, it has not been so bad. I must also congratulate our former team member Bruce Anstey on his win earlier today in the Supersport class."

Supersport Race 1 Results – Race Time – Average Speed

1 – Bruce Anstey [Honda]54mins 40.01 124.232mph

2 – Keith Amor [Honda]54mins 48.40 123.916mph

3 – Guy Martin [Suzuki]54mins 56.06 123.628mph

4 – Gary Johnson [Honda]54mins 57.24 123.584mph

5 – John McGuinness [Honda]54mins 58.45 123.538mph

6 – Dan Kneen [Yamaha]55mins 15.52 122.902mph

Superstock Results – Race Time – Average Speed

1 – Michael Dunlop [Kawasaki] 1hr 11mins 13.69 127.129mph

2 – John McGuinness [Honda]1hr 11mins 32.32 126.578mph

4 – Keith Amor [Honda]1hr 11mins 44.79 126.211mph

5 – William Dunlop [Honda]1hr 12mins 16.10 125.300mph

6 – Cameron Donald [Honda]1hr 12mins 16.58 125.286mp

LeoVince Race Results

Canadian Motocross Championship

Kamloops, BC Canada

Round 1

MX1 Overall

1. Colton Facciotti - Yamaha
2. Dusty Klatt - Yamaha
3. Bobby Kiniry - Suzuki
4. Teddy Maier - Kawasaki - LeoVince Carbon Fiber
5. Kyle Keast - KTM
6. Brock Hoyer - Kawasaki - LeoVince Carbon Fiber
7. Shawn Maffenbeier - Yamaha
8. Michael Willard - KTM
9. Kevin Urquhart - Kawasaki
10. Parker Allison - Yamaha
11. Jared Allison Yamaha
12. Matt Goerke - Kawasaki - LeoVince Carbon Fiber
13. Jay Burke - Honda
14. Mason Phillips - KTM
15. Cole Siebler - Yamaha

MX2 Overall

1. Tyler Medaglia - Yamaha
2. Jeremy Medaglia - KTM
3. Tyler Sjoberg - Kawasaki - LeoVince Carbon Fiber
4. Kaven Benoit - KTM
5. Morgan Burger - Kawasaki
6. Spencer Knowles - Kawasaki - LeoVince Carbon Fiber
7. Dylan Schmoke - KTM
8. Brad Nauditt - Honda
9. Kieran Leigh
10. Austin Politelli - Kawasaki - LeoVince Carbon Fiber
11. Nicky Beatty
12. Kenny Henry
13. Jared Petruska
14. Trevor Mort
15. Donnie Vawser - Kawasaki

AMA Pro Motorcycle-Superstore.com SuperSport

Subway Superbike Doubleheader

Road America

Round 4

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

June 4

Race 1

1. David Gaviria (Yamaha YZF-R6)
2. Travis Wyman (Yamaha YZF-R6)
3. James Rispoli (SuzukiGSX-R600) LeoVince Rider
4. Corey Alexander (SuzukiGSX-R600)
5. Benny Solis (Honda CBR600RR)
6. Dustin Dominguez (Tri Daytona 675R)
7. Elena Myers (SuzukiGSX-R600)
8. Travis Ohge (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
9. Nicholas Hansen (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
10. Ryan Kerr (Kawasaki ZX-6R) LeoVince Rider
11. Brad Graham (Ducati 848EVO)
12. Roi Holster (Yamaha YZF-R6)
13. Nicholas Hayman (Ducati 848) LeoVince Rider
14. David Vaughn (SuzukiGSX-R600)
15. Stefano Mesa (Ducati 848EVO)
16. Sam Nash (Yamaha YZF-R6)
17. Hayden Gillim (Yamaha YZF-R6)
18. Rocco Horvath (Kawasaki ZX-6R) LeoVince Rider
19. Tomas Puerta (Yamaha YZF-R6)
20. Ricky Parker (Yamaha YZF-R6)

AMA Pro Daytona SportBike

Subway Superbike Doubleheader

Road America

Round 4

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

June 4

Race 1

1. Josh Herrin (Yamaha YZF-R6)
2. Cory West (SuzukiGSX-R600)
3. P.J. Jacobsen (Ducati 848EVO)
4. Danny Eslick (SuzukiGSX-R600)
5. Tommy Aquino (Yamaha YZF-R6)
6. Taylor Knapp (SuzukiGSX-R600)
7. Cameron Beaubier (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
8. Dane Westby (SuzukiGSX-R600)
9. Jason Farrell (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
10. Fernando Amantini (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
11. Santiago Villa (SuzukiGSX-R600)
12. Tyler O'Hara (Yamaha YZF-R6)
13. Huntley Nash (Yamaha YZF-R6)
14. Matthew Sadowski (Ducati 848EVO) LeoVince Rider
15. Matt Hall (Yamaha YZF-R6)
16. Brian Hall (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
17. Barrett Long (Ducati 848EVO)
18. Dave Ebben (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
19. Michael Morgan (SuzukiGSX-R600)
20. Shawn Hill (Kawasaki ZX-6R) LeoVince Rider
21. Calvin Martinez (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
22. Melissa Paris (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
23. David Sadowksi, Jr. (Ducati 848EVO) LeoVince Rider
24. Jake Holden (Ducati 848EVO)
25. Paul Allison (Yamaha YZF-R6)
26. Jason DiSalvo (Ducati 848EVO)
27. Tyler Odom (Honda CBR600RR)

AMA Pro National Guard Superbike

Subway Superbike Doubleheader

Road America

Round 4

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

June 4

Race 1

1. Blake Young (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
2. Josh Hayes (Yamaha YZF-R1)
3. Tommy Hayden (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
4. Martin Cardenas (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
5. Larry Pegram (BMW S1000RR)
6. Roger Hayden (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
7. Ben Bostrom (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
8. Chris Clark (Yamaha YZF-R1)
9. Jason Farrell (Kawasaki ZX-10R)
10. Geoff May (Buell 1125RR)
11. J.D. Beach (Kawasaki ZX-10R) LeoVince Rider
12. David Anthony (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
13. Jordan Burgess (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
14. Brian Hall (Kawasaki ZX-10R)
15. Trent Gibson (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
16. Reese Wacker (SuzukiGSX-R1000) LeoVince Rider
17. Steve Rapp (BMW S1000RR)
18. Tony Kasper (BMW S1000RR)
19. Chris Peris (BMW S1000RR)

