Between the Races: Phil Herrin | Road Racer X
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Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
AMA Amateur Nationals F-450 No 1 Plate at Mid Ohio Sept 11-13
PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) is pleased to announce that the AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships, which will be held Sept. 10-13 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, will crown amateur road-racing national champions in a combined program that includes Championship Cup Series (CCS) classes.
Amateur racers will compete for AMA Racing Amateur National Championships and AMA Racing No. 1 plates, which they'll receive at the AMA Racing Champions Banquet this Dec. 4 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
In addition, all competitors will be eligible for CCS regional points and contingency payouts. The weekend will also include competition in U.S. Grand Prix Racers Union (USGPRU) classes, which feature 125cc and 250cc two-stroke road-race motorcycles. The USGPRU classes will not be eligible for amateur titles.
"With timed qualifying, an opportunity to race on the world-class Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and AMA Racing National Championships on the line, the AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships are the premier summer destination for amateur road racers," said AMA Deputy Director of Racing Kevin Crowther. "In addition, by partnering with a dedicated road-racing organization such as CCS, we can offer the highest level of organizational support to our racers, as well as regional CCS points and series contingency.
"We're also excited about the participation of the USGPRU contingent, which will not only give these racers an opportunity for premier track time, but will provide an exciting show for everyone at the event," Crowther added.
A schedule, class list and supplemental regulations are available on the AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships page at AMARacing.com. A schedule also will be available in the next issue of AMA Racer, available this week at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/AMARacer.
The AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships are the country's premier amateur road-racing event, awarding AMA Racing National Championships in a number of road-racing classes for both expert- and novice-ranked riders.
Not only do riders get ample track time and an opportunity to race against the country's fastest amateur racers, but the best compete for the AMA Road Racing Horizon Award, which goes to the rider showing the most promise for success in the professional ranks. Past winners of the AMA Road Racing Horizon Award have included Jason DiSalvo, Ben Spies and Blake Young.
Other awards at the event include the AMA Racing Top Novice Award; the AMA Racing Youth Award, presented to an outstanding racer under the age of 16; and the AMA Racing Vet/Senior Award, presented to a standout rider who's 30-years-old or older.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world's largest motorcycling organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations.
Amateur racers will compete for AMA Racing Amateur National Championships and AMA Racing No. 1 plates, which they'll receive at the AMA Racing Champions Banquet this Dec. 4 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
In addition, all competitors will be eligible for CCS regional points and contingency payouts. The weekend will also include competition in U.S. Grand Prix Racers Union (USGPRU) classes, which feature 125cc and 250cc two-stroke road-race motorcycles. The USGPRU classes will not be eligible for amateur titles.
"With timed qualifying, an opportunity to race on the world-class Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and AMA Racing National Championships on the line, the AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships are the premier summer destination for amateur road racers," said AMA Deputy Director of Racing Kevin Crowther. "In addition, by partnering with a dedicated road-racing organization such as CCS, we can offer the highest level of organizational support to our racers, as well as regional CCS points and series contingency.
"We're also excited about the participation of the USGPRU contingent, which will not only give these racers an opportunity for premier track time, but will provide an exciting show for everyone at the event," Crowther added.
A schedule, class list and supplemental regulations are available on the AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships page at AMARacing.com. A schedule also will be available in the next issue of AMA Racer, available this week at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/AMARacer.
The AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships are the country's premier amateur road-racing event, awarding AMA Racing National Championships in a number of road-racing classes for both expert- and novice-ranked riders.
Not only do riders get ample track time and an opportunity to race against the country's fastest amateur racers, but the best compete for the AMA Road Racing Horizon Award, which goes to the rider showing the most promise for success in the professional ranks. Past winners of the AMA Road Racing Horizon Award have included Jason DiSalvo, Ben Spies and Blake Young.
Other awards at the event include the AMA Racing Top Novice Award; the AMA Racing Youth Award, presented to an outstanding racer under the age of 16; and the AMA Racing Vet/Senior Award, presented to a standout rider who's 30-years-old or older.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world's largest motorcycling organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations.
Friday, July 17, 2009
The 'Push Back' on F-450 and it's defense!!
I just read the slagging my F-450 concept got in various media lately this week since the DMG announcement that F-450 IS a Defacto road racing class, so here is my response personally... I am not going to write a letter to said media again as it is not worth it and I am tired of spending my time and money trying to make a difference... Anyone would think I am the Devil incarnate and F-450 is my chariot of fire, I think the gun is pointed in the wrong direction.
