Get artsy with the 2011 Maxxis British Drift Championship

Filed under: Motorsports, Etc., Videos

We have to ponder what Ayrton Senna would think of the whole drift scene. Would the Formula 1 legend look down his nose at the phenomenon as the automotive equivalent of figure skating or embrace the sideways action for its all-or-nothing ethic? We ask because filmmaker Stephen Brooks has invoked the spirit of Senna in his latest clip covering the 2011 Maxxis British Drift Championship. Brooks has made a habit of crafting beautifully shot motorsports videos, but the addition of Ayrton's most famous quote strikes us as an odd choice.

To us, the Brazilian was speaking of direct competition between racers when he said, "You should know that by being a racing driver you are under risk all the time. And if you no longer go for a gap that exists, you are no longer a racing driver," not a driver putting on a show for a panel of judges.

Then again, racing is racing, and we're never ones to turn away from an excellent piece of motorsports videography. Hit the jump to check out the clip for yourself.

Continue reading Get artsy with the 2011 Maxxis British Drift Championship

Get artsy with the 2011 Maxxis British Drift Championship originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEAN HAMBLIN MATT WALKER IVAN TEDESCO

Meta-Sys: the hybrid generation from Knox

Meta-Sys: the hybrid generation from Knox

Meta-Sys is the latest innovation in back protection developed by Knox, the leading British impact protection specialists.

Meta-Sys is the latest innovation in back protection developed by Knox, the leading British impact protection specialists. Styled unlike any other body armour, Meta-Sys takes inspiration for its clean and crisp look from the futuristic styling seen in the movie Tron and on high tech products like the iPad. Featuring Knox's second generation hybrid technology for maximum impact absorption and a unique four-plate design for freedom of movement in multiple directions, Meta-Sys offers high-tech functionality to match its looks.

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Richard Childress Richard Childress Racing Ray Evernham

Villopoto Takes A Million!

Villopoto Takes A Million!

Monster Energy Cup Race Report

Our cohorts over at motocross.com just posted a killer wrap-up on Ryan Villopoto's phenomenal night of racing at the Monster Energy Cup in Las Vegas. Click the link below to get the full scoop:
http://www.motocross.com/features/what-really-happened-monster-energy-cup/

---

Photo Gallery: Villopoto Takes A Million! - Dirt Rider Magazine

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NICK WEY SEAN HAMBLIN MATT WALKER

NASCAR.COM online home for Champion's Week

Beginning Tuesday, NASCAR has a week-long celebration planned in Las Vegas as the sport crowns Tony Stewart the 2011 Sprint Cup Series champion and recognizes the jaw-dropping excitement and success of the previous season.

David Reutimann Calvin Wells Michael Waltrip Racing

Blickensderfer hired as Burton's '12 crew chief

Richard Childress Racing has named Drew Blickensderfer as the crew chief for the No. 31 team with driver Jeff Burton for the 2012 Sprint Cup Series season.

Richard Childress Racing Ray Evernham Evernham Motorsports

Aprilia, BMW and Suzuki testing in the sun at Portimao

Spring-like temperatures marked the first day of private testing at Portimao's Autodromo Internacional do Algarve circuit in Portugal, where several World Superbike teams are testing.

The riders and teams taking part in the three-day test are Max Biaggi and Eugene Laverty (Aprilia Alitalia Racing Team), Chaz Davies (ParkinGO - Aprilia), Leon Haslam and Marco Melandri (BMW Motorrad Motorsport), Ayrton Badovini and Michel Fabrizio (BMW Motorrad Italia SBK) and Leon Camier (Crescent Suzuki), accompanied on this occasion by Alastair Seeley, while John Hopkins recovers from his recent hand operation.

With no timekeepers present, the unofficial rankings today saw the top slot go to Haslam with a time of 1 minute 43.6 seconds, closely followed by Melandri (1'43"7) and by Badovini (1'43"8). Max Biaggi was next up with a time of 1'43"9, the same as his team-mate Laverty, with the others not far off the pace.

The other times recorded today were: Davies (ParkinGO Aprilia) 1'44"0, Fabrizio (BMW Italia) 1'45"5, Camier (Suzuki Crescent) 1'45"8

Testing continues tomorrow and Wednesday.

Joe Gibbs Racing Aric Almirola Riley-D\\\\\\\'Hondt Motorsports

What Was Your NASCAR Best and Worst from 2011?

It was a wild season that began with 20-year-old Trevor Bayne winning the Daytona 500 and ended with a wild race that made series veteran Tony Stewart the first Cup Series Champion not named Jimmie Johnson since 2005. In the mean time: we saw 19 different winners, including five different first time winners; Kyle Busch [...]