AMA Pro Motorcycle-Superstore.com SuperSport

Subway Superbike Doubleheader

Road America

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

June 5

Race 2

1. Travis Wyman (Yamaha YZF-R6)
2. Dustin Dominguez (Tri Daytona 675R)
3. Tomas Puerta (Yamaha YZF-R6)
4. Elena Myers (SuzukiGSX-R600)
5. Ricky Parker (Yamaha YZF-R6)
6. Stefano Mesa (Ducati 848EVO)
7. Travis Ohge (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
8. Hayden Gillim (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
9. Sam Nash (Yamaha YZF-R6)
10. Brad Graham (Ducati 848EVO)
11. Nicholas Hansen (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
12. Rocco Horvath (Kawasaki ZX-6R) LeoVince Rider
13. Ryan Kerr (Kawasaki ZX-6R) LeoVince Rider
14. Roi Holster (Yamaha YZF-R6)
15. Nicholas Hayman (Ducati 848) LeoVince Rider
16. Benny Solis (Honda CBR600RR)
17. Corey Alexander (SuzukiGSX-R600)
18. David Vaughn (SuzukiGSX-R600)
19. James Rispoli (SuzukiGSX-R600) LeoVince Rider
20. David Gaviria (Yamaha YZF-R6)

AMA Pro Daytona SportBike

Subway Superbike Doubleheader

Road America

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

June 5

Race 2

1. Josh Herrin (Yamaha YZF-R6)
2. Danny Eslick (SuzukiGSX-R600)
3. Dane Westby (SuzukiGSX-R600)
4. Tommy Aquino (Yamaha YZF-R6)
5. Cory West (SuzukiGSX-R600)
6. Cameron Beaubier (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
7. Fernando Amantini (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
8. Tyler Odom (Honda CBR600RR)
9. Paul Allison (Yamaha YZF-R6)
10. Tyler O'Hara (Yamaha YZF-R6)
11. Santiago Villa (SuzukiGSX-R600)
12. Huntley Nash (Yamaha YZF-R6)
13. David Sadowski, Jr. (Ducati 848EVO) LeoVince Rider
14. Matt Hall (Yamaha YZF-R6)
15. Michael Morgan (SuzukiGSX-R600)
16. Matthew Sadowski (Ducati 848EVO) LeoVince Rider
17. Barrett Long (Ducati 848EVO)
18. Brian Hall (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
19. Melissa Paris (Yamaha YZF-R6) LeoVince Rider
20. Dave Ebben (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
21. Shawn Hill (Kawasaki ZX-6R) LeoVince Rider
22. P.J. Jacobsen (Ducati 848EVO)
23. Jake Holden (Ducati 848EVO)
24. Jason Farrell (Kawasaki ZX-6R)
25. Jason DiSalvo (Ducati 848EVO)
26. Taylor Knapp (SuzukiGSX-R600)

AMA Pro National Guard Superbike

Subway Superbike Doubleheader

Road America

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

June 5

Race 2

1. Josh Hayes (Yamaha YZF-R1)
2. Tommy Hayden (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
3. Blake Young (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
4. Martin Cardenas, (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
5. Roger Hayden (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
6. Steve Rapp (BMW S1000RR)
7. Larry Pegram (BMW S1000RR)
8. Chris Peris (BMW S1000RR)
9. Chris Clark (Yamaha YZF-R1)
10. Ben Bostrom (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
11. Jason Farrell (Kawasaki ZX-10R)
12. David Anthony (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
13. Brian Hall (Kawasaki ZX-10R)
14. Trent Gibson (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
15. Jordan Burgess (SuzukiGSX-R1000)
16. Reese Wacker (SuzukiGSX-R1000) LeoVince Rider
17. Geoff May (Buell 1125RR)
18. J.D. Beach (Kawasaki ZX-10R) LeoVince Rider

Disappointment for Guy Martin in Superbike TT

Guy Martin and the whole Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing team will pick themselves up after the bitter disappointment of yesterday's Dainese 6-lap Superbike TT – where Guy was forced to retire from second position on the penultimate lap when his battery lost charge due to an uncharacteristic generator failure – and prepare for Monday's double header: the 4-lap Supersport Race one [10.45am] and the 4-lap Superstock event [3.15pm].

During yesterday's Dainese Superbike TT Guy was never outside the top four and an opening standing start lap of 17mins 23.82sec @ 130.126mph left him just five seconds off the lead. Coming in for fuel at the end of lap two Guy had moved up to third place with yet another 130mph effort [130.309mph], and by the end of lap three he only had eventual winner John McGuinness in front of him, just 19 seconds down on the Morecambe rider.

On the completion of lap 4, again pitting for fuel, Guy had consolidated second place ahead of fellow Lincolnshire rider Gary Johnson with a lap of 129.767mph. It was then a case of ‘wait and see' with McGuinness holding a 29 second lead over the Relentless Suzuki man. But unfortunately on the drop down the Mountain at the end of lap five his GSX-R1000 Superbike lost power due to the aforementioned generator failure, and he eventually retired between Hillberry and Signpost Corner.

Guy Martin
"That was a disappointing end to what looked like a certain second place, but that's the TT boy, it can jump up and bite you. We got off to a great start and were well within striking distance of John on that opening lap. From there I just kept it steady and felt pretty comfortable. After the second stop I knew John was going to be near impossible to catch, but you gotta keep trying, and we were well in control in second place. 


"As you probably saw by the TV footage, I was looking around the dash frantically trying to see what had gone wrong and when I got to Keppel Gate I knew the job was… well you know the rest. It's time to re-group and get the head in gear for Monday where we get two more chances. And we're well up for it… well up for it."

Philip Neill – Team Manager
"After all the hard work from everyone in our team, including Guy I might add, it's extremely disappointing to lose out on a certain second position in the Superbike TT race. It's somewhat ironic that following on from a 100% successful testing schedule and early race programme – where we did not encounter any mechanical gremlins at all with Guy's machines – we suffer a very uncharacteristic generator failure in one of the biggest races of the season. But that's the TT I suppose." 


"I'm not sure if Guy could have made any significant impact on John McGuinness during that final lap, however with second position looking very safe and a lap time of 130.3mph under his belt, Guy can remain very optimistic about his chances in the remaining TT races. 


"It's great to see so many spectators on the Island, so hopefully we can give all those Guy Martin fans something to cheer about before too long. Thanks to all our sponsors and to those who are supporting Guy this week at the TT." 

Josh Galster's Miller Press Release

Tooele, UT, just outside Salt Lake City, hosted the 3rd round of the AMA Pro Road Racing series.

Josh Galster finished with an outstanding 8th place finish in the rain at Miller Motorsports Park where he was in a race-long battle with Danny Eslick, Tommy Aquino, and Joey Pascarella.

