Milan, Italy November 13-18th, 2012 - MVAgusta's reply to the Ducati's Streetfighter / Hypermotard premiering at EICMA this year is their new Rivale 800cc (above) which uses the F3 Supersport's 675cc 3-cylinder motor that has been bored and stroked to the maximum.
The Rivale was voted 'Most Beautiful Bike' at this year's EICMA Show.

Fast Dates Exclusive! EICMA 2012 International Motorcycle Show coverage, Milan, Italy! - CLICK HERE

Ducati Unleashes the 1199R Panigale Superbike
Nov 15th 2012 - The 2013 Ducati Superbike family line-up is now completed with the highly-anticipated arrival of the 1199 Panigale R, the absolute flagship of the range and the machine specially developed with enhanced technical specification by Ducati Corse for World Superbike homologation. The exciting “R” model stands alongside the 1199 Panigale and 1199 Panigale S in the new-for-2013 arctic white colour scheme and
signature Ducati red, in addition to the exclusive 1199 Panigale S Tricolore.

All 2013 1199 models are updated with latest generation engine management mapping and Ride-by-Wire calibration, stated to increase low and mid-rage power significantly over the 2012 Superquadro engine, further enhancing the Ducati Superbike riding experience. This ECU software upgrade is also available now to all 2012 model 1199 Panigale owners free of charge through their Ducati dealers, both for standard exhaust system bikes and those upgraded with the DP Termigoni Silencer Kite, and the Complete Race System as now come standard on the 1199R.

1199 Panigale R Features:
• As “S” version with: Ducati red with white racing features colour scheme
• Lightweight titanium con-rods
• Lightweight flywheel
• DLC-coated rocker-arms
• Increased rev-limit (12,000rpm)
• 4-point adjustable swingarm pivot
• Carbon fibre: Single-sided swingarm protector, Clutch cover protector, Rear wheel hugger, Rear suspension guard,, Footrest heel guards
Ignition switch surround, Top fairing inner panels

Including Race Kit:
Full Termignoni exhaust system, Up- map key with dedicated ECU mapping, High-penetration racing screen, Fairing mirror-caps

Ducati World Superbike Champion Carlos Checa helped introduce the new 1199R at EICMA.

The pursuit of perfection
The “R” version of Ducati’s Superbikes has always been the dream model, the machine taken by Ducati Corse and enhanced with high performance preparation for homologation into the highly competitive environment of World Superbike. The 1199 Panigale R model introduces the very latest version of engine and R-b-W mapping to all the 1199 models, improving performance and refining the overall Superbike riding experience. The “R” takes everything that the “S” model is currently equipped with and applies a list of enhancements to the technical specification that enable the model to achieve even greater targets. Titanium con-rods, which save an overall 0.63kg (1.38lb), a 0.7kg (1.54lb) lighter crankshaft flywheel, DLC-coated rocker-arms and revised engine mapping now enhance the Superquadro engine’s crank acceleration and allow it to rev 500rpm higher to a 12,000rpm limit, an incredible engineering achievement for 112mm pistons.

The famous “R” race kit components consist of high-penetration racing screen, fairing mirror caps in machined alloy and a full Termignoni exhaust system with dedicated ECU mapping (for track use only). The system provides an impressive power increase of 3% at the top of the rev-range and 15% in the mid-range, further amplified by the R’s acceleration-enhancing 15-41 final drive ratio.

The race-oriented “R” model also features a 4-point adjustable swingarm pivot, designed to enable riders a personalised and precise set-up of varying levels of pro or anti-squat to optimise traction on corner exit. The settings are dialled-in using two user-friendly eccentric adjusters that offer pivot positions at +2mm higher, - 2mm lower and -4mm lower than the standard position, each positively and accurately locked and located.
The clearly marked, easy-to-use system provides optimum adjustability for competition use.

Additional enhancements to the machine include lightweight carbon fibre rear hugger, rear suspension guard, heels guards, ignition switch surround and top fairing inner panels and carbon fibre protectors for the single-sided swingarm and clutch cover. These lightweight chassis and engine components enable the “R” version a dry weight of just 165kg (363.7lb), even with an ABS braking system fitted as standard equipment.
This top-of-the-range model is also fitted with a special race-style seat fabric for added “feel” and equipped with the GPS-enhanced Ducati Data Acquisition system, for automatic lap times and circuit map-linked data. The 1199 Panigale R is dressed in Ducati red with defining white race features, sporting a mix of red and brushed aluminium on the fuel tank with lightweight forged wheels by Marchesini in black.

Innovative suspension
Incorporating Ducati’s Riding Mode technology, the 1199 Panigale S and Tricolore are fully equipped with front and rear Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) system by Öhlins. The 43mm Öhlins NIX30 forks are adjustable electronically in compression and rebound damping, while spring pre-load is manual. An adjustable steering damper completes the full Öhlins package.

