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Form Results Inserted Here
Date: 3rd August 2004
Headline: Stoffer teams with Pedregon
Redondo Beach, Calif.-based Underdog Racing, Inc., which announced July 29 the signing of Frank Pedregon to a three-year contract, has added yet another high profile component to their team, Pro Stock Bike racer Karen Stoffer, who is currently ninth in the point standings. The relationship will officially begin with the 2005 season.
Jeff Flasco, the new managing partner of Underdog Racing stated, "With each piece of the team we add we're are building towards our goal of completing an exciting drag race team that people, especially fans, can identify with. We believe Karen is one of the rare drivers who carry our vision and attitude toward relating to both the fan base and NHRA. Of course, the fact that she's an excellent driver is simply big bonus. We believe that Karen and her team can push hard towards a championship season next year and beyond."
Underdog Racing's focus will be on bringing a new group of fans to each weekend and giving them the feel of a true family-oriented environment.
Courtesy NHRA
Date: 3rd August 2004
Headline: Fram Autolite Nationals, Sonoma
Antron Brown will be kicking himself after squandering the best end of the quickest side-by-side Pro Stock Bike race of all-time with a one-thousandth-of-a-second red-light violation. The instant disqualification allowed Angelle Savoie to win her 33rd national event with a 7.066 at 184.52 mph against Brown's 7.059 at 186.51 mph.
The whole Pro Stock Bike weekend was painted olive drab as U.S. Army racers Savoie and Brown raced to the top two qualifying positions on Saturday and then successfully carried their momentum through to race day where they climbed opposite sides of the ladder to the money round.
Brown opened with the quickest pass of Round 1 then Savoie took over with the best passes of the next three sessions en route to the winner's circle. She even set a track record for elapsed time with a career-best 7.048 in the semi's, the quickest run ever for a Suzuki.
Brown's most interesting run came against points leader Andrew Hines in the third session. Brown's bike broke just off the starting line but his disappointment quickly turned to joy when he looked up and realized that Hines had jumped the start and was disqualified. Brown coasted to a stop near mid-track and accepted a big ovation from the crowd.
Although he didn't get the win, Hines actually padded his lead in the championship rankings to 169 points, an improvement of 23 points. Savoie's win helped her jump from sixth place to third. She is now 214 points off the lead.
Courtesy NHRA
Date: 3rd August 2004
Headline: UEM Points
We've updated our FIM Championship pages to reflect the latest points and records earnt at Mantorp Park. Click on the link on the left to view.
Date: 3rd August 2004
Headline: Koedam Racing Mantorp Review
Our thanks to Marius van der Zijden for sending his Koedam Racing Mantorp Review :-
"For many years this track hosts the third round of the European Championship. Like always a large crowd and also a custom car show with lots of high quality hot rods. The weather during this event is often a mix of high temperatures, combined with an occasional rain shower. Unfortunately this year would be no exception. Though the track is improving little by little each year, it remains a tricky track to “read” as it is part of a road racing circuit. Saddest thing however is that the run-off area remains very short (due to the adjacent farmer who doesn’t want to sell part of his property!?). The faster cars & bikes always have problems to get it stopped safely within the short available distance and some of them even never run “out of the back door” for this reason. As Team Koedam values life more that being a “hero of the past” we always shut it off before the finish line. This year the data recorder showed that the longest time under power was 5.4 seconds before he clicked it off. It proved to be enough as you can read in this team report.
All classes had plenty of entries and our Top Fuel Bike class was no exception with no less then seven fuellers.
On Friday morning we made our first qualifying attempt. To our surprise the bike again suffered from a little misfiring (see our Alastaro / Finland report) during the first 2,5 seconds in the run. Eventually we had blamed it to an unusual low nitro percentage combined with not so good air in Finland. Obviously this was not the case! So we started looking deeper into this problem. We figured it must be an ignition related problem and so it turned out to be. We found that one of two the mags was not working due to a breaker points failure. Luckily Zodiac’s Ton Pels supplied us the necessary parts. As the weather expectations for Saturday were a bit uncertain, we decided to go for another qualifying shot on Friday afternoon. This proved that the bike was in its usual shape again as a 6.37sec @ 316km/h was the result. This put us on the provisional # 1 spot for that moment. Bearing in mind that it was clicked off at 5.3 sec in the run…..we were happy with this result.
The next qualifying day (Saturday) was indeed much different in respect to the weather. Though the temperatures were very pleasant, it was cloudy all day and the track was much cooler. On the first pass of that day we lost the drive, practically right from the line. Once again this was caused by a transmission (sprag) failure. Though we had this problem before, this time however it was not caused by fatigue, but most likely due to our own fault (we probably made the new sprag races too tight) So in went the old trusty sprag set again. We didn’t take part in the last qualifying session as we were still working on the transmission and felt quite confident. At the end of the day we remained the #1 qualifier followed by Sverre Dahl (who was improving step by step) with his 6,53.
Sunday (eliminations day) was expected to be a very hot summers day. How wrong could one be as this day had everything in it from warm sunshine to dark clouds and rain. Overall it stayed cloudy all day.
Just before the first rounds it started to drizzle a bit, however it didn’t affect the track too much only the time schedule. In the first round we met funny bike rider Robert Karlsson. He unfortunately pulled a red light eliminating himself and giving us automatically the win light. We want to make a good run anyway (for the spectators and to gather data) and Roel hit it as usual. It left the line decently but when the clutch timer came in it smoked the tire instantly. Obviously the rain from the night before didn’t do any good to the track. Nevertheless we proceeded to the next round.
On the other side of the ladder Peter Andersson Strom had worked its way to the semi finals. We still had to settle a matter from last year where we were faced to each other for the finals, which had to be cancelled due to rain. Very sorry for Peter and his immaculate prepared bike that he had to withdraw as he had a valve problem which he wasn’t able to fix in time. The “no show” from Peter gave us a bye-run in the semi finals. We produced a 6,59 sec in this run. Our Zodiac Puma, in the meantime, was running like clockwork again and the only concerns we faced were the track conditions. As eliminations had started quite early that day, we were about ready for our final round by 15.00h. Mother nature had other plans and dropped down a few small clouds of rain. Though not very bad in itself, it was bad enough to keep the track crew busy till 18.30h! Their persistence made the track ready for most final rounds.
As said before Norwegian Sverre Dahl found better settings each round and improved during the event. He made its way to the finals just like us. Two of the worlds most powerfull Top Fuel bikes would meet again. After a long and exciting staging battle the two bikes left the line. It seemed that we got our clutch better dialed in then Sverre as he went up in smoke right from the line while our bike ran away from him to the victory.
Just like happened many times before over here, heavy rainfall set in just after most classes had run their finals. At the conclusion of this third championship round we left Sweden with 148 points over second man (Italy’s Antonio Ferretti) with 79 points.
Next race (and also counting for championship points) is already next weekend at the superb track of Gardermoen in Norway.
Marius van der Zijden / Koedam Racing Holland
Date: 3rd August 2004
Headline: Zodiac Racing Mantorp Park Review
Thanks to Monique Pels for sending us her post Mantorp Park event review :-
After having two good qualification days and being no.1 qualifier, Ton defeated Greger Johansson 6.71 sec. @ 311 km/h in the first round on Sunday but soon noticed he had no rear brakes and found himself crashing in the gravel trap at the end of the run-off area (at about 60 MPH). Ton 'jumped' off the bike before it fell over, so he was A-OK, but the bike was seriously damaged.
In a race against time (with help of two other teams), they managed to take it apart and clean most engine parts, finished the bike, ran to the startline and arriving there they were told to immediately fire up the bike for the semi final against Ronny Aasen. Ton kept his cool and won the round in 6.80 sec. @ 305 km/h, but the bike sounded strange at the top end and there was a bent push rod...
It turned out that in the rush to get the bike ready for the semi's, no one had re-filled the fuel tank, so the engine had been running 'dry'and had back-fired, breaking the cam shaft.
This was too much work to fix before the finals, so Charley Karling had a solo run and won the race.
The ZODIAC team was still quite content with the results, because in Mantorp Ton was once again the fastest (329 km/h) and quickest (6.712 sec.) rider in Supertwin and he also climbed in the Championship ranking and significantly reduced the points difference to the no.1.
Currently the top 5 looks like this:
1. Ronny Aasen (NO) : 109 points
2. Ton Pels (NL) : 106 points
3. Charley Karling (SE) : 105 points
4. Hans Olav Olstad (NO) : 101 points
5. Svein Gottenberg (NO) : 58 points
For the complete story, please visit the NEWS page at http://www.zodiacracing.com"
Date: 3rd August 2004
Headline: Big Race Results
TOP FUEL
Jonny Mancuso of Plantersville, TX defeated Mike Rommine of Sturgis, MI
PRO MOD
Mike Lehman of Florida Defeated Chicago Joe of Richmond, CA
GAS CLASS
Todd Doege on his Hayabusa Defeated David Feazell on his 99 Sportster
PRO ET
Dale Detlie of Qwatonna, MN Defeated Joe Bartbettler of Maplewood, MN
STREET ET
Buddy Robinson of Princeton, MN Defeated Larry Guy of Bradenton, FL
Date: 2nd August 2004
Headline: Jay misses Big Race 2
We just heard the sad news that Jay Upton missed the Big Race 2 at Brainerd this weekend.
Despite spending a week in the U.S at Sam Wills `Racing Innovations' in Oklahoma City, and a huge effort by Gates Belts and Hose, Jay's freight agent and Sam Wills himself they were unable to get the bike released from the port in time for the race.
My container was originally due to arrive in the US on the 23/7, but due to labour problems in L.A port, it did not get delivered on schedule.
Jay hopes all will be resolved in time to compete at the Prostar Indy event on 21/22 August.
Date: 2nd August 2004
Headline: Mantorp Review
A big vote of thanks to UEM Championship co – ordinator Lars Andersson for providing a speedy summary report from yesterdays Veidec Festival at Mantorp Park. Please note that we will post both the latest championship points and records later today :-
“A big thank you to Kjell Pettersson and all other people involved for all things at Mantorp Park. We did manage to finish the race even if it looked dark for a time. But due to a bit of sunshine, luck, much hard work and the decision from the track Manager Fredrik we managed to finish all the UEM Bike classes.
Arriving on Thursday in the sunshine and with a well prepared track was very nice. You could directly feel in the paddock that something was going on that was special. All teams arriving had that special look and were expecting something.
One of the biggest fields ever was waiting for racing. Qualification started on Friday and it was immediately apparent that this was going to be exciting. Super Twin had 19 riders going for an 8 bike field and you had to run very good times to qualify. Before the last qualification round it was not as normal with many of the top names unqualified. But, for example Stefan Juneryd managed to get into the ladder on the very last run. However, Ronny Aasen not in the ladder……
Ton Pels and Greger Johansson went out first in round one and Ton took this. But Ton did not manage to stop at the end of the track due to the short breaking area and went into the gravel bed. In the next run Hans Olaf Olstad was due to take on Per Bengtsson but had a problem with his crank so he decided not to race. That meant that the alternate Ronny had a bit of luck and took an alternate making a 6,7 run in the process. Anders "Charley " Karling was then against Stefan Juneryd, but Charley took that one. The last pair was and all Norwegians affair, Rolfstad against Solheim with the latter taking the win. Thor G Larsen had told me that it should only be Norwegians in the ladder but we finished with 4 Swedes and 3+1 Norwegian. Back in the pits Ton Pels and his crew together with a lot of other people cleaned up Tons bike (the team of Svein Gottenberg and many more had been working very much) and with a small rain shower delaying the race Ton managed to make the next round. Ton beat Ronny Aasen then went up in smoke. Charley was very late on the start and had to chase Fredrik, but took him at the very end. The delayed final saw a solo run from Charley because Ton did broke his camshaft in the semis. The result of this is that the four first riders in the Championship are very close, Ronny Aasen 109p, Ton 106p, Charley 105p and Olstad 101p. So the difference is only 8 points less than one win round in the championship!
In Top Fuel bike Roel Koedam went all the way (almost as normal). But Sverre Dahl who made his debut for this year showed that he will also be in the race. We also saw Peter Andersson Ström out for the first time with his new bike. The bike looked very good and we hope that he will come to some more of the races. The saddest thing was that Jon Leret had some kind of problem and left his bike at over 300km/h. The doctor said that there was not any big problem with Jon, nothing was broken and he was talking worried about the bike. His bike ended up in the field after the gravel bed. We hope that Jon can come out again.
In Pro Stock Bike Roger Pettersson showed his potential. A new record in Top Speed and 7.3 second runs almost all the weekend, but a late reaction in the final meant Vesa Rautio took the win. Vesa has been working hard and had a lot of problems for the first races, but now has his bike running well and showed that he can do something. Both Anders also showed that Roger cannot be too sure with Larsson down to a 7.3 and Abrahamsson a 7.6 sec. Pro stock is getting tighter but Roger has a big lead in the Championship.
Once again a big thank you to all the people at Mantorp Park who organised thisrace. When the rain shower came at 3 a clock many thought that this was the end of it. But Fredrik and Kjell said that we should finish the race, even thinking of a possible solution to continue on Monday. But with some small help from the sun and much work we finished the race.
Now are we all waiting for Friday and the first qualification at Gardemoen in Norway. Will we have all records broken next weekend? Thor G Larsen and all the people in Norway have promised the best track ever.”
Lars Andersson
Date: 2nd August 2004
Headline: UK Horsepower Shootout!
The UK horsepower shootout at Big CC Racing organised in conjunction with Dynojet UK & Streetfighters magazine was once again a huge success.
The Big CC dyno was suppported by the Dynojet truck dyno on the day for which both sets of rollers were calibrated by Dynojet UK to within 00.5% of each other. The day itself was very hot hence most normally aspirated bikes like Busa's etc were finding themselves down approx 10bhp on their previous figures. How this affected the big turbo motors we can only guess, but despite this there was certainly new big power figures achieved for this side of the pond.
Normally Aspirated class winner was Doug Conway with 219.6 bhp on his 1500cc Hayabusa with second place going to Sean Jennings on his big bore ZX12R with 197bhp.
Nitrous class winner was Nick Parrish on his 'BTC Moto' dry manifold nitrous Hayabusa with 368.3bhp, second place was Kevin Charmans 'Cooperized' 1340cc Bandit with 320.5bhp. The BTC Moto dry manifold kit was prepped for a 400 pull but was not needed as Kevin conceded on the Busa's first pull.
Turbo class winner went to Dave Smith on his homemade GT25R Turbo Hayabusa powered by a Motec ECU, it made 469.3 & was only engine rebuilt the day before! Second place went to Terry Green on his Turbo Hayabusa using a stage 2 street Velocity kit.
Unlimited class winner was Adrian Jones with 378bhp on his GSXR 1371cc ZED hybrid turbo/gas bike followed in second place by Mick Chester with his Martek 1428 Turbo nitrous special.
The motorcycle trade class saw the Big CC Turbo Hayabusa pull 7/8 runs over 500bhp struggling with ignition but eventually settled for 558bhp for the days conditions.
The £500 prize money was won by Dave Smith & a special prize went to Farzan aka Dognosh who rode up & back several hundred miles while laying down 384bhp on his Velocity Busa.
Big CC Racing would like to thank Bradley O'Conner, Dom Trickett & Velocity Racing's Barry Henson for their assistance. Also Streetfighters aka Mr Manning, & Dynojet UK for the second set of rollers.
For full coverage of the event surf on over to http://www.bigccracing.com
Date: 2nd August 2004
Headline: Fast Funny for sale!
Travis Davies, the Prostar Funnybike champion has his no. 1 plate holding bike up for sale along with spare parts at $25000 US.
The bike can run 6.60 @ over 210 mph.
Contact Travis Direct or Dave Beck by e mail on beck.racing@virgin.net
Date: 2nd August 2004
Headline: Mantorp Park UEM Class Finals
Congratulations to the finalists in all classes of the UEM Championship at yesterdays rain delayed Swedish round.
In Top Fuel, an engine detune by crew chief Marius van der Zijden for the dominant Koedam Racing machine did the trick to overcome a tyre smoking Sverre Dahl.
In Supertwin, a broken camshaft put paid to the consistent performing Zodiac machine of Ton Pels, allowing Charley Karling to take a solo run victory.
In Prostock, an untypically bad reaction was advantage enough for a charging Vesa Rautio to overcome the record setting Veidec machine of Roger Pettersson :-
Top Fuel Bike
Roel Koedam 6.530 @ 306.35 bt. Sverre Dahl 13.431 @ 103.11
Supertwin
Anders Karling 6.714 @ 282.27 bt. Ton Pels (no show)
Pro Stock Bike
Vesa Rautio 7.523 @ 286.09 bt. Roger Pettersson 7.359 @ 292.57
Date: 1st August 2004
Headline: Veidec Nitro Festival live
The news from our on the spot reporter Ivan Sansom is that rain has stopped play, and will resume to run the finals, curfew permitting.
In the finals, Roel Koedam meets Sverre Dahl in Top Fuel Bike, Ton Pels is due to meet Charley Karling in Supertwin, and Roger Pettersson is due to meet Vesa Rautio in Prostock. However, the sad news we have is that Charley may have a bye in the final of Supertwin as Ton has broken a camshaft and looks set to miss the final.
Remember to surf on over to Eurodragster or Svensk Dragracing for the latest results.
Date: 1st August 2004
Headline: Europes quickest Bandit for sale.
Europes quickest Bandit for sale. Mitsubishi Turbo, progressive gas etc. etc. etc. Please call for details. Runs in super street class. Best ET 8.66. Serious offers are likely to be accepted due to business forcing sale. Call Rachel on 01793 705905.
P.S. Offers from people trying to get the bike shipped somewhere and pay by some dodgy method will not be accepted, so don't waste your time or mine!
email : rachel@abbeyridertraining.co.uk
Date: 1st August 2004
Headline: Jon falls
We heard some concerning news from Roel Koedam and Ivan Sansom that Norwegian Top Fuel Bike rider Jon Leret parted company from his bike in the shutdown area at Mantorp Park, Sweden after a tremendous duel against arch foe and fellow Norwegian Sverre Dahl.
Sverre ran a superb 6.375 / 356.33 to defeat a close 6.539 / 346.27 by Jon.
It is not clear what the cause of Jon's fall was, but Mantorp has a notoriously short shutdown area that the fast bikes struggle to contend with. Nitro Supertwin rider Ton Pels narrowly missed injury earlier today when his Zodiac machine failed to stop in time and ended up in the gravel trap.
Jon fell some distance before the end of the shutdown and at high speed, with the riderless bike narrowly missing Sverre.
The latest news is that after a period of unconsciousness he came around and was talking to the paramedics before transfer to hospital. He is a little batterd and bruised, with possibly some broken bones, but seems to be relatively unscathed.
Get well soon Jon!
For further up to the minute news on the event remember Eurodragsters superb event coverage - click on http://www.dragracing.se/live/2004veidecnitrofestival/reports/sunday.html
Date: 31st July 2004
Headline: For sale!
1 GSX 1325 as new big block o-ringed £325 or will sell complete with new 80mm turbo or promod pistons at £650 - lets deal!
Block is in stock but pistons would be to order
tel 01274 855886
mob 07775 501371
email info@cannon-engineering.co.uk
Cannon
Date: 31st July 2004
Headline: Petersson sets new UEM record
Congratulations to Sweden's Roger Pettersson and the Veidec PSB team for resetting the European ET record with a backed up 184.80 mph, and leads the board in qualifying to date.
The Dutch due of Ton Pels and Roel Koedam currently lead qualifying in Supertwin and Top Fuel bike respectively, although Roel is on tenterhooks after breaking another gearbox sprague in Q3 (his brand new one) leaving him with just one second hand item for eliminations - time for a later model gearbox we think....
Anyhow, keep up with the action courtesy of Svensk Dragracing and Eurodragster by clicking on http://www.dragracing.se/live/2004veidecnitrofestival/
Date: 30th July 2004
Headline: Save your heavy metal!
ACF 50 - THIS STUFF WORKS!
NOW AVAILABLE FROM WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM
The solution to every racer’s and builders bare chassis dilemma!
All you builders and racers that run bare metal, chrome-moly chassis and components know how hard it is to prevent surface rust and corrosion. Everything from WD40 to Gun Blue has been tried and there are endless debates on what to use to maintain a clean, non sticky, chassis with minimum effort. ACF 50 is used by the aviation and marine industry, including the armed forces, for extreme conditions so you know it works. ACF-50 is a state-of-the-art anti-corrosion/lubricating compound that has been specially designed for aviation and aerospace use. It is a clean, clear, non-toxic, ultra-then fluid compound, which leaves a non-greasy atmospheric barrier to protect metal surfaces. With a dielectric rating of nearly 40KV, ACF-50 will kill corrosion cells on contact and completely remove the moisture from the metal surface. It actively penetrates into seams, lap joints and beneath rivet heads, expelling moisture and even saltwater. In addition, it can be used on all types of plastics, paints and seals without fear of damage. I can supply this great product to racers at £12.84 per 369gm aerosol, spread it thin, it lasts a long time and goes a long way!!!! Also available in 1 ltr. And 4ltr. Bottles for fabricators. We can also supply their unique Corrosion Block grease in tubes and tubs.
Check out the full specs on their web site at www.learchem.com/Aviation.htm
visit us at WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM
Date: 29th July 2004
Headline: Veidec Nitro Festival live!
Don't forget to tune into Eurodragsters live coverage of the FIA/UEM Sweden round, courtesy of the joint publishers Svensk Dragracing.
Click on HERE starting today for live coverage of the 4 day event.
Date: 29th July 2004
Headline: Carey's archived!
Alan Currans, webmaster of the fabulous Acceleration Archive sent us this great sequence of UK Top Fuel Bike rider Steve Carey launching on the relatively traction free surface at last weekend's LCA Bike Drags.
Thanks Alan!
Date: 29th July 2004
Headline: A brand new Per of performance parts?
Our thanks to Supertwin rider and current UEM Champion Per Bengtsson of Sweden who was in contact today with news of his race plans for this year.
He plans to attend this weekends meeting on his home track of Mantorp Park armed with a brand new big MSD Promag and bigger Enderle fuel pump, he's hoping for good traction to enable him to realise the potential of the new combination. He then moves on to Gardermoen in Norway for what he thinks will be the last UEM round of the season, as he plans to chase individual performance rather than points.
Good luck Per and team!
Date: 29th July 2004
Headline: Harry goes for a straight 9.00!
We heard from dragbike star in the making Harry Stedman who is seeking a Yamaha RD 125 LC engine complete or parts for his junior drag bike.
Harry's best time this year was a stout 9.61 @66.7mph, but has high hopes for a straight 9.00 at the next meeting.
If you can help Harry contact him by email on : sstedys@hotmail.com
Date: 28th July 2004
Headline: Quad 1, Dutch 0........
Funnybike racer Dave Holland is facing a race against time to get fit for the forthcoming NitrOlympx after a Quad bike accident left him nursing a broken clavicle, dislocated shoulder and cracked ribs.
Dave is taking guidance from his Doctor who believes he will be fit for his eagerly waited Hockenheim debut - get well soon Dave!
Date: 28th July 2004
Headline: NHRA announces 85% and min pressure rule
NHRA officials have notified Top Fuel and Funny Car teams of a minimum tire pressure for rear tires beginning at the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver and the formation of a task force to evaluate and recommend short-term and long-term performance parameters. In addition, NHRA announced a change to the nitromethane/methanol mix starting at the CARQUEST Auto Parts NHRA Nationals in Seattle.
Last week, a new Goodyear tire was introduced for Top Fuel and Funny Car competitors and NHRA required roll cage shielding for all Top Fuel dragsters. Beginning in Denver, and in addition to those changes, the minimum tire pressure, as recommended by Goodyear, for rear tires will be 7 PSI for Top Fuel and 6.5 PSI for Funny Car.
NHRA also announced it will form a task force comprised of professional Top Fuel and Funny Car team owners, crew chiefs and NHRA officials. The objective of the task force is to evaluate and recommend short-term and long-term performance parameters for the Top Fuel and Funny Car categories. The task force will be facilitated by Don Taylor, senior director of national technical operations at NHRA, along with Graham Light, senior vice president, NHRA, and chairman of the NHRA Competition Committee, and Ray Alley, director of Top Fuel and Funny Car Racing.
Beginning in Seattle, NHRA announced that the maximum percentage of nitromethane/methanol mixture used in the Top Fuel and Funny Car categories will be reduced from 90 percent to 85 percent. Other possible changes are expected in the near future.
"NHRA always will be committed to refining our unique style of racing to improve the quality of our show for our loyal fan base and improve the safety of the participants," said Light.
Date: 28th July 2004
Headline: Malloy cracks second track record in as many races
Bob Malloy aboard his H-D of Seaford Buell Top Fuel machine took his second track record in as many races when he ran a 6.60 @ 208.00 MPH at Cecil County Raceway. In round one of Top Fuel qualifying at the Screamin’ Eagle Race Series’ second race of the year Malloy qualified number one and eclipsed the track record for a H-D Top Fuel motorcycle. “I was extremely happy to set the track record here as Cecil County is my home track”, said an excited Malloy. “I had a lot of family and friends on hand as well as my sponsor so we were looking to do well here.”
In round two of qualifying Malloy made a few changes in an attempt to see just how much the track could hold. “Jack (brother/crew chief) and I decided to step-up the tune-up to see if the track could handle the power”, said Malloy. “We found out in a hurry that the track couldn’t hold much more than we had in round one. Not one second into the run I had some severe tire shake and had to shut it down.” Malloy then went back to the 6.60 tune-up and was ready and confident about eliminations.
“I was really hoping to put on a good show. I thought we were ready and today would be our day,” related Malloy. But as they say sometimes the best laid plans just don’t pan out. “When I did the burnout everything felt good and strong and I was looking forward to a good run,” said Malloy. “Unfortunately at 1.12 seconds into the run we destroyed a belt and our day was over. Because we run a high gear only bike we leave a little more violently than the two-speeds. I’m going to have to work on the fuel system some and smooth out the fuel curve. I know I can’t afford to change belts after every one to two runs.”
After tearing the bike apart and consulting with his fuel specialist Malloy thinks they know exactly what to do. “I’ve already begun making the changes it’s going to take to make the belts live a few rounds and I think you’ll see the difference when we get to Bristol. I am proud of what we have accomplished in these first two Screamin’ Eagle races but I know we still have a long way to go. But I feel that we will be very competitive for the rest of the season,” said Malloy.
Bob Malloy Racing will next appear at the AHDRA S&S Thunder in the Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway, Bristol, TN on August 14 – 15.
Bob Malloy Racing couldn’t compete on the high level that they do without the continued support of the following sponsors: H-D of Seaford – www.hdofseaford.com Buell Motorcycles – www.buellmotorcycles.com Proto-Fab Racebikes - 201-213-3714 K.J.Crawford Fuel Injection - 707-542-9551 Red Line Oil - www.redlineoil.com Jay Brake www.jaybrakeoriginals.com Barnett Clutches - www.barnettclutches.com JIMS - www.jimsusa.com MSD Ignitions - www.factorydirectperformance.com Karata Belt Drive - www.karata.com RC Components - www.rccomponents.com Mickey Thompson - www.mickeythompsontires.com Ross Pistons - www.rosspistons.com Burns Stainless - www.burnsstainless.com Vanson Leathers - www.vansonleathers.com Phoenix Custom Apparel - www.phoenixcustomapparel.com Area Trailer Sales - 410-620-1700
Photo: Greg Guarinello Contact: flyingeyefoto@aol.com
Date: 27th July 2004
Headline: Team Veidec PSB on top!
Our thanks to Roger Lyren of the Veidec PSB team for providing us with his review, despite a very heavy workload and the trauma of reaching his middle age.....
"In Santa Pod we already could see some improvements with our changes to Rogers bike, especially the new body and Rogers new riding style. For Finland we knew we had the potential to go into the 7.2 zone, but in racing there is not just only some small nuts to tighten up, there is lots of them and you need to tighten the right ones…….
We found some of them in Finland as we went an off the trailer 7.38, almost identical to the final in Santa Pod, so it repeated perfectly and the track was in ok condition. For the 2nd run we gave it a little more power and 7,29!! There it was!! Wow, we broke into the 7.2 zone!!! Looking at the download we saw that we could improve even more as the 60 foot was only a 1.13, however the bike left the line very nicely.
In the semi finals we set the new record at 7.266 AND 300.49 Kmh (186,76 mph) becoming the first Prostocker outside the USA to run more than 300Kmh!! Sadly the 295Kmh in the run before did not back up for the high TS but we set the record, 7.266 and 295Kmh (183.35 mph).
When we got the extra 10 pound weight for this year we did not know where we should put it on the bike, but what we found out is that the extra 10 pound weight helped us perform better - the bikes balance is improved and it leaves the line better.
Unfortunately, Helen had another bad weekend with a DNQ .
Remo is riding better and better and set another personal best, and very soon into the 7.6 zone. This bike is as a testbike for Carlo Molinari from VM Dragracing in Italy, so it is in it’s first step of development.
I have been extremely busy since England, both at work, racing but I did have my 40th birthday party on the 10th July with about 85 persons. After that I have been full with preparing for the VEIDEC Festival at Mantorp, where we always have lots of VIP guests.
So For Mantorp all the team are on TOP, we will have a press day on the Wednesday to meet the media, and hopefully we get many visitors this weekend at the VEIDEC Festival at Mantorp Park SWEDEN.
See you all!
Regards, Roger Lyren"
Date: 27th July 2004
Headline: Bummer in Norway?
For those of you planning on going to Gardermoen :-
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/3928441.stm
Ivan Sansom
Date: 27th July 2004
Headline: Gardermoen entry forms
We have had a number of racers asking us where they can obtain entry forms for the UEM Norway round at Gardermoen.
Please note that the entry forms can be downloaded by clicking on
: www.dragracing.se/nerladdning.html or www.eurodragster.com/sprc/subpages/forms.htmDate: 27th July 2004
Headline: Ivan Sansom's LCA report
A tale of drag racing legends (and Steve Woollatt)
It's not often you travel past landmarks such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf to see some drag bike action, but Terry Homan has secured the occasional use of London City Airport for sprint meetings, and the unique locality had a hoard of straightline racers waiting at the gate for a delayed SwissAir flight to depart so the Motorsports Promotion crew could quickly transform the venue.
Notable attendees included the emergence of the new LA Hooker into the sunshine for the first time, at least the front wheel was parked at the LCA, the rear wheel was somewhere near Purfleet - it is that long... Hopefully the new owner will have it out and running before too long.
The iconic Hobbit strutted it's stuff with the equally iconic John Hobbs on board, still producing eight second runs, at least until an expensive sounding noise from the front Weslake on a burnout induced a "well, let's pack it away" from Hobbs.
Bernie Hepworth rumbled down the track as the first of the demo nitro bikes
Followed by Steve Carey, who whipped up a storm on the Purple Princess
Once the smoke had cleared, the venerable Woollatt pulled a stunning run in the low sevens whilst chucking the primary drive belt at about 900 feet leaving a cloud of fog behind him that was quickly inhaled by the awestruck nitro novices.
The range and variety of machinery led to some bizarre startline match-ups
augmented by some pampered veteran bikes that evoked a completely different era to the race for the fives in European Top Fuel Bike
And if you were tempted by King Racing off loading a John Clift chassis for a parallel twin sprint bike, look at this and try to avoid thinking 'that looks like fun'
Ivan Sansom
Date: 25th July 2004
Headline: Pallant sold out!
Following our efforts to help `Old School' Top Fuel racer Rod Pallant to sell his entire workshop and Top Fuel bike operation, we're happy to have had him on the phone earlier today thanking us for our help and informing us that everything has been sold!
King Racing crew chief Mick Beaumont bought the turnkey workshop and, after a week of intense negotiations, Super Street Bike rider Dave Newbery finally placed a deposit on the LA Hooker TF Bike.
Welcome to TFB Dave!
Date: 25th July 2004
Headline: LCA Bike Drags
Following the brief report posted here yesterday, the guys at Eurodragster have today posted a great race report and pictures from the unique London City Airport event.
Click on HERE to see the comprehensive review.
Date: 25th July 2004
Headline: Fang engine photo
Hi Folks,
To make up a little for the lack of updates from Team Fang, a photo of the race engine with some of the major new parts fitted can now be seen by clicking HERE
With major surgery to the crank under consideration, I'd be interested to hear from anyone with suggestions regarding possible configurations for a blown twin.
Cheers, Carl
email: turnertech@evemail.net
Date: 24th July 2004
Headline: London City Airport Drags
Today's dragbike event at London City Airport saw the TF Bikes of Bernie Hepworth, Steve Carey and Steve Woollatt entertaining a good sized crowd at the unique operational airport venue.
However, lack of traction and a camber in the track saw the nitro machines struggle to exhibit their true potential, and a string of 9 sec runs seemed to be in order.
However, the experience of Steve Woollatt at running on marginal tracks on the exhibition circuit saw him run an amazing 7.3 @ 186 mph with a wheel smoking partial throttle run.
However, this performance did not come without penalty for Steve as he threw a primary drive belt, damaging the front magneto coil and seemingly damaging some crank bearings. However, the blower seemed to turn over satisfactorily so the hope is that the damage is limited to the cheaper items.
Well done guys!
Date: 23rd July 2004
Headline: Blistering tyres
Our thanks to Cooper Avon Tyre's Nigel Underhill for informing us on the latest status regarding replacement of blistered Mickey Thompson tyres.
Now they have more understanding of the root cause, they will still consider the replacement of blistered tyres but subject to the following :-
"Any tyre that may be subject to a warranty claim should be returned to the point of purchase, who should then return it with full details of the nature of the complaint to the relevant technical dept for inspection. A decision will then be made as to whether the tyre should be replaced due to any possible manufacturing defect. The tyre will not now, however, be replaced if no manufacturing defect is found"
Thanks for the update Nigel!
Date: 23rd July 2004
Headline: Fred out, Chip in at G2?
The gossip of the day over in the US is the rumour of Chip Ellis replacing Fred Collis on the coveted G2 Motorsports PSB Twin.
In the meantime, it seems that Matt Smith has acquired the latest Star Racing Suzuki and engines.
Date: 23rd July 2004
Headline: Jay Upton's US tour
Whilst over here in sunny CA we hear the news that Jay Upton's radical looking Top Fuel Triumph has arrived in Los Angeles ready for his US tour. We understand that he will kick off with the Big Race at Brainerd, and end with the Prostar Finals in November, attending various events in between.
Date: 21st July 2004
Headline: Team Fang update
Check out the latest news from Team Fang at www.thefang.co.uk.
Despite apparent inactivity, the last 4 months has seen the new supercharger and drive installed including major mods to get the blower rotating the right way, and a host of other bits and pieces.
We are also awaiting delivery of the cranks for our next project, which has now been increased to 1600cc, more news soon-ish!
Cheers, Carl Wadkin-Snaith
Date: 20th July 2004
Headline: SCREAMIN’ EAGLE BACK ON TRACK IN DENVER
Andrew Hines Sets Track Records in Thin Air and Maintains Pro Stock Bike Points Lead
The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines drag racing team put their former home field high-altitude advantage to good use at the 25th Annual Mopar NHRA Mile High Nationals at Bandimere Speedway, as riders Andrew Hines and GT Tonglet advanced in the Pro Stock Bike elimination rounds after qualifying first and third for the event.
It was a stark turn-around for the Screamin’ Eagle team, which found itself near the bottom of qualifying times after the National Hot Rod Association imposed a rule change, just days before the June 27 race in Madison, Ill., which added 40 pounds to the minimum weight for the Harley-Davidson V-Rod drag bikes. Until recently moving to Indianapolis, the Vance & Hines race shop was located in Trinidad, Colorado, where the team developed a wealth of high-altitude tuning experience. In the thin air of Bandimere Speedway, which lies at 5,860 feet above sea level near Denver, Hines set a new Pro Stock Bike track ET record of 7.509 seconds and a new top-speed record of 185.66 mph to lead all qualifiers. Tonglet ran 7.551/181.37 to qualify third.
“Byron Hines gave us a great advantage in tuning for the Denver event,” said Harley-Davidson Racing Manager Anne Paluso. “It was great to see the Screamin’ Eagle team running up front again, but we’re unsure what will happen when we get back closer to sea level.”
Both Tonglet and Hines advanced easily through the first round of eliminations. Hines was handed a win when Redell Harris had a red-light start. Tonglet (7.640/178.47) beat Fred Camarena (7.769/172.96).
Tonglet was done in round two after he made a red-light start in his match with Shawn Gann. Hines (7.603/177.95) beat Geno Scali (7.681/171.88) to advance to the semi-final round. Hines drew Craig Treble in the semi-final round, and was the next red-light victim of the night as he left the line early to miss a chance at his fourth final-round appearance of the season. In the final, Gann (7.654/174.23) beat Treble (7.715/172.21) to win the event. The afternoon turned out to be a festival of red lights, as nine of the 15 Pro Stock Bike races were over at the start when one rider left early.
After eight rounds of NHRA Pro Stock Bike competition, Hines leads the class with 733 points, 146 points ahead of Gann, who lies in second place with 587 points. Geno Scali is third with 498 points, followed by Treble with 492 points and Tonglet with 480 points.
The next Pro Stock Bike event on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series is the 17th Annual Fram Autolite NHRA Nationals, July 30-August 1, at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif.
Screamin' Eagle Performance Parts are inspired by and built in the spirit of the raw adrenaline and power of motorcycle racing. Screamin' Eagle Pro parts are specifically designed for race-use applications, while Screamin' Eagle parts offer street-use performance options for the Harley-Davidson motorcycle owner. Visit www.harley-davidson.com for more information. The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Pro Stock Bike team is sponsored by Dunlop, Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned, Matco Tools and S100.
Date:
Headline: motorsportauction.co.uk goes live!
I write to introduce to a new website www.motorsportauction.co.uk - dedicated to UK motor sport.
We hope the site will be an ideal tool to find the best buyers for vehicles and parts..
ADVERTISING ON THIS SITE IS COMPLETELY FREE.
Motorsportauction.co.uk is dedicated to buying and selling both new and used Motor sport related items.
Anyone who is involved in any form of Motor sport will be aware how difficult it can be to source specialist or older items without paying the earth. Plus how many competitors sit on shed loads of good quality, expensive items unable to sell them because there is not a dedicated place for buyers and sellers alike.
Well, now that has changed. We hope this site will bring both the seller and buyer together obtaining the best price for the seller at a realistic price for the buyer.
This site went live May 31st , midnight. It is in the interest of both Motorsportauction and motor sport competitors to make this site a success and become a useful industry tool. Early support is crucial. Don't sit and wait, be part of this great new site! Advertise, bid and be sure to tell others where we are.
We look forward to your support and look forward to supporting your sport.
To sell you must first register. You will not be required to give any credit card details and make any payment.
Date: 18th July 2004
Headline: King Racing announce line of Stainless Steel toolchests
Principal of the King Racing Top Fuel Bike team Ian King announced today that his team is to offer a top of the line range of heavy duty Stainless Steel toolchest combinations.
Designed for the professional engineer and mechanic, these exceptional quality products exceed the quality of the more famous brands and at a price of less than one third of equivalent items. Completely manufactured in 18 gauge, grade 304 stainless steel for many lifetimes of work, they feature heavy duty ball bearing drawer slides with 160 lb (73Kg) capability on the normal drawer and double slides for the deep drawers with 320 lb (146Kg) capability.
These stunning pieces of equipment can be viewed by clicking HERE
To launch this line of products, King Racing are to offer a limited number of the 41” 19 drawer version featured above for a remarkable price of £800 (1150 Euros) - less than half the recommended price.
Delivery in the UK can be arranged for £50 extra, and credit cards will be accepted using the PayPal system at a additional charge of 4%
Hurry, these limited stocks are going fast!
Contact sales@kingracing.com telephone 07785 341099 or fax 01763 852707
Date: 17th July 2004
Headline: Gary Page to run at German F1!
No, Gary hasn't got the call from Ron Dennis yet, but he will be running demos on the start / finish straight prior to the Grand Prix in one of Rico Anthes TF Dragsters!
Should be an excellent promotion for the forthcoming NitrOlympx!
Date: 17th July 2004
Headline: Hockenheim NitrOlympx News
The closing date for entry the this prestigious event at the normal fee is fast approaching with the 23rd July looming large.
In addition, the closing date for registering for the UEM Championship in relation to earning prize monies at this event is also close, with the 21st only a few days away.
Event promoter and Top Fuel Dragster driver Rico Anthes has been in contact with regards to the unique problems faced at the Formula 1 venue :-
"The new Hockenheim Quartermile offers grandstand seating and guest hospitality according to US standards. However, it also creates a big traction problem because of the startline location. As this area is also part of the runoff for Formula 1 and German Touring Car it must be cleaned all the time according to the FIA regulations. This of course takes away all the traction and ensures that every year we start with a virgin asphalt track that we only have 36 hours to turn into a high traction dragstrip.
Last year's experience has shown us that 36 hours is not long enough and so we are working with the track managers to find alternative solutions. racers should be in no doubt that that it is in our main interest to achieve perfect traction because record setting performance is the trademark for an event.
We have had an asphalt specialist from England (John Farrier) doing an analysis and giving advice about special preparations before putting the VHT down. This should work!! Being the promoter I also want a fast track to get new records in the media.
The comments of some racers, that we are somehow looking to save money by less than adequate preparation are absolute nonsense. We do our very best in Hockenheim to achieve optimal traction, despite there being no FIA or UEM regulations that perfect surface traction is obligatory. It will be the Friday qualifying session that will show how good the track really is, and that's what we will all have to live with. It is also encumbent on the racers to adjust their setup to conditions that exist on a particular day.
Our highly motivated and friendly organisation crew look forward to welcoming you to the 19th NitrOlympx!"
Rico Anthes
Date: 17th July 2004
Headline: Garage clearance.
To raise funds for future projects I need to raise some cash by selling parts surplus to requirements. 2 x 1425 and 1 x1 500 GSX big blocks honed ready for use.Some promod pistons. High lift GSX cams all ex cond 1 x R1 1083cc crankcase and pistons. Bores freshly plated and unused. Breaking my loved Spondon Bandit Turbo Nitrous streetbike. Spondon monster tube frame with single sided Spondon bananah arm, 3 spoke Marvic magnesium wheels, whitepower upside down forks with biilet yokes, Spondon discs, billet six calipers,whitepower shock, ali Spondon tank. Blow through carbs variable vane turbo system with pumps and regulators. Makes 210BHP at 9psi. Pro-mod Nos Nitrous kit. Bandit engine.1mm oversize MTC turbo pistons. 1mm stainless steel oversize exhaust valves, dialed in stock cams, Falicon con rods, MRE pro-cut gearbox, MTC snowflake lockup clutch.Engine has only run on the dyno and is all new. Suzuki GSXR1100K streetfighter 1989 good cond MOT and TAX. STG 3 carbs, uprated clutch, new tyres. £1500. I also have loads of stock GSX and GSXR engine parts. GSX clutch basket with straight cut gear.
Contact Ken Cooper on 07976 254999 or kencooper1@blueyonder.co.uk for prices. No reasonable offer refused.
Date: 17th July 2004
Headline: Way to go Wendy!
Way to go Wendy!!! Welcome to the fun, I know you will be a tough competitor!!! A hard call for Steve to make I know but probably the right one if he's not happy, we had some good races! Good luck with the business at Tim's. By the way, Kris Becker isn't the only female nitro HD racer, the beautiful Connie Cohen moved from pro-stock Harley to pro-drag years ago and also races a pro-stock Suzuki, both prepped by her husband Mark. Check out www.ccriderracing.cc/ they are also real nice people!
PS SIMPSON summer special!! We can offer road legal SIMPSON bandit helmets at a knock down price of just £249 in black or white with no VAT for a limited period. We also have a special on some cool official SIMPSON 'T' shirts in black or white at the moment! Also on offer at the moment a set of 6 brand new, custom made shirts in black with red, yellow and blue trim. Very smart, 3 large, 3 X large, a customer let me down so these are going cheap. Contact me for details.
TURBO WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM the ultimate drag racing resource.
Date: 17th July 2004
Headline: Top Fuel
Bike for Sale
UK Top Fuel Bike legend Rod Pallant has announced that his nearly finished and brand new TF Bike must sell soon.
A severe leg injury suffered some years ago has failed to mend well enough to suffer the rigours of riding one of these 1000HP monsters, and despite rumoured comebacks he has to sell.
The bike features a 106" wheelbase Motorcycles Unlimited frame (Sam Wills), Puma Yamaha XS engine, Twin Magnetos, Twin fuel pumps, B&J big sprag 2 speed, Trett clutch, Eaton Blower etc. etc.
It is for sale, almost ready to race, for the bargain price of only £15,000 (21,750 Euros, $22,500 US) spares by negotiation.
Rod can be contacted by telephone on 0208 864 6232 (UK)
Date: 16th July 2004
Headline:
Bend it like Jerry?
Sharron Collier, wife of Jade Racing's Jerry, had a letter published in yesterdays `Daily Express' national newspaper.
It was a response to the recent criticism of the English football, tennis and rugby players lacklustre performances :-
Let's hear it for Britain's unsung world champions
"There seems to be a belief that British sportsmen and women are in some way failures. My husband
Jerry has put Britain at the top of the world in his sport and no-one seems to care.
He is a motorcycle drag racer and holds two world records, captured from the Americans. Drag racing is massive in the US,
whereas in England it is much less well known, making his achievements even more astounding.
We have stopped seeking sponsorship. Being constantly turned down or ignored is not good for the spirit and we like to remain positive, so please don't think this is a begging letter.
I suggest everyone stops bleating about how useless this country is at sport and supports the successes.
There are many in our sport alone. Maybe you have to shift from the couch to find them"
Date: 16th July 2004
Headline: Sale of the century?
Top Fuel Bike rider Rod Pallant has put the entire contents of his workshop up for sale at an unbelievable price. Featuring mills, lathes, beadblasters, welders, parts washers and even hif fi's, beer fridge (!) and much, much more. The whole kit and caboodle is up for grabs at only £1500!!! Click HERE to view the complete list (you will get a pop up message window, click on OK, and then click on OK on the next window too), and get on the phone to Rod on 020 8864 6232 (UK) immediately!
Date: 16th July 2004
Headline: Malloy shatters track record enroute to T/F runner-up
finish
Bob Malloy, aboard the H-D of Seaford Buell, shattered the Atco Dragway track record on his way to the runner-up spot at the initial Screamin’ Eagle Drag Series event. On his first pass of the weekend Malloy went quicker and faster than any Top Fuel Harley-Davidson had ever gone at the fabled racetrack. “We’ve been doing some 1/8 mile testing at Cecil County and we felt we were ready for Atco”, said Malloy. “But we didn’t know we had a track record performance in the bike right off the trailer.” Malloy on the immaculate white and blue machine ran a 6.459 at 211.20 MPH on his first qualifying run to take both the track record and the number one position for the Top Fuel category. “We got a little greedy with the tune up for the second qualifying run and shook the tire so hard I just aborted the run,” added Malloy. “We went back to the softer set-up to get ready for eliminations.”
Eliminations began with Malloy taking a bye and running a soft run to check out the combination. “We were drifting to the right so I clicked it off early. No need to waste the parts on a bye.”
Round two saw Malloy face off against Greg Grove on the Kool Kustoms creation. Grove, the number five qualifier knew he had to push the tree and he did it a bit too hard and lit the red light handing the automatic win to Malloy. This left only Tracy Kile in the way of Malloy and the Winners Circle.
In the finals Malloy was ready but as he ended his burnout crewmember Greg Millichap ended Malloy’s day. “We destroyed the main bearing on the crankshaft puking oil all over the track”, said a momentarily disappointed Malloy. “I apologized to Joe Sway for messing up his race track, but in my heart I knew that we had tried our best and it just wasn’t meant to be.”
Malloy said; “This was a difficult day all around, it was hot and humid, we had a lot of work to do to make five laps in one day. Thankfully with the help of my crew chief/brother Jack Malloy, Greg Millichap and Carl Loevel on hand we were able to make the call all day. I was really happy with the way we performed and I am confident that we are without a doubt on the right track. I want to thank Hannum’s H-D and Screamin’ Eagle for sponsoring this series, it’s long overdue in the Northeast.”