To say I am disappointed is putting it mildly as I always try to talk to openly to the Press... What hurts is that some so called sources who claim a top rider throws his engines away on a regular basis, should probably find a new mechanic! Talk to Dave Joy at Troy Lee, there hasn't been a motor blow at a Supermoto National since who knows when, currently Cassidy Anderson has 40 hours on his practice bike! Lets be objective, I am not going to get into a pissing contest any more as I am over trying to make a difference, the Sport and everyone inside a hospitality tent or hiding behind a phony resume called A Nonnymouse! It is all very sad really but fortunately there are some fans and young racers successfully racing them including the ones I have. None have blown up including Gavin Jr's '06 CRF, that did two years racing Supermoto and with just a Cylinder head rebuild, ran all last year giving Tyler Odom the National Number One plate at the AMA Nationals in Mid Ohio - and it is still going strong!, so let's talk about this a year from now. Long live 450cc racers, purpose built to race, not street bikes converted and probably the biggest plus for the future of motorcycle racing stars ever, from Supercross, Motocross, Supermoto, Baja, Dakar, Flat Track and now road racing. So 'Tally Ho the Fox" and the devil - me on a 450 apparently - take the hindmost!
Nothing like having a bully pulpit to push an agenda with reference to the plethora of Forum negativity toward the F-450 concept recently announced by DMG. Whatever you think of the current state of the Sport and it's Government, they actually got up and DID something, it remains to be seen on it's execution, but it is a start!! If the some of the naysayers were so altruistic, how about just being objective and at least supporting the concept. No we are not trying to get rid of two strokes, unfortunately time will take care of that. F-450 is a separate category with four stroke torque and a power weight ratio of 250 lbs ‘wet’ and 55hp at the rear wheel standard, plus you don’t have to be 5’, 110lbs and Spanish to fit on one. Forums and blogs tend to attract negativity, it is up to the sport to at least support ideas without ambiguity. Ripsoli’s comment on 450s on the mile getting stressed out is that a) his son did compete and finished, the fastest one would have qualified 20th for the Twins class. Also at the Duquoin half mile the following week, a 450 qualified FOURTH fastest relative to the Harley V-Twins class and finally, the analogy of stressing the motor, a 450 on a mile dirt in a 20 lap race, is akin to running a road racer ‘pinned’ on a 20 mile long straightaway!!! And they still survived! As they do pinned for eight hours at an average of 50mph winning the Baja 500. Same bike, same frame, same motor.
Incidentally I do buy the magazines and read the websites regularly and have much respect for those that promote new ideas, as I have going back to the first Superbike race I ran at Laguna Seca in 1973 at the same time publishing Motorcycle Weekly with my old partner Bruce Cox!! I have probably spent way too much money, time and effort in an effort to promote something new and affordable. The new fuel injected bikes we have built and run, really do work and also are easy to maintain. Go to Glen Helen for a Saturday Motocross and see a 16 year old with girl friend roll of his YZF 450, race all day and go home, just gas and chain adjustment, no mechanic or team manager. Ask Tyler Odom’s team about longevity and you will get a different answer, also Elena Myers has been chasing the SV Twins boys on an ’09 Kawasaki to good effect and it has not blown up!! High side one unlike 400lbs of 600, fix the bodywork and do the next heat, the frame is built to jump 150’! Give love a chance as John Lennon sang, at least ask those who build them and for goodness sake, keep an open mind. Plant an Acorn and grow and Oak Tree!
Without more young participants migrating from the physical rigors of motocross or persuading Dad’s to give their kids a shot at ‘swerving’ minus much of the perceived high speed risks, there will be fewer stars of tomorrow… No Little League, not Major League! We need more ‘Acorns’! In this age of financial meltdown and negativity, we need some positive vibes and it is very tiresome and depressing, to have to fight so hard to prove a concept. Remember, make the rules from the grandstands inwards, not the pit lane outwards, as it is now incumbent for the fans to foot the bill in this economy for the future of race facilities and racing, with the advent of departing Sponsorship dollars. The days of VIP passes, OEM sponsored teams and events, and motor homes with caution tape strung around the hospitality tent, are dwindling. Support for the life blood of the sport IS the paid admission ticket with a show that includes something other than a ‘Super’ something, that sounds different, has Brand ID, can read the number plates and bangs bars! This is after all ‘entertainment’, without the stage and the attraction of the performers, there is no show – Rock and Roll or Road Racing!