The Öhlins TTX36 rear unit features twin tube technology to offer totally separate damping adjustment in compression and rebound and minimise the risk of cavitation under extreme conditions. The unit is fully adjustable electronically in compression and rebound damping, while spring pre-load is manual. The electronic suspension adjustment can be made either by using the pre-set Riding Modes, which havebeen developed by Ducati test riders and racers, or in independent mode, which allows riders to use their own personal and saveable settings. Digital damping adjustments send signals that execute the mechanicaladjustment via electronic actuators mounted in the suspension units.

Electronic technology
The 1199 Panigale is equipped with many of the latest innovative electronics developed by Ducati on the race track, and they are combined, managed and displayed on full TFT technology instrumentation. First introduced to the motorcycle industry on the Ducati Diavel, the TFT display is super-enhanced on the 1199 Panigale.

The state-of-the-art electronics package features an enhanced version of the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA+), and Ducati Riding Modes, with fully integrated ABS, Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES), Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Quick Shift (DQS), Engine Brake Control (EBC), full Ride-by-Wire (RbW) and the Thin Film Transistor instrumentation (TFT).

The 1199 Panigale uses a compact version of its Ducati Quick Shift (DQS), first introduced on the 1198 SP and increases its formidable fire power with a sport-intended, adjustable ABS system and Ducati’s Engine Brake Control system (EBC), designed to enhance stability during de-acceleration.

Pricing for the 2013 Panigale Superbike line remains the same as in 2012 with the base model 1199 at $17.995, 1199 w/ABS $18.995, 1199S $22,995, 1199S w/ ABS $23,995 and the new 1199R w/ ABS $29,995.

Carlos aboard the new 1199RS Superbike which will spearhead Ducati Alstare's 2013-2014 World Superbike foray.

Bernhard Gobmeier appointed as General Manager of Ducati Corse
Paolo Ciabatti Leaves World Superbike to take over Ducati MotoGP Department
• Bernhard Gobmeier becomes the new General Manager of Ducati Corse
• Filippo Preziosi assumes the position of Director of R&D Ducati Motor Holding
• Paolo Ciabatti appointed as Ducati MotoGP Project Director

Ducati SpA, Borgo Panigale (Bologna), Italy, 20 November 2012 – Ducati announces the appointment of Bernhard Gobmeier as the new General Manager of Ducati Corse. Utilising his significant experience in the world of motorsport, including more recently his role as Superbike Director with BMW, the position will draw upon the 53-year-old German’s extensive managerial experience ready to enter the new phase of development for Ducati’s racing activities and to achieve the targets set during the recent acquisition by the Audi Group.
Mr. Gobmeier will report directly to the CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, Gabriele Del Torchio, and count upon the experience and professional support of Filippo Preziosi.
 
Engineer Filippo Preziosi, the current General Manager of Ducati Corse, will now assume the position of Director of Research & Development for Ducati Motor Holding and report directly to Claudio Domenicali, General Manager of Ducati Motor Holding. The prestigious and strategic company role will enable 44-year-old Preziosi to apply the valuable experience of his 18 years in Ducati, 12 of which in Ducati Corse, to the development of new product.
 
Paolo Ciabatti (55) has been appointed the new Ducati MotoGP Project Director. The Italian now returns to the Borgo Panigale headquarters in Bologna to take advantage of his extensive experience in the world of motorcycle competition, which has included coordinating the World Superbike Championship as General Director.
 
After two seasons in the position, Engineer Ernesto Marinelli (39), is confirmed to continue as Ducati Superbike Project Director, with the activities of both Marinelli and Ciabatti coordinated by Mr. Gobmeier.
All appointments will commence from January 2013.
 
 “With these new appointments and the 2013 riders announced in MotoGP and World Superbike, we are well prepared to move forward into the new racing season,” said the CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, Gabriele Del Torchio.  “We are confident that with this new organisation and focused strategy, we will achieve our targets and continue with the fundamentally important transfer of ‘know-how’ from racing into production, an element that characterises every Ducati motorcycle.”

Checa and Badovini to race with Team Ducati Alstare in 2013 World Superbike
Borgo Panigale (Bologna), 11 November 2012 - A two-year agreement for the World Superbike Championship seasons 2013-2014 has been signed between Ducati and Francis Batta’s Belgian organisation, Team Alstare. Riders, Carlos Checa (Spain) and Ayrton Badovini (Italy) will join Alstare staff ready to prepare for the challenge of the 2013 World Superbike Championship. Powered by the new Ducati 1199 Panigale, the team will officially represent the Bologna-based manufacturer under the title “Team Ducati Alstare”.
 