Bob Malloy Racing will next appear at the AHDRA S & S Cycle Mid-Atlantic Nationals in Budds Creek, MD on July 17 – 18.
Bob Malloy Racing couldn’t compete on the high level that they do without the continued support of the following sponsors: H-D of Seaford – http://www.hdofseaford.com Buell Motorcycles – http://www.buellmotorcycles.com Proto-Fab Racebikes - 201-213-3714 K.J.Crawford Fuel Injection - 707-542-9551 Red Line Oil - http://www.redlineoil.com Jay Brake http://www.jaybrakeoriginals.com Barnett Clutches - http://www.barnettclutches.com JIMS - www.jimsusa.com MSD Ignitions - http://www.factorydirectperformance.com Karata Belt Drive - http://www.karata.com RC Components - http://www.rccomponents.com Mickey Thompson - http://www.mickeythompsontires.com Ross Pistons - http://www.rosspistons.com Burns Stainless - http://www.burnsstainless.com Vanson Leathers - http://www.vansonleathers.com Phoenix Custom Apparel - http://www.phoenixcustomapparel.com Area Trailer Sales - 410-620-1700
Greg Guarinello, email: flyingeyefoto@aol.com
- www.vtwinplus.com
Date: 15th July 2004 Further to our item on Steve Clutterbuck teaming up with Tim Blakemore, we are happy to bring you exciting news about his daughter
Wendy who (as far as we know) became only the second female rider in the world to ride a Top Fuel Harley,
and the first outside of the at yesterday's Webster Engineering Race Day at Santa Pod, England!
Wendy, who is also employed at Tim's shop took her first tentative steps and follows in the shoes of
Kris `Girls kick butt' Becker from the US.
The plan is for Wendy to take up the full riding role in the future, with Steve `just' taking in the fun non competition meets.
Way to go Wendy! Date: 15th July 2004 Please see below the current list of fully paid up riders registered for the UEM Championship. As such, these riders will earn prize monies if qualified.
If your name is not on the list, and think it should be, let us know. If you wish to register in time for the final events of the season get in contact with Trak Bak Racing
NOW!
Date: 15th July 2004 Top Fuel Harley rider Bernie Hepworth has confirmed his raceplan for the rest of the 2004 season.
Bernie, owner / rider of the fabulous and innovative machine plans to attend the City Airport meet, the Bulldog Bash and wrap the season up with the last 3 events in Malta. Date: 15th July 2004 Veteran dragbike racer and Top Fuel Harley rider Steve Clutterbuck has joined forces with Funnybike rider
Tim Blakemore to offer full turnkey dragbike manufacturing from engine through to chassis design and build.
Steve, who provided much of the machining for Tim's state of the art works backed Kawasaki Funnybike, already has a project underway in the shape of a B Fueller Harley for local rider Shamus.
In addition to the engine and chassis work, Steve and Tim can offer shotblasting, powder coating and welding all in house.
Their `Avondale workshops' can be found at Woodland Way, Kingswood,
Bristol
Phone 01179042216
Mobile 07876165613
web : www.mdbr13270.blueyonder.co.uk Date: 14th July 2004 All of us at King Racing wish to send our congratulations to Bert Kors and Monique Pels on the birth of their new baby daughter,
Indy.
A baby sister for Nikita, Indy was born on the 9th July at 12:27 wich seems early enough for her to make her dragracing debut at the UEM round in Hockenheim...... Date: 14th July 2004 Top Fuel Bike racer Jimmy Brantley has 4
brand new Vortex 2 heads for sale at a bargain price. Sporting 46mm intake valves and 39mm exhaust, they come complete with
500/250 Cams and all the valve gear, complete and ready to race. Brand new
and unused they would retail at well over $4000, but he has them for sale
at the unbelievable price of only $2500 each! Contact Jimmy on +1 239-560-4502, or email
drillking@youngquistbrothers.com
- fast! Date: 14th July 2004 Word is that the Veidec team have hired the worlds Top Dog drag racer to make sure the European title is secured for the team.
The new rider (the name is still a secret) will compete on his own designed and built in 5
minutes machine. We secretly took some pictures of the the new superbike after making some test runs at the Alastaro track.
Date: 14th July 2004 Power Nationals
The next round of the National Championship took Manor Racing to the
Power Nationals which is held at Shakespeare County Raceway. 1st round
of qualifying got us the No1 spot with a 9.961 which was a great run out
of the trailer. After we had all the commotions of have you seen a
doctor and drinking tea and walking we got the call to run again. We had
to run the 1/8th mile due to the wind that was plaguing the shut down
area, on this qualifying attempt I managed to get a 6.5 after missing a
shift and not getting the worlds best start. At the end of the day I was
laying in 3rd position.
Sunday came round and I had Richard Hann and with a 10.103 was good
enough to beat Richard who was having problems with his clutch slipping.
The next round I had Martin Walker and being told by team Hyena that if
you lose you will have the p**s taken out of you big time and if you
win you will get beaten up in their normal nice and joking way, so the
pressure was right on. On the line I got the hole shot on the lights and
managed to keep the lead with a 9.966 to martins 9.871. In the next
round I had Richard Sawatzki and with similar reaction times the race
was on. Today was not my day with Richards taking the win with me
breaking out. Richard went on to take the event win, well done. I would
like to thank my team sponsors as with out you guys it would not be
possible to run, Straight Line Racing, Q8 Oils, SFB 965 engineering (thank
you very much for taking the bike and all your help the weekend),
Comupay and Dream Glass. I would also like to thank Kev Charman and team and Chris Hall for all the help that you gave us while we was having
trouble with the starter clutch.
Summer Nationals
Manor racing went onto the next stop of the tour at the Summer
Nationals held at Santa Pod with high hopes of good weather and even
better racing. Unfortunately the weather was not so kind to us and with
the track crew working very hard to get racing under way during the
intermittent showers we waited to get a run in on Saturday after half of
our class had ran. We waited and waited until we final got a run in to
be met by the stickiest track that I had ever seen, and being second out
we got the full force of the track. When I went to launch the bike the
revs dropped and the bike didnt seem to go anywhere, the time was a
miserable 10.3 which left us in 10th spot. When Darren said that there
was going to be another qualifying run on Sunday I cant tell you I was
happy. The qualifying run was a lot better which netted in a 9.96 which
left me in the No3 position. In the first round of eliminations I was up
against Ilse Lambert, me and Ilse normally have really good races but
to!
day was not to be one of those days. Ilse had problems on the line and
I cruised though for an easy win at 10.011. In the next round I had the
ever consistent Richard Sawatzki who is doing really well this year. We
both launched with some level of bogging of the line but when I shifted
in to second gear the bike really pulled hard all though the track and I
thought I was on for a breakout and sat up at the same time of Richard
who was just ahead of me, but how wrong was I to be when I picked up the
timing ticket of a 10.3 and yes I was cursing myself all the way home.
On the Monday after the meeting we got the motor out of the bike and up
to Straightline Racing for a freshen up. This motor hasn't been touched
since 1999 when the motor was built and has not given us any trouble
which just shows what great engine builders Straightline Racing are. We
are picking the motor up on Saturday ready for London City Airport
meeting where we will bed in the motor for the next round of the National Championship.
I would like to thank my sponsors Q8 oils, Straightline Racing, Q8
Oils, SFB 965 Engineering, Comupay, Dream Glass.
David Warren Date: 14th July 2004 Hello, is there anybody who can help to get a used KOSMAN PROLITE rear wheel for a dragbike (Funny Bike)??? Mine was destroyed this weekend and we are going to race in 14 days. Please mail me!!!!
S.A.Skjerv Date: 14th July 2004 Last year with a 1500 4v I weighed 595, this year with 1640 628, in the ACU only 600 - that's my point.
Paul Watson Date: 13th July 2004 Did anyone tape the racing from the Main Event on Sky Sports 3 last Tuesday night? If so could I have a copy?
And for the others that missed it its on every Tuesday evening ay 11.30
Shaun Branch Date: 13th July 2004 RE: UEM PSB Weight Breaks. What 30 lbs?The rules stipulate either +11 lbs (> 1600CC) or 22 lbs(>1650CC) if you refer to a 1510CC 2-valve compared to large capacity 4-valver.
The 1510CC 4 valve is 11 lbs lighter then a 1510CC 2-valver.
Anders Larsson Date: 13th July 2004 Re: weight breaks for pro-stock, if only 6 bikes are going to bother to turn up for our national championship, what sort of weight break is going to persuade them to go to Europe?
Roger Upperton Date: 11th July 2004 And there's more.......
One pair of `Sebring Motorsport Hot Shoes' leather race boots, UEM and ACU legal.
Worn once only, US size 9, Europe 40 and UK 8
£20 ono
Tel 07785 341099, submit a gossip item or email ian@kingracing.com
Date: 11th July 2004 The King Racing sale goes on!
Grab a piece of history with a chassis built for a Norton engine, frame number JC23. Included in the sale is a genuine classic drag race slick tyre of the period, size 4.0/25.6-18
£80 ono
Tel 07785 341099, submit a Gossip item or email sales@kingracing.com
Date: 11th July 2004 Erstwhile King Racing crewman Gary Page won the Midnight Sun Internationals today in Pitea, Sweden driving one of Knut Soderquist's Top Fuel dragsters.
Well done Gary, and for a full report surf on over to Richard Stirlings site - http://topnitro.co.uk/Pitea.htm Date: 11th July 2004 Current UEM Top Fuel Bike Champion Roel Koedam has now launched a team website.
Featuring a history of Roel's career, and a line up of the ugliest crew ever to grace the dragstrips of Europe (Monique and Betsy excluded of course) it can be found by surfing on over to
www.koedamracing.nl Date: 11th July 2004 Do you think we will see a change in the weights for pro stock bike for 2005? It seems to me we would see a lot closer racing in the UEM championship if we did. This takes nothing away from the great work the Veidec team are doing but I see no proof of bigger engines going faster - you only have to look at NHRA and PROSTAR. I'm not against some weight
but 30lbs seems a bit much.
If you want to entice more people to race in the UEM we need to address this problem.
Paul Watson
Gossip comment :- PSB weights will be one of the subjects of discussion for the next UEM Road and Dragrace Commission meeting. Date: 10th July 2004 G2 Motorspots' George Bryce and George Smith have elected to step back from NHRA competition for the time being.
After experiencing the affect of the 40-pound weight addition imposed on the V-Twins at the Sears Craftsman Nationals, George Bryce and George Smith of G Squared Motorsports announced today that they will not be attending the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver, CO.
“It’s obvious that the 40-pounds have had a greater impact than we initially thought the weight would have and we need additional time to prepare as a result of the change,” said Smith. “Prior to George Bryce and I forming G Squared Motorsports, he and Jackie (Bryce) had a remarkable track record over the last 188 consecutive NHRA national event entries with 61 No. 1 qualifiers, 110 final rounds and 67 wins. The reason that the record is so good is Star Racing was more prepared than anyone else to win. We know we have an outstanding package with the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell and the S&S V-Twin engine has shown great durability and has tremendous potential. I’m not used to losing and neither is George Bryce, and it’s our intent to continue the winning tradition at G Squared.”
Bryce continued by saying, "Big George said it all. New projects take time to fully develop. We are committed to succeeding with this V-Twin. When we finally decided to unveil this new machine, we felt we would be competitive with it, and we are. As Big George said, the extra weight has had a significant impact, and we are continuing to work with the S&S team to maximize the performance of the Pro Stock bike. Upon returning to competition, we will help the class grow as we have several new racers interested in participating in the NHRA POWERade series.”
The two George’s are in Viola, WI this weekend meeting with the S&S Cycle R&D Department to discuss options. They will also be present at the Hot Bike S&S 124 VFI Ultimate Challenge Shootout at the Tri-State Raceway in Earlville, Iowa, with the 2003 #46 Tribute Street Pro bike doing exhibition runs.
Courtesy of Greg Guarinello - www.vtwinplus.com Date: 10th July 2004 Now Ian there is probably a real good reason why all the classes except Superstreet have been updated in the ACU/UK Championship.........?
Graham Dance
Gossip comment: Hi Graham, they have been updated, you need to click on your refresh button.........
Date: 9th July 2004 For sale, 4 Cylinder Mallory Supermag 4 with Cirello 7.8 amp upgrade and spares. Recently overhauled by Cirello this unit is ready for use on your Nitro or Methanol machine.
£450 (€650) plus shipping.
Contact Ian on +44 7785 341099, email sales@kingracing.com or submit a Gossip Item using the button above left. Date: 9th July 2004 In an attempt to raise sufficient funds to return to the UEM Championship, King Racing are embarking on a sale of their Crown Jewels! First up is an A1 as new condition Computech Systems `RaceAir' Competition Weather Analyzer with Automatic Air Sampling.
Throw away those crappy Oregon Scientific toys and bulky WW2 Altimeters and buy a state of the art microprocessor unit that the professionals use. Measure Density Altitude, Air Density Ratio, Correction Factor, Vapor Pressure, Dry Barometric Pressure, Dew Point and Wet Bulb Temperature in seconds!!!
Enjoy the queue of other racers outside your pit asking what the air's like......... whoops!
Anyhow, the price is £150 (€210) inc postage.
Contact Ian on +44 7785 341099 or email sales@kingracing.com Date: 9th July 2004 Just visited Santa Pod as a guest of Kathy Taylor
(she thought us
roundy roundy boys needed to see what real racing was...lol).
I took over 250 pics of the Bikes at the Easter Thunderball and Summer Nationals,
they can be downloaded free from our site if anyone is interested.
Thanks to Kathy for arranging press passes for our lensman!
John Higham - www.teamemmenracing.com
Gossip comment :-
Glad roundy roundy people can appreciate us straightliners! Great site, and I'm sure you welcome our readers as well as those from eurodragster to your site.........! Date: 8th July 2004 We have now updated our ACU Championship pages post SPRC Summernationals with the latest points positions and records.
Click on the button on the left menu to view. Date: 8th July 2004 Rider of the unique `Special Branch' blown Suzuki Funnybike Shaun Branch has been in contact with us and passed on details of his forthcoming race plans.
Despite a crankshaft failure that unluckily led to parts rolling into the opposing lane and subsequent disqualification in what would have been a winning run against the Top Fuel bike of Eric Teboul at the Main Event, Shaun is to race at the forthcoming Swedish and Norwegian rounds of the UEM Championship. His father and crew chief Dave has assembled a couple of `bullets' that should improve his chances of a less unhappy exit from eliminations.
Good luck Shaun! Date: 6th July 2004 We have updated our European Championship page to reflect the latest points
and records subsequent to the Alastaro meeting.
Click on the `FIM Championship' button on the menu on the left to view. Date: 6th July 2004 Our thanks to UEM Championship co ordinator Lars Andersson for sending us his Alastaro event summary :-
"I am now back from Finland and the race in Alastaro with very
mixed feelings. On arrival on Thursday was I was first very happy. The track looked better then ever with new guard rail from 200m up to the finish
line. The old one had new paint and most importantly the connection poles were cut to the same level as the concrete. I always walk the track and
in Alastaro it is normal to have to move some smaller stones that during come up during the winter. Not this time and even the bushes were cut down and the
braking area was very good.
Qualification on Friday went without any big problems. Charley Karling crossed the centre line so his time was not valid and during the run he had engine problems so he had to change it and missed the second run. Vesa Rautio had gearbox problems and stopped both times. Roger Pettersson did a very good 7.29 run @ 295km/h which proved
that the track was good.
That was the Friday and we were all waiting for Saturday. But that was only a long wait. It was raining from the morning to very late in the day. Sometimes a little bit less but more often a little bit more. A lot
of coffee (thank you to the teams) was the only thing what made the day. Late on Saturday we realised that we had 4 riders in Top Fuel Bike and 5 in Pro Stock and Super Twin. This made it all 4-ladders fields with Charley not qualified. Helen Curran had been waiting all Friday for the cylinder head that was lost on a flight from Paris to Helsinki so
she did not have any time, and the same with Vesa Rautio.
Since we had two valid qualifications on Friday there was nothing we could
do.
Sunday started and we made the first eliminations. First out was Roger Pettersson against Remo Nasi. Remo's bike did not start and Anders Abrahamson who was the alternate was not in the starting area. Roger did a solo run and then the speaker said the time- and all were very happy - 7.266
secs, a new record. And later came the other thing he did - 300 km/h, this is very good.
After this was it Anders Larsson against Chris Hope. Anders was waiting too long. He had a faster time but a slower reaction and Chris took that.
Then was it Supertwin, Svein Gottenberg against Ton Pels. Ton took the win and in the other final Ronny Aasen beat Hans Olav Olstad.
In Top Fuel bike it was first Nils Ole Lund against Jon Leret. Now that Jon had a better setup in the clutch he took an easy win over the bike of "Nissen"
which broke and let out a string of oil on the track.
One hour later was it time for the other semi final, Roel Koedam against Ferretti. Maybe because they had been waiting so long Roel went straight in to Stage and Antonio Ferretti came in a little bit later.
Roel had a very bad start with a 0,95 sec reaction time. He had to
close his visor and put on the computer so Ferretti was a very long way out before Roel left. But Roel managed to take it.
Then started the big wait. Some more oil downs and some small showers and at six o'clock came a huge shower that made everything wet. The braking area was not drying up so it was impossible to
race a motorcycle. At 8 o'clock the permissions from the local
authorities ended and so it was over and the race to the 9.15 ferry started.
This was Alastaro 2004!"
Lars Andersson Date: 6th July 2004 Alastaro 2004 / The second round of the European championship series.
"Finland... the land of a thousand lakes (and occasionally lots of rain). Let me take you through an unusual weekend....
First of all we were very fortunate that the transport of the bike and its equipment was taken care of in cooperation with the Zodiac company. Our supercharged four cylinder spent the journey with the nitro injected Harley of Ton Pels together in one trailer. Despite the rumour that “Japanese” bikes don’t like “American” bikes it seemed that they didn’t do any harm to each other during the long trip as they were still cuddling when we opened up the trailer in Finland...
On Friday we made only one qualifying pass and by our own mistake we fouled one of the (two) plugs of the #1 cylinder causing this one not to work very well during the run once the bike was under power. Therefore after 3.5 sec Roel decided to abort the run. A poor 8.3 @ 185 km/h was the result.
Not many bikes made the long journey to Finland with only four fuel bikes and two funny bikes entered in our class. In such a case the rules state that only a 4 bike field would qualify for the eliminations.
Because of this our 8.3 sec pass put us on the provisional # 3 spot.
The track looked in better condition then last year. However it started raining Friday night. Saturday wasn’t good either as it continued raining all day and so not much more could be done than spend all day bench racing and drinking coffee and tea.
By 16.30h it stopped raining and the crew started to work on the track in a attempt to bring it in race condition again, hoping the weather would hold. Because of the midsummer in Finland it never gets dark during this time of the year and qualifying could go on all night, weather and curfew permitting.
However just as at looked they would clear the job it started to rain again and that was it at 18.30h, so much for qualifying. We remained #3 qualifier with only one (half) pass.
Sunday was supposed to be the best day of the weekend according to the weather channel. Indeed it started dry and though the temperatures stayed around 16° (Celsius) it improved a little during the day. Just before our turn to hit the first round of eliminations, the racing activities stopped because of a big oil down (the first of many during the day) which held racing for over an hour (and away went the concentration at the same time).
When Roel finally rolled to the staging beams after his burn out, he didn’t have a clear view of the staging beams and accidentally pre-staged & staged at the same time. In addition our opponent (Italy’s Antonio Ferretti) braked a little too late and also rolled directly into “stage” activating the Christmas tree. In the meantime Roel thought he was still in “pre-stage” and when Roel realized the situation, at the very last moment, the lights on the tree already had turned to green and Antonio was gone.
Roel first switched on the datalogger & clutch management system and left 0.4sec(!) later while shaking his head to close his helmet visor which was also still open. It looked like a lost race for us, but we don’t give up so easily and the chase down the track could begin. To make it even worse the engine misfired for the first part of the run. (As we were very worried about the track conditions after a day and night of rain, we played it safe on the nitro percentage. Probably we were too cautious as it was obviously way too rich and it only started running properly after the 300 ft mark) How lucky can one be, as with a time difference of only 0.027 of a second we only just caught Antonio and took the win light.
As mentioned before, it was only a four bike field so we moved directly into the final round.
For the final round we left the clutch (setting) alone and gave it a few percentage more nitro. That definitely makes the engine feel more happy and in its turn also would have its affect on the clutch.
However things didn’t come easy for both finalists and the Finnish organization as the rain came down again at the end of the day just before the final rounds. Towards 18.30h the track crew started again its sweeping business, hoping they could fix the job before the 20.00h curfew. Strange enough the sun came finally out and looked here to stay. As one can imagine with this ever changing weather conditions the track condition for the final rounds would be anybody’s wild guess.
The curfew however was eight o’clock sharp. (why.... we don’t know, as the racetrack is the middle of nowhere).
Though they managed to get the track in good shape again, this could not be said for the entire shutoff area. Some critical spots remained very damp and in the opinion of the finalists in all “pro” bike categories it was not safe enough to race. If only the Finnish organization was allowed to continue the event for half an hour longer...
So a winner was not decided in any of the bike classes, and needless to say bright yellow sunshine stayed for the rest of the day till late that night.
Despite all the misery, we stayed on top of the points table for the European championship.
The next championship round will be at Sweden’s Mantorp Park (July 29- August 1).
See you at the races!"
Marius van der Zijden / Koedam Racing Holland Date: 6th July 2004 Reference the very interesting tyre article on the board on the 3rd of
July. Whilst it is quite enlightening and contains the accurate story of one of Gary Scelzi's wild crashes (Video at http://www.nhra.com/movies2000/race10/GScelzi_00race10.mov) It is, however, wildly out of date. Gary had his crash on the 1st June 2000 and Lee Beard ceased to be Kenny Bernstein's crew chief way before the end of the 2000 season. He has been with Don Schumacher Racing as Crew Chief for Whit Bazemore since the beginning of the 2001 season. I know I'm being a 'Picky Virgo' here, but although the article is extremely interesting, the tyre technology and all round mechanical development is way down the line from that timeline in 2000. Just have a look at the differences in performances at the same meeting at the same track 4 years later. To be over a 10th of a second faster in Top Fuel is really something.
#1 TF Qual June 2000:
Cory Maclenathan - 4.547 317.72
Fastest ET/MPH June 2004:
Doug Kallita - 4.420 332.10
The article is well researched but I would like to see an NHRA report as of July 04 and see what that has to say.
Yours sincerely
Richard Stirling
http://topnitro.co.uk Date: 5th July 2004 This weekend saw the annual Congress for the UEM (European Motorcycle Union), the governing body for all motorcycle sport in Europe.
Held in Sofia, Bulgaria, it was attended by over 200 delegates representing 34
countries of the 42 National Motorcycle Federation members of the UEM.
During the opening ceremony of the General Assembly, the UEM President, Mr Dieter Junge presented the UEM `Golden Centaur’ award for the Prime Minister of Bulgaria, Mr H.E. Simeon Saxe – Coburg Gotha for the investment made by his government in motorcycle sport in the region.
In attendance was Mr Dimitar Kalchev the State Administration Minister, and the Sports Minister, Mr Vassil Ivanov – Luciano.
Representing the Road Race, Drag and Sprint interests of the governing body for all British motorcycle sport (The ACU) was Top Fuel Dragbike rider Ian King.
Key discussions at the Road and Dragrace Commission attended by Ian King were the introduction of a European Road Racing Cup for a new Stocksport 600 class, abolition of an age limit and the introduction of a 136 kg weight break in the 250cc class, and the reduction of entry fees for UEM Dragrace events for the 2005 season. Date: 5th July 2004 Bring back the forum! Breaking 1500 Suzuki nitrous dragbike, details on Straightliners miscellaneous small ads. Everything
must go to fund new project!
Thanks, Chris
E-mail:
topbike1@hotmail.com Date: 5th July 2004 Some great movie clips have been added to our race page, they are quite good quality so may take a couple of minutes to download but they are worth it. Good idea to right click and 'save target as' to your computer, then you can play them at leisure without the wait! Turn up your sound, get a cup of coffee, sit back and smell the nitro!
Cheers, Ian
www.turboville.com/turbo-7/team.htm
WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM
the ultimate drag racing resource. Date: 4th July 2004 Our thanks to Monique Koedam, Ken Cooper and Helen Curran for keeping us updated on the state of play with the UEM Bike classes at the weekends Alastaro event.
Helen and Ken explained that her failure to qualify should not have been such a surprise as Carlo's luggage turned up 24 hrs later than he did and it had her cylinder head in it! Consequently she didn't get to run on Friday and Saturday was washed out. However, her fellow team member Roger Petersson set new 1/4 mile records with backed up 7.266 ET and a 295.83 km/h (183.82mph).
The finals were to feature Roel Koedam (Holland) versus Jon Leret (Norway) in Top Fuel Bike, Ton Pels (Holland) versus Ronny Aasen (Norway) in Supertwin and Roger Petersson (Sweden) versus Chris Hope (England) in PSB, but a damp braking area put paid to the chance of class conclusions at the end of competition. Date: 3rd July 2004 Looks like that's it for the qualifying at Alastaro with Roel Koedam (Holland) facing Antonio Ferretti (Italy) in 1st round of Top Fuel and Ton Pels (Holland) up against Svein Gottenberg (Norway) in Supertwin round one. Date: 3rd July 2004 We've just heard from Monique and Roel Koedam who are currently sitting in a rain soaked Alastaro waiting for the track to dry before eliminations are recommenced.
At the moment both PSB rider Helen Curran and Supertwin rider Charley Karling are on tenterhooks as they are currently not qualified.
Roel Koedam currently resides in 3rd position in Top Fuel Bike whilst fellow countryman Ton Pels languishes in fourth position in Supertwin.
Good luck to all and let's hope the track dries! Date: 3rd July 2004 As it continues to investigate Sunday's accident that killed Top Fuel driver Darrell Russell, the NHRA on Wednesday announced interim rules changes for its top two classes.
Beginning with the Mopar Mile-High Nationals near Denver on July 16, Top Fuel dragsters must have roll-cage shielding and meet new Goodyear tire specifications. Funny Cars will also have new tire specifications.
"These rule changes are interim steps the NHRA believes are appropriate to take at this time," the organization said in a release. "(The) NHRA will evaluate additional steps as the investigation continues."
Russell, 35, died from head injuries after his dragster blew a tire, went out of control and crashed during the second round of the Sears Craftsman Nationals near St. Louis.
His funeral is set for Friday in Tomball, Texas.
By Gary Graves, USA TODAY Date: 3rd July 2004 At the recent NHRA Mopar Parts Nationals in Englishtown, N.J., and the
NHRA Prestone Nationals in Joliet, Ill., nitro racers ran into a very
thorny tire problem. The super-biting N.J. facility along with the very
cold climes combined to take chunks out of the rear slicks. Not the
usual thin strips of roughage one sees on a used slick, but bites out of
the edge of the tires. At the Joliet race, former two-time Winston champ
Gary Scelzi ran a 4.60/316.67 for low e.t. in qualifying, but before
entering the traps had a small chunk of the right rear slick fly out.
This caused the tire to get severely out of balance and it shook the car
so violently that it failed the rear-wing assembly. A bigger chunk
ripped out of the tire after the car rolled. We decided to consult an
expert on nitro racing and related subjects, Lee Beard, the crew chief
of Kenny Bernstein's Bud King Top Fuel dragster, and inquire in so many
words, "What's the deal with the rear tires on the fuel cars?"
"After my conversations with Goodyear Tire engineers, the tire problem
can be traced to a number of things, but a lot of it to the 90-percent
nitro rule. We [Top Fuel and Funny Car] don't make as much horsepower
with that percentage and this causes the tires to stick better to the
race surface. It's easier to spin the tires on 100-percent than it is
90-percent and most fans over the years have probably seen numerous fuel
dragsters and funny cars spin their rear tires at well past half track.
"However, since the tire is glued so well to the surface, the pull
against the tire from the surface and itself is greater. When the tire
spins, it dissipates heat and you can see that by the way the rubber
comes off the tire. When it's glued to the track, the tire gets the full
brunt of the heat; they get hotter when they're not spinning freely and
the effect is that chunks of the tire can come off.
"This isn't a hard and fast explanation because there are variables in
this situation. A person has to also take into consideration factors
like ambient temperature, track surfaces and other related items. For
example, everyone is still running the same type of Goodyear tires seen
at Joliet, and there were no problems or certainly not on the level of
Scelzi's crash. The reason was likely that the St. Louis [Sears
Craftsman Nationals] surface didn't bite as well as Joliet or at
Englishtown. There was more tire slippage there. However, at the really
super traction facilities, it's a different deal.
"In fuel racing, problems in all areas of a car can pop up. For example,
in 1997 at Sonoma [Autolite Nationals] Bruce Sarver and Eddie Hill both
had problems with exploding rear tires and you got all types of
conjecture as to what caused the blowouts. In that respect, the
situation of pros, cons and controversy are similar today's problem with
the tires.
"I will say this. Reflexively, it's easy to get on Goodyear's case, but
these guys have been making racing slicks for 35-40 years; they know
what they're doing. They're are the only game in town when it comes to
Top Fuel and Funny Car and I know from experience that if there's a
problem, they're on it right away.
"To show what I mean, at Columbus [NHRA Pontiac Excitement Nationals] a
week after Joliet, Goodyear gave some teams what they call a 1230 tire
made out of a rubber compound that has better adhesion. The rubber tread
sticks to the carcass better; the tire adheres to itself better overall.
Now that doesn't mean it'll have better traction; it might have less.
The new compound is also harder. But whatever, Goodyear was on the job
working to get the problem sorted out. Unfortunately, a lot of teams,
our team included, haven't been able to find time to test it.
"In closing, problems creep up all the time in fuel racing. This tire
problem is just one and racing history has shown that it will be solved
soon enough." Date: 3rd July 2004 Hi there!
I've put together some words and pictures following last weekend's Summer Nationals meeting at Santa Pod Raceway. It was a tough meeting for me because I was really struggling with a bad back and a camera that didn't want to play ball! However with the help of SPRC's Jon Crawford and a few Panadols I've put it together and posted it up at http://topnitro.co.uk Enjoy the report!
Best regards,
Richard Stirling - http://topnitro.co.uk Date: 3rd July 2004 Its that time of year again ie the peak of the British summer and no drag racing for almost 2 months!!
Is there a reason for this??
Oh congrats to Grumps on his 7.5, storming!!!
Rich Fielding
Gossip comment :- Come and race in Europe! Date: 2nd June 2004 Whilst we are stuck here in stuffy meetings at the UEM Congress in Sofia, Bulgaria we'd like to wish all those competing in Alastaro the best of safe success!
This does not, of course, extend to those competing in the annual Alastaro Karaoke competition as King Racing would like to hang on to their title, yet to be surpassed..... Date: 2nd June 2004 Whilst we are on the subject of the plague of blisters, Mickey Thompson have been on the phone to us with concern for those riders disadvantaged by the blistering. Although the cause is far from clear, MT have kindly offered to replace slicks that have suffered this problem in order that riders will not be hit in the pocket, irrespective of any final conclusive cause. So, if you have suffered this problem please return the tyre(s) to your MT dealer for replacement. This great gesture does not, of course, apply to blistered Goodyears, you will have to take that up with their respective dealers.....
Well done MT and Cooper Avon! Date: 2nd June 2004 We spoke to the Kjell Petersson yesterday regarding the discussions on tyres and track preparation. He is examining all possibilities of the causes, and as such would like to know which riders who suffered blisters at the Summer Nationals had actually used the very same tyres on their bikes at the Main Event. Please let us know by submitting a Gossip Form or by email to
MT@kingracing.com He also asked us to point out that it was not he but one of his track
prep colleagues that spoke to the MT guys last weekend. Date: 2nd June 2004 Brad, can you give me a call concerning the dta - your email isn't working :-
mobile 07973685373 home 01689 845462
Stephen Beken
E-mail:
stephen@beken.fsworld.co.uk Date: 2nd June 2004 I have had 4 enquiries this morning about my bike for sale - all in
very bad english, all wanting to pay by some dodgy method... Just to
let you all know they are still out there!!
Rat Date: 2nd June 2004 Funnybike duo unbeaten in AMA/Prostar and PMRA competition
Despite a 3/4 bike length advantage at 100 feet and posting a 6.60 at over 210 mph in the Prostar final at St. Louis, there were some in the dragbike community who thought that Glen Nickelberry won that race because of Mark Conner’s broken belt on the Harley. But after out-running the field when the chips were on the table in Norwalk (the third win for rider Nickelberry and tuner Tommy Bolton in three Prostar outings), everyone by now realizes that this pair is making a serious run for the Funnybike title. Indeed, despite skipping two races, the pair has moved into third place within a hair’s breadth of defending champ Travis Davis and is quickly chasing down points leader Korry Hogan.
Bolton seems to have developed a strategy of dialing in just enough performance to advance, saving his equipment for when it’s needed. Or maybe winning performances simply falling into place at the right time. “I see, you’re just watchin’ me tear my stuff up,” Hogan said after Nickelberry and Bolton sat out round 2 of qualifying at Norwalk. But actually, Bolton was fixing his Kawasaki. “The fibulator valve going to the wastegate in my system stuck,” reported Tommy, who along with Glen had to settle for second place behind Hogan.
The valve got stuck again in the first round of eliminations and the bike didn’t shift. But James Guyton, in the other lane, couldn’t capitalize. “We were there for the taking,” said Bolton. He and Glen had a bye in the second round, but this time decided not to baby the equipment. “In the second round we wanted to make sure everything was right and run it on through. Glen ran a 6.80 and we knew we were back in the game.”
Back in the game and on top of it, as Glen outran Hogan in a side-by-side semi. “I think it was the best Funnybike race I’ve ever seen,” said veteran photographer Matt Polito.
“It was a tight race,” agreed Bolton. “If I’m not mistaken, it’s the fastest side-by-side Funnybike race ever. We ran our best ever MPH, and they did too. They call Korry the Hulk, but they forget we’ve got Don King (a button that activates a hair-raising, extra shot of nitrous). We used the Don King button ‘cause we were dealin’ with a wrestler, the Hulkster. We had Don’s hair conditioned and ready! Big props out to Korry ‘cause he made his run hard.”
The final was anti-climatic, as Davis broke at launch. Still, Nickelberry ran 6.66 at over 206. “Travis broke, but we didn’t take any chances,” said Tommy. “We were running scared. All the Funnybike guys are real good, and we don’t take any of these guys lightly.”
By this time, no one is taking the guys from Oklahoma lightly, either. Nor is Bolton taking the Kawasaki’s performance for granted. “I went to the Vance & Hines shop at Indy after the race,” said Tommy. “I spent the day getting a new cylinder head made for Glen’s bike. It’s the same head that they put on Larry McBride’s bike, so we’re gonna try that out on ours. We might have it for Indy or Memphis, one of the two. But I don’t know, we might have to get whooped on real good with these V&H heads we have on right now before we swap them out.”
Bolton will have little time for major changes, as he and Glen are running the full PMRA schedule in addition to the remaining Prostar races. They are also running Darwin Barnett’s Soul Brothers races, including July 4th weekend at Kansas City International Raceway.
Glen and Tommy thanked sponsors Wattie Wolfe Engineering, Majestic Turbo, Vance & Hines Motorsports, Bill Robinson Transmissions, Dynatek, Web Cam, RC Components, TomBo Racing Engines, Rod & Todd Auto Paint, Darwin “Mr. B.” Barnett, the Nickelberry family and the entire Nickelberry race team.
Tim Hailey Date: 1st July 2004 Europes quickest Bandit! 1200cc Bandit, Mitsubishi turbo,
progressive nitrous, all the gubbins, loads of spares. Runs in Super
Street class. Best ET 8.66, best mph 166mph.
£6000.00 for complete bike.
Spare engine available @ £500.00.
Please call Rat for details. 01793
705905
E-mail: rachel@abbeyridertraining.co.uk
Date: 1st July 2004 The company behind the gorgeous new fuel tank on the King Racing Top Fuel
Bike, Pro Alloy have now launched their new website. The company who are
artisans in aluminium fabrication specialise in tanks, intercoolers and
radiators for all forms of vehicles, and have extensive experience due to their
background at the company famous for oil systems for racing vehicles, Pace
Products. Click on :- Date: 1st July 2004 I am looking for a sprinter passenger seat, the type with integrated
seat belts. If any one has one or something similiar hidden in the back
of there garage then I would appreciate an e-mail.
Shaun Branch
E-mail: shaun@branchracing.net Date: 1st July 2004 It seems everybody is blaming the track or track preparation for the
blistering problems that recently popped up in Europe. I don't
understand why, I blame the tire manufacturer. I was using purpose built
Mickey Thompson motorcycle Drag Racing tires on a Drag Racing
motorcycle on a Drag Racing strip (i.e. precisely what the tire was made
for) when I blistered two brand new tires. The first one after three
passes (one 6.6 the others 6.7) , the second one even on a half pass! The tire manufacturers, in this case Mickey Thompson, found the
easiest way out they blame the track conditions, but what is worse, we
seem believe them! We seem to ignore the fact that they sell a purpose built part that does not do what it should do.
When I called the expert at Mickey Thompson after Santa Pod he said "too
much traction". Now I read that at another occasion the Mickey Thompson
expert said "not enough traction at the start and too much at the finish".
What excuse is next?? Too much power, go de-tune you engine?? Bull, if
one build's Drag Racing tires he should build a good tire that can cope
with various track conditions, not just the perfect ones. Perfect track
conditions almost never exist.
Ton Pels - Zodiac Racing, Holland
Gossip comment Thanks for your mail Ton ,and I'm sure those who have
suffered this malady share your frustrations. However, we need to examine the
circumstances to date. The problems experienced in Europe have been suffered at
the same dragstrip so far, and the track manager Kjell Petersson already
expressed an opinion that it could be due to `over prep' at certain parts of the
track. Although this blistering has been observed in isolated cases at other
venues in the US, the UK has seen by far the most incidence to date. Note that
at the Main Event exactly the same failure was observed with both MT and
Goodyear tyres, and not isolated to bikes but on some cars also. However, Mickey
Thompson took the concerns seriously enough to send a technician from the US to
attend the last meeting (how many US companies have ever shown that much concern
for European dragracers?), and to examine `problem' tyres. They spent time
discussing the issue with the track management, and have not officially stated
their conclusions, just what they have found to date. They await the results of
tyres used at the next UEM rounds at different venues before making any final
conclusions, but have an open mind at this point. Date: 1st July 2004 at Kansas City International Raceway
Headline: A European Top Fuel Harley first for Wendy!
Gossip:
Headline: UEM registered riders
Gossip:
Class
First Name
Last Name
Country
Pro
Stock Bike
Herman
Van Driel
Holland
Pro
Stock Bike
Vesa
Rautio
Finland
Pro
Stock Bike
Roger
Pettersson
Sweden
Pro
Stock Bike
Chris
Hope
England
Pro
Stock Bike
Martin
Bishop
England
Pro
Stock Bike
Helen
Curran
England
Pro
Stock Bike
Richard
Gipp
England
Pro
Stock Bike
Remo
Nasci
Italy
Pro
Stock Bike
Davide
Rica
Italy
Pro
Stock Bike
Anders
Abrahamsson
Sweden
Pro
Stock Bike
Anders
Larsson
Sweden
Super
Twin TF
Anders "Charley"
Karling
Sweden
Super
Twin TF
Stefan
Junerud
Sweden
Super
Twin TF
Hans Olav
Olstad
Norway
Super
Twin TF
Ronny
Aasen
Norway
Super
Twin TF
Ton
Pels
Netherlands
Super
Twin TF
Svein
Gottenberg
Norway
Super
Twin TF
Jaakko
Salkari
Finland
Super
Twin TF
Joachim
Riemer
Germany
Super
Twin TF
Per
Bengtsson
Sweden
Super
Twin TF
Greger
Johansson
Sweden
Super
Twin TF
Svein Oiav
Rolfstad
Norway
Super
Twin TF
Erik
Nielsen
Denmark
Super
Twin TF
Trond
Alm
Norway
Top
Fuel Bike
Nils Ole
Lund
Norway
Top
Fuel Bike
Jon
Leret
Norway
Top
Fuel Bike
Eric
Teboul
France
Top
Fuel Bike
Joey
Bon
Netherlands
Top
Fuel Bike
Antonio
Ferretti
Italy
Top
Fuel Bike
Steve
Woollatt
England
Top
Fuel Bike
Roel
Koedam
Holland
Top
Fuel Bike
Shaun
Branch
England
Top
Fuel Bike
Asko
Maatta
Finland
Top
Fuel Bike
Sverre
Dahl
Norway
Top
Fuel Bike
Ian
King
England
Headline: Bernie Hepworth raceplan
Gossip:
Headline: Steve teams up with Tim
Gossip:
Headline: Congratulations!
Gossip:
Headline: Bargain Vortex 2 Heads for sale!
Gossip:
Headline: Top Dog?
Gossip:
Headline: Manor Racing Reports
Gossip:
Headline: HELP!!!
Gossip:
Headline: PSB Weights
Gossip:
Headline: Main Event on Sky Sports
Gossip:
Headline: What 30 lbs ?
Gossip:
Headline: Hmmmm.......
Gossip:
Headline: Race boots
Gossip:
Headline: Classic drag chassis for sale
Gossip:
Headline: Page wins again in Pitea!
Gossip:
Headline: Koedam Racing launch website
Gossip:
Headline: UEM PSB Weight Breaks
Gossip:
Headline: G Squared Opts To Skip NHRA Mile-High Nationals
Gossip:
Headline: Nil points for Norwich.......
Gossip:
Headline: Crown Jewels 2
Gossip:
Headline: Weather Station for sale!
Gossip:
Headline: Roundy roundy straightliners
Gossip:
Headline: Latest ACU Championship points posted
Gossip:
Headline: Special Branch hit Sweden
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Championship points and records
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Co ordinator's Alastaro summary
Gossip:
Headline: Koedam Racing Alastaro report
Gossip:
Headline: Gary Scelzi crash
Gossip:
Headline: 2004 UEM Congress
Gossip:
Headline: Bring back the forum!
Gossip:
Headline: Turbo's clips
Gossip:
Headline: Alastaro Bike finals cancelled
Gossip:
Headline: Qualifying over
Gossip:
Headline: Rainy day upsets qualifying..........
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA makes a move on tyre problems
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA Tyre article
Gossip:
Headline: Top Nitro Top report
Gossip:
Headline: Summer's not such a drag...........
Gossip:
Headline: Good luck!
Gossip:
Headline: Mickey Thompson support
Gossip:
Headline: Blistering pace?
Gossip:
Headline: Paging Bradders
Gossip:
Headline: Lurkers................
Gossip:
Headline: Nickelberry and Bolton Perfect in ’04
Gossip:
Headline: FOR SALE
Gossip:
Headline: Engineering or art?
Gossip:
Headline: Seat required
Gossip:
Headline: Blistering tires.
Gossip:
Headline: 2ND ANNUAL SOUL BROTHERS RACE
Gossip:
July 3rd and 4th, 2004
CARS AND BIKES
And
ALL DAY GRUDGE RACING!
Wheelie contest both days!
K.C's Most Wanted Stunt Riders
ALL PAYOUTS ARE GUARANTEED!
BIKES
Quick 16 (Heads-up, entry $135) Street Bike
Shoot Out (Heads-up, entry $85)
Win $1500
R/U $750
R/U $400
Semi $200
Semi $100
1Ž4 $125
1Ž4
$75
8.20 (Heads-up, entry $85) 8.90
(Heads-up, entry $70)
Win $1000
Win $750
R/U $400
R/U $250
Semi $100
Semi $75
1Ž4 $75
1Ž4 $50
9.90 (Heads-up, entry 70)
E.T. Bracket (Entry $60)
Win $750
Win $500
R/U $250
R/U $150
Semi $75
Semi $50
1Ž4 $50
1Ž4 $25
ET Quads (Entry $40)
Trophy’s
CARS
Quick 16 (Heads-up, entry $140)
Super Pro E.T. (entry $100)
Win $2000
Win $1500
R/U $1000
R/U $750
Semi $300
Semi $200
1Ž4 $150
1Ž4 $100
Pro E.T. (entry $60)
FootBrake
E.T. (entry $50)
Win $500
Win $300
R/U $250
R/U $150
Semi $100
Semi $50
1Ž4 $50
1Ž4 $25
Trophy E.T. (entry $40)
Win Trophy
R/U Trophy
Semi Trophy
1Ž4 Trophy
JR Dragsters (Entry $25)
Trophy’s
TIME ONLY RACERS IS $10.00 PER DAY PLUS ADMISSION PRICE
SATURDAY – GATES OPEN AT 10:00. PRO QUALIFING – NOON, 2:00, 4:00
GAMBLERS RACE 4:45 (100% payback)
ALL DAY GRUDGE RACING
SUNDAY – GATES OPEN AT 9:00. PRO QUALIFING – 11:00 (Only one!)
TIME ONLY’S AND GRUDGE ALL DAY
CAR AND BIKE SHOW ALL DAY SUNDAY ONLY
Wheelie contest both days
ADMISSION
GA – SATURDAY $15.00 / SUNDAY $20.00
KIDS 5-12: $5.00 KIDS UNDER 5: FREE
For more information on this race contact Darwin Barnett at (816) 966-8851 or darwinbarnett@hotmail.com
Date: 30th June 2004
Headline: Fisher in MCN
Mark Fisher and his TTS blown Superstreet Hayabusa are given a quarter page colour feature on page 13 of this weeks issue of Motor Cycle News.
Date: 30th June 2004
Headline: Ivan's Canon can?
HERE IS A FANTASTIC CLOSE-UP OF MY BIKE AT THE MOMENT THE BACK WHEEL BROKE CAUSING THE CHAIN TO STRIP THE FRONT SPROCKET. LOOK CLOSE AND YOU WILL SEE THE SPARKS UNDER THE SLICK AND TWO GEAR TEETH IN MID FLIGHT UNDER THE BIKE!!! THIS IS WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH A CAMERA LENS THAT COST IN EXCESS OF £1100 ON THE LATEST CANON DIGITAL CAMERA IN THE CAPABLE HANDS OF DR. IVAN SANSOM!
Turbo
WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM the ultimate drag racing resource.
Date: 30th June 2004
Headline: Jones and Friend race report
Well a rainy start to the Summer Nationals at Santa Pod and the Santa Pod track crew deserve a big thank you for all the efforts to get us all racing only to be thwarted by the rain.
Since the Main Event we have lengthened our efi blowthro alcohol turbo bike to stop it being so lively, with some longer axle blocks made in quick time by Dave Branch Engineering - thanks Dave!
I also lengthened our old wheelie bars and fitted a new Mickey T rear tyre.
Sunday & we qualify #1 with a 7.88 @ 160, first round eliminations & we run another 7.84 @ 163. Gary tells me the bike is so smooth to ride now it is longer, but back in the pits we find we have chunked the tyre on its third pass so unfortunately we are out of competition & off home & not happy bunnies at all, but we have more data to look at in the development of our efi alcohol injection system.
It would appear that we were not the only racers suffering this problem as several pro stockers had it as well. The Mickey Thompson tech support personnel were at this meeting & I know other racers had spoken to them about this tyre problem. I asked them to come & look at our tyre which one of them did, he told us that he had walked the length of the track & that the track was too sticky at the top end and not sticky enough at the start.
Also this was the only track in the world where this was happening!!! Pass me a shovel so I can clear a path out of our awning as I know this is happening at tracks in the US as well, but they never spoke to our track crew about it which you would think they would having had it brought to their attention!
On Monday I made some phone calls to the US, a reliable source confirmed that bike racers including Larry Mcbride have suffered the same problems with chunking of M/Ts & G/Years.
The answer but not the cure, seems to be to run a slightly lower tyre pressure than you normally would to allow the centre of the tyre to concave slightly & this has stopped the the chunking.