I rarely get into this public debate and will probably regret writing this, but I have achieved everything I need to prove, other than watching a great sport spiral downhill without innovation and a refreshing embrace of Gen X/Y, plus the inclusion of the female persuasion that in case anyone has missed it, represents 50% of the populace – Go get ‘em Ashley Fiolek, Elena Myers and Melissa Paris! … This is only part of a possible solution and as a friend of mine joked darkly about my crusade, ‘now back to curing cancer!’ And retirement again!
Gavin Trippe (The Gavinator)
www.450moto.com
To say I am disappointed is putting it mildly as I always try to talk to openly to the Press... What hurts is that some so called sources who claim a top rider throws his engines away on a regular basis, should probably find a new mechanic! Talk to Dave Joy at Troy Lee, there hasn't been a motor blow at a Supermoto National since who knows when, currently Cassidy Anderson has 40 hours on his practice bike! Lets be objective, I am not going to get into a pissing contest any more as I am over trying to make a difference, the Sport and everyone inside a hospitality tent or hiding behind a phony resume called A Nonnymouse! It is all very sad really but fortunately there are some fans and young racers successfully racing them including the ones I have. None have blown up including Gavin Jr's '06 CRF, that did two years racing Supermoto and with just a Cylinder head rebuild, ran all last year giving Tyler Odom the National Number One plate at the AMA Nationals in Mid Ohio - and it is still going strong!, so let's talk about this a year from now. Long live 450cc racers, purpose built to race, not street bikes converted and probably the biggest plus for the future of motorcycle racing stars ever, from Supercross, Motocross, Supermoto, Baja, Dakar, Flat Track and now road racing. So 'Tally Ho the Fox" and the devil - me on a 450 apparently - take the hindmost!
Nothing like having a bully pulpit to push an agenda with reference to the plethora of Forum negativity toward the F-450 concept recently announced by DMG. Whatever you think of the current state of the Sport and it's Government, they actually got up and DID something, it remains to be seen on it's execution, but it is a start!! If the some of the naysayers were so altruistic, how about just being objective and at least supporting the concept. No we are not trying to get rid of two strokes, unfortunately time will take care of that. F-450 is a separate category with four stroke torque and a power weight ratio of 250 lbs ‘wet’ and 55hp at the rear wheel standard, plus you don’t have to be 5’, 110lbs and Spanish to fit on one. Forums and blogs tend to attract negativity, it is up to the sport to at least support ideas without ambiguity. Ripsoli’s comment on 450s on the mile getting stressed out is that a) his son did compete and finished, the fastest one would have qualified 20th for the Twins class. Also at the Duquoin half mile the following week, a 450 qualified FOURTH fastest relative to the Harley V-Twins class and finally, the analogy of stressing the motor, a 450 on a mile dirt in a 20 lap race, is akin to running a road racer ‘pinned’ on a 20 mile long straightaway!!! And they still survived! As they do pinned for eight hours at an average of 50mph winning the Baja 500. Same bike, same frame, same motor.
Incidentally I do buy the magazines and read the websites regularly and have much respect for those that promote new ideas, as I have going back to the first Superbike race I ran at Laguna Seca in 1973 at the same time publishing Motorcycle Weekly with my old partner Bruce Cox!! I have probably spent way too much money, time and effort in an effort to promote something new and affordable. The new fuel injected bikes we have built and run, really do work and also are easy to maintain. Go to Glen Helen for a Saturday Motocross and see a 16 year old with girl friend roll of his YZF 450, race all day and go home, just gas and chain adjustment, no mechanic or team manager. Ask Tyler Odom’s team about longevity and you will get a different answer, also Elena Myers has been chasing the SV Twins boys on an ’09 Kawasaki to good effect and it has not blown up!! High side one unlike 400lbs of 600, fix the bodywork and do the next heat, the frame is built to jump 150’! Give love a chance as John Lennon sang, at least ask those who build them and for goodness sake, keep an open mind. Plant an Acorn and grow and Oak Tree!