Team Alstare is renowned for its benchmark professionalism and expertise and its headquarters, at Alleur in Belgium, is among the most technologically advanced in the sport. This impressive set-up combined with the passion of the Bologna factory’s engineers will create the perfect synergy to meet the expectations of the new Ducati 1199 Panigale. Alstare technicians and the Ducati Superbike development team will start working together immediately, with pre-winter tests scheduled to begin at the Aragon circuit in Spain on 14-15 November and continuing at Jerez from 28-30 November.

A New 2013 Ducati Hypermotard Family Based on a Revised 821cc Testastretta 11° engine
Ducati introduce the next generation of the Hypermotard family, taking the innovation and excitement of the original concept and enhancing it even further with three incredible new models: The thrilling Hypermotard, Hypermotard SP and the introduction of a stylish and accessible mid-range tourer with everyday practicality – The Hyperstrada. The new range combines Ducati's latest technologies with outstanding Italian design
and engineering to write the latest chapter in the Hypermotard story.

The Hypermotard and Hypermotard SP deliver a thrilling and fun filled experience, whether on the daily commute or ripping-up the track asphalt, while the Hyperstrada awaits long distance adventure, enabling practical, everyday motorcycling in absolute Ducati style.

Brand new from the ground up, the models introduce the new 110hp Ducati 821cc Testastretta 11° engine in a new Trellis frame equipped with top-of-the range chassis components. The Hypermotard and Hypermotard SP use sharp and sleek styling to maintain that essential Supermotard look, while the Hyperstrada is factory-accessorised with full touring-oriented specification. Combine these two worlds of performance with excellent ergonomics and the Ducati Safety Pack of latest generation 3-level ABS, 8-level Ducati Traction Control and integrated Riding Modes, and the new range takes on a relevance that makes perfect sense in modern motorcycling.

High ground-clearance combined with a thin waistline and commanding riding positions gives the rider an instant Supermotard feeling, with the added luxury of latest street bike comfort and component quality. While the Hyperstrada is ideal for dominating the every-day urban or long distance commute, the Hypermotard and track-ready Hypermotard SP are intended for the extreme rider who demands the very highest performance.

The First Generation Hypermoto used the older Ducati Desmodue 2-valve 1100 Evo aircooled engine rated at 95hp which still remains for now in the current 2013 Monster range, but look for this new 110hp Ducati 821cc Testastretta 11° engine to find its way into the Monster line in the next year or two. The First Gen had a quicker 24° rake / head angle with a short 1455mm wheelbase which made it pretty nervous as a street bike, but the Second Generation is really slowed down with a 25.5° rake / head angle with a 2-inch longer 1500mm wheelbase. For a weight comparispm of the new bigger Hupermotard with the 4-valve watercooled motor, the new SP model has an advertised dry weight of 194kg / 377lbs while the previous aircooled bike weighted 179kg / 398lbs. So the new Second Gen bike is some 20 pounds lighter with 15 more horsepower, in a much more stable and comfortable chassis. Sounds good to us - we can't wait to ride one! The new range takes the Hypermotard concept into the future with refined design and user-friendly technologies that will enhance its enjoyment to a wider range of riders.

Hypermotard SP
The spectacular, track-ready Hypermotard SP takes everything offered by the Hypermotard and raises its technical specification for accomplished riders who enjoy a full performance-oriented ride, further enhanced with the DSP combination of ABS and DTC. In true competition style, the SP gets the 1199 Panigale Riding Modes of Race (110hp – High), Sport (110hp – Medium) and Wet (75hp – Low) and longer, top-of-the-range
suspension gives a true supermotard stance, increasing ground clearance to 210mm (8.3in) and enabling a thrilling 47.5° of available lean-angle for maximum enjoyment.

The SP is equipped with fully adjustable, pressurised Marzocchi usd forks that feature hard-anodised aluminium sliders. The state-of-the-art lightweight forks are provide professional, precise and highperformance handling with an increased stroke of 185mm (7.3in) as well as excellent feed-back through the aluminium, tapered handle bars. The rear suspension is equally as high-end with a stunning, fully adjustable Öhlins rear shock with integrated “piggy back” reservoir providing 175mm (6.9in) of rear wheel travel. Naturally, the Hypermotard “SP” is fitted with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa “SP” tyres in 120/70 x 17 for the front and 180/55 x 17 for the rear and is equipped with super lightweight 1199 Panigale S-style triple three-spoke forged aluminium wheels by Marchesini, further underlining the SP’s focus on high performance.