Saturday morning’s practice session was cold and Galster had 40 minutes to get the bike set up for the fast flowing track before qualifying later that day. In practice, the bike was handling okay, but Galster still had some issues in the fast, high speed corners with getting the bike to feel planted, and he had not yet found the best tire combination. With a different tire selection and a warming track Galster was able to get more comfortable with the bike but was still chasing the instability in the front end. At the end of qualifying Galster was only able to come away with a 1.59.8 which placed him 21st in provisional qualifying. Not satisfied with how the bike was handling and after consulting Barry Wressel at KFG Racing, Galster and Sean Bratt, who was helping Josh in the pits, made some big front end??? changes to help settle the front end???? of the bike.

On Sunday morning the weather was quite different then the day prior and the riders were greeted with rain and cold weather. After throwing a set of rain tires on and making a few adjustments to compensate for the rain, Galster set out to see how the bike felt and to see what the track conditions were like. With just a quick20-minute session Josh started out easy and with every lap he was able to knock seconds off his time and was getting more and more confident with the grip levels.

With the weather staying the same all day the Daytona Sportbike race was deemed a wet race and the whole field was going to be riding on rain tires. Starting in 21st,  Galster knew he had to get a good start, which he did, and he was able to make up quite a few positions by running right alongside the pit wall before he had to slot his way back on the track before he hit the very slick Astroturf in the braking zone of Turn 1. With Galster taking a chance running on the outside of the field in a wet Turn 1 he was able to make up more ground and slotted himself well ahead of where he started. Galster, Eslick, Aquino, and Pascarella made up the second group of riders and were dicing it out lap after lap. With the long 3500 ft long straightaway and Galster’s EDR-built Yamaha R6, Josh was able to draft up to and pass riders in front of him to make for an eventful race with many position changes. With the laps counting down and the track drying out, the rain tires were being pushed to the limit and started losing traction. With just a couple laps left Galster put down his fastest times of the race with a 2:06.640 trying to pass Eslick and missed out by .4 of a second to finish 8th.

Galster would like to thank his sponsors, Grandprix Motorsports, EDR Performance, California Superbike School, Slednecks, Dunlop, Bazzaz Performance, Arai, LeoVince, KFG Racing, gpguns.com, Scorpion leathers, Attack Performance, EBC, GPR, Lockhart Phillips

If you are interested in helping, supporting, or sponsoring Josh Galster with his racing for the season, contact him at josh_galster@yahoo.com for more information.

Subliminal Seeley North West 200 "Splash" King

Seeley on his way to a special wet weather victory on the all new GSX-R600

Alastair Seeley took Saturday’s only race win at the Relentless International North West 200, putting the all-new GSX-R600 Suzuki on the top step of the Supersport podium with a subliminal wet weather performance.

In the second race of the day, the Superbike event, Seeley came from the third row of the grid, again in soaking wet conditions, to lead at the end of lap one. Unfortunately for the riders and the fans, the race was red flagged on lap two when another rider's engine expired leaving a massive oil spill on the Coast Road from Church Corner to Juniper Hill chicane. Despite a lengthy delay and the best attention from the organisers, the meeting was disappointingly abandoned on safety grounds.

Seeley had been in prolific form throughout the week-long event taking pole positions in both Supersport and Superstock classes, and despite an electrical problem forcing him to sit out the majority of Thursday’s Superbike session, the former British Superstock champion and current North West 200 lap record holder made the grid after a tremendous show of allegiance from British Superbike team-mate Josh Brookes.

Whilst Seeley continued his North West 200 preparations on the Causeway Coast, his Australian BSB team-mate travelled to Kirkistown Race Circuit early on Friday morning to make sure the Carrickfergus man’s GSX-R1000 was ready to race, after a late night session for his crew back in the team's Moneymore workshop. And only for the aforementioned oil spill, Brookes’ generous gesture would have played a significant role in the anticipated victory.

Alastair Seeley
“That’s an International Road Racing victory to add to the British Supersport win at Brands for the new GSX-R600. It was a great race to be involved in and even more pleasing to beat what is basically a World Supersport specification Honda. I knew I would be stronger into the chicanes despite Cameron using traction control on his bike, as the brakes on the new GSX-R600 are one of its best features and that gave me a lot of confidence in the wet.

“In the Superbike race the plan was the pick them off and get into the lead so I wouldn’t have to sit in anyone’s spray. The speed of my GSX-R1000 was far superior to Ryan and Michael’s bikes and the way it was set-up, I was actually enjoying it spinning up down the big straights in the wet. I was ready to pull the pin and just ride my own race, so it was disappointing to see a red flag on lap two. I really felt like I was in control this week in all classes and having felt so comfortable in the wet I think we’d have been hard to beat. That five of McCallen’s was definitely a big target.”

Guy Martin deep in thought before the Supersport race.

Guy Martin
“It was a tough day for everyone involved and a week’s worth of effort for just one race. Unfortunately I made the wrong tyre choice. To come away with eighth place is nothing to shout about but I am now going to the Isle of Man full of confidence: confidence in the blokes working on the bikes and confidence in the bikes themselves. It was a terrible day for the people who turned out to watch the racing, but a confidence building day for the bigger picture: the bigger picture being the TT.”

Philip Neill – Team Manager
“The North West 200 has always been one of my favourite events on the calendar and as Ireland’s biggest sporting occasion it’s a shame to see such a great event abandoned due to unforeseen circumstances. Mervyn Whyte and his team from the Coleraine & District Motor Club did everything in their power to save the day and must be commended for their efforts.

“On a positive note we had a strong showing from both our riders in practice and we won the only race giving us a 100% record for our sponsors Relentless, Suzuki and all our other team partners. It really was a masterful display from Alastair Seeley in that Supersport race giving Suzuki and the new GSX-R600 its first international road race victory. What is even more special is the fact that we were running the bike with very limited British Supersport specification electronics; unlike some of our main rivals who were running fancy electronic aids including traction control.

“We dearly wanted the Superbike race to run full distance as in all honesty with Alastair coming through from the third row of the grid to lead within a lap, there was no beating the wee Carrickfergus man, although it was the correct decision to stop the race and eventually abandon the meeting on safety grounds.

“Guy made a solid debut on the international roads for our team. Unfortunately he took a gamble with his intermediate tyre choice in the Supersport race and with everyone else on wets [which was the correct choice] makes his eighth place an impressive finish given the conditions. More importantly for Guy is the fact that he now feels really confident with his three GSX-R Suzukis, which he now believes, he can take to success at the Isle of Man TT Races in two weeks’ time.”

Alastair Seeley takes his place on the top step of the International North West 200 Supersport podium on Saturday.