I spoke to Ian Marshall of the track prep crew at Santa Pod, who also is fully aware of the chunking problem & has spoken to several sources in the US including Larry Mcbride, who confirmed that he run a lower tyre pressure & it stopped the chunking.
Ian is also in discussion with the NHRA Virginia track prep crew, who are also having this problem at their track so hopefully we will have a solution to this problem soon.
Regards,
Dave Friend,
Jones & Friend Racing
Gossip comment :-
As mentioned in earlier posts on this subject, this does not seem to be a problem related to one particular manufacturer of tyres, but a phenomenon experienced under certain track preparation conditions (and not
due to `bad' but maybe `over' prep in certain areas). Both GY and MT tyres have been subject to `chunking' at the last two meetings here, and
it has been experienced at various race tracks across the world at other times. Date: 30th June 2004 I'm ready and Baldie's Gun III is more than ready for the
Finnish UEM race next weekend. The rece wasn't originally on my schedule for this year but my turbo manufacturer Pro Turbo Systems wanted me to test
some new stuff for them so I'll be there.
For me it's a test weekend for the NDRS races taking place over the next three weekends but if I'm on the line that's not so simple! It's a pity we don't have more than five bikes (as it seems now) on the line so if I
want to race on Sunday one of those fuellers must be beaten in qualifying..... So what! Anyway I'm gonna give them a chance...
Hope that the weather is good because on the first qualifying attempt on Friday I'll make a baseline for the bike and the system with my "old" turbo and
then the turbo will go to Pro Turbo Systems at Pori to be checked and before I'm gonna race/test the new one they delivered.
Anyway I'm "bored" on the home work of which I'll have had a lot andwilling to be on the race track again after four weeks.
Many thanks to my old and new sponsors: Pro Turbo Systems, Kopparin
Kukka (that means "Catcher's Flower" shop; who but my wife could be happier 'bout this sponsor?), NeoBest (the Mercedes-Benz dealer at
Jyvaskyla) and greetings to Skip at the Orient Express Motorsports (I just noticed their Pro Mod 5 sp gear box is excellent)...
... and all this has been made possible by Baldie Racing & Media
Relationships!
Cheers, Asko, TF/FB 45 Date: 29th June 2004 We got the S&S bike going pretty good last meeting
but knew we had to step it up a notch to face Bernie's seven second bike
so I called in Frank for a bit of valued input. He confirmed our
theories on out fuel system and we made the changes we knew we needed
to make the next step.
The bike sounded a lot meaner on the burn out and
expectations were high as we staged. When I dropped the hammer the
throttle response was instant for a change but the poor old 20mm axle
was just not up to the job so it went banana on us and took the hub out
with it which ended our race day.
It was a shame as we were dying to see
what we could get out of our meagre 70% load against the 94%+ loads of
the other bikes. The good news is that the wheel can be fixed, no biggy
there, and the motor is as new so we live to ride another day. Big
thanks to Frank for the help, wasn't his fault and we welcome all the
advice he can offer. Also big thanks to Rush and Leo for putting up with me, couldn't do it without them. Also big thanks to my new awning supplier
who custom designed, printed and delivered my fantastic new awning in
record time at a great price! Click on the 'RACE TENTS' button of my web
site for full details.
I would like to say 'well done mate' to Steve
Clutterbuck who had a hard weekend sorting niggling little problems then
overcame adversity to run a solid 8.8 to round off his weekend! I
rounded mine off by breaking the rear axle of my 4X4 on the M1! Guess
that weekend wasn't meant to be for any of my rear wheels!
Don't forget
the 'On Two Wheels' bike meet at the Pod on the 21 August!! Last year it
was great fun!
Turbo Date: 29th June 2004 Click on :-
www.dragsteraustralia.com.au
Date: 29th June 2004 A week last Friday was Andy Dawson's last day here at MRE. He'd given me notice some ten weeks ago but I guess I really didn't want to believe it.........
He is taking a leave of absence of undetermined length to return to the UK to spend time with his parents, children and other family.
He claims to want to get out of the motorcycle industry altogether, citing the fact that he is terribly burnt out on it.
He is not sure what he'll be doing for employment once he returns to the US.
We had a little going away get together at a local watering hole last night after work for him and it was attended by Gary Larsen of Stripbike.com who took the attached photos.
I'd like to thank Andy for his time here at MRE, he will be sorely missed here.
Jay Regan
Date: 28th June 2004 UK Top Fuel Bike rider Chris `Cannon' Hannam assumed full ownership of the TNT liveried Puma he has campaigned over the last few months after purchasing the residual 50% ownership from dragbike veteran
Jon Morton at the weekend. Date: 28th June 2004 Following on from the problems experienced with slick tyre chunking at the Main Event, a number of riders continued to suffer this problem at the weekend's Summer Nationals. Date: 28th June 2004 It seems that the fuel system tune up assistance provided by Frank Brachtvogel to Nitro HD Supertwin rider
Ian Turburville may have been a tad too aggressive as he proceeded to break the rear wheel hub on his launch at the weekend..... Date: 28th June 2004 Well a difficult weekend for all! The weather forecast was spot on and a great
effort by the POD crew. We had high hopes for this weekend and in the 1st qualifier we
ran a 7.68. Fot the next we changed the clutch set up and achieved the 1.10 60ft
we have been after for so long, qualifying no.1 with a 7.62.
The 1st round was against Ray Debben. Although Ray was off the pace he was not to be taken lightly so as my lights have been a bit close lately (424,420,400,392,399)
I tried to be easier off the line. However as Ian dropped the tree I was not as ready as I should have been and found Ray a bit ahead. Thankfully the tune up that we put in rewarded us with a 7.53 @ 172 for my new PB. Things were looking up as we had a bye into the final, however due to oildowns and then strong side winds it was decided to stop all ACU bikes running (personally I think we could have waited with the cars until the end). By the time we
Had loaded up the cars started to run and the sun was back out, but hey that’s racing!
Well done to all the POD crew you all done great. Sad to see Nigel's last meet – don’t be a stranger……….. congrats to BOB with his baby too.
To conclude we went to the POD with big intentions and pretty much achieved
them - 1.10 60ft and 7.53 - the UPPERTON engine goes from strength to strength!
None of this would have been possible without my team mate Dave Beck and I know the bike will go faster - the next few runs would have been interesting, however I stand by my race directors decision, well done Darren, great meeting!
Paul `grumps’ Watson Date: 28th June 2004 After qualifying 8th at the AMA Prostar Norris Motorsports Cyclefest at Norwalk, OH with a 7.075 @ 190.94,
Dave Beck progressed to the second round with a 7.064 @ 186.3 win over Dan Vasilik. Unfortunately, in the 2nd round Dave slowed to a troubled 10.113 against eventual event winner Charlie Farrar’s 6.756 @ 196.76.
Top Fuel Bike
Larry Mc Bride 6.403 @ 191.57 bt. Chris Hand 6.429 @ 209.10
Funnybike
Glen Nickleberry 6.661 @ 206.83 bt. Travis Davis (broke)
Promod
Charlie Farrar 6.779 @ 197.05 bt. Mike Caputo 6.900 @ 201.43
Prostock
Keith Dennis 7.217 @ 183.79 bt. Paul Gast 7.189 @ 185.72
Streetbike Shootout
Barry Henson 7.475 @ 197.25 (unopposed) Date: 28th June 2004 After Antron Brown qualified with a stunning 7.099@ 187.05 in PSB at the Sears Craftsman Nationals, 18 year veteran in Pro Stock Bike
Steve Johnson claimed his first victory in his seventh career final round appearance. He used a holeshot start and recorded a 7.220 at 183.34 on his K&N Filters Suzuki to defeat the quicker Matco Tools Suzuki of Craig Treble, who posted a 7.129 at 186.28.
With the win, Johnson moved to sixth overall in the points standings, 247 behind leader Andrew Hines, who lost in the second round to Michael Phillips on a red-light start. Date: 27th June 2003 Click on :- www.norwalkraceway.com/vidsmall Date: 26th June 2004 The NHRA mandated rule change adding 40-pounds to the Harley Davidson V-Rods and NHRA-accepted American push rod V-Twins up to 160 cid (such as the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell) went into effect at this weekend’s NHRA Sears Craftsman Nationals.
After two of four qualifying sessions with the additional weight in place, Fred Collis drove the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell, powered by an S&S Cycle V-Twin, to a No. 23 qualifying position as the first day of qualifying ended.
After using the first qualifying session on Friday as a test session to ensure that the additional weight was distributed properly, Collis recorded a pass of 7.317 seconds at 177.09 mph in his first full run down the Gateway International Raceway quarter-mile during today’s evening session.
I love riding the Buell,” said Collis. “It’s coming around. The bike's going real straight and it’s fun to ride. It’s a good piece of equipment.”
Comparing the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell that he is currently riding to the Suzuki that he drove for Star Racing previously, Collis added, “I want to be on the bike that gives me the best elapsed time, but it looks like with all the testing we’ve done and competing in national events the Buell is coming around. It has so much potential and is definitely the bike for the future,”
Today’s results in the second session were not what G Squared Motorsports partners George Bryce and George Smith expected in the performance department.
“We used the first lap to ensure that we had the weight distributed correctly and that the bike was safe to ride. Fred did exactly what we planned and ran to half-track then shut off. Then in the second session we stepped it up and ran our first full pass with the addition weight that NHRA put on the bike for this weekend. The numbers were not what we expected. That has us thinking we’re going to change engines in the morning and be ready for the third lap tomorrow,” said Bryce.
Smith added, “Ken Johnson and Brian Perkins did a great job of adding the weight to make us legal. In tonight’s run the 60-foot times were our lowest ever but it’s obvious that this motor is a little tired. It’s the same one that we’ve had in since Columbus. We need to figure out why it is so lazy on the track. So we’ve got to take a close look at the motor and maybe put in our spare for tomorrow.
“It’s interesting that if you compare our best times against the best times of the V-Rods we were about a tenth of a second behind the V-Rods in the previous two races After that second run tonight we’re still that tenth behind them. Whether or not it’s the result of the new weight remains to be seen. But the gap between the two remains the same.” Date: 26th June 2004 The S&S Cycle V-twin-powered G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell, along with the Harley Davidson V-Rods, received a slap on the knuckles for their hard work and superior performance from the NHRA.
The NHRA Competition Committee amended the minimum weight rule for the Pro Stock Bike category earlier this week. The rule amendment dictates that the minimum weight requirement for the Harley Davidson and NHRA-accepted American push rod V-twin (such as the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell) up to 160 cid entries will be increased to 615 pounds from 575 pounds. The amendment becomes effective at this weekend's NHRA Sears Craftsman Nationals, June 25-27, at Gateway International Raceway in Madison, Ill.
"This adjustment in minimum weight was based upon actual Pro Stock Bike performance data gathered during the 2004 national events. Considering the variety of engine designs and manufacturers now participating in this category, the change was necessary in order to maintain a competitive balance within Pro Stock Bike," said Cary Menard, vice president of technical administration and legal affairs, NHRA.
Star Racing owner George Bryce, who along with George Smith, part owner of S&S Cycle, Incorporated are partners in G Squared Motorsports which field the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell driven by Fred Collis, had the following comments regarding the rule change.
“Even though we don’t necessarily agree with the severity of the rule change and we don’t like how quickly it was imposed upon us, Star Racing, G Squared Motorsports and S&S Cycle always play by the rules,” said Bryce. We’re going to do our best to make the changes required to the motorcycle so that we can compete this weekend. But the NHRA has forced us to make our test runs under national event conditions.
“Our plans call for us to use qualifying runs as check out runs -- first to see how the extra weight affects the handling of the motorcycle especially in the area of safety. Once it seems like everything is working well, we’ll try to make a competitive pass with the 615-pounds, that is if we don’t run out of qualifying sessions during this quick but short testing of the additional weight.
George Smith, Bryce’s partner, added, “We’ll do the best we can under the new rules but since we are in a development stage with the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell, this will definitely extend our learning curve. We don’t have any data running 40-pounds heavier. It isn’t something we can’t overcome but it certainly is something we can’t fully accomplish in just four runs this weekend. As I said, we’ll give it our best shot.” Date: 26th June 2004 Former Trinidad resident Andrew Hines established the NHRA's elapsed-time record for pro bikes with a 7.016-second pass in Sunday's division final at the SuperNationals at New Jersey's Old Bridge Township Raceway Park.
Hines, who qualified No. 1 for the sixth pro bike race of the season, produced his record run to defeat Craig Treble.
Hines lowered the national record to 7.020 seconds against Karen Stoffer in Round 1. He then got past Fred Collis in the quarterfinals with a modest 7.070-second pass. Hines defeated Steve Johnson in the semifinals with a run of 7.028 to advance to his third consecutive final and fifth of his career.
"The Harley is so quick that it's hard to have a slow pass," Hines told New Jersey reporters. "I just pop the clutch and hit the shift points, and the bike does the rest of the work."
Treble briefly appeared headed for the upset in the final with a sizzling reaction time of 0.013 of a second. Hines, who reached a top speed of 192.28 mph, had a reaction time of 0.028, but he easily beat Treble. Treble came in with a 7.138 elapsed time (186.59 mph).
"To run a bunch of 7.0s all day, let alone a national record - in the final, no less - is just awesome," Hines said. "If we stayed until it got dark and made one more run, I'd guarantee you we'd be in the 6.0s."
Hines extended his lead in the standings to 185 points over his nearest competitor. Nine of 15 races remain, including the July 16-18 Mopar Mile-High Nationals at Bandimere Speedway.
By Mike Chambers, Denver Post Staff Writer Date: 26th June 2004 Defending Pro Stock Bike champion Geno Scali will be sporting a custom Craftsman paint scheme at the eighth annual Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals in St. Louis.
"There are more than 300,000 people all across America who make and sell Craftsman tools, many of them in the St. Louis area," said Touré Claiborne, director of motorsports for Sears. "They pay close attention to the annual Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals. Having two top drivers in the race carrying Craftsman logos gives them something extra to root for.
"It's also a reminder to all the fans in the grandstand and watching on TV that Craftsman is the Official Tool of the NHRA, and the most popular brand of tools in the country."
Scali will bring out the special Craftsman paint job and race leathers from his victorious romp at last year's Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals.
Scali says he doesn't believe in luck, but last year's success with the Craftsman bike still might be a good omen.
"We won the 'best engineered' award for our chassis and setup last year on our way to winning the race," he said. "I thought the Craftsman paint scheme – the black bike with red and white – really popped. It looked cool in Victory Lane."
Craftsman is the Official Tools of the NHRA and sponsors the annual Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals at Gateway International Raceway. According to a 2004 EquiTrend survey, Craftsman is rated the No. 1 brand in the nation for overall quality. Sears sells more than 1,600 Craftsman hand tools that are guaranteed forever. If any Craftsman hand tool ever fails to give complete satisfaction, return it for free repair or replacement. Sears offers Craftsman tools, merchandise and related services nationwide through its Full-line stores, Sears Hardware stores, Sears Dealer stores and Orchard Supply Hardware stores, as well as through specialty catalogs and online at http://www.sears.com and http://www.craftsman.com Date: 25th June 2004 Surely now would be a good time to look at the european weights - 35lbs difference between 1500 and 1640? I must agree with Becky - still its too much. Date: 25th June 2004 UK PSB rider Paul Watson is looking forward to this weekend´s Santa Pod Summernationals and hoping to run in the 7.4's. He goes on to say this is thanks
to Dave Beck who has helped him over a problem before he left for the states to race with the MRE Pro mod team.
Paul goes on to say "my crew have been superb, Kev even working late into the night when he had trouble moving after putting his back out - that´s dedication! We are very excited about this weekend as we are looking to step up the *ro stock ladder and make a big challenge for the championship
even though we have missed 2 meetings. See you all there!" Date: 25th June 2004 Everything is now set for Denmark’s biggest drag race event for motorcycles to take place from 3-5 September, 2004. For the 11th year in a row Mosten MC is holding its famous Race Day, where some of the best motorcycle dragsters in Europe will be represented at the Mosten Drag Way near Allingåbro in Denmark.
Charley Karling, former European champion in Super Twin Top Fuel will, with his 2 cylinder 2800 ccm Harley-based motorcycle, be ready to enter fierce bike battle with up to 6 other rivals from the European elite.
English 2001 European champ Ian King will be also present on Race Day with his completely unique Top Fuel bike, challenged by Eric Teboul from Cannes, France as well as 5 other competitors from this division.
Eric Teboul will also be bringing along his hydrogen-powered drag bike that can reach a top speed of more than 400 km per hour – though we definitely won’t be seeing that speed here at the narrow Mosten track.
This year we have also added the new “Top Gas” division, similar to the Top Fuel division but with just a little less power.~
We’ll also have the English division, the Harley division, the Harley Drag, the open division and an open drag – all of which are generally well represented at Mosten Race Day.
It promises to be a great race day this year, so stay informed with the help of our homepage at http://www.mosten-mc.dk.
Once again there will be large prizes in both of the two big divisions: DKK 25,000 as first prize, DKK 15,000 as second prize and DKK 10,000 as third prize, so the winners ought to have more than enough cash to buy gas on the way home.
All other divisions offer DKK 8,500 prizes each.
There are eight motorcycle divisions in all featuring riders from all over Scandinavia, Germany and Holland, so speed and excitement are guaranteed all day Saturday at Mosten race track.
We can also expect speed from Rene Hersland, Denmark’s fastest man on four wheels. Rene follows dragster
Kim Reymond, who has given stellar performances at Mosten in previous years. Rene has promised a similar show this year where he will rev up his 9000 horsepower dragster to delight our audience’s eardrums.
As always, Mosten Race Day means much more than drag racing. It’s also about hearing great music in the form of bands
The Snotlers, Die Herren, Rock Nalle, Den Danske Mafia and the Delta Blues
Band. And what would Mosten Race Day be without girls? Hot new strippers will be performing both Friday and Saturday nights on a new stage built just above the bar.
Drag racing can’t really be described, watched on television or explained. It simply has to be experienced in its full glory in a live environment where the nitro methane stings your eyes, the sounds boom in your eardrums and the smell of burnt rubber hangs in your nostrils for a few days afterwards.
There’s no doubt about it – our audience will get plenty of speed, excitement and entertainment for their money during the first weekend in September.
Don’t miss this action-packed and extraordinary event. Come be part of the ultimate motorcycle experience from 3-5 September when Mosten MC holds a weekend of maximum excitement featuring the ultimate DRAG RACE at Bode Dragway 1 in Allingåbro.
For more information about Mosten Race Day visit our homepage at http://www.mosten-mc.dk or get in touch with
Hans Jørgen Hitz on +45 23729703 or +45 8648 1933.
Best regards, Hans-Jørgen Hitz - Mosten MC Date: 24th June 2004 http://www.vtwinplus.com/March_2004/news.html Date: 24th June 2004 Thanks to Greg Guarinello for sending us this link :-
http://nhra.com/2004/gallery/pow/index.html
Date: 24th June 2004 Good luck to Dave Beck and the MRE team this weekend!
Grumps Date: 22nd June 2004 The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines drag racing team set a new national Pro Stock Bike ET record as rider Andrew Hines roared through eliminations to win the class at the 35th Annual K&N Filters Supernationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway. The win was the third of the season and second in a row for Hines, who now has a 185-point lead in the Pro Stock Bike class after six events in the 2004 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.
After a day of leading the class aboard his Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod, Hines had posted the three quickest times in the Pro Stock Bike record book, saving his best run for the final round, a 7.016-second blast at 192.28 mph. Hines defeated Craig Treble (7.138/186.59) to take the win.
“To run a bunch of 7.0’s all day, let alone set a national record, is just awesome,” Hines said. That last run was perfect.”
During qualifying, Hines led the way with a 7.078/189.60 pass, while his Screamin’ Eagle teammate, GT Tonglet, slotted into second at 7.161/188.15.
In the first round of eliminations Tonglet (7.113/189.31) easily handled Kurt Matte (7.445/148.62). Hines faced Karen Stoffer (7.219/184.67) in his first-round race and laid down his first record, a 7.020/192.08 that eclipsed the 7.049 ET mark established by Angelle Savoie at Englishtown on May 15, 2002.
Hines (7.070/191.76) marched through the second round, defeating Fred Collis (7.120/184.72). Tonglet (7.131/187.60) had a great run but lost with a red-light start that gave the win to Shawn Gann (7.193/186.05).
In round three, Hines (7.028/191.92) posted the second-quickest Pro Stock Bike run on record and defeated Steve Johnson (7.179/184.27) for the second week in a row to advance to the final round for the fourth time this season and the fifth time in his career.
Hines faced Craig Treble in the final before a grandstand packed with enthusiastic Harley-Davidson fans. Treble got off the line first with a 0.013 reaction time to 0.028 for Hines, but the Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod made up that difference in 150 feet and roared off to the win and a new national ET record. At the end of the weekend, Hines was top qualifier, set quickest ET and fastest top speed (192.28 mph) for the event, had the best reaction time (0.004 seconds), won the final round and set a new national record.
“This was quite a record-setting weekend for the Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines team, but our success so far this season is really the result of three years of development and hard work by Byron Hines and the crew,” said Screamin’ Eagle Racing Manager Anne Paluso. “They never gave up when we weren’t running up front.”
“It’s hard to believe how far we’ve come since the 2002 GatorNationals, when we didn’t even qualify,” said team owner Byron Hines. “It’s taken a tremendous amount of work and I take great pride in what this team has accomplished.”
After six rounds of NHRA Pro Stock Bike competition, Hines leads the class with 604 points, 185 points ahead of Gann, in second with 419 points. Tonglet is third with 393 points.
The next Pro Stock Bike event on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series is the 8th Annual Sears Craftsman NHRA Nationals, June 25-27, at Gateway International Raceway in Madison, Ill., just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis.
Screamin' Eagle Performance Parts are inspired by and built in the spirit of the raw adrenaline and power of motorcycle racing. Screamin' Eagle Pro parts are specifically designed for race-use applications, while Screamin' Eagle parts offer street-use performance options for the Harley-Davidson motorcycle owner. Visit www.harley-davidson.com for more information. Date: 22nd June 2004 Reminder to those of you who plan to compete but haven't entered yet, the official deadline to enter at the normal entry fee is approaching quickly, only 10 days left! Date: 22nd June 2004 Please note that the following riders have paid their 2004 registration fees and are therefore eligible for prize monies. If your name is not on the list, and you think it should be please contact us by sending an email or submitting a gossip item asap.
PROSTOCK BIKE
Herman Van Driel
Vesa Rautio
Roger Pettersson
Chris Hope
Martin Bishop
Helen Curran
Richard Gipp
Remo Nasci
Davide Rica
Anders Abrahamsson
Anders Larsson
SUPERTWIN
Anders "Charley" Karling
Stefan Junerud
Hans Olav Olstad
Ronny Aasen
Ton Pels
Svein Gottenberg
Jaakko Salkari
Joachim Riemer
Per Bengtsson
Greger Johansson
Svein Oiav Rolfstad
TOP FUEL BIKE
Nils Ole Lund
Jon Leret
Eric Teboul
Joey Bon
Antonio Ferretti
Steve Woollatt
Roel Koedam
Shaun Branch
Asko Määttä Date: 22nd June 2004 Can Heather Bond please contact Jerry Cookson on
quartermilenewsmakers@yahoo.co.uk asap.
Thanks! Date: 19th June 2004 We'd just like to apologise in advance for any patchy posting this coming week, due to the King Racing principal's holiday in Portugal supporting the last gasp efforts of the football team..... Date: 19th June 2004 First tests of National Association of Supertwins member, Dave Hirst's riderless bike proved inconclusive. However this valiant attempt to continue racing without the presence of a Doctor received the applause it deserved.....
Despite the long delays, without explanation to spectators, there was some great action on Saturday and I finally got to play with my new digital camera somewhere useful.
Cheers,
Carl Wadkin-Snaith.
www.thefang.co.uk
Date: 19th June 2004 For sale.
NLR Gen X based turbo kit for Hayabusa. Can be used for Alcohol. Innovative 'NLR GT61' custom made turbo with dual ceramic ball bearings. Tial billet external wastegate. Tial billet blow off valve. NLR billet fuel rail with huge RC injectors mounted in modified throttle bodies. SX billet fuel pump SX fuel regulator -8 fuel lines Custom made Pingle Guzzler -8 fuel tap Velocity style plenum, or McXpress style plenum. Brackets and fittings. This turbo system can provide upto 630hp as proved repeatedly in the USA. The fuel system can flow enough fuel for 1,000 hp. There are only 4 injectors needed, no second rail. A mod to your ECU, or an aftermarket ECU is required to drive the low impedence injectors. I have sold the DTA ECu seperately. Depending on the deal, you can either source your own choice, or I can provide one. A temporary up-pipe (from turbo to plenum) is provided. This is because it gives flexibility to use an intercooler, ice-cooler or water injection.
Peter De La Mare
E-mail: peter.delamare@computersinenterprise.com
Date: 19th June 2004 Oklahoma duo owns St. Louis’s Gateway International
Things were looking “iffy” for rider Glen Nickelberry and tuner Tommy Bolton as they sought to defend last year’s Funnybike victory at the AMA/Prostar race at Gateway International Raceway in St. Louis. Nickelberry and Bolton were lurking in the shadows at Gateway behind Mark Conner, the weekend’s #1 qualifier, and points leader Korry Hogan. Nickelberry qualified third with a 6.742, a strong number but over a tenth behind Conner.
St. Louis Qualifying
round 1 3rd Glen Nickelberry 7.034 et 182.18 mph
round 2 2nd Glen Nickelberry 6.742 et 204.70 mph
Nickelberry continued running steady 6.70’s on raceday, but Conner ran a stunning 6.561 to take out Hogan in the semi and set up a race with Glen in the final. Nickelberry’s yellow and pink Kawasaki bolted out ahead of Conner’s thundering Harley and had half a bike length lead at 100 feet. As the pair reached half track, Conner’s drive belt broke and the rider sat bolt upright, hands off the handlebars. Mark’s belt failure may not have mattered, because Nickelberry whooshed to career bests of 6.606 at 210.54 mph. Glen and Tommy’s previous bests of 6.70/207 were run at Gateway in last year’s winning effort.
St. Louis Eliminations
round 1
Glen Nickelberry .201 6.773 et 200.00 mph (w)
Troy Brown broke
round 2
Glen Nickelberry .178 6.732 et 195.96 mph (w)
Tim Borall .207 6.777 et 202.36 mph
round 3
Glen Nickelberry .816 22.093 et (w)
bye Nickelberry elected to take the tree under power
Final
Glen Nickelberry .103 6.606 et 210.54 mph (w)
Mark Conner .127 9.096 et 96.50 mph
Tuning the Kawasaki to run a tenth quicker than it ever had, Bolton received inspiration from his old mentor Byron Hines, who was attending the race. “Byron told me it was there,” said Tommy. “He said ‘Step it up! You’ve had 6’s in that thing all day long.’” Bolton has known Hines and Terry Vance since childhood. “My mom lived at 120 and Main (in Los Angeles) and RC Engineering (where Vance & Hines worked at the time) was at 160 and Main. Byron would let me in the shop on Saturdays and Sundays. When they decided to get their own shop in the early ‘80’s, I was there watching them grow their thing.” And now Byron got to watch Tommy apply a little of what he’d learned back in the day.
“We’ve got the fastest gasoline powered motorcycle in the country right now,” continued Bolton. “Everybody else who runs that fast runs alcohol or nitro or something. And Glen is the fastest African-American on a motorcycle on the planet. His competition level has matured over the years and his level of focus is so much higher now. He was so cool under pressure while I was like an expectant father in the waiting room. He came over in the lanes, put his hand on my shoulder and said ‘I got this.’ And he did. He cut a light on Conner.
“We came to the track with the Oklahoma tune-up and we had to come up with a St. Louis tune-up. I had to turn up the nitrous a little bit, from 50% to 80%. So we still have some left. I told Glen he had to use Don King if he heard the Harley coming, but he didn’t have to use Don King. It’s a third stage of nitrous. We call it Don King ‘cause if you push that button, it’s gonna make your hair stand up on top!”
With or without Don King, Bolton and Nickelberry plan to keep on winning throughout the summer at Prostar, PMRA, and Soul Brothers races.
Glen and Tommy thanked sponsors Wattie Wolfe Engineering, Majestic Turbo, Vance & Hines Motorsports, Bill Robinson Transmissions, Dynatek, Web Cam, TomBo Racing Engines, Rod & Todd Auto Paint, Dorian “Mr. B.” Barnett, the Nickelberry family and the entire Nickelberry race team.
Find out more about Majestic Turbo at www.majesticturbo.com
You can reach Tommy Bolton’s shop at (405) 670-6438
The Glen Nickelberry/Tommy Bolton Racing Report is prepared by Tim Hailey,
www.eatmyink.com Date: 19th June 2004 Caught, the King Racing crewman lurking for a better paid job in the TF car pits........
http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/lithopa/pano5.html
Date: 18th June 2004 Hi there!
I have put together a bit of a report on the Powernationals meeting on my http://topnitro.co.uk site and have posted a picture gallery of what went on over the weekend. There's one or two sound bytes in there too to add a 'sensory' dimension to it all as well.
I try my best with spelling, grammar and punctuation and my mate Billy helps, but I hope there aren't any imperfections...
Enjoy the report
Richard Stirling
http://topnitro.co.uk Date: 18th June 2004 For a short video clip of our 4.24 sec (1/8 mile!) run of last sunday follow the link below.
Have fun.
Marius / Koedam Racing Holland
www.explosiondragracing.com/video%27s.htm Date: 18th June 2004 2000? Dixie Frame Company Pro Fuel Rolling Chassis for sale.
Pictures and details at: www.mpsracing.com/harleychassis.html
91" Wheelbase
Dan Rudd - www.mpsracing.com Date: 18th June 2004 Click below to see a video clip of Karen Stoffers top end spill in Columbus :-
www.nhra.com/2004/events/race10/video/index.html Date: 18th June 2004 I have received a number of submissions from riders supporting the post made by
Rachel. As they all echo her comments, I have decided not to post them, but have instead passed them on to the club.
My specific apologies to Shaun Branch and Paul Wing for not publishing their posts, but they have now been passed on to the club for consideration. Date: 18th June 2004 Ian
Ok, I take on board what you are saying about the problems at Shakey last weekend being down to the paramedic company, and not APIRA.
However, I also agree with Terry Gibbs, that IT IS the responsibility of the organising club to make sure the people who should be there, are there.
If the wind was that bad, and the paramedic team were not there, there should never have been any bike racing in the first place and
entry fees (or a percentage of) should have been refunded to the bike racers.
Rachel E-mail: rachel@abbeyridertraining.co.uk
Gossip comment :-
Hi Rachel, your comments have been echoed by a number of racers. Please note that there were Paramedics there, but not a doctor. The issue of running in wind is a decision based upon the collective input from the ACU Steward and the Clerk of the Course, and not related to the lack of a doctor. If a rider cannot ride as it has been deemed unsafe to do so due to conditions (not a lack of doctor) then it is out of the control of the club, and I do not see how money should be returned from the entry fee. Remember that wind or not there are fixed costs that have been paid in advance by the club that constitute much of the entry fee. Date: 17th June 2004 Congratulations all Upperton equipped Pro-Stock racers who ran their PB's this weekend, well done Tony for not attempting to capitalise on Dave's bodywork misfortunes.
Roger Upperton Date: 17th June 2004 With the debut race for the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell an acknowledge success, the S&S Cycle V-Twin-powered bike now heads to Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in Englishtown, N.J., this weekend, for the 35th annual NHRA K&N Filters SuperNationals presented by Strauss Discount Auto.
After qualifying No. 2 at Columbus last weekend, Fred Collis had a shifter malfunction in the opening round of eliminations, ending all hopes for victory in the bike's maiden race.
"We have fixed all the little pieces and parts that needed replaced after the Columbus event, included a five dollar shifter linkage that we believe caused Fred's problem, making him unable to shift into third during last Sunday's opening round," noted Star Racing owner George Bryce, who along with George Smith, part owner of S&S Cycle, Incorporated, are partners in G Squared Motorsports.
"The bottom line is that there were no major problems during the bike's first taste of NHRA competition and we'll move on to Englishtown and continue this phase of the Buell's research and development from the combined efforts of Star Racing and G Squared Motorsports."
"Current plans call for the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell to race at Englishtown and St. Louis, then George Smith and I will reevaluate future plans beyond that point as funding allows."
"We're ready to go right now," said Collis, who rode the bike both during testing and during the debut outing. "Running in the 12s (7.12 seconds) at Columbus and knowing that we have the power that we have and moving to a quick track like Englishtown makes you want the race to hurry up and get started.
"I was born and raised in Connecticut and will have a lot of friends and family at the race watching this awesome bike run."
Pro Stock Bike qualifying begins Friday with two sessions at 3:30 and 6:30 p.m., followed by two sessions on Saturday at noon and 3 p.m. Eliminations for all classes get underway on Sunday at 11 a.m. All times are subject to change and reflect Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
by Mickey Schultz, G Squared Motorsports/Star Racing Date: 17th June 2004 After months of hard work, Star Racing and G Squared Motorsports debuted their S&S powered V-twin Buell at the 40th annual NHRA Pontiac Excitement Nationals presented by Summit Racing Equipment.
To the delight of everyone involved with the project, the bike performed well by qualifying No. 2 (7.12 sec.) and was awarded the Hedman Hedders-sponsored NHRA Columbus event Best Engineered Vehicle award, which is selected from all the vehicles (over 500) attending the event. (See attached photo.)
"This is the first time in NHRA for Star Racing and S&S Cycle to get a Best Engineered vehicle award," said Star Racing owner George Bryce, who along with George Smith, part owner of S&S Cycle, Incorporated, are partners in G Squared Motorsports. "Star Racing built a bike for Ben Hatcher one time. Ken Johnson, here at Star Racing worked on it, and Ben won Best Engineered for that bike. But it is the first time for one of our own bikes.
"To have this bike win is a great tribute to the innovation and engineering that S&S Cycle put into that new V-Twin engine package. I welcome anyone to stop by and see. Yes, unlike our competition that keeps their engines secret and hidden, this engine is available for everybody to see.
"Another thing that I'm real proud of is the new Kosman chassis that we helped develop. A tip of the hat goes to Ken Johnson, from Star Racing/G Squared Motorsports, for the workmanship and assembly of this bike to enable it to do a 7.12 second pass on its first outing. The tech guys were proud of their choice for Best Engineered since they reached their decision prior to the running of that 7.12 run.
"In closing, I want to thank Hedman Hedders for the $1000 check. It was a welcome surprise for the weekend. We bought all our pipe from Hedman in Alpharetta (Ga.), so the money came back home."
George Smith echoed Bryce's thoughts, "I'm very pleased and somewhat humbled by the Hedman Hedders Best Engineered Vehicle Award. The folks at S&S Cycle and the G Squared/Star Racing crew have worked hard to make this bike work. Sometimes when you're close to a project you have a tendency to focus on what's wrong, rather that on what's right.
"But the NHRA tech guys must have known what they were doing because the bike popped a 12 (7.12 seconds) on its first outing. That's amazing. On behalf of every one attached to this project, I'd like to thank Hedman Hedders and the NHRA for their recognition of our efforts.
The next outing for the G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell is the NHRA K&N Filters SuperNationals presented by Strauss Discount Auto, the 11th of 23 national events on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series, being contested this weekend at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in Englishtown, N.J. Date: 16th June 2004 Congrats to Funny bike winner Neil Midgley for winning and collecting yet more Racepak win money and also to both Pro stock finalists running Racepaks and the winner collecting the Racepak cash along with both ends of the track record.
Dave Beck Date: 16th June 2004 Team Report: Drachten 1 (June 11-13 2004)
This time a short Team Report, or should I say just a few notes from our appearance at the Dutch season opener.
Our country’s first race of this year is called the “Fast & Furious” event, held at the airstrip of Drachten.
This airstrip undergoes a metamorphose as everything has to be brought in to turn this airstrip into a temporarily dragstrip.
The Dutch dragrace organization “eXplosion” went again through a lot of efforts for this conversion. Each meeting the conditions seems to improve a little like flushing toilets, showers and this time even a temporarily guard rail all along the full quarter mile. Drachten seems to be on its way again to a well recognized event. It’s only sorry however that the run off area is not long enough for the faster bikes & cars to run the quarter mile. Therefore they run over the eight mile course.
It was a two day event and our presence was to please our national fans with a couple of demo runs on Sunday.
While Saturday qualifying was run in between some rain showers, the next day, Sunday, was a lot better (despite its cool start of the day).
Our first run of the day was around 13.00h. We had the bike set up just like our (National) record 4.18 pass from last year at the same event.
It left real good with a very respectable 1.06sec. 60 ft time (bear in mind this is a temporary race track only, where we are allowed to race just three times a year). The bike lost some traction at 1.8 sec in the run and the clutch locked up way too slow. The scoreboards however showed a 4.24sec @ 283km/h. That was the quickest and fastest run of all classes during the weekend so far (and so it would remain). We received a great response from the crowd.
For our next and last demo pass of this race weekend we gave it a little more clutch and just a splash more nitro (and hoped the track would take it).
Our second appearance was somewhere around 16.00h. The bike left even better with a surprising 1.05sec 60 ft time!! This equals our 60 ft times set during our record 6.04 run at Santa Pod Raceway.
(a year ago when we recorded our 4.18 run in Drachten we ran only a 1.10sec 60 ft. time)
However when the second stage of the clutch came in it lost traction instantly and the rear tire
smoked real bad. But hey, we were here to entertain the crowd and Roel stayed on the
throttle. A big footprint till way over the (eight mile) finish line was the result.
The clock still stopped at 4.39 sec. While the scoreboards showed a terminal speed across the
finish line of only 260km/h, the datarecorder revealed that the rear wheel was doing 360km/h
at that same point! Can you imagine the tire smoke? If only we can find some more grip
further down the track………..
Though this was a slower run, the crowd loved it even more.
Our goal was to entertain the spectators and judging by the response we think that we have succeeded.
Apart from some worn out clutch plates and a blistered rear tire the Zodiac Puma behaved very well again.
At our next stop it will be serious racing again as that will be the second round of the European championship in Finland (July 2-4).
Though initially we had our doubts about attending the Finnish Championship round (because of the enormous traveling costs), we will go there because our friend and fellow racer Ton Pels offered a space for our bike (&stuff) in his newly (larger) trailer.
This makes it well possible for us to attend this round of the European Championship.
Look for our next Team Report shortly after this race.
Marius van der Zijden / Koedam Racing Holland Date: 16th June 2004 Well, what can I say?
The track was sticky, the weather hot and the beers cold. Everything for a good weekends racing but there was too much wind on Saturday for us bike racers so we had to qualify over the 1/8, but only after the doctor had arrived. On our first attempt, we suffered with wheel spin at the 300ft mark, so we got onto the phone to “Sir Kenny Copper” who was watching the Roundy Roundy stuff in Spain…Traitor!!!
We ended up as the No1 qualifier, which we were ‘over the moon’ with, and went over the bike with a fine toothcomb before retiring to the bar for one…and I have found my bottle opener just in case you were wondering!!!
The first race on Sunday was against Shaggy who is really coming on leaps and bounds. He was working on his engine all week so I was a worried.
The run felt really good and sitting at the end of the track, Shaggy shouted “no need to throw stuff at me!!!!” (One of my wheelie bar wheels came off and just missed him). Maybe my toothcomb isn’t fine enough.
I can’t thank Dave Beck enough for lending me a wheel to race with, and Vaughan Foster for all the help and advice…CHEERS LADS.
The next round was a “bye”, so my crew chief Steve “FRED” Ingiam wanted to try some new settings, but we over powered the track…(I’ve always wanted to say that!).
In the final we were up against last years winner Philip Leamon. Steve, speaking to Ken on my mobile decided to go back to some old settings that we knew would work.
Thank you Steve (Fred), Ken, Pat, Steve (Pat’s son) and, of course, my new pit partner and rival Wayne Hobbs…it worked, we won.
Thanks to my sponsors www.learntodream.co.uk ,
www.linde.co.uk , G.B.& SON’S, Builders and T. O’ Brien & Son, Auctioneers, Tipperary, Ireland
TJ O'Brien Date: 16th June 2004 The following are new Shakespeare County Raceway Track
Records established at the Ultimate Power Drag Racing
Championship Power Nationals - June 12th/13th 2004.
CUSTOM CAR STREET ELIMINATOR
174.35 mph Colin Lazenby (706ci Chevrolet 210 Sedan)
13.6.04
PRO STOCK BIKE
7.334s Dave Beck (1720cc Suzuki TL1000) 13.6.04
181.44 mph Dave Beck (1720cc Suzuki TL1000) 13.6.04
SUPER STREET BIKE
188.77 mph Steve Venables (1200cc Kawasaki ZX12R)
13.6.04
SUPER TWIN STREET
10.176s Mark Erray (1000cc Honda SP1) 13.6.04
SUPER TWIN GAS
138.20 mph George Laycock (Suzuki TL1000) 13.6.04
Congratulations guys.....Look forward to seeing you
all at the Allstar Nationals - August 28th/30th 2004.
Jeremy Cookson - Shakespeare County Raceway Press Officer/Commentator Date: 16th June 2004 Ricky Gipp shakey race report!
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!
Chris Tombleson Date: 16th June 2004 FOR SALE
I have a DTA 8P Fuel injection system for sale complete with loom
and
GDash dash board.
It's perfect for all types of fuel injection
applications. There is also a rotor to allow fitment to a Hayabusa. I was
going to use it, but 510bhp with the stuff I've got seems ample!!
Brad - BTC Moto Electronics
e mail : brad@dynospeed.co.uk Date: 16th June 2004 zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Oh time to go!
At least I got to watch the England match in the pub (that was a waste of time too!)
Thanks to all the crews that assisted me and (heavily pregnant) Dawn, wouldn't have even made a pass without your assistance.
Richard Gipp Date: 16th June 2004 Hi Ian,
I am suprised to have to disagree with your comments - good faith isn't good enough - it doesn't save lives. It is the total responsibility of the organising body (APIRA) and its
representatives (Race Director) to ensure all the required personell under the permit requirements are present and that they have signed on to meet their
duties. This, however, does not negate the contract Paramedic Company from their responsibilities either.
Regards,
Terry Gibbs Date: 15th June 2004 9.90 bike champ Fred Furlong pulled a red light in the final at shakey last weekend with a reaction time of -0.001.
Fred admitted later he had probably overdosed on bananas.....
Fred Furlong Date: 15th June 2004 No new news from Willowbank except that the Jacko
ridden Jackson Family Racing Fueller qualified. A first round burp in the puddle ended our day early.
On various runs, Jay gave a good flame show on his way to a 6.77 during qualifying that ate a number of important internal components. A huge amount of work got the big white bike back together to make the final whereupon he threw all the belts off on the line against
Kim Stevens who took the win after getting close enough to the wall to give it a kick.
Jay Upton is the new Australian Top Bike Champion
Daniel Peatey is the new Australian Pro Stock Bike Champion
John Parker won his third Australian Comp Bike Championship, the prestigious John Storm Memorial trophy (Highest pointscorer in all car and bike Sportsman classes), and the track championship.
Mick Withers Date: 15th June 2004 I recently bought a Supertwin style drag bike from Top Fuel Bike rider Steve Carey. It has a PUMA twin cylinder engine using an 8 valve Weslake / Nourish head, Weslake crank, Lenco 2 speed box and a Wade RO20 blower. Does anybody have any of the above that I could buy for much needed spares, especially the PUMA cases? They are the heavy duty type, not the Triumph style. Any help would be much appreciated
Justin Newell
Gossip comment :
We suggest you contact Pete at Puma and buy some new cases - they probably won't be any more expensive than a second hand set! Date: 15th June 2004 It was a mixed weekend at Shakey. Saturday the track did not seem up to
standard and the wind was fast becoming a problem for the bikes, my first run
was a tyre smoking 8.6 with an early shut off due to the wind. Most of the
bikes ended up crossing lanes after the finish line until Dave Bailey
finally was blown off. However then came the fiasco with the "is there a
doctor in the house" my concern is Shakey is fast getting a bad reputation,
however I'm sure they are aware of these problems and will strive to resolve
these issues.
We got a 2nd qualifier late afternoon and things were getting back on track,
still struggling with the different track conditions to the pod we
only managed a 5.1 1/8 qualifying us 4th. I got Len Paget first round but no
show as he broke but we still went for it with a different set up we took
some power out and ran 7.62 @ 175 equaling my personal best. The semis was a
huge task as Mr BECK had just run a 7.3 and I had it all to do despite him
losing some of his new bodywork,
a 392 red light followed close but no cigar as I could not get 5th gear
anyway - Dave backed up a new track record.
On reflection it was a good learning weekend and a 7.7 @ 143 no. 5th shows
good promise. The engine has gone back to the Gurus of pro stock MR BECK and
MR UPPERTON, well done to TONY CLARK and the Paul Rose team the 7 sec club
glad to see Tony getting to grips with it.
Paul Watson Date: 15th June 2004 We are happy to inform you all that we had a great last weekend at Gardermoen. It was our day, and after a close good race against Svein Olav Rolfstad in the final we became the first ever official Norwegian Champion, seeting a new personal best of 7,11 against Rolfstad's 7,17 in the final!
Thanks to Zodiac, Lazy Boyz, Bilsport, Quaker State and JCC Enterprises for all their help!
Svein Gottenberg / Norway
Gossip Comment :-
Well done Svein and team! Date: 15th June 2004 Attached pix just in from our winning run at Shakespeare County Raceway, courtesy Dr. Ivan Sansom
WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM
the ultimate drag racing resource.
Date: 15th June 2004 A big well done to Midgo and crew for once again a dominant display in funnybike in less than perfect conditions. A big up also goes to Steve Venables for the blistering speeds, new record and of course the event win. Keep up the good work the 7 s are on their way.
Regards, Cannon Date: 15th June 2004 I was gobsmacked when I looked at the pitlane gossip today and did not find one person having their say about the way things were run at Avon Park this weekend.
Thankfully I hadn't actually entered the meeting, and therefore had not paid £90.00. I only went down for a couple of hours on Saturday to watch some bike racing. What bike racing was that then, I hear you say. When I got there at about 12pm, a few of the lads and lasses had managed to get one run in before somebody noticed that there was no doctor on site. And the worst thing is that it took for somebody to fall off (hope your OK Dave) before anybody actually realised that the required medical staff had bogged off to Silverstone for the day. If I had paid £90.00 for a weekends racing, I would be absolutely fuming.
Loads of racers have asked me why I'm not racing at Avon Park this year, especially as it is on my doorstep. After last years countless problems, and the problems at the first two meetings this year - do I really need to explain myself?
Rachel Pattison E-mail: rachel@abbeyridertraining.co.uk
Gossip Comment :
As I understand, the lack of a doctor on site was the responsibility of the contract Paramedic company, and the APIRA in (good faith) believed that they were meeting their requirements, only to find that this was not the case when Dave Bailey had his top end spill. When this situation was discovered, much effort was made
to secure alternative services as quickly as possible. In this instance it would seem that the Paramedic company is the one who should be brought to book. Date: 15th June 2004 Dave Beck spend much on Sunday advertising his new bodywork by
scattering it all over the SCR facility like confetti, but, despite
being holeshot by Tony Clark in the final round his 7.3 pace was too
much for the rest of the ACU Pro Stock Bike field
Steve "Mobil 1" Carey made noticeable improvements in launching onboard
the Mobil 1 Purple Princess - but coming off the bars involved a far
bit of leaning to get it to the finishing line... did Steve mention
he'd picked up some oil from somewhere?
Steve Woollatt, needless to say, continued his winning streak at
Stratford despite his crew wearing their fingers out flicking through
phone directoriees, overcoming clutch problems to beat Steve "Mobil 1"
Carey with a 6.602/215.77 in their final match up. Perhaps Team
Woollatt will get a free Yellow Pages on their next visit to the
Midlands?
