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MotoGP 3-Day Team Tests, Phillip Island, Australia Stoner and Ducati Shatter Phillip Island Lap Record Feb. 1 2008 - Casey Stoner lapped faster than any other rider in history at Phillip Island today, his stunning lap of 1'28.777 coming on the last of three days of tests at his home circuit. The reigning World Champion used a qualifying tyre on his 25th of 51 laps, although his pace during a race simulation was equally impressive. Only his flying lap registered outside the 1'30 mark as Stoner racked up 23 consecutive fast laps with relentless precision. Only the heat of the track in the scorching afternoon sun interrupted the local hero's progress, three laps short of the intended total, but his satisfaction was still complete. The team's stunning performance this week was doubly impressive in that Stoner was coming off a serious shoulder injury from a hard crash in team testing at Jerez this past November 28th. While for Ducati, the engineers were testing the new Desmosedici GP08 machine which boasted a smoother, less explosive powerband, with more torque lower down to make the formerly challenging GP07 winner easier to ride. It seems to have worked, and with the Japanese bike teams finding themselves nearly a full second behind the reigning World Champions, it is already looking like the surprise 2007 Champs will be the odds-on favorite to dominate again in 2008. The second quickest bike and rider combo at the test, America's Nicky Hayden on the all-new Honda RC211V was still struggling to develop their new pneumatic valve engine which is heavier and doesn't perform as well as the old steel valve spring engine which they keep going back to. The new chassis designed for the pneumatic valve engine, also doesn't seem to be much better than last year's bike. Stoner's new team mate on the Ducati team, Marco Melandri was also quite satisfied after spending another day working intensely on finding a good feeling with his new bike in race trim as opposed to trying for a fast time on a qualifying tyre. Today he completed a marathon 108 laps, including a race simulation. Casey Stoner (Ducati Marlboro Team), best time: 1:28.777 (51 laps) - "We did the race simulation with one of Bridgestone's new tyres and it went really well, even though we had to come in three laps early. The track temperature today was actually higher than it was for the race here and you could tell. Even so we managed to lap consistently in low 1.30 and that shows how well they're working in Japan. I'm also really happy with the qualifying tyre, which is the same as last year. It is a good thing that bike is not completely different to 2007 because it has allowed is to find an excellent base to start the season from already. The new version of the engine has a better delivery, especially at the bottom end, and that has allowed me to set fast times more consistently, as well as increasing tyre life. It has been a good test session but now I'm happy to have a couple of weeks to rest and train in the gym. The shoulder feels okay, it is just a little bit weak and sore because I haven't been able to work on it as much as I would have wanted but now we can do that." The MotoGP teams now have two weeks to make it to their next important meeting at the Jerez circuit in Spain, where the MotoGP Official Test takes place from 16th to 18th February. Phillip Island Information
World Press Test Launch of the Ducati 1098R With the tighter production rules for World Superbike starting this year, 2008, this limited production 1098R which actually displaces 1198cc, produces as much horsepower and more torque than Troy Corser's factory 999F07 racebike from last season. Pull off the lighting equipment and add racing slicks, and for US $39,995 you've got a bike that's capable of winning in AMA National Superbike. For a privateer that sounds like a lot of money, but for a team like American Honda faced with having to develop an all new race CBR1000 from scratch again (and based on their loosing track record the last 3 years with the outgoing CBR) were sure Neil and Miguel would give anything to be able to slip Honda bodywork over this 1098R.
Here's what Ducati has to tell us: The "R"is a race bike, pure and simple. Its competition specification and superior components together with advanced electronics and race-proven chassis technology deliver a level of performance that empowers you with confidence and capability. World Superbike rule changes mean that the road-going "R" version is closer than ever to the factory race bike. The 1098 R is not a replica - it's the real deal. An incredible 180 hp L-Twin Testastretta Evoluzione engine in a race-winning Trellis chassis set-up tips the scales at an unbelievably lightweight 165 kg (364 lbs) and comes with a race kit that introduces Ducati Corse's world championship winning traction control system. Once again, Ducati raises the bar and sets the world standard for sport bikes while turning the heads and racing the hearts of enthusiasts throughout the world.