Supersport Result [5 laps – 8.9 mile circuit]
Winner – Alastair Seeley [Relentless Suzuki by TAS] 4mins 55.835; 2nd – Cameron Donald [Honda] +0.844; 3rd – Bruce Anstey [Honda] +14.081; 4th – Michael Dunlop [Yamaha] +23.104; 5th – Gary Johnson [Honda] +25.227; 6th – William Dunlop [Honda] +28.845; 7th – Ryan Farquhar [Kawasaki] +42.558; 8th – Guy Martin [Relentless Suzuki by TAS] +58.777

Fastest Lap – Alastair Seeley [lap 5] 109.155mph

For further information on the Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing team go to relentless-suzuki.com or to view the full range of Suzuki motorcycles go to suzuki-gb.co.uk

A Second French Title for Xavier Boog

Coming to the last round of the French Elite Championship leader of the series, Xavier Boog had a perfect weekend in Gaillac Toulza. Winner of both heats, he grabbed the French title for the second year in a row, just one week prior the French Grand Prix.

With an advantage of thirteen points over his last rival Xavier could manage his lead, but the reigning champion had another tactic. He got the pole position and had in both races a perfect start, which allowed him to make a break with his rivals during the first laps. Improving his advantage to sixteen points after race one, Xavier was flying to the victory in the following race and collected his sixth heat win of the season. Crossing the finish line with a wheeling, with the fastest lap time in the race, Xavier collected his second consecutive title and a bonus of 20000 €! He will now prepare with serenity the French Grand Prix in Saint Jean d'Angely, fifth round of the FIM World Championship.

Xavier Boog: "Nothing was done before the start of the last race, but this morning I was able to post some fast laps and got the pole position. I had great starts today, and found straight the good rhythm so I was able to make a gap with my rivals. This second title is a reward for me, but also for the team and our partners and I'm delighted today. Now I will recover alongside Yves Demaria in South of France, and we'll prepare the French Grand Prix; on Thursday we'll test the 2012 Kawasaki, we already use the new chassis since the beginning of the season but I can't wait to test it!"

Yves Demaria: "It's always nice to win a title, especially when you race as Xavier did today. Now I would like to see him racing similarly every week-end, he was so fast and relax on the bike today! We'll work hard together this week, we'll stay focus on our goals and I hope that his home GP will be the opportunity for Xavier to show what he can do at the highest level. Everyone knows that he can do much better than what did so far in the Grand Prix!"

Thierry Chizat Suzzoni: "I want to congratulate Xavier for this title, which is always important for the rider and for the team. I hope that this title will help him to have more confidence in his potential, and to ride as his real level in the World Championship."

De Dycker first Honda at Honda-backed GP

FIM Motocross MX1 World Championship - Indaiatuba, May  22

Ken De Dycker

Indaiatuba - The sunny and hot Grand Prix of Brazil at the spectacular Indaiatuba venue lived up to and even exceeded expectations. Italian David Philippaerts won the exciting MX1 race, round four of fifteen in the 2011 MX World Championship while Ken De Dycker placed seventh overall.

After Canelinha in 2009 and Campo Grande last year the Brazilian GP moved to its third location in as many years. Once again the South-American leg of the series mounted a sweaty and technical challenge for the riders.  De Dycker was able to produce a strong comeback to sixth in Saturday's qualifying race after a weak start around 17th position. Unfortunately Shaun Simpson who circulated just outside the top ten in the first part of the race could only muster a disappointing 21st position.

The enthusiastic capacity crowd saw De Dycker taking a great start in the first sprint. The tall Belgian was in fourth after the leading trio of Cairoli, Philippaerts and Frossard. After thirty-five minutes and two laps Keeno rode his CRF450R to sixth position, thus earning his best moto result of the season. Team mate Simpson suffered an un-samba-like experience. Placing just outside the top ten at the early stage of the race Shaun started to push, however he wore himself out and lost speed due to arm pump. When he managed to overcome the pain in his arms the flying Scotsman had lost too much time and he had to settle for a lonely 13th.

The second sprint of the day saw similar close racing action. LS Honda Racing's Ken De Dycker climbed up from 11th to 7th in the space of only three laps. However he succumbed to the heat and the tricky track conditions to seal tenth. Simpson's race started promising gating tenth, but he gradually lost ground and went down in the downhill whoops section when trailing Marc De Reuver. Eventually Shaun would obtain 18th.

Ken De Dycker

Ken De Dycker: "It was quite a hard and difficult day. It was not easy to pass. I had a good start in the first moto and although I lost two positions it was OK to keep the speed. You had to be very careful not to make mistakes, especially around the slower riders. In the second moto from the beginning I did not feel strong enough. The track was sticky in places but not in others and it was hard to find traction. We were always turning-jumping, turning-jumping so it was tough. We are getting better though and I hope we can improve the bike a bit more and aim for better results in the next Grands Prix."

Shaun Simpson

Shaun Simpson: "I felt like I lacked a bit of speed all weekend and yesterday was a bad start to the GP. In the heat race I was near the back around the first corner and went back to twenty-first and it gave me a bad gate pick, someone even stole my position in the second moto. Despite being down there I got away OK both times and was near in the top ten; if I had been any higher I don't think I would have been able to stay there anyway. I don't know why I struggled to get in the rhythm. Thirteenth was the level of where I was at in the first moto but I was looking for better in the second moto until I made a mistake going up the rolling hill and had quite a big crash. Luckily I am OK and can work on trying to meet the pace of these other boys and get up the front a bit more." 

Race 1: 1. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), 39:14.114; ; 2. David Philippaerts (ITA, Yamaha), +0:02.121; 3. Steven Frossard (FRA, Yamaha), +0:12.140; 4. Clement Desalle (BEL, Suzuki), +0:17.508; 5. Maximilian Nagl (GER, KTM), +0:24.048; 6. Ken de Dycker (BEL, Honda), +0:33.108; 7. Steve Ramon (BEL, Suzuki), +0:35.392; 8. Evgeny Bobryshev (RUS, Honda), +0:38.190; 9. Xavier Boog (FRA, Kawasaki), +0:39.471; 10. Rui Goncalves (POR, Honda), +0:52.877; 11. Kevin Strijbos (BEL, Suzuki), +0:56.486; 12. Anthony Boissiere (FRA, Yamaha), +1:04.899; 13. Shaun Simpson (GBR, Honda), +1:14.505; 14. Gregory Aranda (FRA, Kawasaki), +1:15.546; 15. Antonio Jorge Balbi (BRA, Kawasaki), +1:43.697; 16. Manuel Monni (ITA, Honda), +1:45.204; 17. Jonathan Barragan (ESP, Kawasaki), +1:47.642; 18. Marc de Reuver (NED, Yamaha), +1:52.683; 19. Tanel Leok (EST, TM), +1:57.833; 20. Roberto Castro Miranda (CRC, Honda), -1 lap(s);