TheNASCARInsiders.com

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CJM Racing Brandon Whitt Chevrolet

Hopkins Confirmed With Suzuki In World Superbikes, Could Run #21

Crescent Suzuki finally announced their full line up in World Superbikes for 2012, issuing a press release confirming the addition of John Hopkins to the team, to be racing alongside Leon Camier. The announcement of Hopkins as rider was no real surprise, and had been expected almost from the moment that Crescent announced their intention of racing in World Superbikes next season. 

It was Suzuki's official confirmation - equally expected - that they would be withdrawing from MotoGP that allowed Crescent and Hopkins to finalize the deal. The American had been holding on to hopes of a return to the MotoGP series, either with the Rizla Suzuki squad or on a satellite Honda, but with Stefan Bradl taking the LCR slot and no Suzuki, the only options Hopkins had in MotoGP were a CRT ride. His loyalty to the team and the level of competitiveness expected from the Crescent Suzuki team (which, though it will not have any factory support, will be working closely with the legendary Japanese firm Yoshimura, see separate press release below) meant that the logical choice for the America was to switch to World Superbikes for 2012.

Source: 

http://twitter.com/TroyBaylisstic/statuses/137834215898222592

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RYAN HUGHES JEFF GIBSON BROC HEPLER

Bike restorers, collectors display two-wheeled art at Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d'Elegance

Bike restorers, collectors display two-wheeled art at Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d'Elegance

Bob Mitchell wins Best of Show Award at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d'Elegancewith immaculately restored 1947 Indian Chief

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Classic, historic and gorgeous motorcycles were on full display at the Las Vegas' Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa Saturday, Nov. 19, when more than 100 bikes took center stage at the 2011 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d'Elegance.

The event, organized by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation (AMHF), which raises funds for the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, welcomed some of the country's most stunning restored and original motorcycles from nearly all eras and disciplines. The juried show recognized the most outstanding motorcycles in a number of categories.

"The support that this show is receiving is growing every year, and we're pleased to recognize so many wonderful motorcycles today," said Tom White, AMHF board member and emcee. "The setting here in Las Vegas, held in concert with the Motorcycle Hall of Fame's annual induction ceremony, really makes this show special."

Winning the Jim Davis Best in Show Award was Bob Mitchell, whose black and chrome 1947 Indian Chief amazed the crowd and judges with its attention to detail and the craftsmanship evident in the restoration.

Mitchell, who also attended the 2010 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Concours d'Elegance, said he was impressed by the show.

"You get really top quality bikes at this show," Mitchell said. "The people who are showing the bikes here are the ones that take bike restoration seriously, and it's just a very nice group of people, too. I will definitely be back next year -- probably with a surprise or two."

The 2011 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d'Elegance was sponsored by Allied Federal, Moto Armory, Meguiar's, Auctions America, AmPro Racing, Bob Andersohn of St. Louis, The Early Years of Motocross Museum, S&S Cycle, SuperTrapp, Mike Howarth and The Owen Collection.

Photo Gallery: Bike restorers, collectors display at Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d'Elegance - Sport Rider Magazine

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Kurt Busch James Finch Morgan-McClure Motorsports

Stoner Stands Firm on Indy

Stoner nails the reasons why Indy is a poor track. From MCN: The corners get tighter and tighter until you are almost stopped and then you have to get on the gas and exit. It doesn’t flow at all, each set of corners it muddles you up and then you go a little straight. I, [...]

Renault Force India-Mercedes Williams-Cosworth

Ernesto Marinelli Explains the Panigale in 11 Minutes

The 2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale comes loaded with a bevy of new features and technologies, along with enough three-letter acronyms to go double-word score on any unassuming rider. ABS, DTC, DQS, LED, EBC, DDA+, DES, RbW, OMGWTFBBQ, this alphabet soup all stands for key components on the Ducati 1199 Panigale, and to help explain those letters Ducati has enlisted Ernesto Marinelli, the head of the Ducati World Superbike effort. At 11 minutes in length, Marinelli�takes ...

Rick Ware Ware Racing Enterprises Stanton Barrett

A Lot on the Line for Las Vegas EnduroCross Finals

A Lot on the Line for Las Vegas EnduroCross Finals

Women's class, Amateur Grand Championships, Junior Championship and the quest for a perfect season

Irvine, CA (November 16, 2011) - There will be a lot on the line at this weekend's GEICO AMA EnduroCross Finals, presented by Lucas Oil. The Freegun Underwear backed Women's class will bring together the largest and most talented field of women ever to compete on an EnduroCross course. The amateur class racers will be gunning for AMA number one plates and in the Expert class, the riders will compete in two separate main events. And KTM's Taddy Blazusiak will be aiming to complete the first ever perfect season in EnduroCross.