1098 Technology: Trademark Ducati features like the high tail section, compact front end, twin under-seat silencers and single-sided swing arm are just some of the features that turned the 1098 models into an instant award-winning success. When launched in November 2006, the 1098 and 1098 S introduced a number of firsts for Ducati and production sport bike design. It was the first production motorcycle to have the amazing stopping power of Brembo Monobloc brakes, the first to have a data acquisition system integrated as standard equipment and the first to use an ingenious construction method for its weight-saving single-sided swingarm. More firsts for a road-going Ducati included the direct application of MotoGP technology, like the power producing GP6-derived elliptical throttle bodies and the use of the information-rich instrumentation originally developed for the World Championship-winning Desmosedici GP7. The "R" version of the 1098 is not only the flagship of the Superbike family, but also the platform on which the very latest Ducati Corse technologies are expressed in street bike form. The 1098 R takes all the original 1098 features, reduces weight even further and adds an extra 20 horsepower, traction control, sand-cast crankcases, titanium valves and con-rods, TTXR rear suspension and much more to produce the most awesome performance ever seen in this category. The 1098 R comes with a race kit, which is intended for track use only, boosting power output from 180 to approximately 186 hp. The kit consists of a 102dB carbon fibre slip-on muffler kit by Termignoni and a dedicated ECU. The ECU not only has reconfigured mapping to suit the racing mufflers, but also initiates the system dialogue that controls the DTC (Ducati Traction Control) system. The 1098 R is the first ever production bike to be fitted with a true competition-level traction control. MCN rides the 1098R at the Ducati Jerez Press Intro
1098 R Testastretta Evoluzione Power The specification of this engine underlines its no-compromise race technology. To help contain the massive Keri power output, the crankcases and cylinder heads have been sand-cast produced, a process that improves the molecular quality of the casting, increasing strength while ensuring that intricate shapes are achieved with absolute accuracy. Confirming the 1098 Rios race specification by minimizing weight and increasing performance, the crankshaft connecting rods are made in titanium saving 130 g over the stock 1098 rods while reducing their reciprocating forces and improving crankshaft acceleration. Cam belt covers molded in carbon fibre and cam covers cast in magnesium alloy complete the lightweight package. The result is a weight saving of 5.6 kg (12.34 lbs) over the 999 R engine and 2.2 kg (4.8 lbs) less than the 1098.
The increased capacity of 1198.4 cc is the product of a larger bore and stroke of 106 x 67.9 mm and is fed through four titanium valves per cylinder and compressed to a ratio of 12.8:1. The valves, which are chrome nitride (CrN) coated, have been increased in diameter by approximately 5% to 44.3 mm for the inlet and 36.2 mm for the exhaust. They are actuated by rocker arms that are super-finished for reduced friction and fatigue, and double overhead camshafts with radical profiles that achieve approximately 16% more lift than the standard 1098. These incredible valve performances are only possible because of Ducati unique Desmodromic system, where valve closure is activated mechanically. At high rpm it would be almost impossible for the valve to follow the steep closure profile of the cam lobe if it were relying upon a normal valve spring, but with the Desmo system the valve is mechanically closed with the same accuracy as it is opened, enabling steep cam profiles and radical cam timings. This system is used on every single Ducati motorcycle including the world-beating Desmosedici MotoGP bike.
The 1098R's piston are identical in design to the pistons in the D16 MotoGP bikes with no side skirts below the rings, whatsoever. We also know the GP bike run aluminum piston pins to reduce weight even further to achieve higher RPM. There's no word if the production 1098R gets aluminum pins, but we'd guess its a trick part that will definitely find its way into the team's 1098F08 World Superbikes. The 1098 R elliptical throttle bodies have been increased 6.5% in size compared to the 1098, a diameter now equal to 63.9 mm. For the first time on a road-going Ducati, twin injectors are used on each cylinder. The first centrally mounted injector feeds through a 4-hole nozzle while the second offset injector feeds through a 12-hole nozzle ensuring progressive and fluid power delivery throughout the rev-range. With this configuration the system has the capacity to provide much heavier fueling when used in competition. The gearbox shares the same ratios as the 1098 and 1098 S, except for 3rd, 4th and 6th gear, which has a higher ratio so as to be able fully exploit the speed gained from the supplied race kit or additional performance modifications. Also with performance in mind and because of its high resistance to fatigue, the gears are machined from the same high-strength steel used in Ducati Corse race applications with 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gears being subjected to a shot-peening treatment that further ensures their strength and reduced fatigue. The dry, multi plate slipper clutch reduces the destabilizing effect of aggressive downshifting and helps provide the fine control required when used under extreme track conditions. The 2-1-2 exhaust system, which complies with Euro 3 emission standards, is formed in 52 mm-57 mm diameter tubing with a wall thickness of 0.8 mm (.030 in) and terminates with Ducati trademark twin under-seat mufflers beautifully formed in super lightweight titanium and stainless steel.