Race 2: 1. David Philippaerts (ITA, Yamaha), 39:52.654; ; 2. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), +0:01.944; 3. Steve Ramon (BEL, Suzuki), +0:24.845; 4. Clement Desalle (BEL, Suzuki), +0:29.849; 5. Steven Frossard (FRA, Yamaha), +0:34.546; 6. Maximilian Nagl (GER, KTM), +0:36.320; 7. Kevin Strijbos (BEL, Suzuki), +0:37.526; 8. Xavier Boog (FRA, Kawasaki), +0:38.436; 9. Jonathan Barragan (ESP, Kawasaki), +0:51.306; 10. Ken de Dycker (BEL, Honda), +0:59.566; 11. Evgeny Bobryshev (RUS, Honda), +1:03.958; 12. Tanel Leok (EST, TM), +1:37.014; 13. Rui Goncalves (POR, Honda), +1:39.467; 14. Marc de Reuver (NED, Yamaha), +2:02.334; 15. Manuel Monni (ITA, Honda), +2:16.173; 16. Gregory Aranda (FRA, Kawasaki), -1 lap(s); 17. Roberto Castro Miranda (CRC, Honda), -1 lap(s); 18. Shaun Simpson (GBR, Honda), -1 lap(s); 19. Joao Paulino da Silva (BRA, Honda), -1 lap(s); 20. Luis Correa (ARG, Kawasaki), -1 lap(s);

BRAZILIAN GP CLASSIFICATION: 1. David Philippaerts (ITA, Yamaha), 47 points; 2. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), 47 p.; 3. Clement Desalle (BEL, Suzuki), 36 p.; 4. Steven Frossard (FRA, Yamaha), 36 p.; 5. Steve Ramon (BEL, Suzuki), 34 p.; 6. Maximilian Nagl (GER, KTM), 31 p.; 7. Ken de Dycker (BEL, Honda), 26 p.; 8. Xavier Boog (FRA, Kawasaki), 25 p.; 9. Kevin Strijbos (BEL, Suzuki), 24 p.; 10. Evgeny Bobryshev (RUS, Honda), 23 p.; 11. Rui Goncalves (POR, Honda), 19 p.; 12. Jonathan Barragan (ESP, Kawasaki), 16 p.; 13. Gregory Aranda (FRA, Kawasaki), 12 p.; 14. Tanel Leok (EST, TM), 11 p.; 15. Manuel Monni (ITA, Honda), 11 p.; 16. Shaun Simpson (GBR, Honda), 11 p.; 17. Marc de Reuver (NED, Yamaha), 10 p.; 18. Anthony Boissiere (FRA, Yamaha), 9 p.; 19. Antonio Jorge Balbi (BRA, Kawasaki), 6 p.; 20. Roberto Castro Miranda (CRC, Honda), 5 p.; 21. Joao Paulino da Silva (BRA, Honda), 2 p.; 22. Luis Correa (ARG, Kawasaki), 1 p.;

MX1 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS: 1. Clement Desalle (BEL, Suzuki), 164 points; 2. Maximilian Nagl (GER, KTM), 153 p.; 3. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), 151 p.; 4. David Philippaerts (ITA, Yamaha), 138 p.; 5. Steven Frossard (FRA, Yamaha), 132 p.; 6. Evgeny Bobryshev (RUS, Honda), 110 p.; 7. Rui Goncalves (POR, Honda), 108 p.; 8. Jonathan Barragan (ESP, Kawasaki), 94 p.; 9. Kevin Strijbos (BEL, Suzuki), 92 p.; 10. Steve Ramon (BEL, Suzuki), 90 p.; 11. Xavier Boog (FRA, Kawasaki), 77 p.; 12. Anthony Boissiere (FRA, Yamaha), 60 p.; 13. Tanel Leok (EST, TM), 59 p.; 14. Ken de Dycker (BEL, Honda), 58 p.; 15. Davide Guarneri (ITA, Kawasaki), 58 p.; 16. Shaun Simpson (GBR, Honda), 49 p.; 17. Jason Dougan (GBR, Yamaha), 26 p.; 18. Marc de Reuver (NED, Yamaha), 23 p.; 19. Gregory Aranda (FRA, Kawasaki), 23 p.; 20. Christian Craig (USA, Honda), 21 p.; 21. Carlos Campano Jimenez (ESP, Yamaha), 16 p.; 22. Manuel Monni (ITA, Honda), 13 p.; 23. Martin Barr (GBR, KTM), 8 p.; 24. Gert Krestinov (EST, Kawasaki), 6 p.; 25. Antonio Jorge Balbi (BRA, Kawasaki), 6 p.; 26. Matthias Walkner (AUT, KTM), 6 p.; 27. Loic Leonce (FRA, Aprilia), 6 p.; 28. Roberto Castro Miranda (CRC, Honda), 5 p.; 29. Günter Schmidinger (AUT, Honda), 4 p.; 30. Weston Peick (USA, Kawasaki), 3 p.; 31. Joao Paulino da Silva (BRA, Honda), 2 p.; 32. Yentel Martens (BEL, KTM), 2 p.; 33. Benjamin Townley (NZL, Kawasaki), 2 p.; 34. Santtu Tiainen (FIN, Kawasaki), 1 p.; 35. Herjan Brakke (NED,), 1 p.; 36. Luis Correa (ARG, Kawasaki), 1 p.;

NEXT WEEKEND: LS Honda Racing will be taking part in the third round of the Lotto Trophy/Belgian MX championship in Kester

LeoVince USA’s X3 “WORKS” Carbon Fiber Products Add Style, Strength

LeoVince USA's X3 "WORKS" Carbon Fiber products add style, strength, and superior crafting to a wide range of motorcycles. The product line was developed with the same corporate mandate that all LeoVince products have: any part or piece must be able to be produced in-house by our experts or we will not produce it.

By not relying on outside suppliers, manufacturers or processes, we are able to control costs, offer stronger pricing for our customers, and control production and delivery schedules. LeoVince Carbon Fiber is made using pre impregnated carbon fiber cured in an auto clave process. The "all in-house" process ensures durability and precision fitment.

As the SBK Factory Slip-ons and X3 Full Systems began using carbon fiber end-caps, straps and heat shields, LeoVince quickly realized the need for an expansion of the carbon fiber production department. This expansion created the ability to produce better quality pieces, not just for the exhaust tips and heat shields, but for new product ranges, as well.
As our expertise grew we have been able to realize a full range of ever-expanding products and pieces.

X3 "WORKS" Carbon Fiber is a range of OEM replacement pieces and accessories that functionally improve your motorcycle with weight savings and the strength of technical dry carbon fiber. They also improve the wow factor of your dirt bike with the eye-pleasing look of carbon fiber, and provide more durable protection than plastic. Tested by riders and teams worldwide and now available in the U.S., the list of riders and teams who rely on X3 "WORKS" Carbon Fiber accessories is growing daily.