When the women were given their own class at the X Games Enduro X, some were critical of their performance but the crowd gave them the standing ovations that they deserved. And now more top female riders have stepped up to the challenge. For the Open Amateur, TrialsCross and Vet class racers that have earned a chance to compete with top finishes at the regional qualifiers, this will be their opportunity to with the coveted AMA Grand Championships of EnduroCross.

For the Expert riders, the Las Vegas event will feature the first ever double main event. So it will be critical for the riders to qualify or they will miss out on two opportunities to score points. For Taddy Blazusiak, there will be the added pressure of trying to wrap up the championship as well as complete a perfect season. He has dominated EnduroCross the past two seasons but winning every event will be a tough task even for Blazusiak. Mike Brown, his KTM teammate still has a mathematical shot at the title but he will need to get his first win to have any chance of stealing the crown. And GEICO Honda's Geoff Aaron has won a race each of the last two years and he too will be fighting to keep that streak alive.

The E3 Spark Plugs Junior Championship recognizes expert riders that are 21 and under. Monster Kawasaki's Taylor Robert has a narrow lead in that chase over Oregon's Keith Sweeten, who is a recently converted Trials rider that has proven to be very consistent. Zip Ty Husqvarna's Ryan Sandoval is also close enough to steal the title and the double main event will certainly add to the pressure on these young riders.

Like all EnduroCross events, you can count on a lot of activity at the Orleans Arena all day on Saturday, November 19th. The pits are open free all day to meet the top riders and check out their bikes up close. The arena is also open for free during the daytime qualifiers that start on Saturday morning as well as for the Expert practice and Hot Laps that take place during the midafternoon.

Tickets are available at http://www.orleansarena.com/event-calendar/endurocross and www.EnduroCross.com.

EnduroCross tracks incorporate various elements of extreme off road racing into a supercross-style setting, including rocks, boulders, logs, sand, mud, a water-hole...and even a few special obstacles like giant tires thrown in!  Known as the "toughest racing on two wheels," this indoor off road racing will certainly keep you on your feet. Don't miss your chance to see GEICO AMA EnduroCross "Live". ESPN, ESPN2 and ABC will combine to telecast 25 hours of live X Games 17 competition, which will include Enduro X. For the six remaining EnduroCross events, be sure to log-on to www.motorsportshour.com for local air dates/times for the Lucas Motorsports Hour on the Versus network.  

ENDUROCROSS is a registered trademark of Source Interlink Magazines, LLC.
For rules and race information visit www.EnduroCross.com or email endurocross@sorc.com.  

Source Interlink Media Motorsports:
Encompassing the highly successful GEICO AMA MiniMotoSX presented by Monster Energy and Braaap USA, the GEICO AMA EnduroCross Championship Series, presented by Lucas Oil and the AMA EnduroCross Grand Championships, the Source Interlink Media Motorsports brands reach millions of motorcycle enthusiasts with live events, DVD packages, web sites, television and magazine coverage. Visit www.minimotosx.com or www.endurocross.com.

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Brandon Whitt Chevrolet Joe Gibbs Racing

2011 Brazilian Grand Prix championship points | 2011 Brazilian Grand Prix

Mark Webber jumps Fernando Alonso to take third in the drivers' championship.

IVAN TEDESCO DANNY SMITH DONNIE SCHMITT

The Weekly Dirt: October 19, 2011

The Weekly Dirt: October 19, 2011

Monster Energy Cup, the EnduroCross series, 450cc MX Shootout

Welcome to The Weekly Dirt, the place to go each Wednesday to catch up on the latest happenings in the realm of off-road motorcycling. This week, we go around the table with the Dirt Rider staff to discuss the Monster Energy Cup, the EnduroCross series, the upcoming 450cc motocross shootout and more:

Photo Gallery: The Weekly Dirt: October 19, 2011 - Dirt Rider Magazine

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DAVID VUILLEMIN HEATH VOSS WIL HAHN

Up-Close with the Husqvarna E-Go Concept

While KTM made waves with the debut of the KTM Freeride E electric dirt bike, the Austrian brand wasn’t the only OEM hocking an electric offering at the 2011 EICMA show. Unveiling a very rough electric concept, Husqvarna continued to redefine itself for the future with the�Husqvarna E-Go Concept. The physical size of a 125cc dirt bike, the�Husqvarna E-Go is the exploration of entry-level electric street motard. Like the KTM Freeride E, the battery pack ...

Mike Dee Roush Fenway Racing Robby Gordon

Gordon Wins #85, Becomes 3rd All Time

Finally, it seems Gordon is gelling with a crew chief, he and Alan Gustafson have put three wins together so far this year, but, more importantly, they broke the three way tie and have taken sole possession of third place in all time wins with 85. They could’ve easily won a couple more races this [...]