Fresh from their naughty boy exploits at the Main Event, the
Superstreet bike division provided the class action of the event -
Steve Venables is now so confident in his 188mph+ top end charges from
the turbocharged ZX-12R that he can let Graham Dance have a healthy
head start and still blow past him at half track.
Stu Chamberlain, making his first appearance of 2004, ended up in the
final round of Funny Bike, although losing out to Mr Consistency (and
bloody quick with it) Neil Midgley after a game effort on the Predator.
Last, but by no means least, TJ O'Brien put his bottle opening woes
behind him and carried off the Comp Bike title with very consistent low
eight second passes - the rest of the field might be pleading with the
stewards to add ballast to TJ at the next event...
Date: 14th June 2004 We are happy to confirm that at this weekends Power Nationals Steve Venables shattered the ACU/UK Superstreet Bike speed record of 179.86 previously held by
Graham Dance with a 185.97, backed up by the faster (not within 1%) 188.97!
Well done Steve and crew chief Graham Balchin! Date: 14th June 2004 Roel Koedam managed to put in a couple of passes at Sunday’s Drachten meeting in Holland, carding a game 4.2 @ 283 kmh, followed by a slower 4.3 pass after his tyre started to blister.
Unfortunately, the Zodiac Team could not make the meeting
due to bike prep problems and the fact that Marianne Pels was struck by illness.
Get well soon Marianne! Date: 14th June 2004 Many riders were happy to see that Ziggy Stewart showed at the weekend’s AHDRA meeting in Norwalk running one of Jim McClure’s bikes, and that
Phyllis (McClure) & Betty were crewing for him!
Ziggy went on to qualify in the middle of the field after just 2 passes. Date: 14th June 2004 A few people were surprised to see that 3 PSB riders fell in the shutdown area at the NHRA meet in Columbus. However, the track is known to be very tricky as explained by
Joe Koenig :-
“Columbus has a very short downhill shutdown area, with a `crown’, It is also and not as sticky as you would want, part of the problem is that after a lot of rain moisture oozes from the surface in the top end and shutdown area. This track can bite you if you grab too much lever to quickly. Columbus needs to add 800 feet to the end of the shutdown area now more than ever since the bikes are running into the 7.0's without parachutes to stop.” Date: 14th June 2004 Despite going out in the early rounds of PSB in Columbus on the new G2 / S&S Twin,
Fred Collis and the team consoled themselves with taking home a best engineered award. Date: 13th June 2004 The Screamin Eagle/V&H HD of Matt Hines took another win to consolidate
his position in the championship:- Date: 13th June 2004
Top Fuel Bike: Steve Woollatt 6.602/215.77 def. Steve Carey 8.553/116.33
Results of eliminations courtesy of Eurodragster
Date: 13th June 2004 Congratulations to Jay Upton on becoming the 2004
ANDRA Top Bike Champion at this weekend's Morgan and Wacker Winternationals.
Upton made the final after making 4th position with a 7.337 during a trouble ridden qualifying, but broke on the line against the HD of
Kim Stevens.
The man that could have taken the crown was Top Doorslammer driver and Nitro HD Rider
Brett Stevens, but an upset loss to the Funnybike of
Phil Parker put an end to his Top Bike aspirations. However, the Jack Daniels driver / rider could console himself with the fact that he won the 2004 Top Doorslammer Championship!
On the way to the final Jay ran a best of 6.598 @ 178.36.
Well done Jay, Brett and respective teams!! Date: 13th June 2004 There was a US crew chief at this years Main Event and his opinion was that the track personnel are now cleaning up the track at Santa Pod as fast and efficiently as it is done at the NHRA. He went on further to say that he felt that they were far ahead of the IHRA in all areas of it's operations. Date: 13th June 2004 In an amazing debut performance at NHRA Columbus, Fred Collis ran a 7.127 @ 183.72 on the Star Racing / G2 Motorsports S&S V Twin to qualify in 2nd position for today's eliminations. Date: 12th June 2004 The G2/Star/S&S PS bike ran an out of the box 7.25 on it's maiden NHRA outing yesterday.... Date: 12th June 2004 After a qualifying pass of 7.37 @ 177 MPH, Karen
Stoffer got into the wall, fell off the bike, and got up and walked away whilst the bike slid all the way to the sandtrap. Apparently the front wheel locked upon braking and then the bike made a hard move to the wall. Date: 12th June 2004 www.vtwinplus.com/March_2004/race_sixsecond.html Date: 11th June 2004 Previous entrants for the Hockenheim event have started to receive their entry forms for this years UEM
round taking place on the 20-22nd August.
Please note that entries will only be accepted on an ORIGINAL form, a photcopy is not acceptable.
Consequently,riders who have not previously entered the event must contact the event organisers and request an entry form :-
Info Tel : +49 6103 54555
Info Fax : +49 6103 52428
The entry closing date for standard fees is July 23rd, with an absolute close (if accepted, and at double fee)
of August 6th. Date: 11th June 2004 The Entry Forms for the VEIDEC Festival on the 29th of July to 1st of August 2004 at Mantorp Park are now available for download at Svensk Dragracing's/Nordic Drag Racing Series website:
www.dragracing.se and www.mantorppark.com .
Please note that the last day for entry at normal entry fee is 1st of July and that the last day for late entry (at double fee) – if accepted – is the 24th of July.
Check out www.nitrofestival.com for more information on entering the event.
If your have a problem with downloading you will have to contact Mantorp Park directly to obtain an entry forms.
You would also need to contact Mantorp Park if you would like to order Electricity for your pit bay and / or VIP / Sponsor tickets for your sponsors for this event.
Veidec Festival 2004
Tel: +46 (0)142 298850 Fax: +46 (0)142 298869
E-mail: info@mantorppark.com
Motor Events and Mantorp MK are looking forward to receiving your entries.
The VEIDEC Festival team 2004 Date: 11th June 2004 The 1/8 mile track at the Bike Weekend saw a good entry of 11 Super Twin Top Fuel bikes and 8 Super Twin Top Gas bikes. To cope with the difficult track race favourite Charley Karling took 20% less weight off the clutch as ran at the UEM Main Event to card a 4,61 and put him in 1st position just in front of Norways Ronny Aasen’s 4,69.
In the second round Charley improved to a 4,38 with the addition of more clutch, Ronny improved to 4,64, the Main Event winner Hans-Olav Olstad of Norway at number three with a 4,74 and fellow countryman Vidar Ravnsborg at four with a 6,90.
Unfortunately Ronny Aasen torched both heads due to an electrical problem in the last session.
Charley saw first alternate Karsten Andersson in the first round, winning with a 4,32 / 280, a second round win over Eric Nielsen with a 4,41 / 240 despite a shut off to correct the bike just before the finish line.
Finally he took the event win over Hans-Olav Olstad with a 4,29/281 over Hans-Olav´s 4,86.
To read more about the team go to www.karlingracing.com Date: 11th June 2004 Will Paul Rose's secretary get team slippers in the right colour as we last saw Paul in a
Team ###### blue shirt.....!! So will the team uniform be green down one side and blue on the other?
Will Paul bring all teams under one name, maybe Team Fucarewe (as in who the fucarewe)? Not so many uniforms to be made though, sorry Turbo..... Will we see the teams crews doing some whirling dervish style dancing just to be in the
correct uniform for the correct bike, as for the nutritional diet supplied by the team principal will there be any crew able to do their jobs?
So many questions but will Paul make the correct decisions? He sure did on that pro stock clutch and keeping Tony out of the ladies toilets!
Regards
Dave Friend & Gary Jones Date: 11th June 2004 Hi there
Just a quick note to say that I have updated my www.topnitro.co.uk web site with an anecdotal report of what caught my eye over the Main Event weekend. I have posted over 250 pictures in a 'Mega Gallery' and the report is peppered with soundbytes of runs, nitro warm ups and bits of commentary. Some action pictures have been provided by Jon Crawford of the Santa Pod Racers Club and eurodragster have kindly allowed me to use several exciting pictures. I think next time I will post fewer photos because using Photoshop to edit them one at a time takes far too much time!
In addition, on the site, are sound and video libraries which are being updated fairly frequently, so there's always something new to have a look at. Enjoy your visit!
I'll be at Shakespeare County Raceway over the coming weekend eager to poke my (nose!) camera and microphone at something noisy and interesting!
Best regards
Richard Stirling - http://topnitro.co.uk Date: 10th June 2004 After our weekend report of Dave Beck's
5th qualifying position at St Louis, things looked good for the MRE Team
rider. However, his first round run of bad luck continued when he ran a tyre
spinning 11.754 @ 73.53 to lose out to the 7.154 @ 191.51 of number 10
qualifier Tom Acres. However, the team were
not so disappointed, returning home with two good and consistent 6 second
bullets that bode well for the future. Date: 10th June 2004 On the eve of this weekend's Pontiac Excitement Nationals presented by Summit Racing, there is exciting news from Star Racing/G Squared Motorsports. The long-awaited debut of the G Squared/S&S Buell, powered by an S&S V-Twin, will take place this weekend on the National Trail Raceway quarter-mile with Fred Collis, who currently handles the driving duties on the Star Racing Suzuki, moving to the new bike .
"We tested the G Squared/S&S Buell after the last bike race in Chicago and felt that the numbers (times and speeds) run in that test session, which were comparable to the Suzuki, dictated that we move the V-Twin-powered bike to actual competition," said George Bryce, who along with George Smith, part owner of S&S Cycle, Incorporated, are partners in G Squared Motorsports. "
In 2003, Smith approached Bryce about going NHRA Pro Stock Bike racing with an S&S-powered V-Twin and the pair formed G Squared Motorsports to develop motorcycle engines and bikes.
"We knew that if we combined the talent and knowledge of Star Racing and S&S Cycle we could develop a competitive bike," said Bryce. "Our debut at Columbus is another step in the development phase and another step toward regaining the NHRA championship."
But the news doesn't stop there. The Star Racing/G Squared Motorsports Suzuki will also be in action with Matt Smith, son of veteran Pro Stock car driver "Tricky" Rickie Smith, aboard one of the most coveted rides on the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle circuit for Columbus.
"It's the first time we will have a two-bike team in quite a while. Matt Smith is a good racer. He's the same weight as Fred and although he hasn't shown his potential yet in NHRA racing, he has won in a number of other forms of motorcycle racing and, with the right equipment, can do the same here,"
noted Bryce.
"Matt Smith's goal has always been to have a chance to show what he can do and one of his sponsors Red Line Oil is coming along with him to give him that chance. We welcome Red Line Oil and Matt Smith on board for Columbus. Hopefully, it will be the start of a great career for the young driver."
"Everybody on this team is excited about Columbus. Fred (Collis) won here last year but this is a whole new ball game. We've always done well on this track and hope our track record here will enable us to put on a good show for the fans," added Bryce.
Collis feels the debut race will go as planned. "Our testing has given us some good numbers that popped up on the board and George Bryce and George Smith feels there's no sense in wasting anymore time. The new G Squared/S&S Buell had comparable numbers to the Suzuki. We've got the power, so it's just a matter of getting the tuning just right to get the elapsed times we're looking for. We should be okay," said Collis.
"The V-Twin market, both in the stands and throughout the reach of drag racing, is way bigger than most people realize. We are definitely excited that we can bring something new for the fans and hopefully we can give them a good show."
Even though he is the son of a well-known Pro Stock car driver, Matt Smith opted for racing the two-wheeled variety.
"It was the best way to go financially," said Smith. Now Smith has a new opportunity.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity to ride the Star Racing Suzuki," added the thirty-one-year-old Smith. "I think it could be a good deal for both of us. George Bryce has produced championship riders since the late 80s and if all goes well, I hope to add my name to that list in the future.
"At Columbus, I just plan to do my job and learn from the top teacher in the business. I know I'm in good hands with George. I want to thank both Star Racing and Red Line Oil for giving me this opportunity." Date: 10th June 2004 We are indebted to Santa Pod's Caroline Day for sending us the Sky TV schedule of programs for the first round of the
FIA/UEM Dragrace Chanpionships.
You can view the published schedule by clicking HERE When prompted twice for a password and user name just ignore it and click
OK Date: 10th June 2004 Former LSU football player and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College quarterback Nicky Savoie faces firearms, battery and harassment charges for allegedly breaking into his estranged wife's home and threatening her at gunpoint.
A sheriff's office report said Savoie, 30, was arrested May 26. He allegedly fired one round into the floor of Angelle Savoie's home in Mathews, La., and after she tried to escape, he brought her back inside to discuss their pending divorce, the report said.
Savoie surrendered at the sheriff's office and he was released from the Lafourche Parish jail the next day on $100,000 commercial bond. He is charged with phone harassment, false imprisonment, illegal discharge of a firearm, simple battery and domestic aggravated burglary.
Savoie, of Cut Off, La., played tight end at LSU in 1995 and '96. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 1997 and was released after one season. He owns a boat charter company in Mathews. Date: 9th June 2004 Hi out there, and what a start to the season with mixed fortunes for many race teams. The big downer at the start was Sarah Jane’s incident, with who knows what speed at the end of that quarter mile. Good luck to her and Dave, we miss you both, especially the bikini and boots…….
On a lighter note, how’s our team doing? Don’t ask, but we will tell you……. We decided to make major investment in speed tokens (Cookies words), and for that professional approach we needed bigger premises, dedicated riders and sponsors. Now in June 2004 we have got the lot, so watch out!
The story so far :-
Tim Blakemore rides the John Webster chassied ZX12 Funnybike with support from Kawasaki Motors UK, Steve Rice, Muzzy’s, Dave Beck and MRE. Special thanks to Jay Regan, Augy and new crew Paul.
Tim has worked 18 hrs a day, 7 days a week for 7 months and driven thousands of miles. I’ve thrown £25K at all and sundry, and to what avail?? Wrong colour (sorry Kawasaki), burnt clutches, broken gearboxes, crew problems and no sleep. However, with his dedication and professionalism, and the support he receives he will get there! Thanks Timmy! I will buy you a pork pie and a bag of Cheesy Moments…….
Tony Clark joined us in 2004 to ride the Suzuki Pro Stock bike after much talking and apprehension having only ever ridden Street and Superstreet Bikes. But with new sponsors and the support of family Ronnie and Jordan he came on board. After a couple of test sessions, alterations and growing confidence how did he do? Well, two meetings, two finals! I knew he could ride but he seems to have rocked the PSB boat. He did ask me if he had to use the ladies loo when he joined Prostock, who knows?? Oh, by the way he rans 7’s at his very first meeting as we could now give him some proper power.
Tony would like to thank all his sponsors and supporters, including Mark Dent, Sid Moram’s Motorcycles, Waste Management Slough, Richie Barton, Lisa, Ronnie, Jordan, Roger Upperton, Tim Blakemore and especially Dave Beck for his help and raceparts.
Watch this space, it’s only June and we are going to Hockenheim!
`Shaggy’ joined us at the end of 2003 to race the Suzuki Competition Bike with a full support package for 2004. The chassis is an ex Paul Willis PSB using a baby engine with a whiff of gas. He ran in the 8’s at his first meet, he is keen and dedicated and puts much effort into his racing. We’re now building him a big engine and mega gas, so whilst supporting him in 2004 we plan to frighten him to death.
Now he has given up rattling his brains out on that old two stroke Shaggy would like to thank Ritchie and Nikki for all their help and support. Good luck in 2004!
Finally, what’s left??
Well, I’m getting a new workshop, office, computer, credit cards, slippers and more la di dah! We are now open 24 hrs, 7 days per week – they might let me have a secretary now………
Paul Rose
You can contact us at :-
Paul Rose Motorsports
Tel :01784 251941
Mob : 07710 319883
Date: 9th June 2004 Further to the earlier report, Team Spiderman ran a 5.866 @ 237.55 to win the rained out May Virginia Race in St. Louis, and Larry, Steve and Team won the St.Louis Nationals making it 15 races wins in a row with a 5.888 @ 236.75, a bye run of 6.081 @ 230.41 and a final of 6.046 @ 237.55.
Crazy Dave Date: 9th June 2004 After the first two events of the 2004 NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Bike season,
Angelle Savoie was tied for eighth place and hadn't won a race in nearly a year. Well, that all changed with four quick passes on a recent Sunday.
The three-time two-wheel champion earned her first win of the season at Atlanta Dragway on May 16 and bounced up two spots, into the No. 6 place in the standings. Now the season has a new look for Savoie.
"It's been a long time getting back here (winner's circle)," Savoie said. "I thought this would never happen again. I was really beginning to have my doubts. But my team gave me a great bike and as far as I am concerned, the curse is over. All I can say is that we're back."
The newfound confidence for Savoie and the U.S. Army Suzuki team might spell trouble for the rest of the category during this weekend's 40th annual Pontiac Excitement NHRA Nationals presented by Summit Racing at National Trail Raceway.
Savoie said the team has made strides each weekend, win or lose. She posted a first-round loss at Gainesville, Fla., and a second-round loss at Houston before taking four win lights at Atlanta.
"The big thing is that we're improving on each run," Savoie said. "After Gainesville we intently worked on our program and the results were there in Houston with me going to the second round and of course, Antron (Brown, teammate) making it to the finals. We just need to keep moving in the right direction and the wins will (continue) to follow."
Savoie said the 2004 season could prove to be even more difficult to win multiple races. There have been four winners in the first four races of the season.
"The competition is real tough this year," Savoie said. "There are no pushovers in Pro Stock Bike. Anyone can beat anyone on a given Sunday. So, preparation is quite important if you want to get victories. As far as getting back to winner's circle, getting consistent, overall, will be the key. That goes for the bike as well as me."
Savoie joins Andrew Hines (Gainesville), Karen Stoffer (Houston), and Shawn Gann (Chicago 1) on the list of winners this season. Stoffer became the seventh female in history to win a professional NHRA event when she took the top honors in Houston. Stoffer's first final round appearance was at Reading, Pa., in 2002. She lost to Savoie in the first all-female final round. Savoie – a 32-time winner – said the win was impressive, regardless of gender.
"Karen's win was what it was – a win," Savoie said. "She worked hard to get to winner's circle and she had to beat a lot of good riders to get there. Sure, she is in some select company, no question. But a win is a win, no matter whether it's male or female."
Date: 9th June 2004 TURBOVILLE's have now taken on the SIMPSON brand of safety and racing products for car and bike racers. Due in this week are the very popular PIT and CREW shoes as worn by all the top teams and for good reason! These are the ultimate in style, function and value. They start at only £34 a pair and are available in three styles from the shop, the website or delivered to the track! See you all at Shakey this weekend!
Turbo
TURBOVILLE
Tel +44(0) 115 940 1140
visit us at WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM Date: 9th June 2004 Thanks to Manor Racing's David Warren for sending us this report :-
"Manor Racing went to the Main Event after a very successful weekend at the BMF show at Peterbough. A lot of interest was shown and David was busy signing autographs and talking to the public about the bikes. The bikes where displayed on the Q8 Oils stand which is part of the Suzuki Village. We would like to thank Trevor of Q8 and all of the people at Suzuki for their hospitality.
Friday came and we were more than ready for the Main Event. After the first run of 9.83 we thought that this was not bad but not the 9.900 we was looking for but how many times does this happen!!!
2nd run of the day gave us a 9.76 and was miles too quick and no good to man nor beast leaving us in 19 spot. We decided to go for a run that was the right side of the index and this gave us a 10.02 which placed us better in the table. The next run was to hold better fortunes for us and a 9.915 got us the number 1 spot - things was looking better for us.
A 9.956 on the last run but with Andy Bird running a 9.916 we had a heart stopping moment which left us in the no 1 spot which was a good feeling. Things stayed the same for Saturday, Sunday where we were given one more chance to improve (thanks must go to Darren and the Santa Pod crew here, with Darren coming round to tell us personally in the rain on Saturday night that we had another run in the morning). David had a heart in mouth moment over the 60 foot with the bike in a massive wheelie and he was glad to still be in one piece and still no 1.
David had Lee Baxendale who was one of the guest Super Street Bikes (well done to Graham Dance and Brad O’ Connor for their performance) and David took the win with Lee running a 9.3 to David’s 9.8. The next round was a bye and then David was to face Dave Hall. David was asleep on the line
and while trying to chase Dave down he broke out with a 9.84, Dave Hall took the win with a 9.97.
Unfortunately Lizz McCarthy will not be racing again this year due to her damaging her ligaments in her arm, this is a great shame and we hope she gets better soon.
All in all not a bad weekend and looking forward to Power Nationals. We would like to thank all the track crew for there hard work and all of our sponsors,
Straightline Racing, Q8 Oils, SFB 965 Engineering, Comupay, Dream Glass." Date: 9th May 2004 Whilst on the subject of Joran Persaker, as King Racing's Ian King sat out the Main Event due to earlier catastrophic engine failure, his cylinder head technician
Marc Fossey could be seen toiling away on the Top Fuel Dragster drivers
machine. Date: 9th June 2004 Our thanks to junior racer Jamie Willis for letting us know that although not a bike,
Joran Persaker also suffered strange tyre problems on his Top Fuel dragster, and ace photojournalist Ivan Sansom pointed out that Top Alcohol dragster driver
Peter Schofer suffered tyre problems too.
As we said a few days ago, one thing seems to be for sure, it is not related to
tyre manufacture per se but to the relatively unique track conditions, so
probably best not to go complaining to your supplier........ Date: 9th June 2004 Our thanks to Daryl H Davison aka `Crazy
Dave' for sending us this news release from the world's leading Top Fuel Bike team :-
"Last weekend in Madison Ill. at Gateway International Raceway Team Larry (Spiderman) McBride ran a 5.86 @ 237 mph and an earlier round of 5.97 @ 237mph.
The Team and Motor are very happy and as they have worked very hard and are very happy to send you this news. We thank all of our friends and supporters for all their help - we couldn't have done this without you. Again Thanks!!"
http://crazydaveracing.tripod.com/crazydavespictures/index.html Date: 9th June 2004 Our thanks to Monique Pels of Zodiac Racing Holland for sending us her team race review :-
"On Saturday we missed the first round of qualifying because we discovered
a small leak in the fuel tank, so instead of qualifying we had to have the
tank welded (at Armour Fabrications in Irchester). Later that day in the second
qualifying session Ton ran a solid 6.791 sec. @ 191.33
MPH (308 km/h), taking the 2nd qualifying position. Because Ton was off the throttle for a while to correct the bike and was therefore a little late shifting gear, there was more to come...
On the second day of qualifying Ton ran a 200+ MPH pass again, fishtailing a little off the line: 6.691 sec. @ 202.56 MPH (326 km/h). We were very
satisfied with this run being so close to our personal best (6.60 sec.) and so soon with the new bike.
In the first round on Monday we had to take on Stefan Junerud. This race had a very disappointing result as Stefan left way too early (as soon as Ton staged) and in reaction to that, Ton left when he heard Stefan go. Both
riders left before the tree was activated, so both were out of competition.
That was it for us at the Main Event but we were not completely dissatisfied with our results because the new bike is performing very well and we were the fastest Supertwin bike of the event again with the 202.56 MPH.
We are now no. 4 in the European Championship Standings after 1 race - next stop: Alastaro - Finland.
Congratulations to Hans Olav Olstad on winning
the Main Event!
Yesterday we received some very nice photos from Ivan Sansom. Please check them out here:
www.zodiac.nl/dragrace/news.htm " Date: 9th June 2004 The 29th - 31st of May at Santa Pod England saw the first of six races in the 2004 European Dragracing Championship take place. For most of the teams this was the first time out on the track for this season and as always many unexpected things happened.
Anders "Charley" Karling of the Karling Racing Team is competing for their fifth Championship title in Super Twin Top Fuel Bike.
They qualified at number one with 6.60 but lost in the semifinals when the drive to the fuel pump broke. Hans-Olav Olstad from Norway went on to win the race.
Charley is now number 3 in the championship after Hans-Olav Olstad and Ronny Aasen both from Norway. The next round will take place in Finland on 2-4 July.
Last weekend saw the first race in the Swedish National Dragbike Series and we were one of 11 teams in Top Fuel who were entered. The track is not the most perfect (a prepared airstrip) but the race is very well organized. For a race review go to
www.karlingracing.com Date: 8th June 2004 The Veidec Pro Stock Bike team had a weekend of ups and downs at the FIA Main Event,
writes Crew Chief Roger Lyren. "With three bikes it was lot of work to get them all working", he says.
"Roger Pettersson started the season on board the new Suzuki TL1000R. With only three runs in Norway he still needed more runs to
get used with the new riding style, and also the settings were different because we moved some weight around the bike.
The first pass out is always the worst one, until you know everything is working OK. Roger did his work and a 7.47 with low rpm was OK.
The next two runs gave us a lot of questions, we dropped almost ten mph. After watching the video and looking at the computer we found that
Roger was not on full throttle after the eighth when he jumped up on the second seat he backed off the throttle! We had a lot of wheelspin so
we had to take out power to get it down the track. The best sixty foot was 1.137 so that was OK, but in second and third it was
spinning like hell. We got the tuning pretty OK, in the semi we posted a 7.351, 4.67 at the eighth, that is one of the best-ever ETs at the
eighth and also 151 mph.
"The final against Paul Watson was good, Paul had a little faster reaction time but Roger passed him before the eighth to finish as winner,
7.37/181.56 which is the best-ever terminal speed in FIM/UEM Pro Stock Bike at Santa Pod. The back half on this 7.37 run was three
hundredths quicker than the 7.351 so it could been a very low 7.3. We ran the two-valve 1500cc Suzuki this weekend, the four-valve
1640cc still needs some parts, hopefully we'll run it in mid-season.
"Helen Curran, on board Davide Ricci's bike, had a down weekend. She still had problems with the clutch but we finally found the problem!
But not until the first round of eliminations against Roger did it work well. The bike left the line as it should, but Roger was ahead all the way
to the finish line. Way-too-lean tuning slowed the speed a lot. For Finland Helen will get the new four-valve cylinder head on her bike to gain
some more horses. Remo Nasci did a good job on the ex-Kenneth Stromberg GSXR1100. After qualifying sixth he was very happy, this is the
best result ever for an Italian in the FIM/UEM Pro Stock Bike Championship.
"The whole team did a great job all weekend. With twelve people in all, and four nationalities, there is always lots of debate, but we
mostly sorted things out. Now we are preparing for Finland and hopefully the traction will be good there, maybe we can set some new records?" Date: 8th June 2004 Thanks to Finland's Asko Maatta for sending his summary of his team's progress at the Bike Weekend in Vasteras, Sweden:-
"we qualified 3rd amongst 7 Funny Bikes, got the bike tuned to the slippery track and got much valuable information about the engine and chassis tune for those kind of conditions.
We didn't break anything in Baldie's Gun III (it seems to work great), the only spareparts I used were those Schnitz Racing "softer" clutch springs I gave to the eventual race winner
Svein Arne Skjervr.
The only problem at the race was in the first round of eliminations where I got my first red light since I started my career back in the late 80's.!
Thanks to my valuable partners Pro Turbo Systems (of the great working turbo and fuel system parts) and Orient Express Motorsports (of the great engine and ignition parts).
Cheers, Asko, FB45
Baldie Racing & Media Promotions
Date: 8th June 2004 We heard from the organiser of the LCA Event at London City airport Terry
Homan that Rod Pallant has confirmd that he will bringing along his new L A Hooker Top Fuel Bike along with
Steve Woollatt who will put down some demo passes on his `Dealer' nitro machine. On the car side
Paul Harvey has confirmed he will be bringing the Mailkey Dragster along for a couple of passes down the strip.
Although there are a few entry places left they are filling up fast so get your entry in as soon as possible! Date: 6th June 2004 Our thanks to Chris Hope for updating us with Sarah Janes current condition :-
"Well Jane has finally settled in and now has a TV and phone up and running in her hospital room.She has been moved to Ward 4, Hull Royal Infirmary and is now able to
receive visitors once again. Date: 6th June 2004 Hello everybody!
Just one minute to ask if anyone can tell me the best ferry boat company to travel with my bus from CANNES in FRANCE to Sweden and return from NORWAY – FRANCE?
Many thanks!
Eric Teboul - tebouleric@aol.com Date: 6th June 2004 Thanks to Koedam Racing's Marius van der Zijden for sending us his Main Event report :-
"We had a lot of traction problems throughout the weekend and it turned out that a lot of other riders and drivers in different classes experienced the same problem. We think it might be that the track was not up to it's usual (high) standards this weekend.
On the first qualifying day we made
two passes. On the first it shook the tyre real bad and Roel had to
feather the throttle. A conservative 6.7/215 was the result. For our
second attempt we changed the setting of the clutch in order to try to
overcome this and the resulting 6.29/218 was more like it. This did put us
in the provisional # 1 qualifying position. For the second day of
qualifying we opted to sit out the first session hoping that the last
qualifying possibility in the afternoon would provide better conditions to
improve our previous ET. However very early in that run the sprag (one-way
clutch in the transmission) let go and Roel aborted this run. When this
part fails, it takes out low gear and leaves just high gear. On Sunday
night we fixed the transmission by mounting a spare sprag and
reconditioned the sprag races. Our 6.29 remained the #1 qualifying
position.
In the first round of eliminations on Monday we met the #8 qualifier Gary
Jones with his Funny Bike. Judging by the times we both set during
qualifying, one could think that Gary would be an easy victim. Not so
however, as to our surprise the spare sprag broke as well before the sixty
foot marker. Roel got off the throttle, plugged in high gear and chased
Gary down to catch him just before the finish line with a 7.1/214. We were
through to the next round, but we were out of the transmission spares.
Luckily our good friend Frank Brachtvogel, who lives just around the
corner, had the necessary parts. Another racing buddy of ours, Jon Morton,
stepped in too as he volunteered to drive up to meet Frank halfway and
pick up the parts. Many thanks for their help! In the meantime we took out
the transmission and serviced the bike. All in all the bike was ready for
the next round just in time.
In this round we met the always-tough contender Neil Midgley. This again
was a wild ride with lots of wheel spin (due to the traction problems),
nevertheless we took the win light. Our days of sorrow were not over yet,
as this time we discovered that the rear tire was severely blistered and
was missing large chunks of rubber. So we had to take the wheel out and
change the tyre which was just four rounds “old”. Once again we managed to
get the bike ready in time for the next and final round. On the other side
of the ladder Eric Teboul made his way to the finals. Though we have raced
him many times, it is a long time since we raced him in a final round.
Unfortunately he was shut down for safety reasons by the Chief Starter
when his overflow tank dropped a substantial amount of oil on the track
after the burn-out. This left a bye run for us, not very satisfying either
for us or for the spectators. Though the bike was set up for a quick run,
it didn’t work out this way as again it was a very wild ride and the bike
drifted dangerously towards the concrete sidewall. This got so bad that
Roel had no other choice than to click it off early. A poor 7.9 was the
result, however we took the event victory and that’s what counts in the
end.
To quote John Lennon's “It don’t come easy” seems more that suitable for
this weekend. Riding the track was not easy at all and we had a lot of
extra repair work to deal with. On the good side, because of our #1
qualifying position and our event win, we came out with the maximum points
score of this first Championship round.
Our next appearance will be at our nation's Fast and Furious event at
Drachten on 11th-13th June where we hope to entertain the
crowd with some exhibition runs." Date: 6th June 2004 We wish UK racer Dave Beck good luck for today's Pro Mod eliminations at the Prostar St Louis Nationals after qualifying in a stout 5th place with a 6.948 @ 182.82mph. Date: 5th June 2004 Learning to be humble and patient...
We tried to test a new ignition and cluch-setup on test weekend, but only got one pass, spinning the tyre from right to left track on 1000ft because of no traction.
New stuff elsewhere on the motor gave us lots of troubles to figure out. We got all gremlins sorted out, but lack of testing before Main Event race got us to to choose the strategy: whether to race with all previous data and set-up (and settle our performance to previous level), or test during race. Well, being satisfied for where we have been on performance-wise was no option- we wanted to be # 1 qualifier - and take the risk.
As it turned out, we did not found ways to get the power to the track, but now we know better what to do on Alastaro race. I think we will be smarter and faster than ever.
Vesa Rautio - Pro Stock Bike Date: 4th June 2004 July 24th London City Airport, Docklands see's the first competitive motorcycle event in London since Crystal Palace! See legendary racer
John Hobbs and the Hobbit compete alongside current drag race champions including
Graham Dance at this amazing venue. Over 150 machine will take part ranging from the super quick 1/4 mile specialist to classic racers and turbo road machines.
The 2 lane 1/4 miles course is on the main runway on the docklands airport, proceeds for the event go to the
Lewis Jacobs Trust for Autistic Kids. Gates open at 12.30pm racing starts at 1pm through 'till 7pm. Admission is only £5 for adults £1 for kids, free parking for cars and bikes. Race entries to
:- Mrs C Homan Tel: 01255 508120 or visit www.motorsportspromotions.co.uk for an entry form. Date: 4th June 2004 We are considering going to Hockenheim for the Nitrolympics, has anyone any info or tips on the best (Cheap) place to stay also any tips on getting there, we will be travelling from Leeds so Northern Airports/Ferries are a must.
Sorry to use the (excellent)gossip page but I am sure the info will be out there somewhere.
Cheers,
Tel 0113 2620376, tony_hodgson@hotmail.com
Gossip comment :
Hi Tony, no probs using this page for your questions - it's for whatever you want it to be!
Anyhow, the nearest airport to the Hockenheimring is Stuttgart with Frankfurt a close second. I believe that you can get a train from Frankfurt to closeby the circuit, although car hire may be more convenient. Regarding accommodation, you cannot beat the Best Western hotel overlooking the track itself (approx €100 / night), although a guest house in town or may be easier on the pocket. For real budget bargains, take a tent and use one of the many
campsites on the track! Anybody else got (cheaper) tips? Date: 4th June 2004 The producers of the UEM TV productions for this season have asked us to get in contact
with all competing riders to request they complete and return a profile form to be used for this years TV programs. If you have not already done so, please click
HERE and download the form, complete and send by email to
faraz@sunspot-productions.com
as soon as possible!!!
If you are prompted to ask for a password or user name once or twice after
downloading, just ignore the message and press OK both times.
If you do not want to or cannot send by email, then post to :
Faraz Hasan
Tel: + 44 207 495 8455
or fax to : + 44 207 495 8255
Date: 3rd June 2004 It seems Aussie based Top Fuel Bike rider Jay Upton
is considering a tour of the US commencing with the Big Race at Brainerd followed by selected Prostar events and possibly some match races. Date: 3rd June 2004 We've updated the FIM/UEM Dragbike Championship points positions - click on the link on the left to view! Date: 3rd June 2004 Thanks to UK PSB rider Richard Gipp for sending us his race report from the weekend :-
"Well, for some reason we just could not get a handle on things last weekend as we were using settings that should have put us in the .5s and .6s. However, after checking the computer data and reading a race review on
Mr King's website I think we should be able to find the problem. Still with no
back half to speak of and 10mph+ down on our usual 5 runs all at 7.8, at least we were consistent!
Thanks for the help received (as I had no crew) you know who you are and did anyone else suffer from unusual tyre damage (think it happened in the left hand lane)? I know Bishop, Watson, Petterson and Hope all experienced a problem but anyone else? And in what lane (maybe something in the burnout box)?
Looking forward to SCR in two weeks and maybe that Kawazaki from up the road will turn a wheel instead of just heads!
Richard Gipp
Gossip comment :-
To your list of tyre sufferers you can add Roel Koedam, Ton Pels and Antonio Ferretti that we know of. The problem manifested itself for these Nitro runners exactly the same as with Paul Watson - chunking at the extremities of the tyre, where the thicker part of the tyre joins the thin contact area. It was not related to tyre manufacturers either, as both Goodyears and Mickey Thompson's were involved. THis is not the first time this phenomena has been encountered - I think it happened a couple of years back, and has also happened from time to time in the US. Acccording to industry experts it seems to be coupled with possible over stickiness of the track under certain conditions (maybe too much effort into laying down the VHT), and when the rider gets out of the `groove'. It also has occurred right after an oildown when the track has been reprepped in that lane. Date: 3rd June 2004 Congratulations Paul Watson on your fantastic showing at the weekend.It just goes to show that money is not the answer, you just need the right people behind you.
Roger Upperton
E-mail: roger@uppertonrace.fsnet.co.uk Date: 3rd June 2004 Our thanks to the team of Gary Jones and Dave Friend for sending us this race report of their impressive debut in the tough UEM Top Fuel Bike class :-
"First off we would like to say a big thank you to all of Santa Pod Raceway staff for putting on such a fantastic race meeting.
The track crew worked really hard all weekend to give us a superb track even after some severe oil downs, you are all the unsung heroes that make these meetings work. Avon Park take note, & a four day meeting for £80.
Well we entered the meeting just to gain as much track time as possible, to continue the development of our blow thro alcohol efi system so any track time yields data for us.
Saturday first pass with the bike drifting left & Gary pulls a 8.18 pass, the next pass & the first pass on Sunday were both aborted.
So we were on the outside looking in to qualify, we need to run .172secs quicker than our first pass to bump out Dutchman Martyn de Haas, or we are off home. So with this in mind we go to the start line, Gary has a slight drift left again but gets it back and runs a 7.866 / 163 we are in the show!! Sorry Martyn & thanks for the beers we
had with all of you later in the evening & we will see you at the finals in September!
Monday & we have Roel Koedam in the first round. Gary drills Roel on the lights & is gone, Roel loses 1st gear & is playing catch up - is this going to be the upset of the meeting? At a thousand foot Gary starts to see Roels front wheel, side by side at the start
of the traps & Roel wins, so close but hey that's racing and should make good tv footage.
We run a personal best of 7.75 secs but the motor was not revving out so the mph was only 163. The reason for this was the overboost protection was not set high enough in the ecu so we were only making 12lbs of boost and are very pleased with the performance.
We still have not used the 2 step to launch & all runs have been done with Gary riding the bike off the line from idle giving us consistent 60ft times of 1.26 but it is a contributing factor as to why the bike keeps drifting left so we will be using the 2 step plus we will reset the overboost in the ecu for the next meeting.
We would like to thank all our sponsors for their continued support :- Universal Turbos, Extreme Electrical, Worldwide Bearings U.S.A., BEK Wholesale, Ian Carver, SCCC
Scooterzone, Mistral Engineering" Date: 2nd June 2004 We are grateful to UEM Championship co ordinator Lars Andersson for sending us his post race report and the latest championship points positions (we will be posting the full tables later today) :-
“The race was a very good one with some unexpected wins and some more expected. That Roger Pettersson is one winner is not surprising but that Vesa Rautio did not qualify due to problems was very unexpected.
But there are a lot of people hunting Roger and he semi finals saw 3 English bikes against him, and I hope that we will see them more at the other tracks in Europe.
Super Twin was very exciting as usual. Charley was the number one qualifier again, but without any connection between the fuel pump and the engine it is not going to make any good times so he was eliminated in the semi against Hans Olav Olstad who had lifted the cylinder head in the last qualification round and manage to repair this during the night. He went to the final against another Norwegian rider, Ronny Aasen and Hans Olaf was the winner of that race with his first big win. Ronny had a bye run in the semi because both Stefan Juneryd and Ton Pels left before the starter had activated the starting system after playing around with the lights on the christams tree. So we did not have any kind of race at all as both were excluded from that race.
In Top Fuel Bike Roel Koedam showed he is the strongest and all are waiting for a 5 second run from Roel. But Eric Teboul showed that he is going to be stronger in the future.”
Top 3 positions after round 1 :-
Top Fuel Bike
1 Roel Koeadm
Supertwin
1 Hans Olav Olstad
Prostock Bike
1 Roger Petersson Date: 2nd June 2004 Our thanks to UK PSB rider Paul Watson who impressed all with his stunning route to the final at the UEM season opener, for his race review :-
“We arrived late friday night just hoping we might just qualify and get down the track with no damage. We have had no time to go testing and only managed a dyno run to make sure things were safe. However, Matt Hedger of AIRSTEAM managed to finish the fantastic paintwork in
time for the race.
We were over the moon with our 1st pass, a 7.86 @ 168 but with only a 1.27 60ft. After a phone call to Dave Beck things improved with a 1.15 60ft and 7.75 things were looking up with the new UPPERTON 1640. The next 2 runs were a bit lively ending in the 2nd being aborted as the 1/8 mile timing lights looked close. We finally managed to qualify in 3rd position.
We made a few adjustments and had REMO from Italy in the first round. This was close as he had run 7.8 in qualifying to my 7.75 but I got a slight advantage off the start and won with a 7.65. The next round was the hard one as Chris Hope qualified in 2nd with a 7.73 and had just run a 7.62 to my 7.65 so I knew it was all to do. I managed a .466 light to his .478 and I ran a 1.14 60ft to a 1.17 and finished with a 7.69 to
Chris's 7.99. Great race but unfortunately when we returned to the pits we found the rear tyre had delaminated (see picture). After a team talk we decided to go with it and my plan was if Roger was to make a mistake I might be in with a chance. Although I had him out the gate .469 to his .530 light he powered past me by the 1/8 - oh those Swedes………….
It was a fantastic weekend and I must say a big thank you to my team KIM and Kevin, to Matt for the great paintwork, to Roger UPPERTON for a superb engine again, to Dave Beck without whose advise and support this would not have been possible and to all my new Italian friends, Carlo, Martino, REMO and Davido.
Thank you to all those who came up and wished me well.
I would also just like to say well done to BRAD O'CONNER for running the quickest streetbike time of the year - 8.04secs. We have worked very hard at DSD lately with 3 turbo Busa's – Brad’s, Carl’s (Sprocket) and Dave Smith. There’s over 1300bhp between them well done to all!
Paul Watson
Date: 2nd June 2004 Hello Again Racers:
We are not going to be attending the St. Louis Nationals this weekend. So I guess this would be a good time for a "Sizzling June Sale" since it's 97 degrees outside! For June we are going to give you a smoking deal on parts everyone needs! How about a MPS Dry Nitrous Kit for fuel injected sport bikes for only $299.00, and a MPS Fast F.I. Mixture Control with "instant rich" to get the most out of that new dry nitrous kit for only $199.00. Last but not least our MPS Auto Shift with built in engine kill in either 4 coil or 2 coil for only $199.00! You must mention the Internet special or we won't give you this price.
Don't delay! Order today because we won't honor these Internet specials after 6/30/2004 at midnight! Remember, you must mention the Internet special when ordering to get this deal. Either add it to the comment section on our secure order form or mention it on the phone. You will get the regular price if you don't! For all the gory details go to:
http://www.mpsracing.com/Pages/specials.htm
Remember our MPS Top Qualifier Program. It pays $100.00 and rewards the MPS Throttle Stop equipped index class racer that runs closest to their respective index in qualifying. This program was met with so much enthusiasm at Richmond that we are going to continue it at the AMA/Prostar Norris Motor Sports Cyclefest on June 26 -27, 2004 in Norwalk, Ohio. Racers must bring their ET slips to the MPS trailer after qualifying on Saturday to determine the winner. The MPS Top Qualifier program is eligible to any racer using a MPS Air Throttle Stop. No type of registration is required to participate in this program. Just have the MPS Throttle Stop installed and decals on! In event of a tie we will split the money. We will not accept any slips on Sunday. We will announce the winner after opening ceremony on Sunday.
We are continuing to show you the money in 2004! We are rejoining Prostar as a major contingency sponsor as well as continuing our exclusive Private Label Contingency Program. Go enroll today! It's free money! Here is the link: http://www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contingency.htm
Just in case you were dying to know who won the Tether Kill Switch Contest For May, it was: Dan Howe of New Port Richey, FL. Congratulations Dan! Don't forget to enter this month at: http://www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contest.asp
Thank you for your time and good luck in 2004.
Dan Rudd - www.mpsracing.com
Date: 2nd June 2004 Our thanks to PSB rider Chris Hope for the update on
Sarah Jane Head :-
"Jane has been transferred to ward 40, Hull Royal Infirmary today.
She is comfortable but progressing very slowly.
During the next few days, whilst she is settling in and doctors are assesing her,
Dave has asked that people refrain from visiting." Date: 1st June 2004 Where's the bottle opener? Date: 1st June 2004 The Hired Gun Racing Team spent their weekend at Route 66 changing parts and chasing an electronic glitch and precious little time tuning the Cornwell Tools backed Suzuki. “We were struggling right from the get-go”, said Blaine Hale. “We had our race motor in the bike for qualifying but it just wouldn’t run. We changed everything we could think of but the problem just wouldn’t go away.”
Friday Qualifying :-
“Once we got the newly refreshed race motor into the bike we thought we were ready for the first round but once we made the run it was obvious we were wrong”, said a bewildered Hale. “Our 7.477 @ 176.40 MPH only put us in the number twenty spot, so it was back to the trailer to check our data and step it up. Once we reviewed our readout we knew we had an electrical problem so we started changing things in hopes of solving the problem. Our second run of the day didn’t do anything to help our qualifying position or our morale”, said Hale. “We could only muster a 7.520 @ 175.94 MPH which actually dropped us one spot to number twenty one, well out of the program. We knew then that we had a long night ahead of us.”
Saturday Qualifying :-
“After conferring with our engine guys and talking it over with some other respected industry individuals we changed the coils, plugs, plug wires and all the ignition wiring in hopes of ending the problem once and for all”, said Blaine. “It was pretty obvious that it helped us after we ran a 7.314 @ 180.79 MPH we were heading in the right direction but we were not making any back-half power. We at least got the bike into the show with that run, but we still had to tune it with only one shot left to qualify. Our last pass wasn’t what we had hoped for as we ran a 7.372 @ 180.96 MPH. But at least we were in the show, even if it was on the bump spot. After all our win in Denver last season came from the same position on the ladder so we just went back to get ready for eliminations.”
“Once we looked over the data from our two runs on Saturday we decided that the motor just wasn’t giving us enough power on the back half of the track. We are usually one of the two or three top bikes when it comes to back half power”, said Hale. “This motor just wasn’t making enough steam so we made a decision to go with our other motor in eliminations. We knew we had to run the number one qualifier in round one and we weren’t confident enough in the motor so out went number one and in went number two.”
Sunday Eliminations :-
“It seemed like everything that could go wrong did from the minute we pulled into Route 66 and eliminations were no different. We were confident that the motor was ok but we seemed to get out of our routine a little. I felt like I had spent more time waiting then I usually do and I guess that threw my game off a bit. Without a doubt my reaction time showed it. I knew I had lost the round and shut off at the 1,000-foot mark. What was remarkable was that the back half on the run was better than what we had been running with our number one motor on a full pass”, said a perplexed Hale.
Post race
“We’re sending the race motor back to Indy with VHR and they’ll dyno it and see what’s going on with it. In the meantime we will run the number two. We’ve gone 7.10 with it so we know we can win with it. So going into Columbus we should have two strong motors ready to take us to the winner’s circle”, said a confident Hale.
The Hired Gun Racing Team would like to thank Cornwell Tools, Wells Cargo, Red Line Oil and Quick Lube of Midland for their continued support. Without these sponsors they would never be able to do what they love most; race Pro Stock motorcycles.
Next up for the Hired Gun Racing Team on the NHRA POWERade Series is the 40th annual Pontiac Excitement NHRA Nationals at National Trail Raceway, Columbus, Ohio on June 10-13. Please stop by the trailer and say hello.
For further information contact: flyingeyefoto@aol.com Date: 31st may 2004 Just read what happened with the run of Stefan Junerud against Ton Pels. I thought the rule was "first or worst", and if so Ton should of won. Please enlighten this old and abused drag racer!
Thanks, Karl Thiecke, Holland
Gossip comment:-
Hi Karl, thanks for your mail. In this case, the first or worst rule did not apply because although Stefan left first, and before the timer system was activated, Ton also left before the lights came on. In this case the rules decree that both runs are void, and the runs are excluded. Consequently neither riders progressed through to the next round! Date: 31st May 2004 We’ve just arrived home from a sunkissed opening round of the European Dragbike Championship at Santa Pod, England.
A great weekends racing was enjoyed by all, although we had more than our fair share of oildown related delays.