Additional components special to the SP are front mudguard and cam-belt covers in carbon fibre, radial front master cylinder with 5-point adjustable lever and dedicated seat with specially textured surface and horizontally stitched panels for enhanced grip. This impressive specification combines to achieve a dry weight of just 171kg (377lb) and the competition-like set-up gives the Hypermotard SP a seat height of 890mm (35in) with an accessory seat offering a reduction of 20mm (0.78in) if required. The Hypermotard SP is finished in the Ducati Corse livery of red white and black with grey separating features and a red Trellis frame. The Marchesini wheels are in black and sport the signature red-pin stripe.

2012 World Superbike Champion Announces his Retirement
Noale, Italy November 7th, 2012 Aprilia Press Release - Aprilia Racing and the Piaggio Group wish to thank Max Biaggi on this, the day when he has announced his retirement from racing, for his extraordinary contribution to the world of sports and the Aprilia image.

From the first championship title he won in 1994 in the 250 class to the Rider and Manufacturer titles won this year on the Aprilia RSV4 in World SBK, Aprilia's history in competitive motorcycling has been inextricably connected to the Max’s efforts, winning unforgettable victories and becoming the only Italian rider to have ever triumphed in World Superbike. Max won five of his six world titles astride bikes from Noale in addition to winning 41 races and riding his way to 43 podiums: he is without question the most victorious Aprilia rider ever, as well as one of the greatest players in motorcycle sports on a global level. The Piaggio Group extends warmest wishes of happiness and success to Max Biaggi in his personal endeavours and in any new professional activities that he may undertake.

Editors note: It is understandable that Max Biaggi at age 41 with six World Championships has announced his retirement after clinching his 2nd World Superbike title this year for Aprilia. But as World Championship roadracing fans we are devastated that recently so many of our legendary racers are leaving us while still at the top of their careers and the sport. It began with Troy Bayliss retiring at the end of 2008 after securing his 3rd World Superbike tile for Ducati. At the end of last season 2-time World Superbike Champ Troy Corser and runner-up Noriyuki Haga stepped away from World Superbike without any ceremony or recognition. Then at the beginning of 2012 we had multi-time MotoGP Champion casey Stoner, just 27 years old, announcing his retirement to come after the Valencia MotoGP this coming weekend. It really disappoints us that we are loosing so many of our heroes, in such quick succession, but thank full that they are leaving the sport in good health with new futures before them. Best wishes to then all!

Retro Racer!
See awesome bike editorial features like Yaniv Evans' Powerplant Choppers "Black & White"
with Fast Dates World Superbike grid girls Kinsey and Sabella in the Calendar Bike Garage

Dani Pedrosa relishes his new 2012 MotoGP World Championship and another victory at the final race of the year, while teammate Casey Stoner contrmplates his final podium and race appearance, ever.

2012 MotoGP World Championship, Round 18 of 18, Valencia, Spain

Good Bye Casey!
Pedrosa Wins 2012 MotoGP Season Finale, Stoner 3rd in his Last race
Valencia, Spain, November 11th, 2012 - In the final MotoGP™ race at the Gran Premio Generali de la Comunitat Valenciana it was Repsol Honda Team’s Dani Pedrosa who took victory in a dramatic race that was marred with awkward conditions and crashes ahead of Katsuyuki Nakasuga the Yamaha replacement rider for injured ben Spies, and Casey Stoner in his final race, who was later named the 20th MotoGP Legend.
The race was declared wet by Race Direction despite a near dry line having formed, and only Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jorge Lorenzo, his teammate Nakasuga, and LCR Honda MotoGP’s Stefan Bradl, chose the softer option slick tyres, with all others on the hard wets. However, in a twist unseen this season, Pedrosa, Ducati Team’s Nicky Hayden, Monster Yamaha Tech 3’s Cal Crutchlow and San Carlo Honda Gresini’s Álvaro Bautista then decided to start from pit-lane after their sighting lap, with all of them switching to a bike with slick tyres.

Complete Valencia MotoGP Season Finale coverage HERE

New 2013 MV Brutale 800 Breaks Cover
MV AGUSTA'S newest member of the Brutale family gets a new mid-range 800cc engine. The new engine is a 798cc triple, which will also do duty in the new Rivale (think Ducati MultoStada sort touring bike) which is also being revealed next week at the 2012 EICMA show in Milan. Based on a bored-out 675 engine from the M3 sportbike introduced at EICMA last year and finally in dealers this past summer, the bigger 800 engine pushes out 125 bhp at 11,600 rpm (up 12 bhp over the 675) for a claimed top speed of 153 mph. Torque is also up nearly 15 per cent to 60 lb-ft, at 8,600 rpm. The 167kg (dry), mixed-trellis-and-plate-framed bike sports 320mm twin discs up front, fully adjustable suspension and a substantial package of electronic trickery including eight levels of traction control. The bike sell for 9,900 Euros in Europe, so expect USA proicing to be around $14,000. An electric shift model is also available for 400 Euros more.