JASON THOMAS DAMON BRADSHAW RYAN HUGHES

Aspar: Elias And Terol Confirmed In Moto2, Espargaro And De Puniet Options In MotoGP

The Aspar team have today announced that their Moto2 line up is now complete. With the signing of 2010 Moto2 champion Toni Elias to race alongside 2011 125cc champion Nico Terol, Aspar has a full complement of riders to face the 2012 season. Elias had been linked to rides with both Gresini - the team with which he won the inaugural Moto2 championship - and Aspar, and had finally settled on the Spanish squad. After a long and very difficult year in MotoGP, Elias is hoping to return to winning again in Moto2, while his teammate Terol is focused solely on learning to adapt to the Moto2 machines, this being the first time he has raced a four stroke.

Aspar actually has more than a full complement of riders, in fact. The Spanish team had previously announced that they had signed Aleix Espargaro to race in Moto2 for the team, and the Spaniard, elder brother of Pol, tested the Suter Moto2 bike with the Aspar team on the first day of testing at Valencia on Wednesday. But with nobody yet signed for Aspar's CRT machines in MotoGP - almost certain to be Aprilias, based on the RSV4 engine with a different frame designed and built by Aprilia - Espargaro is likely to move up to race in the premier class. 

Source: 

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=244462612281697

http://motociclismo.es/deporte

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Fast Track Racing Enterprises Frank Kimmel Bryan Mullet

More highlights on the F1 videos page

Dale Earnhardt Incorporated Martin Truex Jr. Bobby Ginn

Mini to offer B-Spec Cooper for budding racers

Filed under: Motorsports, Hatchback, Mini, Racing

It may have taken them a while to get around to it, but after reviving the Mini marque in 1994, BMW hasn't forgotten the original's rich racing heritage. It's what's taken them into the World Rally Championship, and is now leading to a B-Spec racer available right here in the United States.

Created out of a partnership between Mini USA and its dealer in Charleston, South Carolina, the Mini Cooper racer can be made out of any existing hardtop hatchback made between 2007 and 2012. It packs all the safety equipment necessary for competition duty - including a full roll cage, window net, racing bucket and harness - plus upgraded brakes, suspension and rolling stock, but is otherwise pretty much showroom stock. And that's the point behind B-Spec categories sanctioned by such bodies as the SCCA, Grand Am and World Challenge.

Check out the details in the press release after the jump and the pair of high-res images for a closer look.

Continue reading Mini to offer B-Spec Cooper for budding racers

Mini to offer B-Spec Cooper for budding racers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sebastian Vettel Jenson Button Felipe Massa

De la Rosa lands 2012 race drive with HRT

Pedro de la Rosa is to leave his current position as McLaren test driver and return to the grid next season with the HRT team. De la Rosa, 40, is a veteran of 85 Grand Prix starts and last raced with Sauber at this year's Canadian round.

The Spaniard, who last completed a full season of Formula One competition in 2002 with Jaguar, will join HRT in January on a two-year contract.

ERNESTO FONSECA NATHAN RAMSEY MICHAEL BYRNE

Haslam believes in BMW potential

Following a first season with BMW Motorrad Motorsport, Leon Haslam is now gearing up for a second year on the S1000RR with renewed optimism and convinced of the potential of the German bike. In 2011 the "Pocket Rocket" alternated some good results with difficult weekends and he only finished on the podium three times, compared with 14 podiums (including three wins) he scored the previous year.

Together with his new team-mate Marco Melandri, Haslam is now taking part in a three-day test at Jerez de la Frontera beginning yesterday, to be followed by another from November 28-30, the last one for BMW and several other teams before the winter testing ban.

Not so long ago you ended your first season with BMW Motorrad Motorsport and it wasn't an easy one. Are you ready now for the new challenge ahead?

"Well it was quite good stuff, for sure last season was difficult but we know there are a lot of areas we can improve. I'm looking forward to the tests to get the bike on its way. The new season is not going to be too far away so I'm ready for next year."

You and your new team mate Marco Melandri have different riding styles. Do you think this is going to work in a positive way?

"He will have to change his style for the bike, Marco can change his style and I had to do the same this year. Hopefully together we can possess the bike more and we can both be winning."

What do you think the S1000RR needs to improve the most?

"It's a general thing you know, BMW has only been racing three years so we have to make sure to get the bike more rideable and easy to ride. Once we have this we can be very strong!"

What is your goal for next season?

"For sure I want to fight for the championship and for race wins but come Australia hopefully we can be close."