Without more young participants migrating from the physical rigors of motocross or persuading Dad’s to give their kids a shot at ‘swerving’ minus much of the perceived high speed risks, there will be fewer stars of tomorrow… No Little League, not Major League! We need more ‘Acorns’! In this age of financial meltdown and negativity, we need some positive vibes and it is very tiresome and depressing, to have to fight so hard to prove a concept. Remember, make the rules from the grandstands inwards, not the pit lane outwards, as it is now incumbent for the fans to foot the bill in this economy for the future of race facilities and racing, with the advent of departing Sponsorship dollars. The days of VIP passes, OEM sponsored teams and events, and motor homes with caution tape strung around the hospitality tent, are dwindling. Support for the life blood of the sport IS the paid admission ticket with a show that includes something other than a ‘Super’ something, that sounds different, has Brand ID, can read the number plates and bangs bars! This is after all ‘entertainment’, without the stage and the attraction of the performers, there is no show – Rock and Roll or Road Racing!
I rarely get into this public debate and will probably regret writing this, but I have achieved everything I need to prove, other than watching a great sport spiral downhill without innovation and a refreshing embrace of Gen X/Y, plus the inclusion of the female persuasion that in case anyone has missed it, represents 50% of the populace – Go get ‘em Ashley Fiolek, Elena Myers and Melissa Paris! … This is only part of a possible solution and as a friend of mine joked darkly about my crusade, ‘now back to curing cancer!’ And retirement again!
Gavin Trippe (The Gavinator)
www.450moto.com
Sunday, July 12, 2009
AMA Pro announces F-450 as 'defacto' class in 2010
AMA Pro Racing Announces Interest in 450 Singles Class for Future AMA Pro Road Racing Seasons
MONTEREY, Calif. (July 5, 2009) - AMA Pro Racing announced today its interest in a 450cc singles class for future AMA Pro Road Racing seasons. The purpose of the class would be to provide a gateway for young regional riders to ascend to the national ranks of professional motorcycle racing.
Over the coming months, AMA Pro Racing officials will begin the process of testing the concept for performance, competition and safety characteristics as well as viability and interest in the marketplace. Preliminary plans call for the entry-level professional class to feature an arrive-and-ride format utilizing a single, yet-to-be-determined manufacturer and 450cc single-cylinder motorcycles prepared by a single tuner. Entries in the class would be restricted to riders between the ages of 16 and 21, supplanting the requirements for AMA Pro SuperSport presented by Shoei.
With the inclusion of the new class, the age restriction on AMA Pro SuperSport would be lifted, allowing the class to continue as an option for young riders while permitting older entry-level riders an opportunity to enter the ranks of AMA Pro Road Racing.
"Combining close competition with affordable equipment provides a win-win situation for fans and riders alike," said AMA Pro Racing President Roger Edmondson. "The parity in performance brought with a single manufacturer and tuner puts America's young talent at center stage and helps them to refine their riding skills for advancement through the ranks."
The new class would borrow from Gavin Trippe's inspiration of repurposing the large, readily-available pool of 450cc four-stroke dirtbikes present in America for entry-level road racing competition. AMA Pro Racing is exploring the advancement of that vision and the potential to work with grassroots and national amateur motorcycle racing organizations to create a pipeline for young American talent that would culminate with an entry point to professional racing in AMA Pro.
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing organization in North America, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization operates and manages AMA Pro Road Racing, which includes AMA Pro American Superbike, AMA Pro Daytona SportBike, AMA Pro SuperSport and AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT. AMA Pro Racing also manages and works closely with the day-to-day operational organizations of the AMA Pro Flat Track Championship and the AMA Pro Supermoto Championship Series in addition to other two-wheel and ATV series. Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.
-09-85-
For additional information contact:
AMA Pro Racing Communications, (386) 492-1014, communications@amaproracing.com
Friday, May 22, 2009
Creativity versions from the home builder!
Chris Hansen of Wisconsin, turned his son Nicholas' 09 CRF from Motocross bike, to Ice Racer now to F-450 in a matter of months. Unique is the family has a Buell dealership, so on goes a Buell Ulysses front end complete with brake, a body kit from Catalyst and 15 year old Nick went to Road America first time out on a big track and finished 8th out of 20 against Buells and SVV 650s. Say Chris "This is more fun and better for a young rider than I imagined. We are totally on board!! This is the future".
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Fuel Injected Models - The Ultimate 'Boy Racer'
Currently being built are the three 2009 Fuel Injected 450's from Suzuki, Honda and Kawasaki. Very fast with output at 52-55 hp at rear wheel and ECU's taking the sting out of engine management. The ultimate in Rider friendly racing - show up and run yourself! Final stages of these bikes from Body Kits, Suspension and Parts already done.
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