Order Now from Amazon.com USA: USD $69.95 • Amazon.com UK/Europe: UK £55.00 / EUR $55

Exclusive Autographed Collector's Package!
The all new Ducati Corse World Superbikes 224-pg book and the 2013 Fast Date World Superbike Calendar - World Release July 1st 2012
Personally autographed to you (or the name you request on the PayPal.com Order Form) by Jim Gianatsis and shipped direct to you.
For more information or to order the Book or the Calendar individually, unsigned, go to the Sportbike Books and Fast Dates Calendar order pages. $100 Collector's Package, plus $20 USPS Priority Mail Shipping & Handing in the USA.

Autographed Book & Calendar Collector's Package with Shipping & Handling

Collector's Package $100, USA S&H $20 = $120.00 USD Collector's Package $100, Canada S&H $35 = $135.00 USD Collector's Package $100, International S&H $50 = $150.00 USD

Ducati Corse World Superbike Book Signings in Los Angeles!
Jim Gianatsis will be doing a signing of his new Ducati Corse World Superbikes Book and 2013 Fast Dates Calendar
in the LA area at these upcoming Ducati Dealer Open Houses:

• Nov 17th, 2012 - SoCal Motorcycles Open House, Brea, CA
Stop by, say hello, and get a personally autographed copy of the new book!

FastDates.com presents the
Edelweiss Ducati Best of Italy Tour with a World Superbike or MotoGP Race 2013/2014
Ever wonder why Italian motorcycle racers win almost twice as many world championship titles as any other nation? Well, there are probably many reasons, but looking at an Italian map you will see one particular reason: beautiful Italian roads weaving through a patchwork of mountains and mountain chains. That, and a passion for buildoing incredible high performance machinery, like Ducati which has won more World Superbike Championships than all the other bike manufacturers combined. Take that Championship winning Desmoquatro motor and place it in one of the world's premier sport touring bikes, the Multistrada 1200, and you've now got an incredible motorcycle to tour central Italy with its beautiful Tuscany region.

FastDates.com Website editor and photographer Jim Gianatsis has experienced the Edelweiss Ducati Best of Italy Tour first hand and recomends it highly, particularly for roadracing enthusiasts, and if you've never been riding or attended a World Championship round in Europe. For any Ducatista the trip to the Ducati factory is just icing on the cake. This tour begins in the birthplace of the most infamous of Italian motorcycles, the Ducati Factory in Bologna where you will tour the Ducati Museum and New Motorcycle Production Line before picking up your bike and heading out across the wine country of Tuscany with your newest friends.

Once underway, you will be busy all day, every day, to make it to places which are, on average, 60 miles apart as the crow flies. Why does it take so long? You'll spend a night in the beautiful cities of Florence, Sienna, Assisi and San Marino. But there's lunch and coffee stops in small villages along the way, plus you'll want to get to your destination city early to take in the sights, then end the day with a glorious dinner. You'll find your luggage waiting for you in your hotel room, having been transported there earlier by the chase van, so you can enjoy the day riding and enjoying the sights, not worrying about anything else. The Multistrada 1200 transforms mobility into art, rendering time and distance irrelevant, that’s why. Art needs freedom, therefore our flight pattern is not necessarily bound to any particular road surface either.

You'll devote a week of your lives to create a team masterpiece of motorised motion, consider yourself part of the Ducati team, and do not expect anything short of Ducati VIP treatment at the World Superbike or Moto Grand Prix round that completes the tour on the following weekend. At the legendary tracks of Imola or Mugello you'll get VIP Parking in the Ducati Village just behind the Ducati Grandstands where you'll have the best seat in the house to watch the races. Then its a short ride back to Bologna that evening for a final evening banquet party with your new closest freinds before leaving for home the next day. For complete information go to: Edelweiss Ducati Italy Race Tour

To see FastDates.com Editorial Feature go the Edelweiss Ducati Best of Italy Tour

The Edelweiss Ducati Best if Italy Tours are schedued to take place in June of 2013 and 2104.
For full information about this and the other incredible Edelweiss Motorcycle Tours click here:

There's more!   Go to Pit Lane News Previous Week

Also Visit:  Fast Dates Calendar News  •  Iron & Lace Calendar News
Calendar Girl News  •  Meet the Models • Paddock Garage

Get FastDates.com T-Shirts, Mugs & Photographs from Our Store

MEMBERS CORNER! Calendar Kittens, Paddock Garage, Iron & Lace Garage

Amazon.com Motorcycle Products & Apparel Store



MotorcycleSuperstore.com

Jim Gianatsis
Editorial Director

Send Letters & News to:
Contact @ FastDates.com

SBK & MotoGP Press Offices
Kel Edge, Julian Thomas
Fabrizio Porrozzi
Gold & Goose, Max Oliana
Contributing Editors
& Photographers