KEVIN WINDHAM RYAN VILLIPOTO RICKY CARMICHAEL

FIA press conference schedule - Brazil

Local Brazilian heroes Felipe Massa, Rubens Barrichello and Bruno Senna join three other drivers to answer questions on Thursday, whilst Pirelli's Paul Hembery and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner are amongst those facing the media on Friday. The line-up in full�

Kenneth Wood Ash Motorsports Brandon Ash

DuPont increases hospitality program after big cutbacks in 2009

DuPont’s once robust NASCAR hospitality program suffered enormous cuts last year, but the longtime #24- Jeff Gordon sponsor is back in 2010 with more guests and events at each track. Just a few years ago, DuPont had the largest hospitality program in NASCAR, hosting guests at every race on the Sprint Cup circuit, a number [...]

Toyota J.C. Weaver Hylton Motorsports

World Superbike lines up in Moscow for triple celebration

Russian Round presentation, new championship identity and 25 exciting years: Infront Motor Sports, the organizers and promoters of the FIM Superbike World Championship, will be embarking on a visit to Moscow this week for the presentation of the Russian Round of the championship, which will be held on the morning of Friday 25 November. Infront Motor Sports, together with their partners YMS Promotion, are organizing the event at one of Moscow's top hotels, the Lotte Hotel, in the centre of the Russian capital.

To mark the arrival of World Superbike in Russia, the first-time ever a world-level motorsport championship comes to the country, a press conference will be held in the morning to national and international media, both from the business and sports sectors.

The event will be hosted by Alexander Yakhnich, CEO of YMS Promotion and Alexander Lunkin, President of the Russian Motorcycle Federation, while the FIM will be represented by Deputy President Jorge Viegas and CCR Director Rezso Bulcsu.

CEO Paolo Flammini and SBK General Manager Paolo Ciabatti will intervene on behalf of Infront Motor Sports, with Stephan Herth (Executive Director of Summer Sports) speaking for parent company Infront Sports & Media.

They will be joined on the stage by Carlos Checa and Chaz Davies, the 2011 champions from the two categories (World Superbike and World Supersport) that will make up the programme of next season's inaugural Russian Round.

Looking forward to 2012 will be the theme of the conference, with particular reference to the championship's arrival in Russia at Moscow Raceway on August 26, together with the 25th anniversary of World Superbike, which will also be celebrated next year with the adoption of a brand new championship logo and visual identity.

Yakhnich Motorsport will also introduce the talented young Russian rider Vladimir Leonov, who will take part with their team in the 2012 FIM Supersport World Championship.

Numerous other VIP figures from Moscow are expected to attend, including representatives from the political, business, lifestyle and sporting sectors, thus highlighting the importance the event has within Moscow society and the impact it is expected to make on the Russian sporting scene.

The official proceedings will draw to a close later in the evening with a gala dinner for all participants.

Ford Andy Hillenburg Fast Track Racing Enterprises

Graham Jarvis clinches victory at the Red Bull Sea to Sky

Graham Jarvis clinches victory at the Red Bull Sea to Sky

Carsten Steffen brings you photos from the Red Bull Sea to Sky race in Kemer, Antalya, Turkey. Read the read report here.

October 8 & 9, 2011
Kemer, Antalya, Turkey

Photo Gallery: Graham Jarvis clinches victory at the Red Bull Sea to Sky - Dirt Rider Magazine

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Ash Motorsports Brandon Ash Dodge

Insane spectator does what it takes to get the shot at the Baja 1000

Filed under: Motorsports, Videos

At nearly every motorsports event we attend, there are usually strict rules about where photographers can be located. Generally, those spots are taken from behind multiple layers of gravel traps, concrete walls and catch fences. That's not the case for the Baja 1000. Race fans and photographers are allowed to pretty much go wherever they want, even if that means putting themselves in a dangerous position.

That's the case for this insane spectator at this weekend's Baja 1000. He decided the ideal vantage point to take a photo was from the actual race course. Despite the crowds around urging him to do otherwise, he sticks to his guns, even as a truck flies inches over his head. Check out the incredible footage after the jump.

Continue reading Insane spectator does what it takes to get the shot at the Baja 1000

Insane spectator does what it takes to get the shot at the Baja 1000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Nov 2011 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lotus-Cosworth HRT-Cosworth Virgin-Cosworth

2011 Brazilian Grand Prix TV Times | 2011 Brazilian Grand Prix

It's the last race weekend of the season so don't miss any of it - find all the times here.

RYAN HUGHES JEFF GIBSON BROC HEPLER

Harvick paired with crew chief Wilson; Martin reassigned

WELCOME, N.C. -- Richard Childress Racing has made organizational changes to its competition department in preparation for the 2012 NASCAR season, as longtime crew chiefs Shane Wilson and Gil Martin have been given new assignments.