Congratulations to all our qualifiers and class winners :-
Top Fuel Bike
1. Roel Koedam 6.293/218.53 Final - Roel Koedam 7.929/112.71 def. Eric Teboul broke
Supertwin
1. Anders Karling 6.604/182.11
Final - Hans Olav Olstad 7.292/190.67 def. Ronny Aasen 14.545/63.29
Prostock Bike
1. Roger Pettersson 7.470/179.09
Final - Roger Pettersson 7.372/167.30 def. Paul Watson 7.688/167.30
A further congratulations to the finalists of the National Club Championship sportsman classes too :-
9.90 Bike: Fred Furlong 10.222/139.31 def. Richard Sawatzki 9.891/118.12 breakout Date: 29th May 2004 I have been contacted by a number of riders who wish to know if a solution for the UEM entry fee hike has been found. I'd like to inform all riders that a solution is yet to be agreed, but not without substantial attention on my behalf. However, I will talk to Lars over the weekend in the hope that the mistakes made can be rectified. Date: 29th May 2004 Look out for Ian King in the Fuel Bike pit area at this weekends UEM round where he will have three cases of bits and pieces left over from Brian Johnson for sale on his behalf. Fuel lines and fittings, mag spares, B&J gearbox parts, sprockets, belts - they are all there and up for offers! Date: 29th May 2004 Seems the word in the US PSB pits are that the start of the downfall in the relationship between Star Racing George Bryce and his recently departed rider Angie McBride was when her boyfriend was asked to leave the team pit by GB3 himself.
It would be like Roger Lyren asking Ken Cooper to leave the Veidec pit, and of course that would never happen would it........? Date: 27th May 2004 "As always before the first race we have been extremely busy getting all the parts together" writes Veidec PSB Team Principal
Roger Lyren. "We got the newly painted bike together on Tuesday night just before the bus left Sweden, and the Shoei Helmet also got a totally new design".
With Roger's new Suzuki TL 1000 styled bike and some new pieces in the engine we have much still to test. In Gardemoen we sorted out the main problems and have a base setting, starting with the 1500cc 2V to see how good the track is before using the 4V 1640cc which has much more torque. If the conditions are very good then we may switch engines.
The bike is responding differently to last years bike, as the weight has been moved around and will need a different setup than before.
But now it is time to race and that is something else - you have max 4 qualifying runs and with 13 bikes that is always a big thing to do. The competition is harder and harder, and that is what we need. This could probably be the fastest bumpspot ever if the weather stays good.
Helen Curran will start with the bike as it was in Norway, but will also have a 1570cc engine to try, whilst Carlo at VM Dragracing wanted to do as much testing as possible, but we had some problems with the manufacture of the new rockerarms that will hopefully be sorted out now.
I can't wait to get the bike down the track again at Santa Pod, and wish all other teams Good Luck for the Weekend!
I also want to say a big thanks to all the sponsors that made this possible VEIDEC, MOTOSPEED, SUZUKI, VANCE @ HINES, ARLEN NESS, SHOEI, MICKEY THOMPSON, RK, JE PISTONS, COMETIC GASKETS, VP RACEFUEL, PAPYRUS.
Also big thanks to all the team Roger, Henke, Lasse, Basse, Magnus, Dick, Helen, Ken, Carlo, Martino, Nickey, and off course all the other family members that can be without the husband or wife all the hours that involvement in a Dragracing team can take.
See you all at the Pod"
Regards, Roger Date: 27th May 2004 It's not a laughing matter at all, my bike is probably not ready to race because I'm a mechanical disaster.
Of course we will still be there to cheer for all the (Dutch) riders. See you all!
Viep (TF 39) Date: 27th May 2004 Due to the sad news of Koedam Racing crew chief Marius van der Zijden's mother's passing, the team will arrive at the Main Event late on Friday following the funeral.
Bauke has elected to drive the truck and trailer alone from Holland today, and prepare for the rest of the team's arrival tomorrow.
Our condolences to Marius and his family. Date: 27th May 2004 Hello everybody. Sorry to inform you that we cannot make it to the Main Event because of some health problems for Jon.
Good luck to everybody - Jan Egil Kongsrud, Jon Leret Racing
Gossip comment :-
We're sorry to hear about Jon's illness - get well soon
Jon!
Date: 27th May 2004 Help and advice needed. I'm thinking of using a low level fuel tank and fuel pump with straight methanol; are there any electric pumps that will tolerate methanol and what mechanical options are available? Carb is an SU (draw through), how would I run the pump system without a float chamber? As this must cost next to
nothing-ish, is there anything that can be adapted from production cars/bikes?
Carl Date: 26th May 2004 Since Mart left the US back to the UK no one this side of the pond has heard anything from him.
Headline: Baldies ready!
Gossip:
Headline: Turbo's Summernats report.
Gossip:
Headline: Dragster Australia online!
Gossip:
Headline: Cheeky leaves MRE
Gossip:
Headline: It's all mine!
Gossip:
Headline: Tyre problems
Gossip:
Headline: Turbo feels wheel bad
Gossip:
Headline: Grumps meets expectations!
Gossip:
Headline: Prostar Norris Motorsports Cyclefest
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA Sears Craftsman Nationals PSB
Gossip:
Headline: Prostar Norwalk live!
Gossip:
Headline: Weight issue under control on the G2/S&S/Star Racing
Buell
Gossip:
Headline: Weight change for G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell
Gossip:
Headline: Motorcycle drag racer posts NHRA record
Gossip:
Headline: Scali to carry Craftsman paint in St. Louis
Gossip:
Headline: European PSB weight rethink?
Gossip:
Headline: Grumps look´s for the 7.4`s
Gossip:
Headline: Denmark’s biggest Drag Race event: In Speed We Trust
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA PSB V Twins weighty problem........
Gossip:
Headline: Old fuellers
Gossip:
Headline: Good luck Dave and MRE
Gossip:
Headline: Hines Rides V-Rod to New Pro Stock Bike ET Record in
March through Finals
Gossip:
Headline: Veidec Festival reminder!
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Registration fees
Gossip:
Headline: Desperately seeking
Gossip:
Headline: Ingerland.......................
Gossip:
Headline: No doc, no prob!
Gossip:
Headline: 7 second streetbike kit?
Gossip:
Headline: Nickelberry and Bolton Win with Personal Bests
Gossip:
Find out more about Vance & Hines at <http://www.vanceandhines.com
Find out more about Dynatek at
www.dynaonline.com/english/index.htm
Find out more about RC Components at www.rccomponents.com
Find out more about Robinson Transmissions at www.robinsonindustriesinc.com
Find out more about Web Cam at www.webcamshafts.com
Find out more about Glen and Tommy at www.funnybikes.com/profile_nickelberry.htm
Find out more about AMA/Prostar at www.amaprostar.com
Find out more about the PMRA at www.pmra.net
Headline: Lurking?
Gossip:
Headline: My mate Billy
Gossip:
Headline: Koedam stuffs em
Gossip:
Headline: Pro Fuel roller for sale
Gossip:
Carbon Fiber Body (not mounted)
RC Components 17" Front Wheel
Bead Lock Rear Wheel w/ 12" Tire
Koenig Front End
Aluminum Oil & Fuel Tank
Performance Machine Brakes Front & Rear
1 5/8" Jackshaft
7/8" Rear Axle
Headline: Stoffer stuffs it
Gossip:
Headline: What's up Doc?
Gossip:
Headline: On board
Gossip:
Headline: Congrats Upperton Harem!
Gossip:
Headline: G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell ready for Englishtown
Gossip:
Headline: G2/S&S/Star Racing Buell receives Best Engineering
Award
Gossip:
Headline: Contingency!
Gossip:
Headline: Koedam Racing Team Report
Gossip:
Headline: TJ Race Report
Gossip:
Headline: RECORDS FALL AT POWER NATIONALS
Gossip:
Headline: Flatliners straightline..........
Gossip:
Headline: For sale!
Gossip:
Headline: Richard Gipp race report
Gossip:
Headline: Good faith?
Gossip:
Headline: APE Racing?
Gossip:
Headline: Withers Willowbank update
Gossip:
Headline: Help!
Gossip:
Headline: Paul Watson race report
Gossip:
Headline: Gotten `Norwegian Champion'
Gossip:
Headline: Turbo's winning run!
Gossip:
Headline: Well done!
Gossip:
Headline: On call?
Gossip:
Headline: Sansoms Shakey Notes.......
Gossip:
Headline: Venables shatters record!
Gossip:
Headline: Blistering!
Gossip:
Headline: Phyllis and Betty back at the track!
Gossip:
Headline: Down like flies.........
Gossip:
Headline: G2 / S&S `Best Engineered'
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA Columbus PSB results
Gossip:
1
Andrew Hines
(.037) 7.126-187.78
16
Redell Harris
7.466-179.25
Andrew Hines
(.033) 7.214-188.89
Antron Brown
7.254-183.42
Andrew Hines
(.034) 7.131-187.86
Geno Scali
(.026) 7.238-184.55
Andrew Hines
(.035) 7.131-185.56
Steve Johnson
(.053) 7.447-180.16
8
Matthew Smith
(.032) 7.296-182.67
9
Antron Brown
(.027) 7.291-182.45
4
Geno Scali
(.041) 7.192-185.77
13
Chip Hunter
(-.099) 7.363-177.14
Geno Scali
(.015) 7.229-184.67
GT Tonglet
(.043) 7.208-191.43
5
GT Tonglet
(.122) 7.205-179.56
12
Kurt Matte
(.157) 7.355-180.26
2
Fred Collis
(.032) 10.666-76.46
15
Keith Dennis
(.006) 7.284-182.55
Keith Dennis
(.032) 7.436-180.31
Steve Johnson
(.032) 7.291-183.24
Steve Johnson
(.036) 7.327-181.74
Angelle Savoie
(.066) 7.368-183.42
7
Steve Johnson
(.040) 7.252-183.17
10
Michael Phillips
(.025) 7.306-186.43
3
Angelle Savoie
(.067) 7.195-185.15
14
Mike Berry
(.040) 7.349-182.08
Angelle Savoie
(.043) 7.217-184.85
Shawn Gann
(.050) 7.312-180.67
6
Craig Treble
(.048) 7.254-184.47
11
Shawn Gann
(.056) 7.219-185.82
Headline: SCR Power Nationals results
Gossip:
Funny Bike:
Neil Midgley 7.243/177.91 def. Stu Chamberlain 8.173/120.93
Pro Stock Bike: Dave Beck 7.362/181.44 def. Tony Clark 7.812/171.16
Comp Bike:
TJ O'Brien 8.229/158.88 def. Phil Leamon 8.464/158.95
Super Street Bike: Steve Venables 8.230/176.44 def. Graham Dance 8.408/177.96
9.90 Bike:
Richard Sawatzki 10.141/105.62 def. Fred Furlong 17.897/54.61 red light
10.90 Bike:
John Hackney 10.917/112.86 def. Shaun Spiers 10.703/103.34
Supertwin Fuel: Ian Turburville 9.461/143.98 def. Chris Stebbings 9.357/129.43
Supertwin Gas: George Laycock 9.624/138.94 def. Andy Smith 9.837/135.48
Supertwin Mod: Simon Hodgson 9.703/143.10 def. Barrie Gregory 11.233/119.92
Supertwin Street: Mark Earrey 10.187/134.40 def. Chris Mott 10.977/127.92
Junior Drag Bike: Harry Steadman (10.10) 10.228/64.84 def. Dan Baldwin (11.55) 12.291/48.34
Headline: Upton Champ!
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA Crew Chief praises Pod
Gossip:
Headline: Collis qualifies # 2!
Gossip:
Headline: G2/Star/S&S PSB
Gossip:
Headline: Stoffer falls at NHRA
Gossip:
Headline: The race to the first six!
Gossip:
Headline: NitrOlympx Entry forms issued
Gossip:
Headline: Veidec Festival entry forms online today
Gossip:
Mantorp Park
590 17 Mantorp
Sweden
Headline: Svemo Swedish National Championship Serie Bike Weekend
Gossip:
Headline: Schizophrenic?
Gossip:
Headline: Top Nitro updates
Gossip:
Headline: Beck's St Louis blues
Gossip:
Headline: G Squared Motorsports to debut the G Squared/S&S
Buell at Columbus
Gossip:
Headline: Main Event on Sky
Gossip:
Headline: Savoie vs Savoie.......
Gossip:
Headline: Smelling of Roses?
Gossip:
7-9 London Road
East Bedfont TW14 8RW
Headline: McBride report
Gossip:
Headline: Savoie edges up the ladder
Gossip:
Headline: Turbo takes on Simpson!
Gossip:
308 CARLTON HILL
NOTTINGHAM NG4 1GD
UK
Headline: Manor Racing report
Gossip:
Headline: Crewman stolen!
Gossip:
Headline: Main Event tyre problems
Gossip:
Headline: Larry McBride race report
Gossip:
Headline: Zodiac Racing Main Event review
Gossip:
Headline: Karling Racing report
Gossip:
Headline: Veidec Prostock Bike Main Event report
Gossip:
Headline: Baldies red!
Gossip:
Headline: London City Airport event taking off!
Gossip:
Headline: Sarah Jane progresses!
Gossip:
Headline: Help!
Gossip:
Headline: Koedam Racing Race Report
Gossip:
Headline: Beck in at 5th
Gossip:
Headline: Vesa's risky business!
Gossip:
Headline: London City Airport, Sprint Grand Prix
Gossip:
21 Valley Rd,
Dovercourt,
Essex, CO12 4RS.
Headline: Help! Info required.
Gossip:
Headline: UEM TV Production
Gossip:
Sunspot Productions
117 Piccadilly
Suite 440
Mayfair
London
England
Headline: Jay to tour?
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Points
Gossip:
Headline: Richard Gipp race report
Gossip:
Headline: Well done Paul!
Gossip:
Headline: Jones and Friend race report
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Review
Gossip:
2 Eric Teboul
3 Neil Midgley
2 Ronny Aasen
3 Anders Karling
2 Paul Watson
3 Chris Hope
Headline: Paul Watson race report
Gossip:
Headline: MPS Newsletter
Gossip:
Headline: Sarah Jane update
Gossip:
Headline: TJ O'Brien Main Event Review
Gossip:
Headline: Hale gets no kicks at Route 66
Gossip:
Headline: First or worst?
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Dragbike Championship results
Gossip:
2. Eric Teboul 6.400/189.85
3. Steve Woollatt 6.529/204.74
4. Nils Ole Lund 6.838/190.64
5. Neil Midgley 6.935/138.52
6. Antonio Ferretti 7.257/172.50
7. Shaun Branch 7.493/163.28
8. Gary Jones 7.866/163.20
--- Non-qualifiers ---
9. Martyn de Haas 8.013/164.05
10. Sandra Chaplain 9.377/138.52
2. Ton Pels 6.691/202.56
3. Ronny Aasen 6.752/200.78
4. Hans Olav Olstad 7.264/188.20
5. Svein Gottenberg 7.563/173.85
6. Willem Been 7.962/156.18
7. Stefan Junerud 8.458/116.24
8. Joachim Riemer 9.604/116.89
2. Chris Hope 7.735/165.35
3. Paul Watson 7.758/166.63
4. Martin Bishop 7.782/170.38
5. Richard Gipp 7.804/161.85
6. Remo Nasci 7.815/161.95
7. Herman van Driel 7.931/161.80
8. Helen Curran 8.104/164.66
--- Non-qualifiers ---
9. Len Paget 8.255/152.72
10. Vesa Rautio 9.766/82.63
11. Michal Ponca 9.977/130.39
10.90 Bike: Phil Pratt 10.917/119.64 def. John Hackney 11.090/120.64
Headline: UEM Entry fee
Gossip:
Headline: Top Fuel carboot sale?
Gossip:
Headline: Not over here.......
Gossip:
Headline: Veidec PSB armed and dangerous........
Gossip:
Headline: Falling like flies!
Gossip:
Headline: Team Koedam make late entrance
Gossip:
Headline: Leret out too............
Gossip:
Headline: Help!
Gossip:
Headline: Desperately seeking......
Gossip:
I think that he was from Staffordshire, Burton upon Trent...but not
completely sure....
If anyone knows his whereabouts or had heard from him in the past 6 mo's- please post back or drop me an email at
tech@patriotracing.net
Thanks,
Dan Date: 26th May 2004 Well, not necessarily a Harley per se, but congratulations to privateer
David `Fuzzy' Feazell who qualified in 11th position at the NHRA Chicago round with a 7.279 @ 180.74 on his S&S powered machine. Date: 26th May 2004 There has been much debate amongst the Top Fuel bike community as to the definitive list of all time fastest passes made by Nitro powered machines. The latest list follows, but may still not be quite as accurate as desired. If you know any
different, let us know! :-
Larry McBride USA 5.876 Virginia 2 May 2004 Date: 26th May 2004 Hines, Tonglet Qualify 1-2; Hines Pads Pro Stock Bike Points Lead
JOLIET, Ill.
The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines team advanced to the final round of Pro Stock Bike eliminations at the 7th Annual NHRA Route 66 Nationals after riders Andrew Hines and GT Tonglet dominated qualifying aboard their Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod motorcycles. Hines finished in the runner-up position after a red-light start in the final, but left Route 66 Speedway with a new track ET record and a 53-point lead in Pro Stock Bike points after four NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events this season.
“This is a really quick track and the team found a good set-up early in qualifying,” said Screamin’ Eagle Racing Manager Anne Paluso. “Our times in the first 60 feet have really improved and the riders are able to put their Screamin’ Eagle power to good use. Andrew has pulled further ahead in points and GT is right there in third. The NHRA Pro Stock Bike championship is our goal.”
Hines was the number one qualifier for the event with a run of 7.167 seconds at 184.62 mph. Tonglet was right on his tail with a 7.169/187.16 run to claim the number two qualifying position.
“The Pro Stock Bike field is really competitive, so we have to feel good about taking the top spots in qualifying,” said Tonglet. “It really makes a statement for this Screamin’ Eagle team.”
Under threatening skies on Sunday, Hines (7.158/187.34) defeated Blaine Hale (7.351/169.74), while Tonglet (7.174/186.67) beat Scott Valetti (7.286/179.44) as both Screamin’ Eagle riders moved through the first round of eliminations. In round two, Hines (7.120/187.68) got the win on a red-light start by Antron Brown (9.622/81.55). Tonglet (7.226/184.93) had a bad pass, his slowest of the weekend, and was defeated by Michael Phillips (7.197/184.98).
Hines faced Craig Treble (7.233/183.57) in the semi-final round and backed up an outstanding 0.009 reaction time with a 7.093/187.76 run to set a new track ET record and roll to an easy win.
“My Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod just got quicker with each run,” said Hines. “We had some engine trouble early in the weekend and this was a brand new motor and it was really strong. We seem to have found the set-up we need to get through the first 60 feet smoothly. And the traction at this track is outstanding.”
The final round saw Hines facing number six qualifier Shawn Gann, and a red-light start by Hines gave the win to the Suzuki rider.
“This is really tough because I had the bike to win with,” said Hines. “I short-shifted after I saw I had the red light and still ran a 7.177. But we earned good points this weekend and leave in first place, which is what counts at the end of the season.”
After four rounds Hines leads the NHRA Pro Stock Bike class with 348 points. With his win, Gann moves into second place with 295 points. Tonglet is third with 282 points, followed by Antron Brown (256) and Angelle Savoie (255).
The next Pro Stock Bike event on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series is the 40th Annual NHRA Pontiac Excitement Nationals, June 11-13, at National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio.
Screamin' Eagle Performance Parts are inspired by and built in the spirit of the raw adrenaline and power of motorcycle racing. Screamin' Eagle Pro parts are specifically designed for race-use applications, while Screamin' Eagle parts offer street-use performance options for the Harley-Davidson motorcycle owner. Visit
www.harley-davidson.com for more information.
Date: 25th May 2004 Joey Bon Racing will not be able to attend this weekends Main Event in England. We've been working very hard on the new bike these last weeks, but we are just missing some last important parts.
The frame, wheelie-bar and body are finished, but the cylinder-block isn't (because of a broken down CNC-machine) and the new pistons have not arrived yet. Also some smaller parts are still under construction. Hopefully everything will be here in two weeks, so we can race / test at Drachten I from June 11th-13th.
We wish everybody a good racing weekend at Santa Pod and we will see you all at Mantorp Park at the 2004 Veidec Nitro Festival. Date: 24th May 2004 Brand new Suzuki 1640 Pro-Stock mountain motors, complete pan to cover. Spec. includes Falicon Billet crank with knife rods, H/D billet 5-speed auto, turret clutch, head with 35mm inlet-30mm exhaust valves, ready to run, guaranteed 300hp+, US$16000.
Complete top-end only w/block-pistons US$8300.
These prices do not include cryogenic hardening or friction reduction treatments, these available at extra cost.
Roger Upperton Racing - roger@uppertonrace.fsnet.co.uk
Tel - 0113 2585621 or Mob. 07962-013190 (UK)
Date: 23rd May 2004 Richard Gipp and his team (somewhat depleted at the moment but will hopefully +1 in august with the arrival of what is said to be a boy!) are exhibiting at the BMF this weekend hoping to attract some sponsors/advertisers.
The idea was of his partner Dawn's in order to raise some interest in the sport and to launch the new team name and some product (some of you may be familiar with the lingerie sponsor he had last year).
Anyway, Dawn was to produce her own range which is still on it's way but a little delayed due to her pregancy and the fact she's not talking to him at the moment (hormones he's been told.....!)
Date: 21st May 2004 We’d like to update you all on the plans for the programming of the FIA and UEM TV package for this year. What has been decided is for the production team to have a full session with each team on the Thursday and Friday of the Main Event, featuring the crews, racer, race car or bike, team trailers, etc. This will ensure that a full driver and team profile can be put onto film. This is very important and we will need all racers to ensure smooth co – ordination to make this happen correctly. Further details will follow.
At the request of the racers it is intended for the future programs to be more ‘lifestyle’ and focus around the people in the teams. To do this we will lose some of the first round burnouts and staging procedures but an added benefit will be that they will keep in mind the drivers and teams who do not often go past the first round, but still would benefit from TV exposure. Date: 21st may 2004 The latest machine from the G Squared workshops of Star Racing took to the track in testing in Atlanta at the weekend.
The Buell V Twin was taken there for the NHRA Tech Crew to examine. There's a picture of it on
www.starracing.com with Fred Collis testing it, and it is planned to be out racing very soon. Date: 21st May 2004 Canadian 'Hi Per Al' Miles has just got his new bike on the track featuring the innovative new 'Derringer' billet engine from the workshops of fellow Canadian
Jerry Gordon.
Click on the following link to view a photo album featuring this great new bike :-
www.picturetrail.com/gallery/view?p=999 Date: 20th May 2004 Can anyone help! i need just the crank seal carrier (with or without seal!) for an APE starter plate gsx1100 LARGE TAPER! please email with any details!
Date: 20th May 2004
The Hired Gun Racing Team pulled into Commerce, Georgia with high hopes of earning their second NHRA POWERade win. But by the time Sunday night rolled around they were hot, tired, mentally drained and ready for their next stop in the Windy City. ¡§We really chased after it this weekend¡¨, said a tired Blaine Hale. ¡§We were ready to qualify well and go some rounds here but once again we were snake bit. On our very first pass of the weekend we hurt our race motor. We spent a long night trying to repair it but it was just a band-aid. We knew that we had a motor that would be consistent but we couldn¡¦t lean on it.¡¨
Friday Qualifying
¡§Our first run was a good pass a 7.253 @ 185.56 MPH but I knew right away that we had hurt it. We got it back to the truck and started going through the motor and sure enough we had bent some valves. We made some quick changes and got it buttoned up in time for the second qualifying run. We were sitting in the number six spot and were hoping that we had enough motor to maintain that spot on the ladder¡¨, said Hale. ¡§Our second run was a 7.293 @ 183.44 that dropped us to number eight in the qualifying order. So it was back to the truck and off with the head again.¡¨
Saturday Qualifying
¡§After a long night of trying to get the motor squared away we were resigned to trying to make it work despite the fact that it was getting hotter and more humid by the minute¡¨, said Hale. ¡§It was an unusual situation where the temperature was down for round one but the combination of a hot sun and high humidity served to make the track a bit difficult. That coupled with our engine problems didn¡¦t make it any better for the Hired Gun Racing Team. In the first round we ran another 7.253 @ 187.55 MPH but that wasn¡¦t any help as a number of other teams picked up and we fell to the number twelve qualifying spot. On our last qualifying pass of the event we managed a 7.277 @ 183.89 MPH but fell to the fourteen spot. That would leave us facing defending number 1, Geno Scali in the first round on Sunday. We pulled the head off again on Saturday night and tried to lap the valves in a little better and crossed our fingers¡¨, said Hale.
Sunday Eliminations
¡§We went to the line Sunday knowing that the only chance we had was to push the light and pray¡¨, said a hopeful Hale. ¡§I really chopped the tree down with a 0.002 second reaction time but then it got hairy. I was surprised when the motor bogged badly right off the line and tried to pitch me over the handlebars. I was lucky enough to hold on and complete the run¡¨, said Hale. ¡§All we could muster was a 7.437 @ 186.00 MPH and our weekend was over.¡¨
Post race
¡§We aren¡¦t going to let this get us down, there are still a dozen races left in the season so we just have to turn it up a notch. We pulled both motors out and sent them back to Indy with VHR. We¡¦ll have two good motors when we get to the track in Joliet on Friday and we¡¦ll be ready to go racing as soon as they call us to the lanes¡¨, said a confident Blaine Hale.
The Hired Gun Racing Team would like to thank Cornwell Tools, Wells Cargo, Red Line Oil and Quick Lube of Midland for their continued support. Without these sponsors they would never be able to do what they love most; race Pro Stock motorcycles.
Next up for the Hired Gun Racing Team on the NHRA POWERade Series is the 7th annual NHRA Route 66 Nationals at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, IL on May 20-23. Please stop by the trailer and say hello.
For further information contact: flyingeyefoto@aol.com
Date: 19th May 2004 Our thanks to SPRC's Paula Marshall for sending us the final entry list for the UEM Main Event. She has pointed out that the race numbers on the list are those allocated to riders by the UEM and that racers should ensure they have these on their bikes:-
UEM SUPER TWIN, 9 Bikes
ST2 Ton Pels Netherlands Harley Godfather 2800cc
UEM TOP FUEL, 14 Bikes
TF1 Roel Koedam Netherlands Puma 1310cc
UEM PRO STOCK, 13 Bikes
P1 Roger Pettersson Sweden Suzuki 1500/1640cc Date: 19th May 2004 Caroline Day of Santa Pod has been in touch to let us know that in addition
to their Granada Men & Motors TV campaign - they will now be seen on the Anglia TV region with a series of 20 second commercials in the run up to
the FIA Main Event.
The commercials feature a few thrills and spills from previous events
and will be broadcast during a variety of breaks including some peak
spots during Coronation Street, ITV News etc and some off peak spots
during This Morning and F1 Grand Prix (good show!).
Caroline said :- "Santa Pod are always looking for new ways to promote the sport and our
events to an ever-increasing audience. This will be the first time, as
far as we are aware, that Santa Pod Raceway has bought mainstream TV
advertising. We hope it will be successful and look forward to welcoming
many new visitors as a result." Date: 19th May 2004 “It was a rainy day in Oklahoma,” said Funnybike builder/tuner Tommy Bolton. He and rider Glen Nickelberry were at their home track, Thunder Valley Raceway Park in Noble, Oklahoma. The Professional Motorcycle Racing Association (PMRA) had added a make-up date from a previously rained-out race on Saturday to double up with a scheduled race on Sunday. And now, on Saturday morning, it was raining again.
“The morning started out raining so we didn’t know where qualifying would lead us,” continued Bolton. When the skies cleared, the track dried quickly in the strong Oklahoma wind. That same wind, a stiff crosswind, shortened the high speed Funnybike program to the eighth mile. Bolton still had the winning tune-up from the Atlanta Prostar race in the bike when he sent Glen to the line for the first round of qualifying. That set2kill tune-up proved too much for the Oklahoma track, and the screamin’ yellow and pink Kawasaki boiled the tire. “So, we backed everything down,” said Tommy.
The subtle approach was the right one, and the team qualified #1 and breezed through three rounds of eliminations to the finals and the win against Troy Brown.
But the weekend, of course, was just half over. The winds had died down and Funnybike was back to racing the full quarter mile on Sunday. Different day, different length, same result. Tommy and Glen qualified #1 and, despite breaking a clutch pusher rod, scored another win—this time against fajita chef extraordinare John Wazel.
“Kevin Draper of Majestic Turbo was there,” Bolton said about the Oklahoma weekend. “We want to thank him and his wife for coming and being in the pits with us. And Mr. B.—Dorian Barnett, was there. We want to thank him for being there with us also.”
“I just wanted to get it over with,” said Glen. “It was a hard fought battle. None of the races we win are ever easy.”
Maintaining the bike is never easy, either, and while getting the Kawasaki ready for St. Louis, Bolton found he had a broken crankshaft. Tommy sent the part to John Pearson of Pearson Racing in West Alexandria, Ohio, just west of Dayton. John specializes in dragbike cranks and transmissions, and Tommy’s crank will be ready in time for the next race.
Breaking things, according to Bolton, is the cost of going fast and part of his game plan in defending last year’s Prostar St. Louis win when the team returns there June 5th and 6th. “We’re gonna break some parts and win it, that’s the name of the game.”
“We’re looking to go up and work hard to win this thing,” added Nickelberry. “That’s what we’re going to do.”
You can see Glen and Tommy race at the AMA/Prostar race at Gateway International Raceway, near St. Louis in Madison, Illinois on June 5th and 6th, 2004.
Tommy and Glen thanked all their sponsors, including Wattie Wolfe Engineering, Majestic Turbo, Vance & Hines Motorsports, Bill Robinson Transmissions, Dynatek, TomBo Racing Engines, RC Components, Rod & Todd Auto Paint, Dorian “Mr. B.” Barnett, the Nickelberry family and the entire Nickelberry race team.
Find out more about Majestic Turbo at <http://www.majesticturbo.com/>
You can reach Tommy Bolton’s shop at (405) 670-6438
The Glen Nickelberry/Tommy Bolton Racing Report is prepared by Tim Hailey, <http://www.eatmyink.com/> Date: 18th May 2004 I thank John Hackney for his valued input but leaving the startline at different times (ET bracket) would only confuse the spectators more than it does at the moment. Index bracket racing is fine provided we have the right bracket to race to in the first place.
Fred Furlong Date: 18th May 2004 Hi Fred,
I think I would probably come back to racing if the bracket was moved. As you know not many of us can afford to play with the super street boys.
9.90 and 8.90 sounds very good to me as modern bikes have come on so
much in the last few years as you yourself have proved bringing a fairly
stock bike out and running in the 9's. When I first raced in 1996 when
it was early GSXR's and old zeds running they were good brackets to run
in and an old zed can run 10.90 if you sort it and they're from the
1970's so I think its about time drag racing moved out of the 80's and
into the 21st century
Lee Young
Date: 18th May 2004 As I've got to grips with my new bike my nitrous bike is now up for sale. Most people know the bike and it's potential - would make a superstreet / prostocker /compbike. If interested give us a call on 07968 041720 or 01725 512867 or email me -
stevevenables@aol.com
Steven Venables Date: 17th May 2004 We've just posted the latest ACU Championship tables. Click on the link to the left to view! Date: 17th May 2004 This year again our first race of the season was at the Speedfreaks Ball (Santa Pod Raceway). Running for the third year in a row, it seems that organizer Martin Hill has created a success formula with this event held only a few weeks in advance of the first FIA/UEM championship round.
In the first place it’s the annual festival for all kinds of jet powered vehicles. Secondly it shows a “shoot out” between a selected number of supercharged nitro top fuel bikes (4 cylinders) and their “big inch” nitro injected twin cylinder counterparts.
To top the event of there is a “run what ya brung”, ranging from super fast street legal bikes
to uhhh……..this > >
It’s not only fun to participate at this event, but it also gives an excellent possibility to do some first time testing after the winter stop. Though the weather forecast showed nothing but rain showers for the entire weekend, we still made the trip to England.
On Saturday the outside temperatures were around 14C and it rained till about 14.00h. After that it remained dry for the rest of the day. We made our first shot was at 17.00h.
Off course the first run of the year is always a check out pass to see if all is well aboard.
Everything looked fine on the bike after this pass.
Our second and last pass of day one was in the early evening at 20.00h. Roel was “on and off” the throttle a few times with the bike wiggling all over the place (due to not optimal track conditions). Still it was a reasonable 6.8 second pass.
Picture: Ivan Sansom
Next day was dry all day long (you never thrust your weatherman, do you??) and the outside temperatures were just one or two degrees higher. Though still too cold for the time of year, it was a little more comfortable.
In our third and last qualifying shot for the shoot out final, either we were too greedy or we overestimated the traction. Anyway the result was loss of traction right from the line and Roel had to abort this run.
Still we qualified for the final shoot out round against Norwegian Top Fuel Harley rider Ronny Aasen.
Again a lot of traction problems, but still we managed to cross the finish line before our opponent, taking home the first victory of the year. The ET on that run was a decent 6.5 (with an early click-off and still low on nitro).
Roel and Ton Pels showing off their new leathers
Probable the best of all is that when we checked the bike over at the end of the race meeting, it showed zero % leak down on all four cylinders!! The “Zodiac Puma” looks to be in even better shape than last year.
Considering our (piston)ring problems of last year where the leak down became worse and worse by each run, it gives us a lot of confidence for this new season. If this will be a sign for the things to come, we might be going to have a whole lot of fun. Well, let’s not jump into conclusions and wait what the future has in stock for us.
The next event will be the first round of the European Championship also held at the same venue (May 28-31).
Track conditions are expected to be a lot better because of the presence from a lot car classes. If the weather will be as bright as last year, we can expect to see some great runs in all classes. We also like the work being carried out at this moment to the addition of the new safety wall at the RH side of the track in the run-off area. It will add to the safety of the track and hopefully will contribute to the sometimes dangerous cross winds.
Our next Team Report can be expected soon after the Main Event.
Marius van der Zijden - Koedam Racing Holland Date: 17th May 2004 Upton went into the first round as #1 qualifier and having reset the National Speed Record with a 219.04 MPH where he took on Robert Cassar’s Kawasaki who had posted his own PB 8.24 in qualifying. Upton took the win with a 6.475 at 200 MPH over Casser’s 8.95.
In round two Upton took on number four Dennis Grant but fluid is seen under the bike and the officials tell Jay to shut the bike off letting Grant solo for a troubled win.
Brett Stevens looked to capitalise on Upton’s misfortunes and took on Craig Bonwick in the other semi. The bikes left side by side with identical 330 foot times, but Bonwick got around him at the end for another upset, Bonwick’s 7.536 at 171 MPH, overcoming Stevens’s 7.585 at 166.07.
In the final, Grant got the jump but shut off at half track leaving Bonwick to take the win with his fastest run of the weekend, a 7.669 at 173 MPH.
Following the disappointment of Upton and Steven’s early exit in eliminations, Jay Upton and Brett Stevens lined up for an exhibition match race. Extremely strong burnouts from both riders brought the huge Sydney crowd to their feet. Upton took the win with a stout a 6.317 at 212.63 MPH over a struggling 8.975 run from Stevens. Date: 17th May 2004 Further to the comments from Fred Furlong, and looking at the 10.90 entry for the main event maybe it's time to go motorcycle et bracket racing? This would create problems from a rules standpoint but I'm sure you would get quite a lot of motorcycles out that are not competitive in Comp bike or other heads up classes?
John Hackney Date: 16th May 2004 After his 6.19 in testing on friday, Aussie based TF rider Jay Upton ran a 6.397 @ 219mph in the first qualifying session followed by a 7.439. Date: 16th May 2004 I personally think the blue line rule is a good one from a safety point of view. I've seen people with their hands in very dangerous places as the rider is about to launch - there is no need for anyone to be that close at that time.
That's how accidents happen??
Dave Smith Date: 16th May 2004 Is Santa Pods reluctance over the last three years to change the index for 10.90 and 9.90 Bike to something more realistic finally going to kill off 10.90 Bike? I have always said it should be 10.50/9.50 or have we now got to the point where we drop 10.90 completely and bring in 8.90 Bike. Lets have some dialogue before its to late.
Fred Furlong - E-mail:
furlongtyres@FSBDial.co.uk Date: 16th May 2004 Sorry Ian, got to disagree with you on the blue line rule. Whilst spectating at Gainesville I have often seen crew turning on computers etc as the rider is pushing into stage, which I believe is only a matter of time until someone loses some fingers or worse. Like every safety rule it's only appreciated after someone gets hurt.
Graham Dance
Gossip comment :-
Hi Graham, point taken reference the antics on view at US events. However, it's a question of degree as a redlight for someone who has had his visor closed shut by a crew man or slapped on the back as a `ready to go' signal is not quite the same as someone physically lifting up wheeliebars to straighten a rider up! Date: 15th May 2004 If you'd like download a video of Jay Upton's 6.19 second Top Fuel bike run, click
HERE Date: 15th May 2004 We just heard the sad news from Dave Beck that Gary Campbell
was killed in a RTA last night.
Gary, who owned engine tuner CPE was a good friend of Jay Regan and built the engine used by the MRE team to run 6.90 some years ago when such an ET was not commonplace. They also ran 200 mph with it - it is the engine that Sarah Jane Head was using in her `Budster' ProMod machine.
On behalf of King Racing I'd like to send condolences to all his family and friends. Date: 15th May 2004 Ian the judge! What would be the official ACU ruling on the following senarios:
1. If a rider has a blue line violation during the only qualifying run of a meeting, would that time and speed stand as an official qualifying time and the rider receive points accordingly or would they receive no points and be eliminated because they had in effect recorded no time and speed?
2. If a rider crossed the centre line on a bye run during the first round of elimations, then crossed back into their lane receiving a time and speed and bringing the win light on. Would they still get the 100 points for the win or would they be disqualified and receive no points at all?
You would never have guessed that competition bike is getting a little competitive this season!
Now this will get the tongues wagging in the pits!
Thanks for your help. Web site excellent as ever.
Philip Leamon - ACU Comp Bike
Gossip comment :-
Hi Phil,
Thanks for your kind words. Reference scenario one. This is not an ACU ruling, but one introduced by Santa Pod and so I am not the best judge. As far as I know once a vehicle front wheel crosses the centreline and is subsequently touched by a crew memebr, the racer is immediately disqualified, thereby voiding the run. In this case they would only receive scrutineering and signing on points, but none for qualifying.
On a personal note, I'd like to see the blue line ruling deleted from the club
rulebook - it does not seem to be in use anywhere else in the world (although I
stand to be corrected), and it seems to be of limited safety value whilst often
being the cause of disqualification.
In secnario two it is clear from an ACU standpoint. On a bye run it is only necessary for a racer to stage under power, and no run need be made. So in this case, they would take the automatic
win before they crossed the line, but would not get lane choice in the next round. Date: 15th May 2004 Further to the numerous emails and telephone calls we received from riders who had been issued with profile sheets headed
`SunSpot Productions', Caroline Day has issued the following statement :-
"Power Racing Promotions Ltd, part of the Power Racing Group, and the company that organises the FIA European Drag Racing Championship & UEM European Drag Bike Championship, has made re-organisational changes to the Television production beginning in the 2004 season.
A new TV production company will produce the Television shows for this season, says Keith Bartlett, the CEO of Power Racing Promotions Ltd and promoter of the Championships.
After 6 years of working with Image Wizard TV, Keith Bartlett, in his role as the Executive Producer, took the decision to contract a new TV production company to produce the television shows from this year. This was due in the main to Image Wizard TV pursuing a different direction in 2004, and therefore unable to commit in full to this season. This decision was taken in the best interests of the Championships. The new TV Production company will continue the good work done by Russ Malkin over the past years.
The new company ‘SunSpot Productions Ltd' has been formed by two of the main people who have been responsible for producing all the shows over the past 36 months under Image Wizard TV. These are the Editor, Miland Suman and the Production manager, Faraz Hasan. In addition there are other staff that have been recruited, all of whom have experience with producing drag racing television shows. Keith Bartlett, will remain the Executive Producer.
Says Keith Bartlett, ‘I am very confident that not only will we have the same continuity of production and television shows, but it is the intention of the new production team, along with myself, to look to improve the shows in several areas’.
The Director Miland Suman said ‘The drag racing programmes have been historically produced on the analogue television format. Taking the production from analogue to digital, is going to raise the production standard in line with other major motorsport TV programmes’.
The Producer Faraz ‘Faz’ Hasan said ‘The European Championships have gone from strength to strength year on year. For me its about bringing the emotion to the screen and that can be summed up in one race at the final event last year - Smax Smith Vs Micke Kagered, in Top Fuel, when your rooting for both drivers……that’s when you know what the sport is all about!’
SunSpot Productions will improve the quality of the TV Production, resulting in a superior TV show, compared to previous years. They will seek to make changes to the support and back-up procedures, for better communication with the teams and track promoters." Date: 13th May 2004 Further to our scoop on Jay Upton's 6.19 pass earlier today,
Mick Withers of Dragster Australia kindly sent us the report of Jay's excellent pass in testing at WSID, Australia :-
"On a cool, autumn evening at a WSID (Western Sydney International Dragway) street meeting, Jay Upton raised the standard of Australian Top Fuel Motorcycle performance with a stellar 6.192 / 219.86 that had the vocal crowd cheering.
The meeting was held on a track that could be safely described as unprepared, the Top Fuel Dragsters that were in attendance all had trouble hooking up.
Upton made unspecified changes to his bike in what he described as, “An experiment that I couldn’t normally try during qualifying or eliminations.”
The obviously ecstatic racer and his whole crew were still wandering around their mobile workshop with half-watermelon grins two hours after the run, “I thought we’d run a high teen by the end of the weekend but now we’ve started where I thought we’d end up!”
As a sideline, Jay laughingly pointed out, “I believe that this is the first time ever that a bike has set Low ET and Top Speed at an Australian meeting!”
Here are the weather conditions and incrementals on the run that moves Upton into the number ten spot on the list of Top Bike Quickest runs, displacing Tommy Smith by 0.001!
Air Temp - 13 deg. Celsius, 55.4 deg. Fahrenheit
Top Bike (All Nitro Fuelled Bikes) Quickest runs (As at 13-05-04)
Larry McBride USA 5.876
Pic courtesy of Lee Davis, W.A.P. Date: 13th May 2004 We've just received the news that Australian based Top Fuel Bike rider Jay Upton has just powered his way to a great 6.19 at 219 mph during testing at the awesome WSID facility in Australia. Will he be the first rider out of the US to run a 5, or will it be Holland's Roel Koedam or Norway's Sverre Dahl??
Way to go Jay and team! Date: 13th May 2004 Thanks to Roger Lyren of Veidec Racing for his review of last weekend’s tests at Gardermoen, Norway :-
The test was both good and bad. For Roger with the new Suzuki TL1000R it was very good, he did 3 runs on low rpm because the track was a little slick this time. His best 60 foot was 1.19 and we started as low as 7600 rpm to get the bike to leave the line. We set up the bike with a 2 tooth smaller sprocket in the back just to take out some torque and also keep the rpm down. On our one full throttle pass we ran 7.45 @ 293 km/h with much tyre spin.
The new airbox in the TL1000R worked really well, we got 20% more pressure in the airbox at the finish line than with the old body, so this is very promising.
Helen did 4 passes but with big clutch problems – it was a totally burnt up black piece after each run. However, we found a problem with the pressure plate and after fixing it scored a good 1.18 second 60 foot in the last attempt.
Since the team now has members of 4 different nationalities - Sweden, Norway, England and Italy there will sometimes be a lot of discussion because the mentality is so different. But this is also a challenge and we get a lot of input from the team together so I think that we will have some good results when we have trained all the members.
We will not attend the Test before Main Event, because it is hard to get free from work at that long a time, but I am really looking forward to the Main Event, with 13 PSB entries it will probably be the fastest
bump spot ever.
See you all at the Pod!
Regards, Roger
Date: 13th May 2004 We have now received the ladders from the APIRA for the Excitement Nationals and will post the updated tables tomorrow.
In the meantime, we can confirm the latest top 3 positions in the championship classes :-
Top Fuel
1) Steve Woollatt – 560
Funnybike
1) Neil Midgley – 835
Prostock Bike
1) Tony Clark – 570
Competition Bike
1) TJ O’Brien – 840
Superstreet Bike
1) Graham Dance – 1165 Date: 13th May 2004 Just wanted to say a big thank you to Charlotte and Dave Beck who offered their hospitality last weekend and helped find the gremlin in the gearbox. And, I won’t, of course, mention about the wine CHARLOTTE.........
Paul Watson
Date: 13th May 2004 Would all riders planning to enter for 9.90 Bike at the Main Event note that the entry is getting close to thirty two, and the SPRC have mentioned that if it reaches that level then further entries will be closed. If any other racers
still wish to enter they must contact Paula Marshall first and, if accepted, the late
entry fee will be enforced.
Racers should also note that Friday 28th May is an official racing day primarily dedicated to qualifying for Sportsman classes.
Friday will be the important day for them in terms of qualifying, (weather and track
conditions permitting). There will be no excuses accepted if racers turn up half way through Friday and qualifying is shortened due to weather or track problems. This is the first four-day meeting at Santa Pod and please don't just turn up to set up your pit area on Friday - racing will already have commenced! Date: 12th May 2004 A full colour picture of the King Racing Top Fuel Bike graces page 65 in the Business and City section of today's 1 million circulation National Newspaper, the
Daily Express.
The picture, taken at Santa Pod, England, illustrates a piece about automotive part retailer
Halfords, a previous sponsor of the UK track. Date: 12th May 2004 Construction has begun on a R20-million drag strip, expected to cater for almost 40,000 spectators, at a secret location between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. If all goes well, drag racers can expect the first race in December this year.
The complex, which is expected to have an international A-Grade race strip, will also have shops, restaurants and, at a later stage, a lodge. It is claimed that the legal track would also appeal to drivers who participated in illegal races. "We are saying to those guys that they must come and race here on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. "Our raceway will be safe and legal," sources said.
Durban's Metro police have elcomed the development. Recently Metro police and members of the police services were stoned by more than 5,000 spectators at an illegal event in Chamberlain Road, Jacobs. Date: 12th May 2004 Hello Again Racers:
Despite the
rain from the soffy Richmond race there were quite a few noteworthy performances. Larry "Spiderman"
McBride ran the quickest and fastest motorcycle pass in history, a 5.876
@ 244.74 MPH! Kent Stotz ran the quickest and fastest streetbike
shootout run ever on his Honda Blackbird. Kent ran a 7.423 @ 194.24 MPH
using a MPS Electronic Engine Kill and a MPS LED Shift Light. In honor
of that achievement we are going to make them our May Internet special.
We will sell the MPS Electronic Engine Kill for $99 and the LED Shift
Light Bulb for only $20! You must mention the Internet special or we
won't give you this price.
MPS Air Throttle Stop equipped racers fought it out for the MPS bonus
cash paid to the best qualifier in the index classes of Super Gas, Super
Comp, and Top Gas. The $100.00 winner in Virginia was Andy Baumbauch
running a perfect 8.900 to qualify number one in Super Comp. Honorable
mention goes to: Doug Peterson in Top Gas 8.202, Jim Carrol in Super Gas
9.902, Mike Konopacki in Super Comp 8.904 and Top Gas 8.207, and Ronnie
Procopio in Top Gas 8.208. Congratulations to all! The MPS Top
Qualifier program was met with so much enthusiasm that we are going to
continue it at the AMA/Prostar Norris Motor Sports Cyclefest on June 26
-27, 2004 in Norwalk, Ohio. The closest racer to their index during
qualifying will pocket the bucks. In event of a tie we will split the
money. Racers must bring their ET slips to the MPS trailer after
qualifying on Saturday to determine the winner. We will not accept any
slips on Sunday. We will announce the winner after opening ceremony on
!
Sunday.