MySpace.com/FastDates.com

Find it Fast! Bikes • Babes
Builders • Racing News:

PIT LANE NEWS INDEX
2011 News Updated Daily
2-3 months ahead of print!
Return: FRONT PAGE

• Oct 2012 Page 3 News
• Oct 2012 Page 4 News
• Sept 2012 page 1 News
• Sept 2012 page 2 News
• Sept 2012 page 3 News
• Sept 2012 page 4 News
• Sept 2012 page 1 News
• Sept 2012 page 2 News
• Sept 2012 Page 3 News
• Sept 2012 Page 4 News
• Aug 2012 Page 1 News
• Aug 2012 Page 2 News
• Aug 2012 Page 3 News
• Aug 2012 Page 4 News
• July 2012 Page 1 News
• July 2012 Page 2 News
• July 2012 Page 3 News
• July 2012 Page 4 News
• Jun 2012 Page 1 News
• Jun 2012 Page 2 News
• Jun 2012 Page 3 News
• Jun 2012 Page 4 News
• May 2012 Page 1 News
• May 2012 Page 2 News
• May 2012 Page 3 News
• May 2012 Page 4 News
• Apr 2012 Page 1 News
• Apr 2012 Page 2 News
• Apr 2012 Page 3 News
• Apr 2012 Page 4 News
• Mar 2012 Page 1 News
• Mar 2012 Page 2 News
• Mar 2012 Page 3 News
• Mar 2012 Page 4 News
• Feb 2012 Page 1 News
• Feb 2012 Page 2 News
• Feb 2012 Page 3 News
• Feb 2012 Page 4 News
• Jan 2012 Page 1 News
• Jan 2012 Page 2 News
• Jan 2012 Page 3 News

Pit Board More News!
2011 Pit Lane News
2010 Pit Lane News
2009 Pit Lane News
2008 Pit Lane News
2007 Pit Lane News
2006 Pit Lane News
2005 Pit Lane News

Past Season News, Races and Feature Stories are Indexed in Pit Board

2012 RACE CALENDAR
and EVENT COVERAGE

2012 World Superbike
Season Preview
DATE/REPORT   TRACK LINK
Feb 26      Phillip Island AUS
April 1       Italy Imola
April 22     Assen Netherlands
May 6       Italy Monza
May 13     Donnington, GB
May 28     Miller USA
June 10   Misano San Marino
July 1       Motorland Aragon SP
July 22     Brno Czech Republic
Aug 5       Silverstone GB
Aug 26     Moscow Raceway RF
Sept 9      Nurburgring Germany
Sept 23    Portimao Portugal
Oct 7        Magny Cours France

All Rounds include Superbike    and 600cc Superstock except    Miller USA is Superbike only
European rounds also Include    1000cc Superstock
    exception Donnington

2012 MotoGP
DATE/REPORT   TRACK LINK
Apr 8   -    Qatar – Doha Losail
April 29 -   Spain, Jerez Frontera
May 6 -     Portugal, Estoril
May 20 -   France, Le Mans
June 3 -   Catalunya, Catalunya
June 17 - UK, Silverstone
June 30 - Netherlands, Assen                (Saturday Race)
July 8 -    Germany,Sachsenring
July 15 -   Italy, Mugello
July 29 -   USA, Laguna Seca                (Only MotoGP class)
Aug 19 -  USA, Indianapolis
Aug 26 -  Czech Rep, Brno
Sept 16 - SanMarino Misano
Sept 30 - Aragon Motorland
Oct 14 -   Japan, Motegi
Oct 21 -   Malaysia, Sepang
Oct 28 -   Australia, Phillip Is
Nov 11-   Valencia, Ricardo

2012 AMA Superbike
DATE/REPORT   TRACK LINK
Mar 15-17     Daytona FL
Apr 20-22     Road Atlanta, GA
May 4-6        Infineon CA
May 25-28    Miller Mtrsports UT
June 1-2      Road America WI
June 22-24  Bartber, AL
July 13-15    Mid-Ohios
July 27-29    Laguna Seca CA
Sept 7-9      New Jersey MSports
Sept 21-23  Homestead-Miami
Oct 5 - 7      NOLA Motorsports                     Park, New Orleans

2012 British Superbike
Click Date for Race Report
DATE/REPORT   TRACK LINK
April 6-9        Brands Hatch Indy
Apr 13-15     Thruxton
May 5-7         Oulton Park
May 25-27     Snetterton
June 22-24    Knockhill
July 01-03     Snetterton
July 6-8         Oulton Park
July 20-22     Brands Hatch GP
Aug 25-27     Cadwell Park
Sept 7-9        Donnington Park
Sept 21-23    Assen
Sept 28-30    Silverstone GP
Oct 12-14      Brands Hatch GP

Pit Board Past Season News & Race Coverage

Book Your Tour & Race
Weekend on Expedia!