Pedro de la Rosa Jaime Alguersuari Heikki Kovalainen

HRT sign up De la Rosa for 2012

McLaren reserve Pedro de la Rosa signs a two-year deal to be HRT's first race driver from the 2012 season although the team are yet to confirm a second racer.

johnny Sauter Raynard McGlynn McGlynn Racing

Yas Marina day one - Vergne sets young driver pace

Jean-Eric Vergne led the times at Yas Marina on Tuesday for Red Bull, as this week's young driver test got underway in Abu Dhabi. Vergne, who was second in this year's Formula Renault 3.5 series, clocked a best time of 1m 40.011s in the RB7 to finish almost a second ahead of Jules Bianchi in the Ferrari.

The 21 year-old Frenchman carried out aerodynamic testing as part of the team's preparations for 2012 and evaluated some prototype Pirellis for next season. He completed 83 laps. He will continue to test on Wednesday and Thursday.

WIL HAHN MIKE ALESSI JOHN DOWD

2012 MV Agusta F4RR Corsacorta - Radial Revolution | First Ride

2012 MV Agusta F4RR Corsacorta - Radial Revolution | First Ride

Now back in the hands of the Castiglioni family after Harley-Davidson's brief 15-month tenure, Italy's historic MV Agusta trophy brand now boasts a clean balance sheet and is cash-rich for the first time in recent years thank to a $20 million golden goodbye from its American ex-owners.

Now back in the hands of the Castiglioni family after Harley-Davidson’s brief 15-month tenure, Italy’s historic MV Agusta trophy brand now boasts a clean balance sheet and is cash-rich for the first time in recent years thanks to a $20 million golden goodbye from its American ex-owners. MV also added half that amount after clearing out more than 1000 unsold units from its inventory, with reduced overhead thanks to a slashed workforce and more rational operating systems. With the promise of the acclaimed F3 three-cylinder 675cc model on the horizon, it seems that after repeated visits to the last chance saloon that MV Agusta is at last on the right track towards future survival — even prosperity. While the late Claudio Castiglioni’s son Giovanni has taken over the reins of the company, he will be aided as consigliere by Massimo Bordi, the former Ducati chief engineer and general manager. Under their direction, it appears that MV Agusta is very much back in business.

Photo Gallery: 2012 MV Agusta F4RR Corsacorta - Sport Rider Magazine

Photo Gallery: 2012 MV Agusta F4RR Corsacorta - Sport Rider Magazine

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Carl Edwards Kenneth Wood Ash Motorsports

Construction on Austin's Circuit of the Americas has stopped

Filed under: Motorsports

If you were among those who thought that Formula One and Texas would go together like pickles and ice cream, well, you may be right. And you may not be terribly disappointed, either, by the latest news surrounding the United States Grand Prix.

The first F1 race to come to the United States in half a decade was scheduled to take place next year in Austin, Texas. However, following doubts expressed by F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone on the project's progress, the latest development has construction on the Circuit of the Americas - the new motorsport complex being built to host the event - grinding to a halt.

A statement released by the track's administration confirms that the construction project has been put on hold indefinitely over a dispute with the company responsible for promoting the race. Apparently, Full Throttle Productions has yet to produce an actual contract with Formula One Management, or with organizers of the MotoGP series, prompting those behind the Circuit of the Americas to send home the 300 workers building it until Full Throttle can demonstrate that it will be used.

Here's hoping the parties can resolve their dispute and get back to business. Otherwise we'll have to wait another year for the Grand Prix of America to arrive in New Jersey. Follow the jump for the official announcement.

Continue reading Construction on Austin's Circuit of the Americas has stopped

Construction on Austin's Circuit of the Americas has stopped originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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IVAN TEDESCO DANNY SMITH DONNIE SCHMITT

Up-Close with the Husqvarna E-Go Concept

While KTM made waves with the debut of the KTM Freeride E electric dirt bike, the Austrian brand wasn’t the only OEM hocking an electric offering at the 2011 EICMA show. Unveiling a very rough electric concept, Husqvarna continued to redefine itself for the future with the�Husqvarna E-Go Concept. The physical size of a 125cc dirt bike, the�Husqvarna E-Go is the exploration of entry-level electric street motard. Like the KTM Freeride E, the battery pack ...