Don't delay! Order today because we won't honor these Internet specials
after 5/31/2004 at midnight! Remember, you must mention the Internet
special when ordering to get this deal. Either add it to the comment
section on our secure order form or mention it on the phone. You will
get the regular price if you don't! For all the gory details go to: www.mpsracing.com/Pages/specials.htm
We are continuing to show you the money in 2004! We are rejoining
Prostar as a major contingency sponsor as well as continuing our
exclusive Private Label Contingency Program. Go enroll today! It's
free money! Here is the link: www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contingency.htm
Just in case you were dying to know who won the Tether Kill Switch
Contest For April, it was: Deborah Peck of Milton, VT. Congratulations
Deborah! Don't forget to enter this month at: www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contest.asp
Thank you for your time and good luck in 2004.
Dan Rudd www.mpsracing.com Date: 12th May 2004 Why is there no Pro class qualifying on Friday at the UEM meeting? This means we will probably have to be there Thursday night, just to get our pit space as no one will reserve a pit space for us. Then we stand around all day Friday, doing nothing which costs us a days wages plus we have to use a days holiday to do nothing!
It does not seem to make any sense. Why no pro qualifiying on
Friday?
Dave Friend
Gossip comment :-
Pit spaces are preallocated for the Pro classes, so you will (should) have a space.Basically, it is the first time as a 4 day in this country (only Sweden did it before) and there has always been two days for pro quals. The purpose of the extra day is for the sportsman classes to get a fair crack of the whip.
Date: 12th May 2004 The Main Event is nearly here, we have just over one week left to take bookings for Hospitality at Santa Pod.
We are already filling up and would advise you to take advantage of your racer discount as soon as possible.
“Santa Pod is quite unlike any other corporate day out. You get to see every race from start to finish…your guests will love it!” - Bahco Tools Limited (sponsors of Micke Kågered Racing)
If you would like to book your hospitality package or require further information, please contact me in the Santa Pod office on +44 (0) 1234 782828 or via email at
kelly@santapod.fsnet.co.uk
Kelly Ingall Date: 12th May 2004 Has anybody got or know of a nice red and black Suzuki GSX1100E for sale? cash waiting... text or ring me on 07850 400507.......
Thanks, Mark Watkins..
Date: 11th May 2004 For sale, 1 used Tonglet twin piston PSB Vacumn pump. Excellent condition, £370
Dave Beck - beck.racing@virgin.net Date: 11th May 2004 Team Manor Racing moved on to the Excitement Nationals after the Thunderball with re-worked front forks and work carried out on the bike to see where the possible fault laid with the shift light. We think we have solved the problem for the time being but the jury is out on that one.
Sefton, from SFB 965 engineering, carried out the work on the front forks, which where amazing and leaving us in suspense (no pun intended) to test the new settings. Saturday came and it rained and it rained until racing was called off. Sunday arrived and the weather was better and we finally got out on track for our only qualifier. With a soft launch the timing ticket showed a 10.075 at 141mph which left us in the no 2 qualifying position. The bike felt really good and gave us some base settings for the next run. As we all know the second session was turned into an open practice which netted us another 10.063 at 142mph.
Monday came and it rained and rained but it stopped and track crew, racers and crew got the track dry for the first round of eliminations. We did some more tweaking with the suspension and waited to see what was going to happen. In the first round David was to meet new rider Andy Bird, who had a successful Thunderball meeting in 10.90 bike, and was getting to grips with the differences between the classes. We finally got to run and David took the win with a hole-shooting and shutting off 10.057 at 125mph.
David had a bye in the next round which was not run due to the curfew.
Manor Racing would like to thank everyone who helped get the track dry, when the weather was not playing ball. We would like to thank our sponsors
Straightline Racing, Q8 Oils, Comupay, Dream Glass and SFB 965 Engineering
for the continued support and help.
David Warren Date: 9th May 2004 We've just returned from a very soggy Speedfreaks Ball at Santa Pod. However, despite the abysmal weather suffered all weekend the event was hugely enjoyable with many off track sideshows and activities to entertain the crowds.
The on track action saw Roel Koedam of Holland on his blown Puma just edge out Ronny Aassen's Nitro V Twin to take the win in the final of the Nitro Challenge.
Ton Pels debuted his stunning new Nitro Twin with some excellent shakedown passes, whilst Bernie Hepworth impressed with his brave return to the track despite his life threatening medical condition.
Ian King's substitute in Top Fuel, Steve Carey made further progress in his quest to join the top runners in the field, and it seems that it will not be long before he joins the 6 second club. Steve Woollat unfortunately managed only a single pass all weekend after some problems arising with a forgotten license.......
In Superstreet Bike some amazing performances were put down by Steve Venables with a huge 186mph top speed and Mark Fisher's stunning 8.07 et on his unique supercharged TTS Hayabusa.
Despite Eric Teboul having both his Top Fuel and Rocket bikes with him, he elected to concentrate on the rapid peroxide machine, laying down some stout 6 second passes despite the inclement weather. However, the big news is that he has plans to run a larger fuel tank for an attempted 4 second pass at Hockenheim later this year........!
Anyhow, a great shout should go out to Martin Hill, his partner and crew for making this year's event so enjoyable under such trying weather conditions, and to the racers who put on a great show in what seemed to be a combination of the Arctic and Niagara Falls! Date: 9th May 2004 As all riders planning to compete in the UEM Championship should know, failure to pay the €600 fee at least 30 days before the first event that they plan to race in will mean that no qualifying nor round win money will be paid should they make the first round.
However, after discussion with Kjell Petersson today the deadline has been extended until THIS MONDAY LATEST (10th May) for riders planning to compete at the Main Event.
With that in mind, I'd like to remind the following riders from the Top Fuel and Supertwin classes that they have until tomorrow to register to earn any money at the UEM season opener :-
Bernie Hepworth, UK Date: 7th May 2004 Well, we're off to this weekend's third annual Speedfreaks Ball at Santa Pod Raceway which is shaping up to be better and bigger than ever with a bumper entry list and full complement of two wheel and thrust powered vehicles.
The Fuel Bike Shootout will feature the cream of Europes two wheeled nitro machines with the Top Fuel Bikes taking on the Nitro Supertwins. The I4 team of Roel Koedam, Steve Woollatt and Steve Carey take on the V2's of Ronny Aasen, Ton Pels and hopefully Rob van Geffen who is suffering a last minute medical hitch that could threaten his future riding career - more to come later.
Super Street Bikes and National Association of Supertwins riders will also feature, whilst
Ian Turburville, Jamie Millership and Bernie Hepworth also plan to take part on their Nitro V Twins.
France's Eric Teboul returns with his Rocket Bike alongside amazing Dutch Jet Quad Pilot Michael Kooy and LeeMcBee on his Jet Kart.
Terry Grant will also entertain with his Legend Car stunt show, and the main run what you brung will run all weekend.
Of course Martin Hill and Tony Baker will run their Jet Funnies, and 'Orrice will show with his gargantuan V8 Jet Trike.
Sideshows include a Custom Show, three bands in the marquee, fairground attractions and much more.
24 hour security will be provided for those camping, including a special area reserved for families.
Gates open at 12:00 today. For further details visit www.speedfreaksball.co.uk Date: 7th May 2004 Continuing the Aus theme, this morning MCN-Aus had a one liner re Spiderman running a 5.8 @ 244. Is this a new low?
Carl (Team Fang)
Gossip comment :-
Yep, Larry ran a backed up 5.876.......
It is also reported that his 1/8th mile times are 3.75 @ 207...... Date: 7th May 2004 Big CC Racing yesterday completed its dyno objective of exceeding 500bhp with its Hayabusa project bike with a rear wheel horsepower figure of 540bhp with the tyre badly spinning on the drum.
An attempt to push towards 600 will be attempted at the UK horsepower shootout in late July.
Big thanks go to staff at Big CC, Bradly O'Conner, Dom Trickett, and Velocity Racing whose turbo system not only made 500 on 24psi & 8500rpm, prior to the spin out at 28 psi, but also gave 306bhp with just 6psi boost!
Sean Mills - www.bigccracing.com /Velocity Racing Europe.
Date: 6th May 2004 As if the ex crims have not been looked after enough already with arguably the world's best new dragstrip - WSID. Now Ivan Sansom tells us that they are to get another International standard track in Canberra paid out of government funds :-
www.andra.com.au/latestnews/latestnews.htm
Who said crime doesn't pay??? Date: 6th May 2004 Can Barry (if he reads this) or anyone else give me Barry's email address (or home address). He kindly donated 4 spark plugs to me for my diesel comp bike (only running rich honest.....) and I neglected to let him have them back. They will probably be well knackered after my single shakedown run (£100-00 for one run is NOT an option APIRA - I want money back -- p**ssups and breweries spring to mind regarding last weekend's fiasco)so I want to send him some new ones.
John Roberts - suznjon@jroberts26.freeserve.co.uk
Gossip comment :-
Promoter Lee Child has been in touch with us to say that he shares the racers unhappiness at some aspects of the meeting in question. He has identified where the problem lies and has put actions in place to ensure improvements are made. Date: 6th May 2004 Don't worry Ian, things can only get better!!!!!!
David Warren
Gossip comment :-
Really David?? I don't believe it after watching my team Chelsea in the Champions League semi's last night....... Date: 6th May 2004 Our thanks to Veidec Racing supremo Roger Lyren for sending us a status report on their preparations for the new season.
Roger has been working like a Trojan this spring to get it all together, and now most of it is on the road.
Firstly they test at Gardemoen this weekend for 3 days with both the 2 & 4V engines updated with lots of new components.
The ex Öivind Von Essen 1640cc engine is now all new except for the gearbox and the cylinder head with new Web Cams from Vance & Hines Motorsport and also the new style of JE Pistons. Roger has already conducted a few dyno pulls to make sure all was well.
The 2 V has also got new parts inside - crank, pistons, springs, valves and also some new style cams.
They plan to mainly run the 4 V but will also run the 2 V at selected races.
Helen Curran has got a new style of VM Dragracing head that they will be testing and developing this year, and she will run both 1640cc and 1570cc engines. However, Roger does not rule out her use of the 2 V at some events.
Roger Petersson will run the new TL1000R from the start of the season, and will have a totally new cool paint job done before the Main Event whilst Helens bike will probably get the new TL 1000R body for Finland, time permitting.
He hopes that they will get some good runs at Gardemoen on all the engines and goes on to say that the guys there always prepare the track extremely well.
Good luck team! Date: 5th May 2004 Most people would imagine that the low point in Top Fuel rider Ian King's motorcycling career would have been his life threatening fireball in competition at Sweden's Mantorp Park in 2003, or even maybe the massive engine explosion and consequent hole in his race budget at this seasons British Championship opener at Santa Pod, England. But they'd all be wrong as tuning into the UK's Granada `Men and Motors' channel at 8.30 pm today (wednesday) will show when he argues the relative merits of a vintage Vespa scooter over an equally old Lambretta in front of a nationwide TV audience. Oh the shame........ Date: 5th May 2004 Dave Beck turned in a sound performance at the Prostar round in Virginia this past weekend, on the MRE Pro Mod machine.
Despite suffering some fuel system issues at the previous round in Atlanta, the team were confident that the tune-up was coming together and arrived at Richmond feeling confident.
The first round of qualifying saw a 7.0 recorded, with the second-cycle run of the rain-shortened practice session delivering a 6.8 at 190, good enough to take the #2 spot behind Charlie Farrar.
Round one saw Beck take the win with another 6.8 second pass. The team were feeling confident and started to push the tune up a little further, with hopefully a semi-final spot up for grabs. In round two, both riders left with an identical .43 reaction time, with the extra power in the MRE machine smoking the tire away from the launch. At 1100 Beck led, but unfortunately the tune-up had been pushed a bit too far, resulting in a damaged piston at the 1100 mark, and the narrowest of losses.
Despite the loss, the team are feeling very confident going into the St Louis race. Dave was quick to point out the solid team effort – “A fantastic job from everyone all weekend, with the rider doing a decent job to reward the effort everyone had put in. The tune up has been in there for a while, it’s just been a case of putting it all together.” 4.36 and 168mph at the 1/8 mile mark showed the potential for the bike, and with the engine now repaired and rebuilt by Roger Upperton, things look positive for St. Louis.
Dave noted that a lot of positive things had been learnt, and the team intend to test the day before the St Louis race, looking to advance further this time, and set the tone for the rest of the year. “Thanks to all the team and particularly Jay and Roger for their knowledge and financial support” were Dave’s parting comments prior to returning to the UK.
Stephen Moon Date: 4th May 2004 "Push back girls"?? I'll be more than happy to hand over my
push back duties to any of "Ivan's girls..... Marius van der Zijden Date: 4th May 2004 Saturday... wet. Sunday... sunny but only one qualifier for most
classes thanks to the curfew - although the two Steve's managed a pair of
unrepresentative passes each in TFB :- Monday... wet and then sunny (just to add to the confusion) but the track wasn't dried until 3 so a single round of eliminations were run
for the hardy souls who had put off the urge to head home. However, Ronnie Aasen put in a couple of hard launches in testing for the UEM round at Santa Pod
whilst entered on his Top Fuel Harley in Funnybike - despite having to resort to a fan heater to try
and raise the engine temperature to a working 15 deg C on Monday.......... Richard Gipp managed to generate some excitement all by himself. Not content with a buckaroo launch on Sunday (later traced to a somewhat
vital part being installed upside down...) he then decided to try out a novel weight reduction technique in the only Pro Stock elimination
round on Monday :- Ivan Sansom Date: 3rd May 2004 No, not a new exotic line of underwear modelled on the Jurassic period, but an insight into why ace trackside photographer Ivan Sansom
is so keen on Australian dragracing. Is it the world beating Top
Doorslammers, the stunning performances of the Top Fuel Dragster fields, or the excitement of Jay Upton on his amazing
looking Top Fuel Bike taking on the Harleys in Top
Bike?? No, it seems to be the Top Totty employed as the push back girls in the land of crap beer and great Bundy Rum...... :- Date: 3rd May 2004 Unfortunately, the Prostar event in Richmond succumbed to rain with only the depleted Funnybike field seeing a final where
Travis Davis beat a tyre smoking Korry Hogan 6.838 @ 197.16 to 9.697 @ 86mph.
Finalist for the other Pro classes were :-
Top Fuel - Larry McBride vs Chris Hand
On his way to the final Stotz set an astounding new backed up record of
7.42 seconds for the US equivalent of Superstreet Bike.
All finals will be run on the first day of qualifying at the St Louis event.
Charlotte Beck kindly sent us news of the bad luck suffered by husband Dave in Pro Mod. After qualifying in second position as reported yesterday, he won the first round with another great six second pass, 6.88 @ 192 mph. However, in the second round the MRE machine blew a piston losing Dave the round.
However, the entire team feel it was a positive weekend and Guru Rog set to fixing the engine immediately in preparation for St. Louis before he was allowed to MargarhitaVille later last night....... Date: 3rd May 2004 www.channel4.com/science/microsites/M/monstergarage/index.html Date: 2nd may 2004 Despite all the hard work and effort we had a gearbox fail on the PROSTOCKER just as we were going to dyno the bike so hence our absence at SCR.
O behalf of the team I can tell you it was a terrible blow for us, we had
hoped to debut the new paint by MATT HEDGER of AIRSTREAM and to make up for
lost time with our new Upperton engine - still these things were sent to try
us. It has been a busy period at work (DSD) lately helping
Carl Grey with the
ex DSD turbo on his Busa who managed a 8.4 @ 179.5mph at the WRE test day
last week. This bike has the potential to be the first 7 sec streetbike over
here. Then there is Brad with the all new VELOCITY RACING Turbo kit on
his Busa. This is the kit Barry Henson ran 7.49 with so watch out!
We also have PETER
DE LA MARE with his NLR GEN X turbo Busa - this setup should easily make over
500 rwbhp and last but not least king of the DSD dyno at the moment is DAVE
SMITH with his turbo busa already ran 8.6 @ 163 @6lbs boost so watch for the
27 lbs boost........
We hope to be ready again for the Main Event, but it's not the way I had planned
to see my last year out, but its not over yet. By the way both my BANDIT and
stocker are up for sale. Interested parties should contact me at
DYNOSPEED DEVELOPMENTS 0208 500 5770 or paul@dynospeed.co.uk.
Paul Watson Date: 2nd May 2004 # 1 qualifiers for today's eliminations are :-
Top Fuel - Larry Mc Bride, 5.962 @230.29 Date: 2nd May 2004 No, UK ProStock rider Dave Beck has not taken up the evil weed, but has put in a storming qualifying performance at the Prostar event at Richmond, Virginia reports his wife
Charlotte.
Following a stout 7.02 in first qualifying which put him as fifth, he followed up with a fabulous 6.86 to put him firmly in 2nd position for todays eliminations. The bike is reported to be still in one piece after this, and Dave and the team feel things look good for tomorrow.
Thanks Charlotte and Good Luck Team MRE!! Date: 2nd May 2004 Whilst on the subject of of the UEM event at Santa Pod, we can confirm that the Pro Classes will not be qualifying on the Friday of the four day event. Date: 2nd May 2004 Further to our post on the deadline for entry to the UEM classes for the forthcoming Main Event, we are happy to inform you that current European Champion Roel Koedam (Holland) has entered Top Fuel Bike along with
Eric Teboul (France). However, Sverre Dahl of Sweden has verified that his `Sunshine Express' Puma machine will not be at the season opener due to delays in accumulating the necessary parts and finance for an assault on the championship.
In the Supertwin category, Rob Van Geffen of Holland has also joined the entry list on his blown nitro V Twin. Date: 30th April 2004 Further to our piece on the Nitro entries for the UEM Main Event, PRP representative for the PSB riders
Roger Lyren has sent us this list of currently entered riders. Again, if you wish to enter, or already have done so and are not on the list, please contact Paul Marshall at Santa Pod Racers Club immediately, or send your entries by fax to her straight away. Today is the LAST DAY for normal cost entry fees!!
UEM
PRO STOCK P1 Roger
Pettersson Suzuki 1500/1640cc P2 Vesa
Rautio Suzuki
GSXR 1640cc P3 Chris
Hope Suzuki
Hayabusa Nimbus
Motorsport 1500cc P5 Richard
Gipp Kings
Suzuki
GSXR 1570cc P8 Martin
Bishop Suzuki 1570cc P9 Helen
Curran Suzuki
GSX 1640cc P10 Herman
Van Driel Suzuki
GSXR Blue
Thunder 1500cc P15 Michal
Ponca Yamaha 1450cc P17 Len
Paget Suzuki
Hayabusa White
Lightning 1650cc P19 Paul
Watson Suzuki
Hayabusa DSD
Racing 1640cc P21 Dave
Beck Suzuki 1500cc P22 Martin
Newbury Crew
22 1500cc P34 Remo
Nasci Suzuki
GSXR 1500cc Date: 30th April 2004 We'd like to remind all riders that today is the LAST DAY to enter at the normal fee. All entries after today will demand double the fee (i.e. until the issue is resolved with the entry cost €250).
As the current PRP Representative for the Nitro classes, I'd like to inform you of riders entered in the Supertwin and Top Fuel Bike classes for the Main Event. If your name is not there, but you have already entered (or plan to do so) then please get in contact with the organising club Santa Pod Racers Club today!! UEM
SUPER TWIN ST2 Ton
Pels Harley Godfather 2800cc ST3 Ronny
Aasen 166ci ST4 Stefan
Junerud Servex Nitro
Twister 1950cc ST6 Svein
Gottenberg 160ci ST12 Anders
Karling Harley 1850cc ST22 Bernie
Hepworth Borg
Bros Racing 142ci ST26 Jamie
Millership Classic
Custom Southern
Rock II 2600cc ST35 Hans
Olav Olstad 2860cc UEM
TOP FUEL TF2 Joey
Bon Yamaha
Wild
Thing 1600cc TF4 Antonio
Ferretti Suzuki
Puma 1428cc TF5 Jon
Leret 1407cc TF7 Nils
Ole Yamaha Excalibur 1400cc TF9 Martyn
de Haas 1428cc TF10 Steve
Woollatt PBR
Puma The
Dealer 1327cc TF23 Gary
Jones Suzuki
Katana 1428cc TF30 Tim
Blakemore 1200cc TF31 Neil
Midgley Suzuki
GSX 1428cc TF32 Shaun
Branch Suzuki
GSX Special
Branch 1428cc TF39 Viep
Bloemen The
Laughing Matter 1327cc
Date: 30th April 2004 Further to our plea for information on Paul Giddings, his niece Kelly explained why the
sudden interest in his racing career :-
"Unfortunately Paul's father Bob passed away on the 6th April after a stroke, which is what prompted us to gather some information about Paul. Thankfully it was quick, and his ashes are buried with Paul, in Guildford."
Remember, anyone with any information, anecdotes or pictures concerning Paul are urged to contact Kelly at :
Kelly.Greene@shropshire-rcc.org.uk Date: 30th April 2004 No doubt the ACU will be unable to process the UEM licence in time for the first event as they haven't done the other licences yet. It will take a few days to get the neccessary tests done.
Will it be OK to turn up at the Pod with just the application ?
Bernard Hepworth
Gossip comment :-
The riders FMN (in this case the ACU) always inform the organising club of the particular country of riders with permission to race at that event. Consequently, as long as your application is in at the ACU in a reasonable amount of time before the event then you will be able to race, license in hand or not. Date: 30thApril 2004 Despite the fact that Per Bengtsson and `The Beast' Nitro Supertwin team will not attempt to defend their 2003 European title, Bentec Engineering will still be represented at all European championship tracks this year.
Per Bengtsson of Bentec Engineering has announced that fellow Super Twin rider Ronny Aasen of Norway will be responsible for provision of Bentec spare parts and support at the race tracks this year. Aasen’s truck will carry all necessary spares for your 2-speed, Bentec “BIG” clutch or the new “Magnum” transmission.
Furthermore, Per also announced that Bentec will sponsor Aasen’s PRP Engined machine for the coming season. The bike has been updated with a new “Magnum” 2 speed and Bentec has together with Ronny Aasen developed a 4.5” belt drive using a 5-plate clutch.
“Bentec will also support the Norwegian Top Fuel bike of team Kongsrud/Leret Racing
who are testing the newly designed lock up hat on our 4 plate clutch. We wish team Kongsrud and Ronny a very special good luck from all of us!” said Per.
Visit www.bentec.net for more information on all the exciting new products.
Ronny and Reg (err, Roy) Date: 29th April 2004 As reported yesterday, after my best efforts to persuade the ACU that medicals for UEM licenses were
unnecessary as per the rules, at a meeting of the Road Race Drag and Sprint committee yesterday the decision was taken to insist on medicals being undertaken before a UEM license would be issued to UK riders.
Last year, the UEM agreed that no additional medical was needed, and this year the rules were altered to reflect this. The basis for this was that although their
own Sporting Code outlined the need for the ACU to ensure that a rider was medically fit to participate before a license be issued on their behalf, issue of an ACU license assumed medical fitness. However, as you know the requirement
for ACU licenses is now self certification and no medical is required. My argument was that if a rider was deemed medically fit to race in the national championship then by default he must be fit enough to race in Europe. Not so said the bigwigs at the ACU as they said they always have required a rider who wishes to participate abroad have a medical. No logic was forthcoming - just that's how it had always been done......
How this applies to riders who race at the home rounds of the UEM Championshp only was not explained!
Any riders who wish to voice their displeasure to the ACU at the decision can mail the General Secretary - Mr Eddie Nelson at
eddie@acu.org.uk Date: 29th April 2004 Date: 29th April 2004 Thanks to Par Willen from Sweden who has been in touch to inform you that
they are setting up a 1/8-mile dragstrip on the location of this
years European Super Rally held in Southern Sweden. The location is
ideal, the strip is on the actual grounds less than 300 meters from
where the attendees pitch their tents, pretty much like having 10000+
potential motorcycle dragracers in the pit area... :- "It's soon time for the Federation of Harley-Davidson Clubs of Europes
yearly event, the "Super
rally" Only one month to go and as some of you
already know there will be an opportunity for all SuperRally attendees
to ride his / her bike down a real dragstrip situated on the SuperRally
grounds.
A short note on the setup: 1/8-mile, we'll ride under the exact same
conditions as a real race when it comes to track length, inspections, personnel, timing equipment, and most of all safety.
But to be able to offer everyone as much time on the track as possible
during the days we run this we will run without specific classes for the
actual run-schedule, we will run without qualifying and without finals.
We're talking about so called "timeslip runs" where we run in pairs
against the clocks but will not end the weekend with regular final
elimination runs.
This makes for spending all the time at what is the best thing about
this: to ride your bike down a real dragstrip and get real data for
comparing performance against yourself and your riding partners, all
without stress. We obviously don't care in what order you line up, you
are more than welcome to put your club together in the line.
The whole thing takes place in an ordered but relaxed environment where
only Harley motorcycles and good friends are in place. For most of the
people attending, the 2004 SuperRally will be the best opportunity ever
for getting to go down a real dragstrip under full throttle for the
first time.
Not everything is ready regarding the databases but we are looking at
registering the riders in different categories at the track, i.e.
sidevalve, Knuckle, Shovel etc. and in that be able to name the fastest
bike in each category.
We're looking for ideas to make the runs more exciting like setting up a
national team with three-four bikes in different categories, fastest
female rider in different categories etc.
The people who help H-DCS to arrange the dragracing part is the
dragracing club SHRA Malmo together with STSBA, "Super Twin Street
Bike Association", more known as the Scandanavian
Harley Drags Association who are very
active in their work for and with dragracing specifically for Harleys.
We'd like to thank H-DCS very much for their confidence and co-operation
and are very much looking forward to an event that with good weather and
some smooth running could be the largest dragstrip event ever in Europe
regarding the number of starting vehicles. That we'll take the record
for number of starting motorcycles during a single event should be
fairly easy relatively speaking, all you have to do is get onto the
track and help make history.
Please go to this
specific page on the Super rally site. There you
will find more detailed information about dragracing and what it's
about. Right now you will find two very good pictures with an overview
of the physical layout of the track, it's pretty much an ideal setup for
dragracing to say the least. Please note the times for running are not
all correct on that page, the dragstrip will be open for running from
noon Thursday untill Saturday evening.
See you on the dragstrip! PiPPi - STSBA Date: 29th April 2004 Damn the ACU !! No wonder the moto cross guys pulled out years ago. That's another £425 lost because of these stupid xxxxxxxs.
It really isn't worth it unless you can do every UEM event. Add this to the registration fee and it becomes even more out of reach. I always said that
motorcycle racing ran despite them not because of the ACU men in tweed.
Bernard Hepworth Date: 29th April 2004 Even high elevation can’t get the Gene Lummus Harley-Davidson Team down. At the AHDRA Screamin’ Eagle Championship Series race at Phoenix (the second race of the season), four-time Rivera/Primo Street Pro champ Travis Lummus ran sea level numbers in the high desert on his Gene Lummus H-D bike. “We ran 152.10 mph there, and that’s in Phoenix. That’s unheard of!” Lummus said. Travis wasn’t able to back up the MPH record, but that didn’t temper his enthusiasm. “We ran a 9.13 there, and that’s unheard of.”
Almost as unheard of was the fact that Lummus didn’t actually have to race anybody on Sunday. After running that .13 on a round 1 bye, Travis watched Gainesville runner-up Jordan Cruz blow the tree completely in round 2 and Steve Stute redlight in the final. “I guess they were gonna try to tree me but they both redlit,” said Travis. “You can’t win if you do that.”
“We just had a spectacular weekend. We went quicker every pass except the last two and we kept riding wheelies. I had to come out of the gas early or shift early every pass, otherwise we would have run 9.0s for sure.”
Travis started the 2004 season at Gainesville, Florida as you might expect, qualifying #1 with a 9.123 and taking the final round win over Cruz. Travis went through no-showing Rodney Poindexter Jr. and Bruce Cronenberger before taking on the Buell of Ft. Lauderdale’s Cruz.
The Gene Lummus H-D team is comfortable enough with their Street Pro program that they did absolutely nothing to the bike in the off-season. “We topped it of with gas,” said Travis. “Otherwise, it’s exactly the same.”
“That motor was fresh in Rockingham,” said Travis’s dad Gene, referring to the second to last race in ’03. “We tuned it up but didn’t put rings or anything in it. We sent the transmission to R&D and installed a Racepak computer for clutch management.”
A rule aimed at ensuring streetability also failed to topple the Lummus’s dominance. “We have to ride the bike everywhere we go now,” said Travis.
The Lummus team’s familiarity with their package showed in Travis’s numbers at Gainesville: a 9.29, a .19, a .12 and an .11 along with a new 149.10 mph record. And Travis’s riding was quicker and smoother than ever.
The team finally hit a kink in the final round of the most recent AHDRA event at the Texas Motorplex near Dallas.
“We didn’t get outrun, we got beat,” Travis said about the final round in Big D. “We had a malfunction in the bike. We did a .35, a .26, a .22, a .16, and in the last round we did a 9.91. That’s not getting outperformed, that’s getting beat.”
True enough, Travis upped his own national speed record with a 149.17 right off the trailer. But the bike backfired when he cranked it for the final against Gainesville runner-up Cruz. “That bent the butterfly valves and it was idling wrong,” reported Travis. “It tried to pull me through the lights. But I do want to congratulate Jordan on his first Street Pro win.
“I’m really excited about Junior winning,” continued Travis, talking about teammate Junior Pippin’s Joker Machine Pro Modified win over champion Cliff Dwy at Dallas. “Even a blind squirrel finds a nut sometime,” laughed Pippin. “When it’s your day, it’s your day.”
It was actually Pippin’s weekend, as he was fast out of the box and qualified #1 with a new track record. “I think I set track records at the last seven Pro Modified races,” said Pippin, who knew for sure that it was at least the last six.
“They had a thing at the track for my good friend Jim McClure,” said Junior, referring to a special opening ceremony at Dallas for the Top Fuel legend who recently passed away. “So that #1 qualifying spot means more to me than any #1 qualifying spot ever.”
On raceday, Junior worked his way through the field to face Dwy, a West Coast competitor whose Sasquatch Racing team took the championship in ’03. Suddenly the underdog, Dwy redlit against Pippin. “I had to knock the Beast of the West down a notch or two,” laughed Junior. “I like those guys, though, those guys are great.”
Even at Phoenix, Travis was almost as excited about the 8.302 that his teammate Junior Pippin ran in Joker Machine Pro Modified there as he was about his own winning performance. But #1 qualifier Pippin’s 8.30 came in the first round of eliminations. After that, an 8.59 was enough for Junior to overcome Eddie Lee’s .002 light in the semi, but defending champion Dwy’s 8.528 secured the Phoenix win over Pippin in a close final round race.
“We set the MPH record in the eighth mile (131.05), to my surprise,” said Junior.
“I wanna thank an old friend of mine, Mr. Bob Taft. He owns a motorcycle shop in Decatur, Illinois—Rats Whole Place. He helped me with that lyin’ computer.”
The computers at Gainesville Raceway weren’t lyin’ when Pippin’s winlight came on, proving that his strong finish in ’03 had carried over into the opening event of ’04. Getting quicker each round against the likes of George Walls and Eddie Lee, Junior ran a low ET of 8.369 in the final against Shaun Reno after Shaun ran afoul of the autostart system. Pippin also qualified #1 for the event and showed early that he would mount a strong challenge to Dwy’s quest to repeat as champion.
Now established as the Pro Mod team-to-beat in ’04, Pippin and Gene Lummus fit together like sidekicks in a Western movie. “Ole Gene and I just pretty much hit it off right off the bat,” said Junior. “He’s a hard working old fella is what he is. Gene owns that Harley shop and makes pretty good money, but he works there in the shop. He does a lot for me.
“I was gonna go to Reynolds (Georgia) to the Fun Run, but I went to Dallas instead,” continued Pippin, who owns a 19 dump truck trucking company in Conyers, Georgia. “They had 8200 people in Reynolds.” That sounds like a good party that Junior missed, but the race for championships will likely keep Junior, Travis, and Gene crisscrossing the country with the AHDRA circuit all spring, summer and fall. “The Beast form the West is gonna have to deal with Junior!”
Junior and Travis thanked S&S Cycle, Red Line Oil, Rinehart Racing, Works Shocks, Spyke, G2 Motorsports, Pro Street Frameworks, Rivera Engineering and Screamin’ Eagle, Reed Randall Properties, Tim Hunter and Associates, John McGee of Bandit clutch, engine builder Steve Allstadt and everyone at the Gene Lummus Harley-Davidson shop.
The next stop for the AHDRA and Gene Lummus Harley-Davidson Racing is the Southern Nationals at Junior Pippin’s home track, Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Georgia, May 29-30. Although don’t be surprised if you see Junior in Bakersfield before then...
www.genelummush-d.com
Photos by Matt Polito at www.dragbikephotos.com
The Lummus Racing Report is prepared by Tim Hailey,
www.eatmyink.com Date: 28th April 2004 I'm disappointed to bring you the news that despite my best attempts at a meeting with the ACU in Rugby yesterday, it seems that UK riders who wish to compete in the UEM
Championship this year will have to undergo a medical before a license will be issued. A full report of the reasoning and background will be published tomorrow, but I wanted to inform you as all soon as possible in order that medicals can be arranged. Date: 28th April 2004 We'd like to thank Nitro Harley Supertwin rider Svein Gottenberg from Norway for sending us a picture of his new 160 cu/in Overkill powered machine, built with the assistance of
Gunnar Olsson and support from Ton Pels & Zodiac.
Testing of the fabulous machine will commence on May 8th in Gardermoen, and he hopes to race in anger at the Main Event.
Date: 28th April 2004 We've just received welcome contact from the late Paul Giddings'
niece, Kelly Greene who is seeking any information and pictures of the past British Superstreet Champion and Comp Bike rider. Any info would be greatly appreciated by her and her family who wish to compile a book of his life and achievements.
Kelly can be contacted at :
Kelly Greene
Kelly.Greene@shropshire-rcc.org.uk Date: 28th April 2004 Following yesterday's appeal on Gossip from Funnybike racer Dave Holland's crew chief
Ken Cooper, a new Racepak pressure sensor has been located in time for this weekends Excitement Nationals.
However, it will be a frantic thrash for the team to get an all new engine together for the event as courier and supplier delays have put the team behind their tight schedule.
Good luck guys! Date: 27th April 2004 Although there's still a lot of work to be done by Ton and Vincent before we're ready to leave for the Speedfreaks Ball, things are starting to come together now. They've finished making all the new parts that needed to be machined and they're making good progress building the engine. Furthermore, the bodywork got a smashing new paint job. Check out the NEWS page of
www.zodiacracing.com for all the latest photos.
We'd like to express our thanks to Vanson for Ton's custom made new racing suit and as always we'd like to thank our main sponsor
Zodiac for their continuing support as well as our other sponsors:
Supertrapp, Accel, Performance Machine Inc. and
Midwest Acorn Nut Co.
Date: 27th April 2004 We are trying to find a pressure sensor for a Dyna datalogger to read from 0 to above 50psi. If anyone can help please contact me ASAP as we need it for this weekend.
Thanks!
Ken Cooper - 07976 254999 email kencooper1@blueyonder.co.uk Date: 27th April 2004 Wendy Talbot of the APIRA has asked us to notify all racers entered for the
Excitement Nationals that all entry tickets and passes should be collected from the gate upon arrival.
Wendy apologises for this inconvenience, but postal delays in receiving tickets from the printers have meant that Wendy cannot post out to all racers in time for Friday. Date: 27th April 2004 Bill Furr is officially no longer a hospital patient at Baylor Medical Center. While doing a final hospital interview, he told his nurse, "My heart is leaving. It's headed for South Carolina."
Still a bit medicated for pain management, Furr is anxious to get back to comfortable territory. He said, "My first stop will be at the Waffle House. Scattered, smothered, covered, diced, chopped and capped." Hospital food was simply food to Furr. He's ready to get back to normal.
Furr will begin physical therapy once he returns to Orangeburg. There's no time frame for getting back on a motorcycle any time soon. That will be determined in the next few weeks.
Friends in racing should send notes to Orangeburg Cycle Racing, 1389 Five Chop Road, Orangeburg, SC 29115. Bill received e-mail at
billfurr1@cs.com. He'll be near the shop, but not back at the shop until further notice.
Nina Henderson Date: 26th April 2004 Ex pat Top Fuel Bike rider Jay Upton is to debut a CBD Carbon Fiber injector hat on his unique 6.3 second Triumph Top Fuel Bike.
Supplied by CBD distributor King Racing, the carbon fiber item will add to the already impressive specification of the ANDRA Championship machine that looks set to dominate the Top Bike class down under for some time to come. Date: 26th April 2004 Al Cook's Composite Race Technology have announced that they are to support the MRE Promod effort of
Dave Beck with supply of all new state of the art body components for his Suzuki.
Featuring autoclave manufactured prepreg with Kevlar reinforcement, it follows the stunning new Suzuki TL body to be debuted by
Neil Midgley on his record breaking Funnybike at Shakespeare County Raceway next weekend.
For further information contact cookgsxr@aol.com or telephone 07736 800603 Date: 26th April 2004 Tim Blakemore's Radical new ZX12 Funnybike made its first passes down a track on Saturday afternoon 24 April. With so much new equipment running together for the first time some teething problems were inevitable. However by 2pm the team had a bike in a go condition. With the fuel injection system set very safe (rich) a burnout was attempted but the bike would not rev cleanly and stalled. A couple of minor adjustments to the fuel system later and Tim produced an awesome Funnycar style burnout taking him well up the track, the high power of the engine obvious to everyone watching. Next some launches were attempted, but each time the bike stalled. The Team made more changes to the fuel and clutch set up. With time running out the team tried another launch. Again the engine pulled right down (to 2000rpm) but this time didn't stall and Tim started to make his way down track. As the revs gradually climbed the engine speed eventually reached a point where the turbo started to make boost. All of a sudden the power came in big time, the front wheel was hiked in the air and Tim was planted in the back of his seat as he was subject to massive acceleration. Being caught by
surprise Tim instinctively shut the throttle and coasted over the finish in 11.5 seconds. With no time for any major changes the team went round for a final attempt before the track shut. The run was a repeat of the first except that this time Tim was ready when the power hit. Tim stayed on the throttle for several seconds when the power came in before coasting to the
finish. The result a 9.4 second run, but despite the bogged launch and slow early part of the run the bike still recorded a half track speed of 143mph, indicating there is an awful lot more to come! The team now feel they have made enough progress to enter their first meeting at Shakespeare County Raceway Next Weekend.
Augy Harrison
Date: 25th April 2004 We've had some great feedback from our US colleagues who have been enjoying the coverage of the 2003 European Dragbike Championship on
`Speed Channel' over the last days. Date: 25th April 2004 2003 European Super Twin Champion Per Bengtsson has announced that he will not defend his title in 2004, citing both a lack of time and inspiration as the primary reasons.
"The mutual decision within the Beast team to take time out does not mean the team will stay off the track entirely. We are still planning to compete in the UEM Championship races at Sweden and Norway"
"Last season left many unanswered questions, especially regarding the new fuel system, and we had handling problems with the bike for which we believe tyre selection may account for so plan to return to the old type. We also plan to run a new MSD 44 Amp Promag to help the ignition."
"I hope the team will find inspiration during the season and that the class develops positively so that the Beast will be back as soon as next year."
"The team would like to wish all supporters and competitors a good race season in 2004."
Gossip comment :-
We'd also like to wish that Per and team find the motivation that will see them back in form and competing for the title in the near future. Date: 25th April 2004 Broken parts fail to slow Oklahoma duo
“We broke the transmission on the first pass, so we were behind the 8 ball a little bit,” Tommy Bolton said about qualifying at the AMA/Prostar MTC Elmer Trett Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Despite the broken tranny, the Kawasaki Funnybike that Bolton built and tunes for rider Glen Nickelberry still qualified third that pass and moved up to second in round 2.
Atlanta Qualifying
round 1 3rd Glen Nickelberry 7.297 et 142.34 mph
round 2 2nd Glen Nickelberry 6.876 et 193.38 mph
Nitrous bottle pressure on Nickelberry’s screaming yellow and pink Kawasaki was low on his raceday round 1 pass, breaking a piston on the run. Glen then eased the bike down the track on his round 2 bye run.
Strangely, Nickelberry was placed on the same side of the ladder as #1 qualifier Korry Hogan. When Travis Davis and Perry Hollie both blew the tree (and were subsequently DQ’d) in the quarterfinals on the other side of the ladder, Nickelberry and Hogan basically faced each other for the win in the semi. “I thought that was a little awkward,” said Glen. “I’d never heard of anything like that.”
Hogan had the apparent performance advantage, running a 6.717 in round 2 that turned out to be low ET of the meet. But while Nickelberry and Bolton coolly staged their repaired mount, Hogan struggled to keep his Suzuki running and had to restart. Nickelberry was out quick once the tree came down, while the out-of-synch Hogan gave up two bike lengths immediately. “Pressure,” Glen smiled later. After his slow launch, Hogan either broke or let out as Nickelberry streaked away. “I beat him at the NMRA race at Vegas in 2002 also,” Nickelberry remembered. Glen needed only to break the beam under power in the final to take the win.
Atlanta Eliminations
round 1
Glen Nickelberry .583 6.855 et 190.22 mph (w)
Mark Chisholm .619 7.765 et 165.11 mph
round 2
Glen Nickelberry 1.254 9.696 et (w)
Bye
round 3
Glen Nickelberry .563 6.741 et 195.11 mph (w)
Kory Hogan .705 13.794 et 53.96 mph
Final
Glen Nickelberry 1.798 (w)
Bye
Bolton and Nickelberry will continue to pick and choose which races to attend from their Oklahoma City base. In addition to the PMRA circuit, their next Prostar race will be the PR Factory Store St. Louis Nationals at Gateway International Raceway in Madison, Illinois June 5th and 6th. “My business keeps me busy and it comes first,” said Nickelberry, a master jeweler. “Racing is my hobby.”
“Racing helps my business and hurts my business,” chimed in Bolton, whose business is high performance motorcycles. Of course, the more he’s on the road, the less he’s in the shop. But winning national events promotes his business back at the shop, also. “A lot of guys don’t understand they can get the same thing Glen’s got if they’ve got the money.” As they say, to win money you have to spend money. Bolton’s shop in Oklahoma City offers specialty services, complete turbo set-ups and motor packages for both race bikes and streetbikes and, of course, TomBo and Nickelberry racing apparel.
And speaking of money, Glen and Tommy thanked sponsors Wattie Wolfe Engineering, Majestic Turbo, Vance & Hines Motorsports, Bill Robinson Transmissions, Dynatek, TomBo Racing Engines, Rod & Todd Auto Paint, Dorian “Mr. B.” Barnett, the Nickelberry family and the entire Nickelberry race team.
Find out more about Majestic Turbo at ww.majesticturbo.com
You can reach Tommy Bolton’s shop at (405) 670-6438
The Glen Nickelberry/Tommy Bolton Racing Report is prepared by Tim Hailey,
www.eatmyink.com
Date: 24th April 2004 Paranoid Racing is proud to announce the addition of
Blackstone Tek as a product sponsor in the team's effort in constructing and
successfully campaigning a Top Fuel radial triple dragbike through the supply of a specially reinforced state of the art carbon fibre front wheel.
Blackstone Tek is the leader in CF wheel technology and a supplier to many Superbike and Moto GP wheels with a line of products that includes applications for almost all contemporary sportbikes and surpasses current strength and fatigue requirements for street use as set by various countries safety institutions. Paranoid Racing's main sponsors, White Line Cycles will be distributing the complete product line of Blackstone Tek to the Greek market through their existing and new down town Athens location. The
team's objective in using an ultra light front wheel in an otherwise heavy setup is to minimise the inertia forces that are responsible for the tendency of TF bikes to wobble during braking and to aid the tire in getting up to speed after it touches down at half to three quarters track with more than
180 miles per hour. The importance of an ultra strong and light state of the art front wheel is somehow neglected in the ranks of dragbikes and especially in the Top Fuel class where the choices in 17 inch wheels that can carry big enough tires for the brake effort needed are very limited and heavy.
Blackstone Tech wheels combine exceptional strength and durability with
corrosion resistance and much greater fatigue life compared to aluminium alloy and magnesium wheels. They feature a monoblock construction with the greatest weight savings in the rim are where it makes the most difference. With street wheels as light as 2.1 kg and race wheels as light as 1.7 kg they are able to give a great advantage in acceleration and cornering ability to any bike and make all dragbikes go faster and brake safer.
During our contacts with Blackstone Tek we have met with some very knowledgeable and friendly people in all positions from technical advice to sales marketing answering all our questions and presenting a
background of many years of experience in motorcycle racing.
You can have a look at BST's product line and technical information at their excellent website
www.blackstonetek.com
If you need to ask us anything regarding possible applications for your bike or just to find out how we're progressing drop us a mail at
zman@greekracer.net or yla@greekracer.net . We will be happy to answer all your questions. Panagiotis
Zarifopoulos & Yla Galani Paranoid Racing / White Line cycles, Athens-Hellas
Phone +306947810408 Date: 24th April 2004 Have the UEM sorted the ACU out on the medical certs yet?
Bernie Hepworth
Gossip comment :
I'd like to summarise the issue at the moment. The published UEM rules for 2004 state that no
additional medical certificate is required for issuance of a UEM license. The assumption is that the ACU, in issuing a national license, has already conducted a medical check. However, as riders know now the ACU does not require a medical anymore, just a self certification form to be completed. Consequently, the ACU assert that they must ask for a medical to be completed in addition to issuing a national license as the UEM Sporting Code states that the ACU must assure the medical condition of the rider before issuing a UEM license. The UEM state that
the final decision is the responsibility of the ACU. I am attending a meeting at the ACU in Rugby on Tuesday (another
day out of my holiday.....) to argue that by issuing a national license the ACU already do comply as they must already accept the medical fitness to race by doing so.
Consequently, I envisage a final ruling on the issue on Tuesday, so those hoping to save the cost of the medical, it may be worth a wait..... Date: 24th April 2004 We'd like to remind all riders planning to compete in the opening UEM Dragbike Championship
round at Santa Pod that time is running out for two deadlines :
28th April is the deadline to pay the Championship Enscription fee of €600. If this is not paid by this date then riders will not be eligible for prize money for that particular meeting (it must be paid 30 days before the meeting at which monies can be earnt).
30th April - deadline for payment of €125 for the entry fee for the event. After this date entry may be accepted but at DOUBLE the standard fee i.e. €250.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!! Date: 24th April 2004 You've probably had enough stick already so I will just say "kingy you plonka!".
And where are all these new racers going to race as the ACU has such a backlog there must be some new series we 'aint heard of
Richard Gipp
Gossip comment :
Thanks for the words of encouragement! Regards the backlog of ACU License issues, all I can say for the future is not to leave it until the last minute, other riders had
their's in January........
Date: 24th April 2004 Red light ends hot weekend for Blaine Hale
A dreaded red light ended Blaine Hale’s successful run at the 17th annual O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA/ POWERade Spring Nationals in Houston, Texas. “I really didn’t know that I had red-lighted”, said a surprised Blaine Hale after his first round loss to the V-Rod of GT Tonglet. “I knew he had a bit of a performance advantage over us and I may have rolled into he lights a little too deep”, said Hale. “I knew I had to push the light some but I thought I had a clean start; obviously I didn’t.”
The weekend started with the Hired Gun Racing Team/Cornwell Tools Suzuki taking a little nine-hour ride to their “home track” in Houston. “Everyplace is a hike when you live in west Texas”, said Hale. “But we rolled in early because we had some work to do on the motor. We wanted to change the valve springs and freshen up the motor we had in the bike. We also needed to pick up our re-freshened motor from Vance and Hines.”
Friday Qualifying
“On Friday we ran the motor we had in the bike and qualified number fifteen in the first round running a 7.255 @ 188.41 MPH. We felt we had a pretty good combination for the heat and humidity we were experiencing so we decided to stay with the combination for the second round”, said Hale “Even though the starting line was a bit slippery we still ran a 7.242 @ 186.20 MPH. But we were bumped down to the bubble. That gave us a night of checking and re-checking the bike. We knew that it was going to be hot and humid on Saturday and the track would be going away so we went back to a basic tune-up we knew would work in an effort to step up on the ladder”, Hale said.