New Sport and Race Bikes!
Tests & Reviews

New Sportbike Index
• Aprilia Index
• BMW Index
• Bimota Index
• Ducati Index
• Foggy Petronas
• Honda Index
• Kawasaki Index
• KTM RC8 Superbike
• MV Agusta
• Poggipolini Millona
• Poggipolini Nera
• Roehr Superbike
• Suzuki GSXR Index
• Vyrus Superbike
• Yamaha Index

Editorial, Bike Tests
News Features

• BMW HP4 S1000RR Superbike   Track Day Weapon
• 2012 LA Calendar Bike Show   Japanese Builder Best of Show
• World Superbike Changes to   Pirelli 17-Inch Wheels for 2013
• World Ducati Week 2012
  65,000 of the faithful at Misano
• Ducati 1199RS 2013 World   Superbike Part One & Part Two
• 2012 Honda CBR1000RR
• Editorial: World Championship   Roadracing in USA - Will it   Survive?
• Fast Dates Calendar Shoot at   Miller 2012 World Superbike
• Quail Motorcycle Gathering   2012
• Pirelli Diablo SuperCorsa -   Superbike Tires for the Street!
• Ducati 1199S Panigale Track   Ride
• 2012 World Superbike Preview
• Verona Italy Bike Show -
  Cool Customs and Sporbikes
• Pro Italia Cafe Desmo   Coverage
• Ducati's Monocoque Design   Dilemma - To Frame or Not?
• Manuela Raffaeta
  Marco   Melandri's Girlfriend!
• Ducati 1199 Panigale Feature
• EICMA 2011 Motorccycle Show
• Elena Myers - Teen Roadracer
• Ducati 1199 Panigale
  Most Advaced Superbike Ever
• Marco Simoncelli Tribute -   
  Death of a rising MotoGP Star
• New Ducati Superquadro 1199   Engine - 195 hp for the Street!
• 2011 LA Calendar
  Motorcyle Show
• Ducati Diavel Test in Italy!   Superbike meets Custom
• DRE Troy Bayliss Academy  Exclusive First Test at 180mph!
• NCR Factory / Poggopolini
  Ducati Racing Bikes and Parts
• Fox Factory Superbike Shox   
  The choice of Champions
• Mission R Superbike!
  Electron Powered racer!
• Brammo Electric Sportbike
• Hansen Dam British Bike Meet   Biggest Brit Bike meet in USA
• Valentino Rossi / Yamaha M1   Seminar with the Doctor
• Shorai Lithium MCBattery   GoodBye Lead & Acid
• NCAA Women's Volleyball -   Chicks That Kick ASS!
• EICMA 2010 International   Motorcycle Show - Bikes Girls
• Taylor Momsen / The Pretty   Reckless Chicks Kick ASS!
• Ducati Edelweiss Imola
  World Superbike Tour to
  Ducati Factory, Mueum, Store   Italy & Imola World Superbike
• Yosh Suzuki GS750E 1983
  The Ultimate Street Superbike!
• Fast Dates Calendar Shoot at   Miller USA WSB 2010
• 20th Anniversary Fast Dates    World Superbike Calendar
• 2009 LA Calendar Bike Show    Hot Bikes, Beautiful Girls
• John Britten A Video Tribute
   to Motorcycling's Innovator
• Heart Attack Grill - the
   World's Sexiest Hamburgers!
• Roehr Harley Supebike
   Silk Purse from a Sow's Ear
• Troy Bayliss Interview  
  3-Time World SBK Champ
• Valentino Rossi Interview
  8-Time Grand Prix Champ
• 2010 Fast Dates Cal Shoot
• Baltika Beer - Worlds Best!
• DMG Kills AMA Superbike!
• BMW S1000 RR Superbike
• High Speed - the Movie
• Casey Stoner - MotoGP star
• BMW HP2 Sport
• Ducati Hypermoto R
• 2009 Fast Dates Shoot
  at Brands Hatch WSB
• Calendar Bike Show 2007
• Vyrus Superbike Exotica
• Ducati 1098S Tri Colore
• Lame Ducks?
  Ducati and Bayliss Too Fast?
• Edelweiss Alps Challenge
• The Game A Racer's Tale
• Interview Paolo Ciabatti
  Ducati's Superbike Future
• Ducati Desmosedici RR
  World's best Superbike?
• World's Fastest Indian
• Ducati DRE Track Schools
• Ducati Museum Visit
• Chris Vermeulen
   Interview & Profile
• 2008 Fast Dates Calendar
  Shoot at Brands Hatch
• Edelweiss Bike Trip to   
  France and Western Alps
• AMA Pro Racing and the
  Decline of US Roadracing
• Pirelli PinUp Calendar
• MV Agusta F4-1000
   Rockin' Robin's 1st test
• Ducati Racing Experience
  Superbike School
• Pirelli Calendar  Supermodels   get naked in  Rio de Janero
• Who is Ten Kate?   
  Private Hondas Kick Ass
• Ducati Factory Visit
• Ducati Corse Race Shop
  Exclusive Visit!
• World Ducati Week
  Sportbike Heaven
• Ducati 04 Desmosedici
   D16 GP4 MotoGP Bike
• Torque Movie Review
   with our Jaime Presley
• British Sportbike
   Magazine Review
• AMA Superbike Rules
• Valentino Rossi
  Biography of a Champ.
• SBK Fast Dates Girls   
  Our official Ducati Corse   umbrella girls at Laguna
• Paris Motorcycle Show
  Well Worth the Trip