Karun Chandhok Lucas di Grassi Jarno Trulli

Dougie Lampkin rocks the Extreme Lagares

Dougie Lampkin rocks the Extreme Lagares

Extreme Lagares Race Report

7th Extreme Lagares
Lagares, Porto, Portugal

Photo Gallery: Dougie Lampkin rocks the Extreme Lagares - Dirt Rider Magazine

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Joe Gibbs Racing Aric Almirola Riley-D\\\\\\\'Hondt Motorsports

Abu Dhabi GP as it happened

Lewis Hamilton wins the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with Fernando Alonso second and Jenson Button third as world champion Sebastian Vettel suffers a puncture on the first lap.

JIMMY BUTTON JEAN-MICHEL BAYLE DOUG DUBACH

Argentine driver Guido Falaschi killed in final lap crash

Filed under: Motorsports, Etc., Videos, South America

Motorsports fans are mourning the passing of Guido Falaschi. The 22-year-old Argentine driver was killed Sunday during the last lap of Turismo Carretera when he lost control of his Ford Falcon touring car in an attempt to avoid a collision with a lapped racer. Falaschi's race car slid across a gravel trap and into a tire barrier before being struck by another car and rolling back onto the race course. His vehicle was then struck by a second race car driven by Nestor Girolami. Doctors confirmed Falaschi's death later that day, though Girolami is reported to be in stable condition and recovering at a local hospital.

The crash occurred at the Juan Manuel Fangio race track. Click past the jump for a look at the crash video, though be warned that the footage may be too graphic for some audiences.

Continue reading Argentine driver Guido Falaschi killed in final lap crash

Argentine driver Guido Falaschi killed in final lap crash originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A.J. Allmendinger Robert Yates Robert Yates Racing

2012 GEICO AMA EnduroCross Schedule

2012 GEICO AMA EnduroCross Schedule

A new west coast location added

Sitting here looking at the recently released 2012 EnduroCross schedule, I think to myself how excited I am to forward this along to my dirt riding friends and family. The opening round of the 2012 GEICO AMA EnduroCross Series, presented by Lucas Oil will kick off Friday, May 4th at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV. You know, the same weekend that you'll be there for the Supercross finals? I wonder who will conclude that entry list?!

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RYAN VILLIPOTO RICKY CARMICHAEL ANDREW SHORT

Bimota DB9 Brivido ? The Best Looking Diavel Yet

Astute readers this week would have noticed our coverage of the Bimota DB10 Bimotard, and wondered how the boutique Italian firm jumped from the DB8 to the DB10 designation. Well yes Virginia, there is a DB9. The Bimota DB9 Brivido arrived to the 2011 EICMA show with slightly less fanfare, but its still a classic example of the motorcycle company’s current design and ethos. Based around the 162hp Testastretta 11� motor from the Ducati Diavel, ...

DAMON HUFFMAN STEPHANE RONCADA KYLE LEWIS

Pro Circuit Race Support Team Heads to 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics

Pro Circuit Race Support Team Heads to 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics

Pro Circuit Press Release

CORONA, Calif., (November 17, 2011) - The end of the year is fast approaching, and with it comes the 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics presented by Pro Circuit. Affectionately known as Mini O's, the annual Thanksgiving-week tradition is one of the biggest events for amateur motocross racers. The action kicks off on Monday and features three days of supercross racing, followed by three days of motocross.
 
Located in Gainesville, Fla., Gatorback Cycle Park will continue as the host site of the highly-anticipated event.  Many amateur riders from around the world will be seen for the first time with their new team for the upcoming 2012 season, while others will be running their hardest to earn the remaining spots still available.  Combining intense competition with the unique mix of disciplines between supercross and motocross makes for an action-filled week of racing.
 
Pro Circuit's Race Support Team will be on hand during the entire week to offer their full line of products, suspension setting adjustments, and engine tuning/jetting services.  Service will be available for any problems that arise throughout the week, helping riders get back on the track as quickly as possible.
 
The 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics presented by Pro Circuit from Gatorback Cycle Park, in Gainesville, Fla., takes place from November 21-26.
 
About Pro Circuit
Based in Corona, Calif., Pro Circuit Inc. is a leader in off-road motorcycle and ATV exhausts and aftermarket performance parts. Started in 1978, Pro Circuit is the go to shop for recreational riders and professionals for everything from suspension work to complete engine packages, and everything in between.
 
Created by former desert racer Mitch Payton, Pro Circuit proves its products and services week-in and week-out through its tagline "We Race." Every product that dons the Pro Circuit stamp stems from the legendary Pro Circuit race team. A staple in the professional paddock, Pro Circuit Racing has earned 28 AMA championships and more than 200 race wins in more than 30 years of competition.

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Mark Webber Fernando Alonso Lewis Hamilton

The Weekly Dirt: September 7, 2011

The Weekly Dirt: September 7, 2011

The place to go for the nitty-gritty on the off-road scene

Welcome to The Weekly Dirt, the place to go each Wednesday to catch up on the latest happenings in the realm of off-road motorcycling.