LeoVince's X3 "WORKS" Carbon Fiber accessories are available for the following:

• Honda CR 125 
• Honda CR 250 
• Honda CRF 150 
• Honda CRF 250 
• Honda CRF 450 
• KTM 125 EXC 
• KTM 200 EXC 
• KTM 250 SX-F 
• KTM 250 EXC 
• KTM 250 EXC-F
• KTM 300 EXC 
• KTM 400 EXC 
• KTM 450 SX-F 
• KTM 525 EXC 
• KTM 530 EXC-R 
• Yamaha YZ 125 
• Yamaha YZ 250 
• Yamaha YZ 250-F 
• Yamaha YZ 450-F 
• Yamaha WR 250 
• Yamaha WR 450

Learn more about the X3 "WORKS" Carbon Fiber line, as well as other LeoVince products, at www.LeoVinceUSA.com.

TeamXMX.com News

The past few weeks have been crazy extreme!  I've been pushing the limits of my Kawasaki practicing and performing demos amongst the wildest of fans.  2 weeks ago Rock fest brought 50,000 freaks out of the wood work and the NHRA drag race brought out 50,000 top fuel nitro fans that sure know how to scream and party.  It was pretty amazing to see the unique vehicles these people build to cruise the grassy pits.  Yes all attached with AM/FM radios.  The weather was crazy too!  We had to take cover in a Mexican restaurant under a table to seek shelter from a Tornado Saturday night in Topeka!  I kept looking at the sheet metal ceiling thinking we were doomed!  There was no way the sheet metal roof was going to protect us so I kept eating chips and salsa like it was my job!  Luckily the tornado changed direction, it missed us by only 1 block.

Due to the lack of a photographer I really don't have any action shots this week, but do have a few iphone uploads of my experience!  The NHRA event was filmed live on ESPN and my demos received lots of coverage from what I was told.  I'm looking forward to the big GKE this weekend in Iowa, and then I'm back in KC for the NASCAR race at Kansas Speedway.  I will be performing on pit road from 10:30am to 11:30am during the Fan Pit Walk Concert on Sunday!  I'm trying to convince them to let me wheelie around the track during the National Anthem with a American flag on my back!  Stay Tuned for more updates!  Look for the TeamXMX rig trackside June 5th!!!



XDL Round 3 – Nashville, TN. June 9-11, 2011

FREE TICKETS are now available online at http://xdl.vbotickets.com until June 5th. There is NO service fee for online purchases and all forms of payment are accepted. After June 5th, tickets can be purchased online or at the gate on the day of the show.

Nashville Event Overview

Every year people tune in to the NASCAR race at Talladega to see "The Big One." This year, Nashville is where you're likely to see XDL's "Big One." For the first time since 2006 XDL is holding a "longest stoppie" competition, where riders accelerate to over 100mph, pull the front brake, lift the rear end of the bike up and proceed to ride just the front wheel for as long as possible. Most of us aren't comfortable going 100mph on four, let alone two wheels, so you can image the danger involved and the risks the riders are taking. XDL Riders Bill Dixon and Jesse Toler have both rolled over 1000 feet from an unlimited approach and Kane Friesen holds the official world record for fastest stoppie at 137mph. The longest stoppie will be our main event Friday night, so don't miss it.

Saturday XDL will unleash the full fury of the K&N Circle Challenge and the Racing 905 Speed & Style Competition, both of which are head-to-head stunt races. We end the evening with the FMF Cup main event and our fan favorite, the Sickest Trick competition.

Also for the second time this season, we have invited the Stuntride Amateur Freestyle Series to an XDL event. With the AFS running alongside XDL not only will you get to see the worlds best riders, but you will also be introduced to the young guns making their way up the ranks in the stunt world!

Two top ten finishes for Xavier Boog

Xavier Boog bounced back to form in 4th round of  the FIM World MX1 Motocross Championship series to twice finish top ten at Indaiatuba in Brazil.

The Frenchman made a spectacular start to the weekend with a stunning fourth place in the Saturday qualifying race to raise expectations of a return to the forefront of the action. Xavier's Kawasaki again got him out of the gate in the top six of both points-scoring races on Sunday, but rider errors, one early in race one and another towards the end of race two, cost Boog a couple of places.

His colleague Jonathan Barragan, still not fully recovered from a bout of sickness, had also performed well in the qualifying race to finish 8th, but bad luck dogged the Spaniard on race day. A first lap off-track excursion in race one left him with him with an inoperative brake as green fencing became entangled in his wheel and prevented an effective recovery, whilst the combination of a hot day and a tough track on his weakened body meant that he could only advance four places to finish 9th during race two.

Xavier Boog: “This weekend was much better than the previous GPs, and I hope it’s a first step forward in my season results. I had good starts all weekend, had consistent lap times and battled for a top five result for the first time this season. Unfortunately I made a couple of mistakes which cost me several positions; on the first lap of the opening race I came up too short on a jump and lost three places, then at the end of the second moto I made a mistake in a corner which let Nagl and Strijbos pass me. It's a pity I lost those points, but it was important for me to battle in the top five again. Next weekend I will defend my leadership in the final race of the French Elite series; it will be a good training before the French GP.”

Jonathan Barragan: “It was a tough weekend, especially in the first race. I crashed on the first lap and got some green fencing in my rear wheel, so I had no more brakes and crashed two times more. I could only get a few points, and then in the second race I was riding too stiff and finished ninth. I’ve been sick for two weeks and still didn’t feel well; now we have two weeks before the next GP so I will hopefully have time to recover.”

Yves Demaria: “Today we are disillusioned, as our riders didn’t get the results we could expect. I think that they are not enough confident in their potential, and that’s frustrated as we worked hard this winter to get stronger results. The riders are disappointed, the mechanics and technician too but we’ll continue to work hard. The riders must have fun of the bike, that’s important to get good results; I think that they have all what the need to succeed, and we expect strong results soon.”

West Coast Moto Jam Features Winners Both On and Off the Track

Photo by Mike Rowel

The West Coast Moto Jam at Infineon Raceway featured winners both on and off the track. On track, AMA Pro Road Racing competitors battled for race wins. Thanks to LeoVince USA, plenty of fans went home as winners, too.

If you were one of the fans who stopped by the LeoVince Last Lap Lounge during the West Coast Moto Jam from May 14-15, then you know it was an experience not to be missed. The LeoVince Lounge was the highlight of the Motorcycle-Store VIP Experience.

Shooting the T-shirt Cannon

Designed to give fans a place to cool off, relax, and watch the racing action on multiple TV screens, the LeoVince Last Lap Lounge also gave fans a chance to enter drawings for prizes. Over $5,000 in prizes were given away on Saturday alone.