Saturday Qualifying
“With the sun peeking in and out from behind the few clouds in the area the track temperature dropped to 102 degrees and we were ready for the first round on Saturday. Running a 7.191 @ 187.73 MPH which moved us up to the number eleven slot in the field”, said Hale. “We knew that the track was just going to get sloppier and we thought we were in a solid enough position that we could use the last round to try a gearing change in order to prepare for a hot track on Sunday. Even though the track temperature jumped up to over 122 degrees we were still able to run a 7.226 @185.28 MPH on our last pass which put us in the number twelve spot for eliminations.”
Post race
“Even though we had that pesky red-light in the first round we came away from Houston feeling pretty good”, said Hale. “Only the V-Rods had better back half times all weekend than we did. So we are going to work harder on our 60-footers. We have a good baseline for Atlanta after our testing in Memphis and we plan to take the bike to Abilene, TX to break in the motor we just got from VHR. That’ll give us two race-ready motors for Atlanta”, said Hale. “That will help us continue to improve as the heat of the summer begins to creep in. We are really looking forward to our visit to the Atlanta area and are hoping to come away with our second NHRA POWERade win!” an excited Hale said.
The Hired Gun Racing Team would like to thank Cornwell Tools, Wells Cargo, Red Line Oil and Quick Lube of Midland for their continued support. Without these sponsors they would never be able to do what they love most; race Pro Stock motorcycles.
Next up for the Hired Gun Racing Team on the NHRA POWERade Series is the 24th annual Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, GA on May 13-16. Please stop by the trailer and say hello.
For further information contact: flyingeyefoto@aol.com
Date: 24th April 2004 For sale
Two berth caravan with awning, new fridge gas, battery, and mains feeds, porta loo, radio cassette. Very good condition - £600 ono
Generator available as well not sold seperately though.
Steve 'Daisy' Dyer - Team Breakout
Date: 24th April 2004 Following the appearance of Top Fuel rider Ian King on Men and Motors'
`Top Dog' programme, dragbike fan and editor of Streetfighters Dave Manning
was an expert panellist on this weeks program, arguing the relative merits of a supercharged V Max over a standard V Rod.
Although not as able in the role as the Top Fuel pilot, Dave clearly wins in the Vidal Sassoon stakes...... Date: 24th April 2004 Thanks to all of you who 'noticed' that our Gossip page was down again yesterday. Something to do with our host and problems with Front Page extensions or summat......
Anyhow, apologies, and now back up again! Date: 22nd April 2004 We heard from Sarah Jane Head's partner and crewchief
Dave today on her steady progress back towards fitness. She was moved from Northampton General to ward 21 at Stoke Mandeville hospital yesterday where she is due to receive a skin graft to her damaged ankle on Saturday. It is also planned that she will go to Stanmore to have some tendon damage in her shoulder attended to in the not too distant future. Although progressing well, a combination of the trauma and the morphine still leaves her in a somewhat bleary state and very tired. However, she is well enough to receive visitors, and those who wish to do so can anytime between 2 and 9 pm, but bear in mind her op on saturday! Date: 22nd April 2004 Congratulations to SSB rider Graham Dance on his new ACU UK record ET for the class of
8.108 secs, eclipsing the three year old record previously held by
Tony Clark. View the updated records by clicking on the ACU Championship link on the left...... Date: 22nd April 2004 We've just updated the latest ACU Championship points tables following the first round of the 2004 championship. Click on the ACU Championship link on the left to view....... Date: 22nd April 2004 Avid racefan and erstwhile Top Fuel dragster crewman Richard Stirling has launched his impressive new website -
www.topnitro.co.uk with a snappy photo report from The Easter Thunderball.
Check it out! Date: 22nd April 2004 Our good friend from the land of birch whips and naked drunken allnighters
Asko Maatta has informed us that he now plans to race at the Finnish round of the UEM Championship in the Top Fuel class on his Funnybike. His turbo manufacturer and associate sponsor wants to test some new turbo configuration and it would be the best venue and preparation to test his new radical combo. Date: 22nd April 2004 We were pleased to hear from the Junior Dragbike team of Neil and Harry Stedman with an update on their great progress this year. They have just tested their new SPEC exhaust pipe equipped machine at SCR with great results. Following last season's 12 secs runs, this time they shot into the 9's with a 9.988 @ 66.77 mph. This new found power has not come without problems - 10-15 feet of rubber left off the line may require a new sticky rear tyre. Their next meeting is the May bank holiday Excitement Nationals, sporting their all new 2004 paint scheme.
Good luck guys! Date: 21st April 2004 Tom Bradford and the Hal’s H-D/Hal’s Speed Shop
Thunder Eagle Racing Team look to correct a slow launch.
“To be quite honest, we’ve really struggled getting this motorcycle off the ground this year,” said Tom Bradford. Indeed, the Hal’s Harley-Davidson/Hal’s Speed Shop Thunder Eagle Buell stubbornly refused to run properly in March and the team skipped the Gainesville NHRA Pro Stock Bike opener. The bike, only slightly changed from last year’s AHDRA championship-winning combination, continued to be a fussbudget at the recent event at Houston Raceway Park.
“On the first pass, the thing breaks a primary drive belt,” Bradford said about qualifying at Houston. “Of course, the motor free revved and went up to the rev limiter. We think that irritated something and caused the motor to go soft.”
Houston Qualifying
round 1 26th Tom Bradford 18.519 et 37.66 mph
round 2 25th Tom Bradford 7.451 et 174.46 mph
round 3 25th Tom Bradford 7.479 et 176.65 mph
round 4 27th Tom Bradford 7.496 et 169.49 mph
After that first round throwaway, the bike ran two solid, if not spectacular, passes before falling off in the final round. “We have a new ignition system and those passes will help us tune with that,” said Tom.
That ignition system seems to be the component that the motor is struggling to get along with. “We didn’t make wholesale changes over the year, just a few,” continued Bradford. “We thought we took a conservative approach to this year, but we’re short of horsepower and we’ve got to find it. We ran .20s and .30s last year. But when you make changes—even minor ones—it changes other things. You have to tweak it. No matter how well you know a combination it can still test you.”
Bradford, crew chief Rob Schopf and clutch specialist /engineer Jim Schneider tested themselves throughout the weekend against fellow V-Twinner Mike Lozano. The two bikes represent polar opposite approaches to the formula, however, with Lozano running an old school 45 degree motor versus the 60 degree mill in Bradford’s Buell. The two were paired with each other twice at Houston, with Tom holding the edge until the final round. “On that last pass the motor pretty well gave up,” reported Bradford. “It was definitely a tight field, but when you’re below the number 16 spot (the last qualifying position), you’re still below the magic line. I know what we’ve got sitting in the trailer but for some reason it wasn’t there. So we’ll put a new motor in and head to Chicago.”
The Thunder Eagle team will be debuting their new paint job and leathers at the NHRA Route 66 Nationals in Joliet, Illinois on May 20-23. “I hope we get a chance to test,” said Bradford, who also hopes to regain some old performance numbers with the new look. “But it’s going to have to be run on the dyno first.”
Before the Chicago race, Tom and Rob will also be making a presentation to the students at Tomah High School in Wisconsin. One of the lessons they might try to pass on to the students is one they know well after the Houston race. “When you have a bad weekend at the track, you have to fall back on who you are and what you’ve done,” Tom said. “We just have to find it again.”
Tom thanked sponsors Hal’s Speed Shop, Hal’s Harley-Davidson/Buell, Joker Machine, Vanson Leathers, The Carburetor Shop, T-N-S Machining, CRD Inc., Autolite Spark Plugs, S&S Cycle, Gates Belts and Hoses, Buell Motor Co., Mustang Shelly’s Roadhouse, Red Line Oil, MTI Coatings, Stitch-it-Embroidery, Accurate Automatic Parts, and Wurth Products.
Find out more about Hal’s at www.halspa.com
Find out more about Bradford’s team at www.thundereagleracing.com
Find out more about the NHRA at www.nhra.com
The Thunder Eagle Report is prepared by Tim Hailey,
www.eatmyink.com
Date: 21st April 2004 Our sincerest apologies to our regular readers for our lack of daily updates in the last few days. A combination of heavy workload abroad and the consequences of our catastrophic engine failure at the Thunderball Event have severely curtailed our activities. Please keep sending us your after race gossip or team reports - they will be published as received as usual! Date: 20th April 2004 Pro Stock Bike rider Karen Stoffer became just the seventh female to win a professional category at an NHRA national event Sunday when she raced to the winner's circle of the 17th annual O'Reilly Spring Nationals presented by Pennzoil in Houston. Stoffer beat Antron Brown by .0018 seconds, or about six inches, to take her first win in three final-round appearances.
Courtesy NHRA Date: 20th April 2004 US Nitro Harley rider Bill Furr suffered an horrific crash at The Texas Motorplex in round two of AHDRA's Sunday Eliminations. On a pass against Steve Stordeur, Furr won with a .018 reaction time, 4.314 e.t. at 179.03 miles per hour. At the 1/4 mile speed gate, he clocked around 215. Three hundred feet past that finish line it seems his rear tire exploded causing the crash. Team Owner Johnny Mancuso related that when Stordeur got to Furr, he was unconscious. Second later, he was 'coming to,' moving his arms and legs. Before he left on the air ambulance for Baylor Hospital, Furr asked his son Aaron "did I win?" and "what was my miles per hour?" both good signs according to track personnel. Furr's injuries include a collapsed lung (for which he has a chest tube), several broken ribs, a broken finger, serious abrasion on one elbow and knee. It is estimated that Furr will remain in ICU for at least one week, perhaps longer. Once stable, he may be moved to a regular room for further healing, then transported back to Orangeburg, South Carolina. Date: 18th April 2004 With our first race of this year only just over three weeks away, the countdown has started.
Except for the engine blow-up in the final meeting, last year was a near perfect season.
Parts of the results were possible because of the excellent weather conditions we were blessed
with all season long. Let’s hope that this year’s race weekends will be as good as well.
Regarding the technical aspects of the bike, we have an all new bottom end which replaces the
one that was destroyed during the engine explosion.
Manufacturer Pete Davies (Puma Engineering) joked that there’s a 5.7 hidden in this new
bottom end…………let’s hope he didn’t hide it too far away and that we will be able to unleash it!
We will be returning to a less exotic and more familiar type cylinder liners material, as this
experiment caused us a lot of work and headaches last season. All in all we will start with a
complete fresh engine.
The scheduled modification of the primary drive belt (from 8mm to a 14mm pitch) has been
cancelled by us. The reason is that (supporting company) Gates announced the introduction of an
improved (50% stronger!) Polychain® drive belt during this year. For a number of reasons we
prefer a 8mm drive belt design above a 14mm, that’s why we will stick with the present set up
for the time being.
The planned modification to the mechanical side of the clutch management system is still
in the works and is expected to be ready early in the season.
So far the news from the technical updates.
About the performances, we hope that we will be able to continue at the same level in which we
ended last season. Hopefully we can lay down a couple more low six second passes
or maybe even……., well let see.
The Dakota company has left our list of supporting companies, however new to the team is
Arie Molenaar Motors (www.ariemolenaar-motors.nl) from IJsselstein in the Netherlands.
As one of the leading motorcycle shops in the country they arranged a new custom made
leathers for Roel.
This job was performed in cooperation with Tijger Leathers
(www.tijgerleathers.nl).
We also suggest to visit Anni & Bob Valders renewed website who, in the top fuel bikes section,
contributed to our team with a selection of their excellent quality pictures. Please follow the
link. (www.feel-the-noise.com/gallery)
Last year we attended a record number of events and the calendar for this year looks very similar.
Following is the list of events that we intend to participate in.
May 7-9 “Speedfreaks Ball” (Top Fuel vs Super twin) Santa Pod (GB)
Two remarks regarding this list; Round #2 of the European Championship is as usual in
Alastaro / Finland. At first we had our doubts about going there again. Despite the very friendly
atmosphere over there, its traveling takes a serious amount of time & money.
However as it looks from now we might be traveling together with fellow racer Ton Pels as he
offered us a shared transportation of the bike in his new (larger) trailer.
You will also notice that Gainesville is back on our list. Giving the results of the upcoming
season we aim to travel to The States again at the end of this year. It will be our fourth time
and we are very much looking forward to meet our American friends at the superb
Florida racetrack.
At this moment there’s still a whole lot of work left to finish the bike as we’re still
waiting for some (vital) engine parts. However we do expect the bike to be ready in time
for our first event, the third consecutive edition of the Speedfreaks Ball at England’s
Santa Pod Raceway.
Our next Team Report can be expected shortly following that event.
So far for our 2004 race season preview, we really hope to see you the races.
Kind regards.
Marius van der Zijden / Koedam Racing Holland
Date: 18th April 2004 A quick word to say that we at www.feel-the-noise.com have just uploaded our photos from last weekends Thunderball (just follow the red dots to seek out recently added or changed photos). However we could do with a hand to identify some of the riders and bikes in the various “others” categories and especially in the “Miscellaneous” one. Maybe a keen biker can cast an eye over the various sections and let us put a few names to the pages (and also correct any errors). The preferred method is to add a comment to the page (they won’t appear till we’ve read them) but you need to log in to be able to post comments. Failing that, just email us with photo number and details.
Thanks, Bob & Anni :- bob@feel-the-noise.com Date: 18th April 2004 Lisa Ambler - Blakemore & Rose Racing Date: 18th April 2004 Since I couldn't make an impression on the Funnybike class at the Thunderball and you all made fun of me I have decided to set my mate on you lot and teach you all a lesson so Ronny Aasen is entered in funny at the Excitement nationals at Shakespeare County in two weeks time! So there!
Turbo (well you don't think I am going to let him race me in Supertwins do you?)
Date: 16th April 2004 Al Cook tells us that his new business venture `Composite Race Technology' is gaining further strength in the carbon and glass composite markets with a new contract to supply the Ascar series.
Using his state of the art facility staffed with technicians skilled in the application and manufacture of high strength but low mass prepreg constructions they are positioned well to provide the bodywork needs of most racing disciplines. They recently acquired the Fibreone Tech company well known for it's Superbike bodies, and are noe not just supplying four of the BSB teams, but are now endorsed by the Monstermob Ducati team. Moulds for the latest R1, ZX10 and Fireblade bodies have now been manufactured, with more to come in the pipeline.
For further information, contact Al Cook on 07736 800603 or email him at cookgsxr@aol.com Date: 16th April 2004 Thanks to Alan Currans for letting us know that the latest addition to his excellent `Acceleration Archive' site is a collection of bike pictures sourced by
Steve Woollatt at one of his local drag enthusiast pub meets:-
`I have just posted the 80th photo page on The Acceleration Archive in the form of the first page of The Steve Woollatt Collection. As befits a veteran bike racer, this is a bikes-only affair and features some of the best known and least known bikes and riders. There are pictures of Steve's former partner Pat O'Neal's revolutionary two wheeled dragster and Ag McPhail on both three and two wheels. Also included are Johnny Munn, Henk
Vink, Jim Balchin, Brian Johnson, John Hobbs and many more. Any help with the missing IDs would be much appreciated.'
Alan Currans
www.theaccelerationarchive.co.uk Date: 16th April 2004 Well done to all the four finalists in both Funnybike and Prostock Bike last weekend - all running Racepak data recorders and consequently £50 contingency win money going to both
Neil Midgley and Dave Beck Date: 15th April 2004 A big thank you to Heather Bond who called us last night on her her return from Northampton General with Sarah Jane's partner Dave who is staying with H and Mike Vickers for a few days.
Sarah is currently responding well to treatment, but remains in a critical condition and will be in ITU for a few more days. She underwent a procedure to pin her wrist (the one damaged at SCR a while back) but so far they are reserving a decision on her
ankle injuries. Her lungs and ribs are somewhat battered but will be left to heal naturally and without the help of mechanical breathing aids. The bang she suffered to her head resulted in some swelling that is being monitored, although not of too much concern to the doctors. Although pretty much out of it at the moment she has her moments of consciousness and currently (thankfully!) has no recollection of the accident.
Our thoughts are with Dave and Sarah at the moment, and we look forward to her speedy recovery. Remember you can send to send any messages for Sarah
or Dave to them on H's email addy - heather@bondh.fsworld.co.uk Date: 15th April 2004 A reminder to all riders planning on entering the UEM Season Opener at the Main Event in May that there are only 15 days left to enter the meeting at the standard rate. Date: 15th April 2004 Following King Racing's catastrophic engine failure at the Easter season opener, fellow UK Top Fuel Bike rider Steve Carey has been named as the replacement rider for Ian King in the I4 Top Fuel
Team at the Speedfreaks Ball at Santa Pod in May. Date: 15th April 2004 Long time, no news. Now I've got some - the new bike Baldie's Gun III will be ready
on schedule. Next work is to assemble the engine and put the rest of the "pieces" together, so I'll be ready and eager to drive at FHRA's first Finnish Championship Race late May.
The old / new FB-combination is: strengthened and longer ex-PSB chassis, Kosman/PMFR wheels, intercooled blow-through turbo Suzuki 1327 equipped with multi-stage waste gate control (and "engine-destroyer or over 190 mph" -button), Suzuki type F carbon body and fairings. All the possible
Dyna-equipment take care of producing the sparks when I want at any stage of the strip or engine load.
So, it will be nice to be back on the track! At the same time it's frustrating to hear what happened to Sarah Jane. I know what's it like at the top end crash. Best wishes to Sarah Jane and speedy recovery!
Asko Maatta, Baldie Racing FB 45 Finland Date: 15th April 2004 Six-time NHRA Pro Stock Bike Champion team owner George Bryce of Star/G Squared Motorsports announced today that the team and rookie rider Angie McBride have decided to go their separate ways, effective immediately.
“Angie and I tried to work out a suitable contract that would work for all parties concerned,” said Bryce. “Unfortunately, we were unable to agree on some issues, and felt it would be best to terminate our relationship. I wish Angie the best and hope she does well in whatever she plans for the future.”
McBride, who came from the Outlaw Pro Street series, has expressed an interest in eventually returning to the NHRA.
“I have dedicated my adult life to motorcycle drag racing and made many sacrifices to accomplish personal goals such as a championship in Outlaw Pro Street. I regret that Star Racing and I could not work out the details. I’d like to give a special thanks to everyone at Star Racing, George Smith and everyone at S&S Cycle and Snap-On tools for supporting me. The NHRA is a wonderful racing organization and they will see me in the future. I wish with all my heart it could have worked,” stated McBride.
Even with today’s announcement, Bryce emphasized that the Star/G Squared entry would be competing at this weekend’s O’Reilly Spring Nationals in Houston, TX, and announced that Fred Collis would be handling the riding responsibilities at Houston Raceway Park.
“In addition, George Smith and I will continue to develop our 4-cylinder engines and work diligently with S&S Cycle to bring our S&S powered V-twin to NHRA POWERade competition.”
Smith added, “We’re very pleased to have Fred back in the fold. He did a good job for S&S and G Squared last year on the Tribute Bike Project and we’re getting closer to track time with the S&S Pro-Stock V-Twin. This will be an exciting year for the NHRA POWERade series.” Date: 15th April 2004 On April 2nd the racing community suffered a loss of a legend and true pioneer. Jim McClure was a wonderful mam and friend to many.
He was also the heart and soul of Master Performance Racing. Jim believed in innovation as well as standing by the product he sold.
At Master Performance Racing we intend to continue in the tradition of the "Grand Old Man" of racing and create a legacy he would be proud of. Jim McClure believed the Overkill Motor was the best product on the market, and our opinion hasn't changed. We will continue to sell Overkill Motors and maintain his high standards.
Master Performance Racing will continue to offer our high performance line of Shumaker/McClure racing components, 5" belt drives, clutches, Rivera Primo products, Performance Machine and Red Line Oil. In the spirit of innovation we are working closely with Ace Racing to develop new clutch discs to replace the old style XL discs, thereby reducing maintenance and lowering cost while giving better performance. New clutches for Top Fuel are in the final development stage as well. These clutches will also be available from Hawaya Racing.
During this difficult time of transition we at Master Performance Racing appreciate the support of our loyal customers, and Jim's fans. Our commitment to Jim McClure's memory and to you, our valued custermers, is to continue in our innovative ventures and to provide the same high level of customer service.
We welcome your questions and comments. Please contact us at:
Master Performance Racing
Date: 15th April 2004 www.stripbike.com/curran41004.html Date: 15th April 2004 Man this has been a tough year for the bikes. Sarah Jane, positive thoughts coming your way for a speedy recovery from Illinois, on the other side of the pond.
Noel Wubbena - USA Date: 15th April 2004 Sarah Jane - We haven't had the pleasure of meeting but would hope to in the future! Know that we are thinking of you and will say prayers for a full recovery!
Debbie Knebel and Pat Jones - USA Date: 14th April 2004 Hi Ian, we've just come back from the hospital and we would like you to express a big thank you to all the racers who have called enquiring about Sarah. She is still unwell in intensive care but has started to swear so we've taken that as a good sign. Also a big thankyou to all the people who sorted out the van and caravan so Dave didn't have to worry. We will keep you updated as we know more.
Regards, Heather Bond.
Gossip comment :-
Thanks for the news Heather. If anyone would like to send an email message for Heather to relay to Sarah and Dave, she can be contacted on
heather@bondh.fsworld.co.uk Date: 14th April 2004 I would like to thank Graham Dance for taking one of my engines into another record book with low ET of all Superstreet bike qualifiers, low el of all round wins and of course setting another record low ET 8.10 whilst shutting off at 1000 ft....
Shame he shut it off, who knows now what it may have run.
Anyhow, well done MR DANCE - KEEP IT ON NEXT TIME!!
Len Paget Date: 14th April 2004 Get well soon Sarah Jane from all your Prostock friends.
Who do we send the £430 UEM money to as it ain't too clear on the form??
Richard Gipp
Date: 14th April 2004 We understand that Sarah Jane is stable but still in intensive care in Northampton General at the moment. She has had some close attention to her right foot that took a lot of knocks in the accident, and is wearing a neck brace although we heard that in her own inimitable style has expressed a desire for it to be taken off......
The hospital has requested that it would be better for anyone who wishes to send cards or flowers to wait until she is moved to a `normal' ward or to another hospital in case they go astray in her transfer. We will inform you when it is best to send such items to her - thought to be in the next day or so, along with the address and ward. Date: 14th April 2004 CONGRATULATIONS to Tony Clark getting his first 7 on his debut in Prostock bike and T.J.Obrien on his Cooperized funnybike running consistent 8.1s and 8.0 well done to all the teams!
In adition, a big well done to Fred Furlong - the first winner of 9.90 to receive a £50 DYNOSPEED voucher.
In Superstreet, Mr Dance as we now call him - 8.10 awesome performance, and Mark Pointer on the TTS Busa another debut triumph! It seems the new breed of turbo Busa's are having teething problems - both went well though Carl Grey 8.71 @ 171 and Dave Smith went 8.6 on low boost so watch out boys they are coming.
Finally, my thoughts are with SCARY Jane and her partner Dave from all their friends - we wish her well.
Paul Watson Date: 12th April 2004 The issue regarding UEM entry fee's has yet to be resolved as championship co ordinator Lars Andersson is still on vacation.
As the entry deadline is looming, Ian King and Kjell Pettersson have agreed that riders should pay the increased €125 fee until Lars returns and can be involved in the discussion. If it is found that the fee should not have been applied, then riders will receive a refund. Date: 12th April 2004 We just arrived back from the season opener at Santa Pod, England.
Unfortunately, it was not a good showing for the King Racing team who suffered a major engine failure on the first qualifying pass, lifting rider Ian King from the bike with the force of the explosion, destroying most of the engine and blowing apart the aluminium bodywork.
However, far more important tha our woes are the condition of Funny Bike racer Sarah Jane Head who suffered the misfortune of what appeared to be a stuck throttle over the finish line, and a resulting high speed crash.
Sarah suffered compound fractures, but thankfully her injuries are reported to be non life threatening. We'd like to send her our best wishes for a speedy recovery.
On a happier note, congratulations for some fine performances from riders setting their own PB's, amongst whom were T.J. O'Brien in Comp Bike, Paul Knapp in Funnybike and Steve Carey in Top Fuel who compounded his consistent performances with a maiden Top Fuel Bike final win. Date: 10th April 2004 We'd like to apologise to our readers for the lack of posts in the last few days. After our ISP issues we have been deep in our workshops preparing for this weekends's ACU Championship opener.
We'll be back on Tuesday! Date: 10th April 2004 Rumours are circulating that the James Cara, head of marketing at Prostar has quit after disagreements following `problems' with thefts by members of the public at the Atlanta Prostar meet. Date: 9th April 2004 The Star Racing / G2 Racing team are in negotiations with Angie McBride on a contract to address any and all of her issues and ours. Please chill, and let this happen. I want Angie to be happy and race. If we can work out the details this has a good chance of happening. We will tell everyone what is going on when the timing is right. Thank you for the concern and interest.
George Bryce Date: 8th April 2004 The shock news that has been developing over the last few days is that rookie Star Racing PSB rider Angie McBride has left the team.
Did she quit or was she fired? There has been much innuendo posted by both Angie and previous encumbent Angelle Savoie regarding the reasons behind her quitting the team, but it seems the reasons alluded to are similar in both cases and involve allegations against team principal George Bryce. Date: 8th April 2004 Believed to be US built and circa mid 1980’s. Modified stock cradle with aftermarket swing arm, lock up struts and wheelie bars. Built for and used with the early z900/z1000 engine
7” Mickey Thompson slick fitted on the rear and it comes with a spare wheel for a road tyre. GPZ/Z1000J type body parts and fibreglass tank shell, fibreglass seat unit with genuine cover. Marzocchi forks.
Complete with brakes, junior airshifter/air tank, fuel tank, handlebars, engine mounts, outrigger with front and rear sprocket. Would run low 8’s easily with the right motor.
I am crewing for Dave Beck during Easter and will have the bike with me.
£1500 ono
email Richf@spinfinder.com
Date: 7th April 2004 King Racing rider Ian King is scheduled to appear on the `Top Dog - Bikes' programme on Granada's `Men and Motors' channel at 8.30 pm BST tonight as a member of three expert panellists comparing the relative merits of the Ducati 996 versus the Yamaha R1.
Works Road Racer Scott Smart and Crescent Suzuki's Jason McClean are King's fellow panellists on location at London's Ace Cafe. Date: 7th April 2004 To have a hot, sticky tyre in Drag Racing is, I assume, the ultimate situation before you scream off the line for your run.
Heating a racing tyre can, at the moment, only be done by using the old fashioned (over a quarter of century old) method of an electric blanket - which takes a long time and is not always correct........ Until now.
Two years ago we conceived a totally new idea to replace the blankets, by using MICROWAVE energy.
We have tested with two top F1 teams, a motogp team, a DTM team and two tyre manufacturers at circuits around Europe - all highly successfully.
We have been told that Drag Racing is one of the most important new potential market places - hence this email.
If necessary we can arrange a test to prove that we can heat a tyre (F1 rear) to over 80oC in LESS than ten minutes, along with the rim to 60oC!
If you are interested in taking this project further, either email me back or call on 07715 004003.
Thanks, Stuart
Date: 7th April 2004 Hello Again Racers:
The Atlanta Prostar race is in the books! We had a clean sweep in the Heads Up classes! Winning racers using our Air Throttle Stop where: Ronnie Procopio in Top Gas, Andy Baumbach in Super Comp, and "Super Dad" Doug Peterson in Super Gas! In honor of the MPS clean sweep we are offering a $100.00 bill to MPS Air Throttle Stop equipped racers in the Heads Up categories at the Prostar Lucas Spring Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park in Richmond, Virginia May 1-2, 2004. The closest racer to his index during qualifying will pocket the bucks. In event of a tie we will split the money. Racers must bring their ET slips to the MPS trailer after qualifying on Saturday to determine the winner. We will not accept any slips on Sunday. We will announce the winner after opening ceremony on Sunday.
Top Gas winner Ronnie Procopio said "I owe my win to the MPS Throttle Stop and Computech Race Air 1000 Weather Station. It was dead on all weekend through all the changing weather conditions." We want to give you a deal on all the parts you need to win. The April internet specials are the new style MPS Air Throttle Stop for $299.00 and the Computech Race Air 1000 Weather Station for only $429.00!
We have just got in our shipment of the MSD Shift lights calibrated for the late model 4 coil sportbikes. Get the Shift Light and a set of 5 MSD RPM Chips for only $129.00.
Don't delay! Order today because we won't honor these Internet specials after 4/30/2004 at midnight! Remember, you must mention the Internet special when ordering to get this deal. Either add it to the comment section on our secure order form or mention it on the phone. You will get the regular price if you don't! For all the gory details go to:
http://www.mpsracing.com/Pages/specials.htm
We are continuing to show you the money in 2004! We are rejoining Prostar as a major contingency sponsor as well as continuing our exclusive Private Label Contingency Program. Go enroll today! It's free money! Here is the link: http://www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contingency.htm
Just in case you were dying to know who won the Tether Kill Switch Contest For March, it was: Mitch Frazier of Dearing, KS. Congratulations Mitch! Don't forget to enter this month at: http://www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contest.asp
Thank you for your time and good luck in 2004.
Dan Rudd
Date: 7th April 2004 Dutsch Top Fuel Bike team Joey Bon Racing is proud to announce that
MPM International Oil Company is going to be their main sponsor for the 2004 season.
After the successful co-operation last year both parties decided to go on with their co-operation. Therefore the new bike will be painted in the colors of MPM and the team will be present at various events, like the MPM Internationals in Drachten, The Netherlands on June 9 th – 11th 2004.
“The last year was very successful”, according to Joey Bon "and we hope that this year will be as successful as last year. The sponsoring by MPM International Oil Company enables us to develop the bike further this coming season, and also to reach our goal of being European Champions. At the end of the European season we also plan to go with the MPM Oil / Joey Bon Racing team to the United States for 1 or 2 races. We hope to extend the successful co-operation in the coming years.”
Date: 7th April 2004 As you can see, we've now returned after our forced hiatus due to ISP problems. We'd like to apolgise to all of you who have missed our service, and if anyone sent us mails or gossip submissions in the last few days I'm sorry but they are lost forever! If you need to do so, please resend to us at our normal address.
Thanks for your patience! Date: 3rd April 2004 We received the sad news last night that Harley Davidson racing legend Jim McClure died of complications arising from his recent heart transplant. Our thoughts are with Phyllis, Jimmy and the rest of his family at this sad time. Date: 3rd April 2004 We've had a few mails from readers today regarding our discussion forum. We've been in touch with the providers of the service who have replied that they have discontinued this service. Consequently we are looking for a suitable alternative. Our apologies to those who use it particularly the for sale and wanted section.
Please bear with us for a short while, but in the meantime we are happy to post your ads on the Gossip Page until service is resumed. Date: 2nd April 2004 We spoke to Steve Venables today who was hard at work on his state of the art streetbike today. In his workshop was Tracecraft MD and now crew chief Graham Balchin hard at work spinning soldering irons and 12 AWG wire in antcipation of a planned test session at the weekend. Date: 2nd April 2004 Hale makes huge strides at O’Reilly Pro Stock Bike Shootout
Blaine Hale and the Cornwell Tools Suzuki team made real some real strides at the O’Reilly Pro Stock Bike Shootout held this past weekend in conjunction with the NHRA Division 4 Lucas Oil Race at Memphis Motorsport Park, in Memphis, TN.
“After our gremlin plagued weekend in Gainesville we re-wired our bike and made a few checkout passes in Gainesville on Monday,” said Blaine Hale, rider of the Hired Gun Racing Suzuki. “Once we were satisfied that our bike was ok we headed off to Memphis for some more testing on Thursday prior to the race. From Thursday until Sunday we made ten runs going no slower then low-7.20’s, which puts us, right back into the thick of things. The entire team is breathing easy now and we are even more focused on our goals.”
“The Division 4/O’Reilly Pro Stock Bike Shootout turned out to be a really good event for us”, mentioned Hale. “We were the number one qualifier in all three rounds finally settling in at a 7.177 @ 187.36 mph which took a lot of pressure off of us. That allowed me to concentrate more on my riding rather then worry about the tune-up.”
Round One
“In round one we were scheduled to run Tom Bradford’s Harley but unfortunately he broke and was unable to make the round. We used the round to check out the left lane, which everyone thought was the weak lane. We felt that if we had to run the lane later in eliminations we would have a better handle on it. We ran a 7.215 @ 187.65 mph so we knew the lane would be ok. In fact we had lane choice going into the second round,” said Hale.
Semi-final Round
“In round two we had to run Kurt Matte on his new Suzuki. A lot of the racers were taking him lightly seeing as he hasn’t got much experience on a Suzuki, but we had run against him all three times during qualifying so I knew better. Kurt had his best run of the weekend but I had my best reaction time at .011 seconds. Matte’s 1/8 mile time was every bit as good as ours but I had the horsepower to take the win. We ran a 7.209 @ 182.55 mph to Kurt’s 7.277. That was good enough to give us lane choice in the finals against Michael Phillips,” continued Hale.
Final Round
“I really felt we had the power to win this race but I was a bit late on the light giving Phillips just enough of an edge to take the win,” said Hale. “We ran a solid 7.229 @ 181.13 mph to Phillips 7.232 @185.95 mph but his starting line advantage translated to a win for Phillips with the margin of victory being just 5 one-thousands of a second. That’s just about an 18-inch span at the finish line! Naturally we would have liked to have won the race but we are very happy to be back on track and ready for the next NHRA POWERade race.”
The Hired Gun Racing Team would like to thank Paul Cartwright of Memphis Motorsports Park and Ron Byerly of O’Reilly Auto Parts for their hospitality and generosity. They would also thank Cornwell Tools, Wells Cargo, Red Line Oil and Quick Lube of Midland for their continued support. Without these sponsors they would never be able to do what they love most; race pro Stock motorcycles.
Next up for the Cornwell Tools, Wells Cargo, Red Line Oil, Quick Lube of Midland Suzuki is the 17th annual O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Spring Nationals on April 15-18 in Houston, Texas.
For further information contact:
flyingeyefoto@aol.com
Date: 1st April 2004 Want to have fun this year and even more next? I am selling my nitro-Harley at the end of the season as I am already a good way into building the new bike for 2005. Everyone knows how much fun I had in 2003 with my entry level fuel bike and it is the perfect introduction to nitro for anyone looking to step in this direction. I will again be racing it this year and letting it go after the national finals at a bargain price including starter and parts. OK, here's the deal, anyone interested can put a deposit on it during this season then crew with us at any meets they want, I will pay the entry for up to two people, then they can learn how to run it with us and join in the fun. In October they can pay the balance, enter a practice and blast it down the track. They will then have the winter to make any changes, gather all the necessary bits and bobs and be ready to race in Supertwins, Funny Bike, Comp Bike, whatever! It is a reliable, well mannered bike which should provide no traumas, but then this is racing so there's no guarantee! Mail me for price and specs OK. It can be viewed on the racing page at my web site. You can't lose! Turbo
WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM
the ultimate drag racing resource.
Visit our shop at:-
TURBO VILLE
+44 (0) 115 940 1140 Date: 31st March 2004 Canadian engineering wizard Jerry `Maverick' Gordon has recently announced that his latest V Twin creation, the
`Dragonslayer' engine has now been accepted by the NHRA for Prostock competition. The engine complements his recently issued `Derringer' engine that has already been used to great success in the AHDRA Pro dragster class :-
2004 NHRA RULEBOOK RULE REVISIONS
Pro Stock Bike
Page 156 (1/04)
Engine:
For more information contact Johnny Vickers at: www.hawayaracing.com
Telephone: (225) 658-9534
Date: 31st March 2004 Spring Sale, all parts new unless otherwise marked as used.
GSXR1100 lock-up clutch inc. p/plate £225-00
Call for price on any head or engine work as used by the following, Dave Beck, Paul Watson, Chris Hope, Neil Midgely, Dave Holland, Ian King etc.
Roger Upperton Racing, Tel 0113 2390231 (UK), mobile 07962 013190.
roger@uppertonrace.fsnet.co.uk
Date: 31st March 2004 Italian Top Fuel Bike racer Antonio Ferretti has mailed us to confirm that the Italian Drag Racing Championship round at Modena's
Aeroporto di Marzaglia is to take place on the 17th-18th April.
Further details on the `Fast and Furious' event can be found on the site at
www.dragster.it Date: 31st March 2004 The Entry Forms page of the Santa Pod Racers Club web site at www.eurodragster.com/sprc has been updated with a ticket form for the
European Finals Banquet and the Top Fuel Bike entry form for the UK National Finals. The
UEM-class entry form for the UEM European Finals will be posted shortly. Date: 31st March 2004 Santa Pod Racers Club Secretary Paula Marshall has been in
touch with some important information for racers competing at next week's
Easter Thunderball.
"The main gates to the track will be open from 11:00 am on Friday 9th
April and, as usual, the pit gate will close at midnight on both Friday
and Saturday evenings.
"A reminder about the new regulations for the Health and Safety
requirements from the Easter Thunderball onwards: every competitor, car
and bike, must have a fire extinguisher within their pit area, in addition
to any fire extinguisher systems on their race vehicles. The minimum
weight must be 4 kilogrammes and preferably powder. Failure to comply
could result in exclusion from the event.
"This item is very important for Bike competitors: SPRC has received
notification from the ACU that there is a huge backlog with the issue of
2004 Competition Licences. I have been advised that the ACU will not be
faxing any confirmations to SPRC with regard to applications received for
riders attending the Thunderball who do not receive their 2004 licence
prior to the event. Therefore the ACU has requested that we accept 2003
licences at the Thunderball. Riders must therefore bring their 2003
licence to the event if their 2004 licence has not been received.
"However, if any rider who uses their 2003 licence is involved in an
incident whilst racing, the ACU will be checking that they have received a
2004 application from that rider. If this is not the case then the ACU has
advised that they will not have any insurance cover. We apologise for this
but it is out of the Club's hands and purely down to the problems within
the licencing department at the ACU. ACU hope to have this problem
rectified by the end of April."
"All of the above will be included with the information accompanying
racers' tickets; it is vital that all competitors read their paperwork!"
If you have any queries then please contact Paula at Santa Pod
Racers Club on 01933 313625 Date: 30th March 2004 Over the last few days we have fielded a number of calls and emails from riders regarding the entry fees for the 2004 UEM Dragbike Championship. The understanding was that the fees are at the same level as 2003 i.e. €70.
However, the entry forms recently circulated for the opening round at Santa Pod in May show almost a doubling of that fee.
We have been in touch with the meeting promoters and it is under discussion. We
suggest riders withold submitting their entry forms until after an official announcement is made by the event organisers. Date: 30th March 2004 Dear all,
Some of you who have raced at Shakespeare County Raceway may know me
as the pit marshal on the pushbike and those of you who have attended any
APIRA Annual General Meetings will also be aware that for the past four
years I have been also been the club Treasurer.
At the 1999 AGM I was voted in as Club Treasurer, and over the last four years have worked very hard for the club in this role. Despite a financially difficult 2003 and contributions for track improvements made in years past the club finances are very strong - there
is a healthy balance in the APIRA bank accounts. These accounts have always been kept
accurately and I have always kept in mind that the money belongs to the members / racers of the APIRA and have tried to do my best for them.
However, two weeks ago I was asked to stand down by the committee and hand over the control of the club’s finances to Ozzie Ewing and Wendy Talbot – but for no specific reason.
I was naturally very surprised and unhappy about this action as such a request should have
taken place at the recent AGM. Consequently, I requested a Special General Meeting to give
members an opportunity to ask questions and have a say as to who looks after the club's money. However, this request was denied and as of Saturday 27th March 2004 I ceased to be club Treasurer.
If any members are concerned at this action and have any views about this I would like to hear from them.
Kind regards, Annette Douglas
Email: compupay2000@hotmail.com Date: 30th March 2004 Joey Bon sent us an interesting scam mail from a guy purporting to be interested in buying his Top Fuel bike for his grandson...... Date: 30th March 2004 Lee Child of LA Performance Services says that the National-standard track prep to be applied at this weekend's (3rd-4th April) APIRA Test and Tune at Shakespeare County Raceway is to become a regular feature of Test and Tune and Club Days at the Warwickshire track.
"We want to give racers a track on which they can use competition settings even at a test day", says Lee. "Darren Prentice will be starting work on the track on Thursday and by Saturday you will be able to put the power down! The track has been getting faster and faster, and I very much appreciated the compliments which we received last season. Racers have told me that they appreciate the consistency. It proves that our continued investment and commitment are generating results."
This weekend's APIRA Test and Tune is open to racers, car and bike clubs, sprint clubs, circuit clubs, the public, and anyone else wishing to test before the season starts.
Entry to Shakespeare County Raceway will be £15 on Saturday and Sunday, or £25 for the weekend. Another £15 per day, or £25 for the weekend, will buy as many runs as you can make down the track. A valid DVLC licence and a crash helmet must be presented to sign on, and racers should wear safety gear appropriate to their class.
The track will be open between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm on Saturday and 11:00 am and 5:00 pm on Sunday. For more details about Shakespeare County Raceway including a map check out the track's official web site at
www.shakespearecountyraceway.com
Date: 29th March 2004 The Entry Forms page of the Santa Pod Racers Club web site at www.eurodragster.com/sprc has been updated with the UEM Main Event entry form in PDF and Word format thanks to the guys from Eurodragster. Date: 29th March 2004 Well, I can eat shrimp and wings faster than anyone else in Europe, whooppy doo…………… Let’s get this right - nobody more than me does not wish to blow smoke up Dave Beck’s a**e as he has enough trouble dealing with his so called stardom as it is, but the facts are he is without doubt the quickest in Europe and in ACU competition. It seems to me that people prefer to support other countrymen rather than their own and it seems to me you’re all a bunch of whinging women as most of the comments were made by people lobbying to get the rules changed to the weight that Mr Beck ran for the UEM rounds to bring it in line with Prostar etc. However, it was not to be and the fact that the UEM runs 30lb more is not relevant to Europe but to the UEM championship. So, to finally sort this the fastest in the European Union is indeed Mr Beck case closed. The fact remains that I also would like to see Mr Beck compete at the 2 Santa Pod rounds to silence the critics but his request for an unreasonable amount of sponsorship means he can’t be a**ed or is scared - who knows? However, I have faith in the Upperton powerplants and the Paul Gast clutch tune up etc. so I wish he would get it on then we would all know who’s the best. Quite frankly who gives a s**t as there’s more politics and bitching than a primary school playground. Anyway, if it ain’t got nitro it’s not worth debate……….. Being the rookie in Top Fuel I have to say the racing here and in the USA is great - the friendships and offers of help and support extended to me and my crew have been fantastic without the bickering, and this from the premiership of motorcycle drag racing! If people got on and stopped acting like girls pulling each other’s hair I’m sure the pits would be a nicer place. But, it will still be good to see so many different powerplant combinations out there with rumours of new state of the art George Babor, Ward, Upperton and no doubt a few old refreshed Star motors to stand up and be counted so its gloves on girls I await with bated breath! Naaaa, not really – I’m off for a pie but good luck to all in your racing endeavours this coming season and I hope you achieve your goals.
Regards, Cannon Date: 29th March 2004 Dave Beck today announced he would be fielding a second bike - a Super Street entry - at selected meetings this year. The GSXR-1100 based machine sports a Beck-built 1314 big block motor, together with a full-house Roger Upperton head, with mix supplied by a set of 44mm Lectrons. A NOS kit is fitted, together with a Schnitz Pro Series II box, and a Racepack datalogger. The 1991-framed rolling chassis features a Kosman front end, PMFR wheels all round, Grimeca brakes, JMC swingarm, Penske shock, and carbon and kevlar Hayabusa body kit.
Conrad Skrett (of Streetfighters fame) handled fabrication duties, and the bike is finished in the silver and red Altu colours already featured on the Pro Stock bike. Beck noted that his tuning and parts business handled work not only for Pro-class machines, but also for street class and road-going machines, and feels that this new machine will show potential customers the scope of his tuning and building skills. Anyone interested in motor and chassis parts, or engine building services, should contact Dave on
beck.racing@virgin.net. In addition to bespoke work, Dave imports parts on a monthly basis from all major US speed shops, at competitive prices. Co-owner
Stephen Moon is set to run the bike at some test days and meetings, but work commitments will limit these appearances. A 'hired gun' may be used for some meetings, and anyone interested in piloting a no-expense spared Superstreet machine should contact Dave or Stephen. This two-bike set-up for 2004 is likely to expand to include a two-bike Pro-class team in 2005.
Stephen Moon - stephen@nutrinnovator.com Date: 29th March 2004 Just thought I would let a select few know that I have secured a few very special, limited edition, die cast, drag racing models in addition to my large range of more usual cars and bikes. These special models listed below are becoming very scarce already and are the absolute cream of drag racing collectables. They will be placed for general sale on my web site from the start April 2004 but are available to you now so clear you mantelpiece!!! There is only one of each model available so first come, first served.
If you haven't seen the new funny cars from Milestones you don't know what you are missing!! These are huge 1/16 scale cars with over 300 parts making them incredibly detailed, even the butterflies in the injector hats work!!! They have hand laid glass bodies and are individually numbered. This is the same company that made the Doug Vancil top-fuel Harley so you know the build quality.
Scotty Cannon Time Bomb 1/16..............£189-00
Shipping is £10 insured, special delivery. WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM
the ultimate drag racing resource.
Visit our shop at:-
TURBO VILLE
Date: 29th March 2004 Hi everybody,
I got a new E-mail address, so if some blonde girls around my age (32-35) want to get in touch they can contact me at
fuelbike@online.no
Take care,
Jan Egil - Leret Racing Date: 29th March 2004 French Top Fuel Bike rider and Rocket Bike pilot Eric
Teboul has been in touch to let us know that his bike has now returned to i't base in the south of France after a two moth stay in the Dutch workshops of Rob Van Geffen where a bigger fuel tank, bigger exhaust and new manifold for the new Vortex head was fabricated
Eric is now working on the bike to adapt the cylinder block for the head. Eric asked us to say that he is looking forward to seeing all his race friends again in the new season!
Date: 27th March 2004 I have the fastest Prostock bike in both SOUTHEND and CHIGWELL in Essex. Come to think of it I must have the fastest Prostock bike in the whole of ESSEX - yeehaaaaa!
Paul Watson Date: 27th March 2004 Anders and Stephen, you have missed the point entirely. It's not the fact that record holder and he who runs the quickest or fastest pass can be different people, it's that the rules for the ACU and UEM series are different, so Dave has a weight advantage over the European rules. It's not the same as the analogy that Anders is using where the Record Holder and the fastest / quickest run to exactly the same rules. If Anders knew more about Prostock he'd realise it is in the main a weight related class so weights are fundamental to the eligibility. That's why I ask how Dave can be called the fastest in europe, when he doesn't race in EUROPEAN race meets, only ACU?
To be eligible to be the fastest in europe you have to run according to euro rules and weights and at a UEM sanctioned event (he is however potentially the fastest in europe but unless willing to invest in European competition and add 30lb of lead on the bike we will never know.........)
Richard Gipp Date: 27th March 2004 Re quickest PSB in Europe. Ask anyone who has the quickest Top Fuel Dragster in Europe and they will say Kim Reymond. Andy Carter holds the official European ET record, but Kim Reymond has recorded the quickest-ever pass by a European TF racer so Kim has the quickest Fueller in Europe. Dave Beck has run the quickest ET by a Pro Stock Bike racer competing in Europe, the UK is in Europe, therefore his bike is the quickest PSB in Europe. We need to get straight in our minds the difference between "quickest in Europe" and "official European record holder". When Pettersson or someone else goes 7.28 then their bike will be the quickest PSB in Europe whether they back it up or not.
Anders Thomasson Date: 26th March 2004 NHRA Pro Stock Champion Geno Scali today was at the centre of a PR scandal, as the sport of drag racing had laboured for some months under the illusion that he was the fastest PSB rider on the planet. Leading website Dragbike.com had recently printed: "To put an exclamation point on the season, Scali became the quickest rider in the sport at the
AMA/Prostar World Finals where rules allow for big 4-valve powerplants.