Photo Gallery: The Weekly Dirt: September 7, 2011 - Dirt Rider Magazine

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James Hylton Mark Simo No Fear Racing Boris Said

Pro Circuit Race Support Team Heads to 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics

Pro Circuit Race Support Team Heads to 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics

Pro Circuit Press Release

CORONA, Calif., (November 17, 2011) - The end of the year is fast approaching, and with it comes the 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics presented by Pro Circuit. Affectionately known as Mini O's, the annual Thanksgiving-week tradition is one of the biggest events for amateur motocross racers. The action kicks off on Monday and features three days of supercross racing, followed by three days of motocross.
 
Located in Gainesville, Fla., Gatorback Cycle Park will continue as the host site of the highly-anticipated event.  Many amateur riders from around the world will be seen for the first time with their new team for the upcoming 2012 season, while others will be running their hardest to earn the remaining spots still available.  Combining intense competition with the unique mix of disciplines between supercross and motocross makes for an action-filled week of racing.
 
Pro Circuit's Race Support Team will be on hand during the entire week to offer their full line of products, suspension setting adjustments, and engine tuning/jetting services.  Service will be available for any problems that arise throughout the week, helping riders get back on the track as quickly as possible.
 
The 40th Annual Thor Winter National Olympics presented by Pro Circuit from Gatorback Cycle Park, in Gainesville, Fla., takes place from November 21-26.
 
About Pro Circuit
Based in Corona, Calif., Pro Circuit Inc. is a leader in off-road motorcycle and ATV exhausts and aftermarket performance parts. Started in 1978, Pro Circuit is the go to shop for recreational riders and professionals for everything from suspension work to complete engine packages, and everything in between.
 
Created by former desert racer Mitch Payton, Pro Circuit proves its products and services week-in and week-out through its tagline "We Race." Every product that dons the Pro Circuit stamp stems from the legendary Pro Circuit race team. A staple in the professional paddock, Pro Circuit Racing has earned 28 AMA championships and more than 200 race wins in more than 30 years of competition.

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Fernando Alonso Lewis Hamilton Sebastian Vettel

Castrol Honda rounds out 2011 with Doha test

The Castrol Honda World Superbike team has concluded its 2011 on-track activities with a three-day test at the Losail circuit in Doha, Qatar. Jonathan Rea was joined by his 2012 team-mate, Hiroshi Aoyama, for the test with the riders completing differing agendas at the 5.38km desert circuit. Both used the 2011 version of Honda's CBR1000RR Fireblade, which will be comprehensively updated next season with a 20th anniversary edition of the iconic sportsbike.

Rea used the Qatar test to try a new swingarm, Ohlins suspension and other chassis components, which can be utilised on the new machine, while Aoyama joined his new team for the first time in Qatar after completing the 2011 MotoGP season with Team San Carlo Honda Gresini. The Japanese rider spent the three-day test getting comfortable on the CBR machine and testing Pirelli tyres for the first time.

Jonathan Rea: "We've got through a lot of work these three days and ended with two long runs today, which was pretty tough in the heat. We've tried heaps of stuff and, like the last couple of tests, we ended up running out of time. But it's still been really productive and I'm looking forward to starting the next test on my favourite combination of components because we weren't able to finish on that today. We've been making some quite big changes to the bike, just to feel the difference between the various set-ups and everyone has been working really well. It was good to be back at this circuit too; I like it here, and I'm really looking forward to getting back on the bike again in January."

Hiroshi Aoyama: "I got food poisoning before I left Spain to go for the test so I was a bit uncomfortable to start. Also, my leather suits didn't arrive in time so I was forced to use an old one. But it was a very interesting test and a good opportunity for me to meet my new team and spend some time getting used to the new bike and the tyres. We still have some work to make the bike more comfortable for me to ride so I was not able to push really hard. I don't know much about the bike yet and there is still a lot to discover, so I will continue to learn, little-by-little. But the test has been really good and I hope we'll get some new materials for the next time I ride the bike."

JEFF WARD JEFF MATIASEVICH RICK JOHNSON

Bimota DB9 Brivido ? The Best Looking Diavel Yet

Astute readers this week would have noticed our coverage of the Bimota DB10 Bimotard, and wondered how the boutique Italian firm jumped from the DB8 to the DB10 designation. Well yes Virginia, there is a DB9. The Bimota DB9 Brivido arrived to the 2011 EICMA show with slightly less fanfare, but its still a classic example of the motorcycle company’s current design and ethos. Based around the 162hp Testastretta 11� motor from the Ducati Diavel, ...

JEFF WARD JEFF MATIASEVICH RICK JOHNSON