Sportbike Magazines
& Pinup Calendars
A Revealing Expose!
• Crossbow Calendar 2010
• Pirelli Calendar 2010 topless!
• Pirelli Calendar 2009
• Pirelli Calendar 2006
• Pirelli Calendar 2005
• Pirelli Calendar Review
• Bike Calendar Review
• Buy Pinup Calendars
• British Bike Mag Review

Chicks That Kick Ass!
INDEX - Bring These Girls Home to Mom!
• Taylor Swift
• Kari Kimmel
• Elizabeth Nicole
• Lora Croft
• Jessica Biel
• Kristen Bell
• Maria Sharapova
• Mila Jovovich
• Kate Beckinsale
• Fast Dates Kittens

Roadracing World
63% Off! Just $1.50 a month
Cheaper than shop rags
for those messy oil spills



Sexiest Magazines!
Maxim, FHM, Stuff,
Sport Rider, Playboy
Cycle World and more!



MotoGP Performance Riding New 2nd Edition!
Official MotoGP book, the second edition of this practical guide to motorcycle racing technique, aimed at racing and track day enthusiasts at all levels, has been expanded to include extra information as well as many new photographs and up-to-date quotes from MotoGP stars

.

The Making of the
Fast Dates Calendar
& World Championships
on DVD!

For Immediate Release
Magneti Marelli ECU available to all MotoGP™ teams from 2013
Wed, 26 Sept 2012 -Magneti Marelli will give all competitors in the MotoGP™ premier-class the option to utilise the Italian company’s Electronic Control System on their racing machines from 2013. This landmark four-year agreement will give all teams access to Magneti Marelli’s electronic control system, which includes an engine and chassis control unit with inboard datalogger, as well as the relevant tuning and data analysis tools, dashboard, handlebar toggle switch and inertial platform.

This system, representing the highest technological option in Magneti Marelli’s portfolio, will be backed up by a permanent presence of its technicians on track, as well as continual development and evolution at its MotoGP-specific R&D centre as its Bologna headquarters, which will be set up specifically in light of this agreement.

Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna CEO, is thrilled with this latest cooperation: “I cannot hide the fact that I am very happy with this new cooperation with Magneti Marelli. The agreement reached we have reached with the Italian company merely validates MotoGP as a competition that incorporates and encourages the latest and most innovative technology. The experience of this company, which has spent many years at the highest level of competition in motor sport, represents a major step in the premier-class of two-wheel racing.”

Roberto Dalla, Magneti Marelli Motorsport Managing Director, added: “We are very glad to share our know-how and experience in the motorsport field with MotoGP, in order to jointly achieve new objectives in terms of performance and technology development. The main aim is to provide top technology at affordable costs, which is Magneti Marelli’s mission firstly in racing and also in the field of series production. Magneti Marelli has been developing solutions in the electronics and electro-mechanics area for MotoGP teams for the last decade: this new initiative with Dorna represents a further strategic opportunity to enhance the development of our technology.”

Editor's Note" There was no inference to it in this press release, but Dorna has been wanting all the MotogGP Factory and CRT Teams to run the same ECU unit so Dorna can control all bikes power and RPM limits in the future, as a way of making the lower cost production engine based CRT bikes on equal performance to the factroy machines, and return to more exciting racing in the MotoGP class were the entires are down because of the economy, and the CRT bikes are consistantly 2-3 seconds a lap slower than the factory bikes, keeping the racing fairly unexciting.

Dorna needs to see how all the MotoGP temas fare with the Magneti Marelli ECU before the mandate tat all the teams must use them, and then start mandating power output so all the bikes are equal and can race together. Honda has already statd it will withdraw from MotoGP racing and return to World Superbike if the ECU units are regulated.