The winner's list grew even longer on Sunday, as the LeoVince Last Lap Lounge continued to lavish fans with prizes. MotorcycleSuperstore.com, Scorpion, GPR, and Bell were among the companies giving out great motorcycle gear.

JD Beach

There was plenty of action on Infineon Raceway's 2.32-mile course to keep fans on the edge of their seats. LeoVince USA rider JD Beach earned a top-ten finish in his first American Superbike race aboard the Cycle World Attack Performance Kawasaki ZX-10. Congratulations to this 19-year old talent! (We recommend you keep an eye on this one!)

Travis Ohge's First Podium

Travis Ohge, another member of the LeoVince USA family, also notched a career first during the West Coast Moto Jam. Congratulations to Travis on his first AMA Supersport finish! He stood in the third spot on the podium after a stellar race on his Yamaha YZF-R6.

Many fans actually got on the race track themselves to be part of a winning effort. LeoVince USA supported the sixth annual Grape Crusher Ride and Track Day to raise money for the Susan G. Komen foundation for breast cancer research. LeoVince USA rider and AMA Daytona Sportbike racer Melissa Paris and her team are trying to raise $10,000 for the Foundation by the time the AMA Pro Road Racing series lands in Laguna Seca for round seven from July 22-24.

James Rispoli signing autographs

The Grape Crusher Ride featured riding through the beautiful hills of Northern California on the morning of May 12. After meeting up at LeoVince USA headquarters, the ride wound through the hills before landing at Infineon Raceway.

The Grape Crusher Track Day, also held on the 12th, gave riders an adrenaline-filled start to the West Coast Moto Jam. Hosted for LeoVince by Zoom Zoom Trackdays, the Track Day gave exclusive track time to just 50 fans. In addition to a great day of unleashing their inner roadracer, participants also had the satisfaction of supporting a great cause.

Jeremy Joya - Bell Helmet Winner

John Mulder - Bell Helmet Winner

Lynn Gordon - Scorpion Jacket Winner

Congratulations to all of the LeoVince Last Lap Lounge prize winners. Come out next year for another great weekend of racing, prizes, and VIP treatment from LeoVince USA!

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Husqvarna Canada’s Giroux & Chainé Win St-Raymond 500

May 13, 2011 – Saint John, NB – In the first official race of the 2011 season for the Feeding  Performance Husqvarna Canada race team, off-road legend Guy Giroux, joined rising star Philippe Chainé, to nail the Overall Win at the St-Raymond 500 team race in Quebec.  Giroux and Chainé waged war against 52 other teams en route to establishing an impressive 12 minute gap over 2nd place during the 2 day, 500km race.

Guy Giroux & Philippe Chainé

The St-Raymond race saw the riders attacking a 10km loop that featured a wicked fast  combination of grass track and sand sections. With each rider piloting separate machines  over the two day event, and only trading the transponder between shifts, Giroux was able  to put Husky’s all new 2011 TC 449 to the test while Chainé stormed the course on his TXC250.

“Saturday morning was cool and rainy,” said Giroux, “I got my old gore-tex kit out of the closest and I was ready to go out first. Our plan was to change riders every hour to save some time on the other teams.  I went out and had a blast. The track was just awesome, really fast grass section, whooped out sand section, everything that I like! Plus the bike was feeling super good, really stable and smooth; I was pulling major slides all over every corner. Phil got out there and was flying too but he was a bit underpowered for the fast soft grass. He was riding steady only 20 seconds off of my times. By the end of Day 1 we had an 8 minute lead.”

After completing 27 laps of the 10km course on Saturday, Giroux and Chainé set a blistering pace early on Day 2. In the first lap on Sunday, Giroux once again confirmed his well earned reputation as a fierce competitor by posting one of his fastest laps of the weekend; more than 30 seconds quicker than his fastest time the day before.

Chainé was also on the gas and churning out impressive lap times throughout the day.When the checkers flew, the pair had pounded through another 23 laps on their way to taking the overall victory and establishing an impressive 12 minute gap over 2nd.

“I did my 5 laps and gave Phil the lead,” said Giroux. “Phil was also 30 seconds faster than the day before, but Sam was the most impressive; shaving more than a minute off his time. Same for Karine, the sun was making her smile and fly.” Giroux hammered through his final shift on the TC449 and posted his fastest times of the weekend in the final 3 laps.

While Giroux and Chainé were leading the charge, Husky Canada’s star female rider, Karine Geoffrion, was working her way through the pack on her TXC250. Karine was teamed up with 14 year old wonder kid, Samuel Rousseau, and his Husqvarna CR150. While most teams consisted of 3 riders, Karine and Sam soldiered their way through the weekend together and posted a solid 4th in class and an impressive 10th overall. Geoffrion has already established herself as one of the best female racers in the country and it looks like young Rousseau is well on his way to making his own mark in the sport.

Karine Geoffrion

In its first year of competition in 2010, the new FP Husqvarna team enjoyed an enormous amount of success. In addition to over 20 podiums in Regional races across the country, including almost 10 Wins, the new Husqvarna Canada team has finished its debut in the Canadian Enduro Championship with 10 Pro Class Podiums and the Top Pro Junior Award.

With a victory to kick off its first official race of 2011, the Husqvarna Canada squad is definitely fired up for another great racing season!

We are very grateful to our many amazing sponsors that provide us with the outstanding support that has allowed us to help raise the bar in Canadian off-road racing. Without them, none of it would be possible.

Team Sponsors:
Husqvarna Canada, Feeding Performance Inc., Motovan, Rekluse, Ogio, Oakley, Xtreme, TCX, Axis, Zox, Pro-Tech, Etnies, Throttle Entertainment, UNI Filter, DID, LeoVince, GPR Stabilizer, Motul, LimeNine, EC3D, Impact Canopies, GoPro, Enduro Engineering, Supersprox, SkyCap, Boyesen, E-line, IMS, Matrix Concepts, Tuff As Gutz, TM Designworks, Dunlop and Zip Ty Racing.

Preview - Monster Grand Prix of France, Le Mans

Colin Edwards and Cal Crutchlow head to the all-important home race for the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team in France this weekend confident they can continue their brilliant start to the 2011 MotoGP World Championship campaign.

And not only is this weekend's encounter at the legendary Bugatti Circuit in Le Mans the home race for Tech 3, the event is sponsored by the Team's main backer Monster, adding further importance to the fourth round of an engrossing season.

Edwards heads into this weekend's race in optimistic mood after he claimed his first top six finish of the campaign in the Portuguese Grand Prix earlier this month. And he impressed again during a one-day test at the Estoril track to finish inside the top six having worked on a range of suspension settings to improve rear grip with his Yamaha YZR-M1 machine.