Chassis Developed in cooperation with Ducati Corse, the 1098 R Trellis frame features main section tubes in ALS 450 with a diameter of 34 mm and 1.5 mm thickness to achieve a total weight of just 9 kg (19.8 lbs) and an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio. Race-proven with hundreds of victories, the Trellis design remains the chosen engineering solution by Ducati Corse and a feature of every Ducati motorcycle. Front subframe: As with all the models in the Superbike family, the front subframe is produced in magnesium alloy to reduce the weight to just 0.61kg (1.3 lbs). While its construction ensures secure, rigid support for the headlamp, instruments and fairing, the weight-saving around this high, forward position contributes considerably to overall "feel" and control of the machine. Rear subframe: Underlining its competition intention, the 1098 R is designed as a true "monoposto" with no provisions to carry a passenger. By producing the rear subframe in aluminum alloy it has enabled a 50% weight reduction (compared to biposto models) to 1.3 kg (2.8 lbs). Single-sided swingarm: The 1098ís unique single-sided swingarm is made up of main operational components in aluminum castings so as to ensure strength around the pivot points, wheel hub and suspension links, with fabricated aluminum sections used to fuse the construction into a single, beautifully engineered component. For the "R" model, the swingarm is finished in black to denote its racing status as well as to contrast sharply against the racing gold wheels. Rear Suspension: Working together with the single-sided swingarm and an efficient linkage is a fully adjustable ÷Ohlins TTXR single shock. Used for the first time on a Ducati production bike, this exclusive shock gives top performance while enabling considerable weight-saving over similar components produced with traditional technology. The TTXR uses twin tube technology and offers totally separate damping adjustment in compression and rebound. It uses experience gained in MotoGP to minimize friction and reduce the risk of cavitation under extreme conditions. A vitally important feature of the rear suspension system is the ability to adjust rear ride height independent of spring pre-load and other suspension settings, critical when seeking the perfect set-up for personal riding style or track conditions. Front Suspension: The front the of new 1098 R boasts fully adjustable 43 mm ÷Ohlins with low friction Titanium Nitride sliders feature radial Monobloc caliper mountings. The unique look of these mountings further endorses the no-compromise racing specification of the 1098 R. The ÷ohlins set-up offers superior road holding, delivers precise feedback, and enables every rider to be more confident and in control. The ÷ohlins package is completed with a control-enhancing, fully adjustable steering damper. Brembo Monobloc calipers: The 1098 R is also equipped with Brembo's Monobloc caliper racing technology. The M4 calipers use four 34 mm pistons and two large surface pads for maximum stopping power. The calipers are machined from a single piece of alloy compared to the bolt-together construction of conventional ones. The Monobloc design has much higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking and gives a much more precise feel at the brake lever. The massive 330 mm discs and Monobloc caliper technology combined with the legendary stability of Ducati Trellis frame and the 1098 Rios lightweight 165 kg (364 lbs) now makes world championship level brake performance available for the road. Super lightweight wheels: One of the most effective ways to improve the handling and performance of a motorcycle is to reduce its unsprung weight by using superior lightweight wheels. The 1098 R uses lightweight Marchesini Y-shaped spoke wheels created from forged then machined alloy and finished in "racing gold". Both front and rear wheels achieve a lower moment of inertia and unsprung weight to enhance the 1098 R's change of direction and braking performance. Fairing and Finish: Wind-tunnel development has enabled excellent aerodynamic penetration, allowing the rider to take a perfect racing stance, effortlessly. Great care has been taken in the design of the air supply ducts so to ensure efficient air-flow through radiator and oil coolers as well as provide ample air delivery to the airbox feeding the powerful Testastretta Evoluzione engine. The fairing belly-pan, tank lower side panels, seat assembly and front fender in carbon fibre are contributing factors to the overall performance of the machine. In true "R" style, the red bodywork sports white background number plates on the tail section and nose fairing. The front and rear Marchesini wheels are finished in "racing gold", exactly the same as the F08 official factory race bikes and the fairing belly-pan, front fender and side panels are left in a contrasting natural carbon fibre finish. Finally, the small red, white and green tricolore graphic, neatly shaped between the twin headlamps in the nose fairing, proudly underlines the Italian design, style and precision race engineering of this motorcycle.