The vastly experienced American has produced some of his finest MotoGP performances at the 4.815kms circuit and one of his three premier class pole positions came at the French venue in 2007. And two of his 11 podium finishes have been scored at the Le Mans circuit, which has been a permanent fixture on the MotoGP calendar since 2000.

British rider Crutchlow is aiming to continue his fantastic rookie campaign and the 25-year-old won't be daunted at the prospect of having to learn another new track. Crutchlow had never raced in Jerez and Estoril before but he qualified and finished comfortably inside the top ten in both races.

He's made another impressive top ten finish his prime target for this weekend after he produced a sensational performance in the recent Estoril test. Demonstrating how quickly he has adapted to the challenge of riding a lighter and more powerful MotoGP machine, Crutchlow finished fourth quickest behind Marco Simoncelli, Jorge Lorenzo and Casey Stoner and is determined to deliver another good result for Tech 3 and Monster in this weekend's 28-lap race.

Colin Edwards, 9th in standings, 18 points:

"I am really looking forward to Le Mans because it is a track where I've had a lot of success at in the past. The Yamaha YZR-M1 has always worked well there too with the sweet handling characteristics of our bike suiting the layout of the track. We had a really good test after the race in Portugal and found a good direction to work with for improving rear grip and that should help us a lot. The new Yamaha chassis has a lot of potential but we still have to understand it a lot more to get the best performance out of it. A top six in Portugal is going to be hard to repeat because the field is so strong this season, but that's what I'll be aiming for. This weekend is huge for Tech 3 and Monster and I'll be giving it 100 per cent to deliver a good result for both.“

Cal Crutchlow, 8th in standings, 21 points:

"I'm heading to Le Mans with a lot of confidence, even though it is another track I've only ever seen before on TV. I know it won't be an easy task but Estoril was obviously another great weekend form me and then to finish fourth quickest in the test showed what I am capable of. Each time I get on the bike I am learning more and more and thanks to my guys at Monster Yamaha Tech 3 I've been able to make some big progress. I'm always determined to get the best result possible but this weekend definitely has extra significance being the Team's home race and Monster being title sponsor of the event. If I can replicate the results I acheived in Jerez and Estoril I'll  be really happy."

Circuit Info:

• Length - 4.180 m / 2,597 miles
• Width - 13 m
• Left corners - 4 
• Right corners - 9 
• Longest straight - 674 m / 0,419 miles
• Constructed - 1966
• Modified - 2008

Records:

• Fastest Lap: Dani Pedrosa (Honda), 2008 - 1'32.647
• Circuit Record: Valentino Rossi (Yamaha), 2008 - 1'34.215
• Best Pole: Dani Pedrosa (Honda), 2008 - 1'32.647
• Top Speed: Casey Stoner (Ducati), 2009 - 292.6 km/h

LeoVince Grape Crusher Ride 2011 & Track Day Details

Richmond, CA – LeoVince USA is pleased to announce the return of the 6th annual Grape Crusher Charity Ride, an incredible ride through Northern California back roads and the wine country and a brand new event the LeoVince Grape Crusher Track Day! What better way to kick off your Infineon West Coast Moto Jam Weekend then with a great ride through the incredible scenery of Nor Cal or a full day riding the world famous Infineon Raceway.

You have two options for your day of fun.  Tickets are $25 for the 6th annual Grape Crusher Charity Ride which can be purchased in advance or on the morning of at LeoVince. The ride will commence on Thursday May 12, 2011 at the LeoVince USA headquarters located at 1445 South 50th street, Suite B, in Richmond, CA. Rider registration will start at 8:00 A.M. and the ride will start promptly at 9:30 A.M. We will take a spin through some great back roads ending up at Infineon Raceway between 12:30-1:00 P.M. for a lap of Infineon then refreshments and our raffle prize drawing!

The Grape Crusher Trackday will also be on Thursday May 12th, 2011, but riders will need to be at Infineon Raceway with safety gear and prepped bikes by 7:00 A.M. The Leovince Grape Crusher Track day tickets are $150 and this event is limited to the first 50 entrants and you must book your spot in advance. The trackday will be hosted for LeoVince by Zoom Zoom Trackdays and will be an exciting day of spirited riding!
For more information or to sign up now go to www.LeoVinceUSA.com, or email questions to grapecrusher2011@leovinceusa.com or call 510-232-4040 and secure your spot on either of these great rides.

GRAPE CRUSHER BREAST CANCER RIDE featuring AMA Pro MELISA PARIS 
Join Racer Melissa Paris at this year’s Grape Crusher charity ride as we work to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. LeoVince USA will be donating the proceeds raised on the Grape Crusher ride to help Melisa Paris reach her goal of raising $10,000.00 this year for breast cancer. Registration will begin at 8:00 A.M. at LeoVince USA located at 1445 B. South 50th Street, Richmond CA 94804. Riders will be split into three groups according to riders comfort level:

Group “A” will be a fast paced spirited ride with the most experienced riders and will be made up primarily of sport bikes and sport touring bikes.

Group “B” will be a moderately paced group and is ideal for sport bikes, adventure bikes, dual sports and sport touring bikes.

Group “C” will be a casual paced ride to look out and smell the roses and enjoy all that Nor Cal back roads have to offer, great for cruisers, adventure & touring bikes.
Rider meeting will be at 9:00 A.M. and groups will begin staging and rolling out at 9:15 A.M. and will end between 12:30 and 1:00 P.M. at Infineon Raceway with “One Lap of Infineon”. After we will serve refreshments and snacks and have our raffle drawing of awesome prizes!

GRAPE CRUSHER TRACK DAY INFO:
Riders who register for the Grape Crusher Track Day will need to be at Infineon Raceway located at Hwy 37 & 121, Sonoma California 95476 by 7:00 A.M. on Thursday May 12th. This is BYOB (Bring Your Own Bike) and bikes will need to have all glass and breakable lenses taped up (this can be done at track) and motorcycle must be in good running condition. Novice riders may wear an Aerostitch or similar one or two piece textile suit. Riders wanting to ride in the advanced groups (A, B) must have two piece zip-together leathers or one-piece leathers. Riders meeting will commence at approximately 8:00 A.M. and the track goes hot at 8:30 A.M. There will be one or two “Instructor Lead” morning sessions (instructor determined). Sessions will run between 20-30 minutes each. After the morning introduction session or sessions (instructor determined) riders will then be separated into “A, B & C” groups by the instructors. This will be done according to skill levels for rider’s safety and to ensure a good safe environment for riders of all skill levels. After group separation each day will be conducted as a normal track day. There will be a one hour lunch break between 11:30 A.M. & 12:30 P.M. and in the afternoon there will be more riding session throughout the afternoon until 3:00 P.M. when the track will go cold.