Electronics Traction control: For the first time ever on a production motorcycle, a true competition-level traction control system comes integrated into the 1098 R electronics as standard equipment. Activated by fitting the race kit ECU, which is designed to be used with the race mufflers and so intended for track use only, the Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system is accessible via the digital instrument display and offers eight levels of control. The DTC is the same system developed and used by Ducati Corse for their world championship winning MotoGP and World Superbike projects and offers a choice of eight profiles developed by professional racers. Each profile has been programmed with a wheel-spin tolerance matched to progressive riding levels of skill and confidence from one to eight. Underlining the fact that this is a professional system intended strictly for track use only by competent riders, profile eight has been developed by the official Ducati MotoGP test rider, Vittoriano Guareschi. Choose the profile that best suits the track conditions and riding style and, upon activation, front and rear wheel sensors compare speed differential to sense when rear traction is being broken (wheel-spin). Using exactly the same software logic developed and used by Ducati Corse, instant electronic adjustment to the ignition advance or a pattern of ëspark cutsí initiates immediate control over power output so as to restore traction at the rear wheel before re-establishing normal power delivery. In this way, DTC provides an incredible advantage during mid-corner acceleration. Once again Ducati raises the bar for the sport bike category by transferring its MotoGP race technology into production. Data acquisition: Supplied with the 1098 R, the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA), which includes PC software, a USB-ready data retrieval card and instructions, enables owners to review and analyse the performance of the bike and its rider, and make comparisons between various channels of information. Normally used on race bikes only, the system records numerous channels of data including throttle opening, vehicle speed, engine rpm, engine temperature, distance travelled, laps and lap times. The system also automatically calculates engine rpm and vehicle speed data so as to also display gear selection as an additional channel of information. At the end of a ride or track session, up to 2 mb (approximately 3.5 hours) of data can be downloaded to a PC ready to compare, analyse and get an inside view of the performance of both the rider and the 1098 R. Data can be analysed in graphic form with options to zoom into detail of specific sections. Dragging a trace along a timeline to reveal individual values of the above listed channels enables the user to analyse performance in the same way that data technicians are able in factory teams.
The 17th annual Los Angeles Calendar Motorcycle Show Weekend presented by Performance Machine, America's premier custom, cruiser, performance and sportbike weekend returns to the Queen Mary Event Park in Long Beach on July 12-13th, 2008. Join 20,000 streetbike motorcycle and music enthusiasts for the world's most exciting 2-day motorcycle event weekend in the beautiful Queen Mary Event Park on the grass alongside the Pacific Ocean in Long Beach! This is the world's premier motorcycle show weekend featuring over 250 major motorcycle and parts manufacturers, selected product and apparel venders. The weekend features many of the world's top Pro and Amateur street bike builders will be in attendance to compete in the Performance Machine Calendar Show Bike Building Championship with a bulging purse of $86,000 in cash and awards including $4,000 cash for the coveted Performance Machine Best of Show Trophy, and a $5,000 Performance Machine product award also up for grabs,. There are 11 Calendar Bike Building Championship Classes including the premier Radical Pro Builder Class sponsored by Iron Works magazine as well as 10 other classes for American V-Twin Custom and Street Bikes, Vintage Bikes, as well as Metric Sportbikes and Cruisers Spectators can meet top celebrity custom bike builders including last year's best of Show winner Greg Westbury, along with Roland Sands, Russell Mitchell, Shinya Kimura, Joe Takai, Ron Simms, Paul Yaffe, Todd Silicato and dozens more. And attend free Calendar Bike Builder Seminars with the top Calendar builders to learn what it really takes to build some of the world's most inovative and beautiful custom bikes as featured in the Iron & Lace and Fast Dates Calendars.
Join in the excitement of the Calendar Show's exclusive S&S Cycle World Championship Horsepower Dyno Shoot Out hosted by Kerry Bryant of Area P Exhaust Systems. World Record runs are open up to anyone, including the change to see just how strong your streetbike really is. Classes & Awards for all stock and modified American V-Twin and Metric Sportbikes.
Both Days 2008! Headlining International Recording Stars Lillix Included with admission both days is the exciting 2-Day Calendar Girl Music Festival with beautiful national recording star girl bands and singers including Lillix, Taxi Doll, Kari Kimmel and AC/DC Tribute rock band Whole Lotta Rozies, Lead Zeplin tribute band Moby Chick plus the sexy Purrfect Angelz dance shows all weekend long. The weekend is hosted by Playboy model Tiffany Toth and other FastDates.com Calendar Kittens with the annual world premier of the new 2009 FastDates.com Motorcycle Pin Up Calendars. Title and Associate Sponsorship support for the premier streetbike event weekend in America is provided by Performance Machine, Thunder Press, ReCycler.com, Iron Works magazine, S&S Cycle, NOs Energy Drink, CycleTrader.com, Connection magazine, Speed TV's American Thunder, Mikuni Carburetors, Meguiar’s Car Care Products, and the FastDates.com Calendars. For additional LA Calendar Motorcycle Show & Calendar Girl Music Festival Weekend details including the show schedules, hotels and parking information visit www.FastDates.com/BIKESHOW.HTM
2008 Roadracing Rider and Team Line Ups, Race Schedules
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