Scali, attempting to run the first six second run, just missed it with a 7.005 backed up for the record with no less than three 7.01’s. Scali took the record away from none other than team partner Koenig, who held it at 7.02 seconds." The recent "Dave Beck ruling", whereby a rider can only be claim to be the quickest on a continent or planet if it suits people who aren't quite as fast brought an end to Geno's reign. In a seperate development, "Seven-O" Joe Koenig, a previous landmark setting racer changed his name to "Seven-One" John, reflecting his best NHRA mark instead of his overall fastest time. Competitors in other sports are set to be hit, with long jump gold medallist Bob Beamon nervously awaiting a ruling on air density in Mexico City.
Stephen Moon Date: 26th March 2004
Hi, maybe someone can help me out with this. I am searching a top fuel style nose fairing
- is there any company in Europe who makes these plastic parts? If yes, do you have an address or e-mail?
thank you in advance.
Frans Souverein - fotorifra@zonnet.nl
Shark Attack Dragracing, The Netherlands Gossip comment : Beasley Fiberglass in the US make a
version used by McBride and Cannon now. Dave Beck will be able to source one for
you - beck.racing@virgin.net Date: 26th March 2004 Ian Marshall of Webster Race Engineering has been in touch to remind those racers who attended Wednesday's rained-out WRE Test Day that they will receive a concessionary rate for another WRE Test this season.
"It was great to see such a large turnout on Wednesday", says Ian. "Unfortunately it rained, then it rained, then it rained some more. If you attended then please remember that fifty per cent of your entry fee is transferred to any of the next four WRE Test Days, which are on Saturday 24th April, Wednesday 14th July, Wednesday 18th August and Wednesday 22nd September.
"We do however ask that you contact Webster Race Engineering on 01933 315236 to let us know which Test Day you wish to attend."
Tog Date: 26th March 2004 When some people think of being bitten in Florida the first thing that comes to mind is alligators. However for Blaine Hale and the Hired Gun Racing Team it was more like gremlins that bit them at the NHRA POWERade Gatornationals; electrical gremlins.
“We thought we were ready for the Gators,” said Blaine Hale. “Our testing went really well at Bradenton and we were very confident coming into Gainesville. That’s when all our problems began. We fired up the bike just prior to the first round of qualifying to warm it up and when I went to shut it down it wouldn’t turn off. I pulled the dead mans kill and it still wouldn’t shut down. I took off the main electric wire and still nothing. I finally had to remove the battery to get it to shut down. This caused us to completely miss the first round of qualifying.”
Hale said, “After going through the electrical system we found that the Dyna 4000 box was burned out. So after we replaced it and fired the bike back up we had the exact same problem. Before we installed another box we traced the problem to a wire that was grounding out against the frame. We made some temporary repairs, installed another Dyna 4000 and made it to the lanes just in time for the second round of qualifying. Unfortunately we didn’t make it into the field on that run.”
The last two qualifying sessions on Saturday were just as disappointing as the gremlins continued to bite. “We had an air/fuel sensor go bad on one pass and the Racepak computer failed in the last round. We were forced to tune by the seat of our pants all weekend and in the end we wound up spectating on Sunday,” said Hale.
“It’s not the way we wanted to start the new season, that’s for sure but we think our bad luck is now behind us. On Monday we re-wired the bike completely and made a couple of passes and everything is fine. We’ll have a better idea after this weekend at the NHRA Divisional race in Memphis but we are certain the Cornwell Tools, Wells Cargo, Red Line Oil, Quick Lube of Midland, Hired Gun Racing Suzuki will be right in the thick of things in Houston, with no more gremlins,” promised Hale.
The next stop for the Hired Gun Racing Team will be the 17th annual O’Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals in Houston, Texas. As usual Cornwell Tools, Wells Cargo, Red Line Oil and Quick Lube of Midland will sponsor the team.
For further information contact: flyingeyefoto@aol.com
Date: 26th March 2004 Subscribers to the Sky Sports channels had better tune
into 'Race World' tonight (Thursday 25th March) for
coverage of the opening round of the South African
National Drag Racing Championships at 10.00 pm
With coverage spanning over twenty five minutes, the
six round national championship started recently at
the Westbank International Dragway and features all
the sportsman classes from the low entry level street
car and bike classes to the big bad blown Comp
Eliminator dragsters and altereds.
American ProStar rider Ricky Gadson makes and
appearance racing in the Super Street Bike category as
a visiting team member of the Hewlett Packard Kawasaki
Drag Bike Team, setting new national and track records
in the process in the seven second bracket. Gadson
also made a guest appearance over the weekend driving
Micheal van Rensburg's Top Alcohol Dragster running a
personal best of 7.539 seconds. Jets also make an
appearance.
Race World producers Pro Active have promised that
rounds two and three from Talton International and
Westbank will also be featured in a later show.
So, if you missed it at 7.00 pm, you can catch it at
10.00 pm on Sky Sports 3 and twice tomorrow (Friday)
at 1.00 pm and 4.00 pm again on Sky Sports 3.
Jeremy Cookson
Date: 26th March 2004 Re. Gipp's point, my sentiments entirely......
Shaun Branch Date: 26th March 2004 Wanted dead or alive - 350lb alien
Cannon Date: 25th March 2004 The NHRA is investigating an incident that happened on Sunday at the NHRA Mac Tools Gatornationals in the Pro Stock Bike pits. Reportedly, Pro Stock racer
Rickie Smith was maced by a member of Pro Stock Bike rider Shawn Gann's crew. According to sources close to the incident, Smith confronted Gann on the return road regarding an incident where Matt Smith's helmet was kicked.
According to Smith, he was then maced despite his contention there was no weapon in his hand, nor did he raise his hand to strike anyone.
Gann could not be reached for comment.
Sources close to the situation said the NHRA has investigated and will soon pass on a ruling.
Smith would not comment further saying that everything is in the hands of the lawyers and that this will end up in court. Date: 25th March 2004 Here's a piccie of my new bike recently purchased via Big 4 in Whaley Bridge. It was previously raced in Superstreet some time ago.
However it will soon be fitted with wheelie bars and a 7" slick for entry in Comp bike. This won't be until later in the season as I have a committment to crew for Dave Beck again this year.
Rich Fielding
Date: 25th March 2004 Fantastic race coverage of Aussie drag racing on 416 Motors TV - informative, knowledgeable. Are you watching Mr Malkin? this is how it should be done!
Dave Duguid - a racefan Date: 25th March 2004 I don't wish to p**s on anyone's fireworks but I am fed up with the current (and past) references to Dave Beck's fastest bike in Europe description. The man has done much for racing (in the US) and has a title in Europe but to be the fastest PSB in Europe surely you have to be at the European weights?????? So rejoice in the fastest man in the ACU Championship, but Europe NO. You have to spend the money, take the ferries, drive the 1000's of miles, and forget USA to be the fastest man in Europe (still Roger Pettersson I believe?????). Or correct me if i'm wrong - fight the European series at the European weight. It's a bit like Tyson fighting a seven stone weakling on the beach, same name? - Yes, same class rules? - NO!
Richard Gipp Date: 24th March 2004 Straightline Racing have announced that they are once again to offer the complete line of
Mickey Thompson Dragbike tyres at the guaranteed lowest prices available in the whole of Europe. Whether your needs are for your Streetbike, Pro Stock, Funnybike or Top Fuel / Supertwin, Straightline have them in stock and ready to ship. Mail order is, as always, available and all major credit cards accepted. Straightline will continue to offer delivery at the track, or will ship direct and immediately Europewide.
Contact Straightline in the UK by telephone on 01553
811855, fax 01553 811866 or by email sales@straightlineracing.co.uk Date: 24th March 2004 Re. the item on NHRA PSB, my sentiments entirely......
Roger Upperton
Date: 24th March 2004 After months of planning and discussion with the ACU and the promoters at Shakespeare County Raceway and Santa Pod we are happy to announce that the
ACU Top Fuel Bike Championship is to take place over 5 rounds for the 2004 season.
New for this season are rounds taking place at SCR during June and Santa Pod in October.
The complete calendar is as follows :-
9th - 12th April
Easter Thunderball Santa Pod Raceway Date: 24th March 2004 We just spoke to a very disappointed Helen Curran and Ken Cooper fresh off the plane from Italy after the cancelled first round of the Italian Championship. Helen and Ken, along with the rest of the Veidec Team, had travelled to Modena with the bus and crew in tow to help promote Prostock Bike in Italy. Unfortunately, it was not to be and so the team have returned to base without turning a wheel in anger.
However, they still plan to attend a pre - UEM season testing event in Norway on May 5th. Date: 23rd March 2004 Further to the news on the injury suffered by Andy Wilsheer reported by Les Welch on Eurodragster, we’re sure you’d all like to join us in wishing the ace photographer a speedy return to good health.
If anyone wishes to send Andy a personal message at the Shands UF Hospital in Gainesville (oh SO near the Ale House......), they can do so using the "Send a Patient a Message" link by clicking on :-
www.shands.org/public/message/default.asp
Remember to check the `Shands at UF’ facility box, and Andy’s room number 7531A Date: 23rd March 2004 Eurodragster have updated the SPRC Thunderball entry list :-
www.eurodragster.com/santapod/entrylists/2004easterthunderball.htm. Date: 23rd March 2004 We're indebted to Bruce Brownfield for sending us this intriguing report on the Top Fuel bike assembled by the legendary Ron Krol and his team.
One of the fabled cast iron Suzuki crankcase sets has been used in this
unusual version of a blown four Top Fueller. Click here
to read all about the team's trials and tribulations. Date: 23rd March 2004 C'mon guys, let's get real. The current situation in NHRA PSB is as much a scam as the "Nigeria-letter-type" ones reported below here. There is not one single piece of engineering on the V&H engines that come from the Harley-Davidson Motor Company. It's a scratchbuilt piece of V&H-only engineering and nothing else, a very close friend of mine works within the Harley-Davidson engineering department and Harley-Davidson has not helped out in any part of neither the design nor the manufacturing efforts on those engines. Add to that that the V-Twins get a solid break on max cylinder volume and displacement vs. race-weight as compared to the metric bikes plus the V-Twins also get to run EFI as opposed to carbs-only for the metrics and all you end up with is a marketing ploy from NHRA to appease their paying customers in the stands who have gotten real tired of the look-alike metric bikes in PSB. I agree very much with that last sentiment but the solution is not to have a single playing field with two completely different set of rules. The way forward to NHRA customer satisfaction as regards to two-wheel racing is to throw out the NHRA PSB class altogether and make a full pro class out of the current Screamin' Eagle Nitro Harley exhibition class. Yes, the nitro twins are as much Harley-Davidson products as the V&H PSB entries but they are all V-Twins, they all abide by a single set of rules, they do not carry cookie cutter body designs, and they make a much more solid audiovisual impression from burn-out to finish line than any current PSB metric bike ever did.
Pete Hanson Date: 23rd March 2004 Our thanks go to TJ `Double Decks' O'Brien for sending us the first pictures of his fabulous
new Competition Bike due to make it's race debut this year. Date: 22nd March 2004 We'd like to thank MRE Pro Mod rider and UK Pro Stock rider Dave Beck for sending us pictures of Europe's fastest Pro Stock bike bedecked in it's new 2004 livery :- Date: 22nd March 2004 Following Jay's news on Friday about Angelle Savoies problems in qualifying, she has explained that her tyre was probably to blame. She was disqualified for crossing the centre line on her first qualifying attempt then hit the retaining wall on her next pass, bruising the outside of her right calf.
"We think the back tire may have been the reason for me going to the right in both of my runs," Savoie said. "For some reason, I immediately was pushed to the right at the hit (of the throttle). I tried to fight it ... but just couldn't recover." Date: 22nd March 2004 You miss my point Ian, it's weeks away from the start of the new season and they are just sending these out and it would of been nice touch if someone would of just signed it with a "congratulations from the ACU" but thankyou for your suggestion I'll take it under consideration.
Paul `Grumpy' Watson Date: 22nd March 2004 The 35th Mac Tools Gatornationals will forever be remembered as the race where Harley-Davidson broke through for its first Pro Stock Bike victory. With a capacity crowd roaring its appreciation and Willie G. and Bill Davidson watching from the starting line, Andrew Hines beat teammate GT Tonglet for the historic win. Date: 21st March 2004 Date: 21st March 2004 Dear racers,
Unfortunately this weekend's first Italian Championship round has hade to be cancelled.
The department of the Police did not authorise the event as they needed more time to evaluate the sporting homologation of our track for the spectators.
Next week everything should be fine, but due to another event we will take part in and easter, the Italian Drag Racing Association decided to reschedule this weekends race for April 17-18.
We are truly sorry about the inconvenience this situation has caused the racers, but after a planned meeting with the local authority the way should be "flat" for the future.
Thanks, Antonio Ferretti and Lorenzo Lauro Date: 21st March 2004 Did I miss something? I have just received a cheque from the ACU, I take it due to my 3rd place in the ACU Pro Stock championship. I just thought a small trophy or certificate would have been nice too instead of an unsigned compliment slip, sorry had to get it off my chest.
Paul Watson
Gossip comment :-
Well if you don't want it I'll ask the ACU to enclose a stamped addressed envelope with your bronze medal that will follow
later and you can send it back at no cost...... Date: 20th March 2004 6:30 now, just settling into the Cabot Happy Hour. Not a cloud in the skies today, perfect weather. Fuel cars were not very impressive, not many good runs at all. Pro Stock car very tight as usual. Rhodney (the plunker) Dobson has returned after a year off and ground me out of a quick $100.00 already in the stands....
The American Car Imports machine shut off after the burnout, must have rolled a sprag...
Geno looks very strong in title defense, Harleys also look good. Angelle crossed lanes in the first session (started in the left lane) and guess she didn't have it fixed for the 2nd round (right lane this time) and she scrubbed the wall from the 1/8 on. Did not appear to be hurt and really did a great job of keeping it upright..........
A lot of bikes having trouble keeping it straight thru, don't really know why, no wind to speak of....
Drink is empty, gotta go!
Jay Regan Date: 19th March 2004 After the horrific crash of Steve Drake on the McKinney Motorsport’s
Suzuki Pro Modified entry at the MRE Nationals, Prostar has
instituted a rule change for Pro Modified effective immediately.
Although Drake walked away from his crash, Prostar wants to do
everything possible to prevent a reoccurrence. Last season, racer
Jack Young developed a carburetor strap to prevent carburetors from
being separated from the head after a backfire. This problem was the
number one reason for so many catastrophic fires in Pro Mod. For
those who used the strap, fires were eliminated. For 2004 Prostar
made the straps mandatory.
It seems for every cure, the weak link will eventually arise. Unlike
street bikes, most race engine headers are held on simply by
springs. Now that the carbs don’t blow off, the header is the next
weak link. In Drakes crash, two header pipes blew off separating the
header from the megaphone. The megaphone then folded under and cut
the rear tire. With the rear tire gone, all the weight of the
motorcycle transferred to the wheelie bar wheels which eventually
came apart, then the bars. The crash resulted in a total loss for
Scott McKinney except for some of the engine.
The new rule will be as follows:
Pro Mod Page 60,
4.2.3.3.3 Engine: (add) header must be safety wired with a minimum
.032 wire to the head on both sides of each exhaust flange.
This change should force the backfire pressure through the exhaust
as opposed to engine damage. Any questions regarding this change
should be directed to tech@amaprostar.com Date: 19th March 2004 Date: 19th March 2004 Upon completion of this weekend's Mac Tools Gatornationals, U.S. Army Pro Stock Bike riders Angelle Savoie and Antron Brown will be traveling to Fort Jackson, S.C., to participate in a three-day boot camp, or "greening," along with a group of NASCAR and NHRA executives.
"It should be interesting," Savoie said. "I hope I'm up to handling everything they throw at us. I've been taking some kick boxing classes, so that should help me. I'm actually looking forward to the experience. We'll get to see, first-hand, what the soldiers go through."
"I've been doing a lot of fitness training for this so I won't embarrass myself," Brown said. "Like Angelle, I'm eagerly awaiting the trip. I'm sure we'll have some fun and there will be plenty of stories to tell afterwards."
Team-building exercises will be stressed throughout the three days. Led by drill sergeants, the group will go through training methods that neophyte soldiers endure in their first days in the Army.
"We're going to have the total experience, even down to the living conditions in barracks," Savoie said. "We'll be issued U.S. Army uniforms for drills and exercises and will be expected for physical training (P.T.) at 6 a.m. each day. It will be a nice education for both Antron and I, you can be certain of that."
This is the second season for the U.S. Army as sponsor for both Savoie and Brown, who are part of the Don Schumacher Racing stable. Tony Schumacher also carries the U.S. Army colors on his Top Fuel dragster.
"It's these type of activities that sets the Army apart from other sponsors," Brown said. "We're so fortunate to be partnered with them."
NHRA Date: 18th March 2004 We're happy to announce that ex Fuel Bike rider Brian Johnson has now added the capability of ordering his excellent range of dragbike DVD's and videos online using the Pay Pal facility. No excuse now not to order your copies of the fabulous coverage of the Prostar events as all credit cards are acceptable :-
Date: 18th March 2004 We'd like to remind riders who plan to apply for a UEM Championship license that the medical requirement has been relaxed for this year, with a medical only necessary on reaching the age where a free bus pass is looming........ Date: 18th March 2004 We'd just like to inform all those riders who finished in one of the top three places in the 2003 ACU / UK Dragbike Championship that their prize monies (and medals for those who did not attend the Gala Dinner) are
to be posted out over the next few days or so. Date: 18th March 2004 With all this talk of scamming, I thought your readers may like to have a look at this site:
www.ebolamonkeyman.com/ This shows what some folks have done to get back at the type of scammers who say they have come across millions of dollars and want you to use your bank account to transfer it out of their country. I think it's funny, anyway.
Andy Holten Date: 17th March 2004 Steve Woollatt and the Dealer team have announced they will be in attendance at the
Bikes Of Brighton open day this saturday.
If you're at a loose end, take the `Londoners day out' to the south coast and enjoy what is a great day out!
If you're there for the night, Steve may accompany you to the Zap club for some
evening entertainment too..... Date: 17th March 2004 Got this the other day, think it's one of those scams flying around. Emailed him back with my suspicions and guess what no reply!!
"roger thompson" <roger_thompson@outgun.com> Dear Seller , Am interested the your advertised Bandit 1200 engine i will like to know the cost of it, and also I will be paying with a certified uk cheque immedaitely the cheque clears in your bank my shipping company will be coming for the pickup in your ends ASAP.If this is okay by you do get back to me with the require information (full name ,contact address and your phone number so that i can make payment to you ASAP. Regards.
Luke
Date: 17th March 2004 I was wondering if anybody has or knows were there is an offboard starter for sale which will be able to spin over a nitro Harley??
Look forward to seeing you all
Jamie Millership Date: 17th March 2004 Though not the across the board domination the team hoped for, the 2004 season got off to a strong start for Bradenton’s Dragmasters at upstate’s Gainesville Raceway. Defending Red Line Oil Super Gas champ Willie Herschberger scored another win in the class, while Dragmaster’s Hot Street champ David Atkins qualified #1 but gave it all away with a redlight start in the final. Performance Corner Super Eliminator champ Larry Guy will put G-ville in the “One to Forget” column, but newest Dragmaster Bill Lee Jr. runner-upped in Syn3 ET and Dragmaster pit partner Jordan Cruz runner-upped to Travis Lummus in Rivera/Primo Street Pro.
Willie had to face teammate Guy in round 1 of Super Gas. New to the class, Larry got ground into Herschberger when Willie took the tree and the stripe in their unfortunate round 1 pairing. “That Super Gas is a whole new animal to me,” said Guy. “I’m used to Buells and Sportsters. The torque difference is a major adjustment. Willie ran the bike before and ran a 9.70 on it 3 times, so I know it’ll run the number. It was the luck of the weekend that we met in the first round.”
Herschberger advanced to meet and beat Charlie Walker in round 2, a very close race with Willie’s .018 advantage at the tree making the difference. The champ’s next victim was Everett Chichester, who was v-e-r-y slow off the line. Herschberger then had a bye to the final against #1 qualifier Dale Tyson. Willie took the tree and Tyson broke out trying to take the line.
“Every race I had was very, very tough for me,” said Herschberger. “This is the first weekend ever I was cutting good lights—all .0 lights. I think I caught Charlie by surprise. He was playing safe with me. Then when it came to Tyson, how can you beat a guy who’s running right on the number? He’s an excellent racer. It was just luck that fell my way. He and his wife did a wonderful job with those numbers.
“I didn’t intend to do well in that class because I was concentrating on tuning the other bikes on the team. I probably will be parking that Super Gas bike shortly. I think the nitro bike will take more of my time. I’d a had a good chance for a win in my first nitro race!” finished Herschberger, noting the modest ET’s that netted #1 qualifier and the win for fellow Floridian Chuck Jones. Wille decided to sit this one out to get some more nitro testing under his belt. “The whole class is struggling. But I’ll win that championship next year!”
Atkins got his Dragmasters Hot Street title defense off to a decent start by qualifying #1 and setting a new 10.405 ET record on raceday before lighting that dreaded redeye against Bruce Cronenberger, Jr. in the final. “I was tippy-toeing into the light there and I actually just rolled through it,” reported Dave. “Rider error, the bike was just fine. The bike’s there, we’re going to be working on the rider this year. I wasn’t ready, a little mentally off. But I don’t think we could have picked a nicer team to redlight against. The Cronenberger team is a class act.” But the heat is on for Atkins in Dallas in more ways than one.
In addition to his round 1 Super Gas loss to Herschberger, Guy’s Performance Corner Super Eliminator championship defense also got off to a difficult start. Larry pulled a “Vegas Willie” in round 1 of SE, giving up the stripe despite a large starting line advantage against Dickie Johnson. “Sooner or later, I’ll get ‘em,” said a determined Guy, a technician for Dragmasters sponsor Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson.
All of the Dragmasters thanked Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson, Cycle-Rama, Herschberger Construction, D&G Chassis and Energy One. The next AHDRA race on the Dragmasters schedule is April 17-18 at the Texas Motorplex in Dallas, TX.
Date: 16th March 2004 Tom Bradford and the Hal’s H-D/Hal’s Speed Shop
Thunder Eagle Racing Team to focus on the
NHRA Powerade Pro Stock Bike tour in ‘04
After winning three straight AHDRA Pro Stock championships (and one in the ADBA), Tom Bradford and crew chief Rob Schopf will turn their attention to the NHRA Powerade series in 2004. “We’re committed to 10 races on the NHRA schedule,” Bradford said from his Carbmasters fuel systems specialty shop in Eagle, Wisconsin. “This is the first year we’ve committed to the NHRA that deeply. We’ve always dabbled the last few years, but I still maintain my rookie status! If the bike is performing the way we think it should—or better—who knows how many races we’ll go to? If we can put something together for deeper funding, who knows what we’ll do?”
The Thunder Eagle team has always had strong support from great sponsors, and that’s been a major reason for the team’s unmatched success in the all-Harley sanctions. But the National Hot Rod Association is a stepped-up game with additional requirements. So although Bradford’s sponsors will follow him to the big show, there is space available for a primary sponsor to ride on the Buell’s tail and reap the benefits of V-Twin popularity and the enormous exposure of the NHRA. “We feel that this team has huge dividends to offer a progressive company, and we’re excited about the possibilities of a partnership with some great company out there in corporate America,” said Bradford.
But as he spoke, Bradford was also concerned about preparing for the first race for Pro Stock Bikes—the Gatornationals. “At this point I’m feverishly working to get the bike back together for Gainesville. We took some time off in November, but from then on we’ve worked non-stop.
“We’ve learned quite a bit. The motor’s not different, it’s enhanced. Last year there were changes we wanted to make. This year, we’ve enhanced a few things we couldn’t afford to last year.
“Because of the combination—the bore, mainly—there are not parts readily available. For instance, you can’t go use a piston from some car because there’s no car anywhere in the world with that bore. And it trickles down that way through the rest of the motor. We’ve also done a lot of work in the airbox, The NHRA approved Buell XB9R body required us to cut up the frame. If we hadn’t had to do that, we probably would have made it to the AHDRA race in Gainesville (March 2nd and 3rd).”
Expect Bradford to show up at select AHDRA events, but not just with the Pro Stock (Pro Gas legal in AHDRA) bike. “This year is exciting,” said Tom. “We’ve got a ton of things going on with Hal’s Speed Shop and the V-Rod they’re building. I’m going to run some AHDRA races with that. Hal’s and Don Tilley have been banging heads on the road racing circuit for years, so it’ll be neat to be a part of that history. I’ve never ridden a bike with that kind of horsepower with no bars, so I’m looking forward to that.
“It’s awesome to know you have the backing of a dealership with the stature of Hal’s year after year. And Joker Machine really stepped up and we’re excited about that this year, also.
“We’re looking forward to the season,” finished Tom. “We’ve wondered all year what our bike would do on an NHRA prepared surface. We’re not making any predictions. We’re just going to go there and hope we’re still around on Sunday.”
The Thunder Eagle Racing Team welcomes all of its great sponsors and friends to come out and
see them race at these NHRA events in 2004:
March 18-21 Mac Tools Gatornationals Gainesville, FL
Tom thanked sponsors Hal’s Speed Shop, Hal’s Harley-Davidson/Buell, Joker Machine, Vanson Leathers, The Carburetor Shop, T-N-S Machining, CRD Inc., S&S Cycle, Gates Belts and Hoses, Buell Motor Co., Mustang Shelly’s Roadhouse, Red Line Oil, MTI Coatings, Stitch-it-Embroidery, Accurate Automatic Parts, and Wurth Products.
Find out more about Hal’s at www.halspa.com
Date: 16th March 2004 Following his initial full season aboard a Suzuki that saw him post the teams first NHRA Pro Stock Bike win, Blaine Hale and the Hired Gun Racing team is ready for an all out assault on the POWERade Pro Stock Bike title for 2004.
“Last season was a huge learning curve for our team. My dad, Clayton (Hired Gun Racing Crew Chief) and myself had to get used to both the Suzuki and the Vance & Hines Suzuki motors,” said Hale. “We finished a respectable fourteenth in Powerade points but more importantly we found out just what it takes to compete and win on the NHRA circuit. This year we are looking for a solid Top Ten finish and hopefully a couple of more trips to the winners circle.”
The Hired Gun team has made a number of changes during the short off-season to both the bike and the rider in order to help make these plans a reality. “I’ve dropped a few pounds this off-season and we took the bike out to Kenny Williams shop to get a complete carbon fiber body mounted. This left the bike between 20-25 pounds light so we can move the ballast around to where it will do the most good. So far in testing it seems to have worked out well,” Hale mentioned. “At a recent test session in Houston we ran a 7.10 @ 189 mph. In fact our 2.57-second back half was the quickest of the weekend. We were really happy about that but not with the 1.10 sixty footer. We’d like to get that 1.10 down to the 1.07 – 1.08 range,” said Hale.
“In the past we haven’t had the time or finances to do a lot of testing but this year all of that has changed. Cornwell Tools, our primary sponsor, has stepped up in a big way allowing us to concentrate even more on our racing program. That coupled with the recently completed 1/8th mile track just two miles from our shop here in Midland, Texas will allow us the chance to really work on those 60 footers,” said a smiling Hale.
Scott Martindale, Motorsport Manager of Cornwell Tools, is also looking forward to a successful season. “Cornwell Tools is the oldest tool company in the United States, in 2004 we are celebrating out 85th anniversary and couldn’t be happier to be racing partners with the Hales. Blaine and Clayton Hale have made great strides with the Cornwell Tools/Hired Gun Racing Suzuki,” said Martindale. “Their win last season in Denver really energized our company and our distributors. We are proud to have them getting the word out to the NHRA fans about Cornwell Tools.”
Hired Gun Racing has also made other key additions to the team for 2004. “Due to the amount of traveling we do, being based out of west Texas, it was getting to the point where we needed a bigger rig. After some negotiation with Jeff Jones at Wells Cargo, they came onboard and we now have a brand spanking new 48-foot trailer to house the team. We also added Red Line Oil as an associate sponsor through the efforts of Tim Kerrigan and re-upped our sponsorship with Quick Lube of Midland through Earl Erdman. The bike has a new paint scheme applied by Deano’s Custom Paint out of Phoenix.
Lastly we’ve added a new member to the team. I felt that the workload was getting too much for my dad so we added another crewman. On January 22, I had a son, Ethan Gage, I’ve been telling everyone he was born with a silver Cornwell ratchet in his mouth,” said a laughing Hale.
The Hired Gun Racing team will attend all the NHRA POWERade Tour races as well as the show in Memphis, the weekend after the Gatornationals. Time permitting there may also be a race or two on the AMA Prostar tour added to the schedule.
Fans of the Hired Gun Racing team will have a few things to look forward to on the merchandise front this season. T-shirts, hats, hero cards and a new die-cast will be added to the current bobble-head and the 2003 season Cornwell Tools die-cast. Date: 15th March 2004 For the Pennington's Jay's website www.topfuelpro.com.au gives all the details...
And this week's Australian Dragster on Motors TV is the TF/PSB edition from the WSID Summernationals - what a facility!!!
Ivan Sansom Date: 15th March 2004 Think yourselves lucky!!! I have net access and cannot download any entry forms from the APIRA site as they are not there yet (and only 6 weeks to the deadline for May). An email to the webmaster fell on deaf ears. GET THE SITE UP TO DATE NOW. This is what the internet is all about, instant access, up to the minute news etc. If you want to penny pinch by not providing a decent service, at least get the alternative working beforehand.
Entries have gone up, the 'facilities' will be the same, the space allocated to our bike class will be short by 10 spaces again so we will wake up on Saturday with 2 teams pitted on our groundsheet and we can't even enter in advance because the website is still in 2003.
John Roberts Date: 15th March 2004 Dave Beck dropped us a line to inform of how his race plans are shaping up. It looks like he will contest 3 ACU / UK Championship Rounds - Easter, June and August, and all the Prostar tour (subject to finance).
It does look, however, that a UEM event is not on the calendar due to lack of resource.
On a bright note, he mentions that the Pro Mod ran six second passes four times and remained healthy - watch this space for some 6.8 sec passes, coming soon.
Good luck Dave! Date: 14th March 2004 It seems that King Racing have managed to transcend the car / bike divide by having a picture of the bike featured in the
Xtreme Wheels article in the latest (April) edition of Custom Car Magazine...... Date: 14th March 2004 Hi everybody, what are your racing plans for this season?
The spring is coming only 6 feet of snow left in Norway...... We are planning to do all the most UEM Rounds inc Hockenheim, Mosten Race Day maybe Hockenheim depending on how the bike is, but now with a Dyna datalogger on board (sponsored by Ton Pels at Zodiac) and a new lock up clutch (sponsored by Bentec). Everything is going to be "easy"....... Let me hear about your plans!
Regards, Jan Egil - Jon Leret Racing
Gossip comment - I know that most of the TFB riders are not able to travel to Finland for cost reasons this year (inc. Roel and myself).
It seems that due to lack of finance we may have to concentrate solely on the British Championship, although we will race at Hockenheim and the two British Rounds of the European Championship. Oh and Mosten too...... Date: 14th March 2004 Thanks to Oz `Gold Miner in Greece' Greg Durack for sending us pictures of his Hahn Alcohol Injected Turbo Funnybike racing at
the Western Nationals, Quit Motorplex recently :-
Photos courtesy of Luke Nieuwhof
Date: 14th March 2004 We enjoyed the coverage on Motors TV of the Oz race coverage, and would urge everyone to write to them and tell them what a great idea it is to bring the sport from downunder.
Does anyone know why Jay Upton's amazing looking bike didn't leave the startline in the final? And whilst interviewed, Jay said that his bike is capable of 5's at over 250 mph and put's out approximately 1600 HP - wow!! That's
500 HP more than Larry McBrides, any plans for Jay to go the the US and race Larry??
Steve and Mandy Pennington Date: 14th March 2004 Re the comment that if a racer has not got access to the internet a friend can print forms off etc etc. Has anyone realized that if they haven't got access to the internet they won't have a clue as to what's going on??
Perhaps everyone should be informed by snail mail first?
Peter Bellenie Date: 14th March 2004 Thanks to Mosten Race Day’s Hans-Jørgen Hitz for providing us with the final field of riders who registered for start money. However, any other riders are welcome to enter the event and chase the substantial prize money on offer :-
Top Fuel Bike
Jon Leret - Norway
Super Twin
Stefan Junerud - Sweden
In addition to the Nitro classes, there are additional classes too :-
British Class - Restricted to pre 1988 British Bikes
Registration for the classes can be made on www.Titty-Twister-Racing.dk - reklame - preregistration
Date: 14th March 2004 DynoSpeed Development's Paul Watson has today reiterated the sponsorship deal announced last week for 9.90 bike :-
"Due to the new business doing well DYNOSPEED DEVELOPMENTS will be sponsoring 9.90 bike this year with a £50 DSD voucher for the winner. I wanted to put something back in to the class I love so much. Regarding my race plans, I am awaiting my all new 1640 UPPERTON engine to campaign for my last year of competative racing. With new paint by MATT at AIRSTREAM we should look good too!
Paul Watson - paul@dynospeed.co.uk Date: 14th March 2004 In response to someone wanting to buy Mosten Race Day, I received an e-mail from an agent in Taiwan asking to buy Dave Beck urgently .... I obviously agreed a price immediately, so I guess it's goodbye from Dave!
Stephen Moon
Gossip comment :-
Sell........... Date: 13th March 2004 Lizz McCarthy's pre season testing for the 10.90 class went well at Santa Pod last weekend, running an 11.2 on Ian Warren's 750 until
snow stopped her progress!! Date: 13th March 2004 Following the somewhat premature announcement made by SPRC in February regarding the status of the 2004 On2Wheels event, they have now confirmed that it will indeed not be a round of the ACU/UK National Championship for Super Street Bike. You can read the full story on
Eurodragster, including regulations for the event. Date: 13th March 2004 Santa Pod Racers Club Secretary Paula Marshall would like to remind racers that the official closing date for the Easter Thunderball is next Friday, 19th March.
"The additional late-entry fee will be incurred on entries received after next Friday", says Paula.
If you are waiting for your Entry Form to come through your post box as has happened previously then please note that as of this season, entry forms are now not sent out by the Clubs; in this instance they should be downloaded from the Entry Forms page of SPRC's web site at www.eurodragster.com/sprc. Racers without web access who cannot get a fellow racer or friend to download them should call Paula Marshall on 01933 313625.
Eurodragster has posted the current official Entry List for the Easter Thunderball. "This includes every entry which received up to the end of yesterday (Friday)", she says.
You can view the current Easter Thunderball entry at www.eurodragster.com/santapod/entrylists/2004easterthunderball.htm Date: 11th March 2004 Hans-Jørgen Hitz, organiser of the Mosten
Race Day mailed us today to pass on his thanks to us and all other
involved in making the response to this year's event the best ever.
Collaboration between King Racing and Top Fuel Bike rider Finn Asserbo in distributing entry forms
personally to the Top Fuel and Supertwin riders for the event over the last few years has built the event into one of the key dates on the biker calendar. Even last year's bad weather did not stop riders such as Sverre Dahl from
once again booking their places at this great event.
He was concerned that information posted elsewhere on the web may have given the
false impression that he believed this year's success of pre entries for the demo class was only due to one particular news item -
we forgive you Hans-Jørgen!
Date: 12th March 2004 Upon arriving at the Daventry workshops of racecar engine supremo and Top Fuel car
owner / crew chief Peter Knight today, we were surprised to see veteran Funnybike rider
Nigel Tee working on one of the Le Mans engines under rebuild.
Nigel, who has brought the skills learnt whilst working at Cosworth and on the Bentley works team at the Le Mans 24 hours to name but
two blue chip organisations, tells us that his fabulous new Funnybike is nearing completion and should see race action this year.
Sporting a huge turbo, and an EFI system from an Indy car, the Hayabusa engined bike will be the first of it's type outside of the USA. Date: 11th March 2004 UK Top Fuel Bike racer sent us this race report after returning from Gainesville where he recorded his first
six-second pass ever whilst qualifying for the AMA/Prostar MRE Nationals.
"Well, as I sit here in the office catching up on work missed while out
racing in Gainesville, it is just starting to dawn on me what we have
achieved and I'm really quite proud of our achivement as the work rate has
been quite intense. It all started last October on a whim
of mine when I called Jay Regan of MRE to get me a ride for the
AMA/Prostar Finals and after a little discussion it was decided it was
going to be cheaper to race the Fuel bike. So we were off to the Sunshine
State and after numerous phone calls to the people concerned to confirm
that this was going to be possible, the main being Malcolm Francis at Air
Sea Logistics as we had to get the bike there in a short time which we
did, thanks mate."
"At this time I had no idea what was to unfold regarding work rate or
cost. I just wanted another crack at the six and as you mostly know we
were troubled with blower drive problems and only made one clean pass
resulting in a 7.32, a whole tenth off our season's best but it had all
been done in a rush really. After the meeting I sat down and decided to
make some radical changes over the winter as I was not prepared to carry
on running like this and after consultation with the team I started the
mammoth spend. God, if only I'd left it at home I might have some cash
left now. We ordered the new nine-stage MTC clutch and cannon, new spare
block and pistons, new cylinder head, new clutch timer, and a new Racepak
computer all of which had to be made to fit while the bike was in the USA.
Now anyone who knows what fuel bikes are about knows just how big a task
this is and believe me there have been some stressful times I can tell
you."
" All of the bits were made, ordered and sorted by Jay at MRE and Tony at
MTC with the exception of the fuel timer. The new head was brought home at
Christmas and flowed by Roger Upperton in time for us to make the trip
back at the end of January to start the rebuild process or so we thought - everything we tried to do went backwards before it went forwards, but we
got things back on track. We measured the compression and found this
needed to be upped. We got the Racepak and MTC clutch part fitted and got
things sorted for our return in February for the race. Myself, Alan and
Jackie Cook, Andy Richards and the energiser bunny himself Mr Neil Midgley
all got there Saturday for the task in hand and after an evening at the
Rockaway Grill stocking up on shrimp and wings we got to work on Sunday
morning and worked solid on the bike for three whole days, rebuilding the
motor, fitting new blower and drive, new clutch and cannon, Racepak,
fabricate bracket and fit nose cone fairing, then design and plumb timer
system, fit the new Harrison billet brake and caliper. All this to do and
she was running by Tuesday evening with a small fuel leak and all that had
to be done was to change the battery, tidy things and load the bike in the
trailer for the track. We had done it with time to spare - or so we thought. We arrived at the
track for testing early on Friday morning. We got the bike out, fired it
up and to cut the story short spent all day and six gallons of fuel making
minor fuel changes and trying to find the leak, the result being a
dislodged power ring and pumping fuel up the cylinder studs on the hit of
the throttle. It looked like it was coming out of the low side jets or the
inlet rubbers so we lost a day's testing there and did not get finished
until late."
" The next day dawned and we sounded strong and were ready to
go. First round we were last to go against Larry McBride. Now, the team
wanted a single run but I wanted to run Larry so we were a bit rushed -
just what you should do after all that work with new everything and no
routine. I did my burnout with the revs through the roof and got staged
with no choking on the nitro and I felt good. I was quite keen to run -
that keen that I fullstaged before I turned the fuel over to high and
just waited for green. By this time I had forgotten who was beside me, as
I hit the throttle I thought "Way hey, this thing's moving a bit" and
rolled off slightly, got back in it straight away and rode through to the
end with every thing in one piece, to find we had run 6.98/193.
I could not believe it when Midgo told me. It was the feeling of relief
and achieving a goal all rolled in to one. It seemed like the whole pits
were watching as everywhere I walked there were congratulations from
everywhere which was fantastic. Getting back on the ground we still had
another run so Neil and Tony made some changes after servicing the bike,
and we ran 7.11 next round with a better sixty foot but lost a cylinder.
We then found that we had bad leak down and had to stay late to fit the
spare head once again. We were ready to race Sunday morning but after
qualifying sixth we had to run Doug Vancil on the Harley. I hit the
throttle with a .636 reaction which was my best for the weekend, but as
Doug had a .426 he was gone. We had set the clutch the wrong way and ran
our worst sixty foot of the weekend at 1.21 but ran our best speed of
195.10. I was very satisfied with our performance, I think the whole team
gained respect from our racing peers, and the bike is in one piece with
only routine maintainance to get the bike out again."
"The bike is now in the crate awaiting its journey back home, but that
will not be for some time as I am in the process of building my new
workshop at home for the bike and have a lot of work commitments as we are
moving to a new purpose-built unit around September, so I will not be
contesting many meetings this year and will be there as and when I can
afford the time."
"As for the the super crew, Mr Midgley you are truly a genius and your
energy and commitment are second to none whether riding your own bike or
working on my bike; Mr Cook your help, advice, work rate and enthusiasm
are fantastic; Jay Regan of MRE, well what can you say about the Big
Stinker, totally awesome. All of the credit has to go to you guys as this
would not have been possible without you, so for helping me to achieve a
goal I thank you most sincerely. The list of thanks does not stop there:
Tony and Gina Lang, Frank Brachtvogel, Andy Richards, Paul Beaumont, Roger
Upperton, Terry Gibbs, Malcolm Francis, Tom Perry, Rick Perry, George
Babor, Mike Marsh, Jackie Cook; and of course my sponsors International
CNC Machines Ltd, Harrison Billett Brakes, thank you all very much for
your much needed help and support and I dedicate the six to you all."
"Lastly we are not done, just merely taking stock of the situation to try
and get some testing done when possible as both Neil and Alan have their
own race commitments this year. Hopefully when I get sorted with work we
can come out and start to tune on what we have learnt since November,
start to chip away at the 6.98 and get some race laps under our belts.
Until then I will be supporting Neil in his quest for a third straight ACU
Funny Bike Championship, and with the new carb and turbo set-up look
forward to trying to reset the National record and trying to get into the
6.6s."
Regards, Cannon Date: 11th March 2004 It seems that the 2004 Speedfreaks Ball is shaping up nicely with Norwegian Supertwin rider
Ronny Aasen the latest confirmed addition to the Top Fuel Bike challenge ranks.
The up to date list of competitors are :-
Top Fuel Bike
Ian King
Nitro Supertwin
Ton Pels
We'll bring you the final two riders for each team when we have finalised the
agreements. Date: 11th March 2004 It seems that the internet scams we have highlighted recently are mushrooming out of control, with Rich Fielding informing us of another scare story.
We ene had a mial yesterday asking to buy our `Mosten Race Day'........! Seller beware! Date: 10th March 2004 Thanks Fred, decals will be available at the first meeting if anyone wants to run them.
Paul Watson - DSD
Date: 10th March 2004 Time to get your new pit-awning and helmets for both racing and pit bikes (I have some crackers!) sorted for this season!!! Not long now!
the ultimate drag racing resource.
Visit our shop at:-
TURBO VILLE
+44 (0) 115 940 1140 Date: 10th March 2004 Just in case you haven’t seen it, the current ‘Australian Dragster’ programme on Motors TV is the Top Bike/Top Doorslammer edition…
Ivan Sansom
Date: 10th March 2004 Well done Cannon on getting your six. I aim to get mine this season!
Steve Carey Date: 9th March 2004 Top Fuel and Supertwin Bikes are once again invited to the
Mosten Race Day in Denmark on 3rd-4th September 2004.
The organisers are offering 10000 Dk/kr in appearance money to the first five riders who register for the event.
It will be a one day race on the Saturday and racers are expected to run 2 -3 times on the day. The
event is a sprint over an eighth-mile; the track is six metres wide and
there is a four hundred metre shutdown area.
The prize fund is as follows:
1st place: 25000 dk/kr
For more details, or to register, contact Hans Jørgen
Hitz by E-Mail at Hansjorgen.Hitz@rougsoekom.dk, call
him on +45-23729703, email ian@kingracing.com
or submit a gossip item and we will send you an entry form.
More information will be posted on the event website at a later date www.mosten-mc.dk Date: 8th March 2004 Just a question really.... does any one know where my father could ride a motorcycle (preferably a Harley) round a track? he is 73, so roads are out of the question now, but he rode a lot in his younger days, its just his dream...you know.
Wendy Nice
E-mail:
pogleswood1@aol.com Date: 9th March 2004 Since we posted our dragbike for sale on the internet, we received an e-mail from Taiwan from somebody that wanted to buy our bike. The english sounded pretty good, so we mailed him back. This weekend we heard that the people that "buy" these goods are into some kind of scam. After asking their address etc. we have not heard anything from them anymore.
I hereby send you both mails, so more people can be warned!!
"HELLO, I am an auto dealer based in TAIWAN, i am interested in buying your(Top Fuel roller for sale) I will like to know if you would accept a certified cashier check for the payment of the, i also need to know the price and your full name and address including your phone isalso needed in which payment will be sent to. i have a shipping company who takes cares of my shippment. So don't bother about the shippment. I will also like to know if is still in good condition and shape. urgent response is needed for procedure of payment of the (Top Fuel roller for sale) WITH BEST REGARDS"
"Hello, thanks for the mail and the condition and the price is okay by me now i will now instruct my client who is owing the sum of (£7,000) and his ready to pay it out in cashier check to issue it to you and while you recieve the check of (£7,000) then you will deduct your own special amount and send the balance to my shipping agent company who will be coming to your location for the picking up so, plz am entrusting you with my remaining balance. if you are okay with this procedure i will like you to get back to me with your contact details of where the check will be send to like this,
Headline: `Real' Harley qualifies in Chicago?
Gossip:
Headline: Quickest Nitro Bikes list??
Gossip:
Ron Webb
USA 6.04 Gainesville Nov 2003
Roel Koedam NL
6.046 Santa Pod Sept 2003
Elmer Trett
USA 6.06 Prostar Indy 1996
Tony Lang
USA 6.08 Prostar Indy 1997
Brian Johnson GB
6.10 Prostar Gainsville 2002
Chris Hand USA
6.12
Peter Svensson SWE 6.14 Indy 1998
Sverre Dahl NO
6.147 Santa Pod Sept 2003
Jay Upton
AUS 6.192 Western Sydney 13 May 2004
Tommy Smith USA 6.193
Doug Vancil USA
6.282
Mark Conner USA 6.33
Charley Karling SWE 6.361 Santa Pod May 2002
Steve Stordeur USA 6.37 Norwalk, Ohio 2003
Headline: SCREAMIN’ EAGLE/VANCE & HINES TEAM STORMS TO FINALS
IN CHICAGO
Gossip:
Headline: Joey out for Main Event
Gossip:
Headline: For Sale!
Gossip:
Headline: Richard's Secret.........
Gossip:
Headline: FIA / UEM TV enhancements
Gossip:
Headline: Star Racing Buell hits Atlanta
Gossip:
Headline: Latest Derringer hits the track
Gossip:
Headline: Help!
Gossip:
Headline: Hale limps through Southern Nationals with wounded Indian
Gossip:
Headline: UEM main Event Entry List
Gossip:
ST3 Ronny Aasen Norway 166ci
ST4 Stefan Junerud Sweden Servex Nitro Twister 1950cc
ST6 Svein Gottenberg Norway 160ci
ST12 Anders Karling Sweden Harley 1850cc
ST22 Bernie Hepworth Huddersfield, UK Borg Bros Racing Malta 142ci
ST23 Joachim Riemer Germany Harley Cracker 2850cc
ST26 Jamie Millership Chesterfield, UK Classic Custom Southern Rock II 2600cc
ST35 Hans Olav Olstad Norway 2860cc
TF2 Joey Bon Netherlands Yamaha Wild Thing 1600cc
TF4 Antonio Ferretti Italy Suzuki Puma 1428cc
TF5 Jon Leret Norway 1407cc
TF7 Nils Ole Lund Norway Yamaha Excalibur 1400cc
TF9 Martyn de Haas Netherlands Kawasaki 1428cc
TF10 Steve Woollatt Garston, UK PBR Puma The Dealer 1327cc
TF15 Eric Teboul France
TF23 Gary Jones Selsey, UK Suzuki Katana 1428cc
TF24 Sandra Chaplain St Ives, UK CSMA Motoring & Leisure 1327cc
TF30 Tim Blakemore Downend, UK Kawasaki 1200cc
TF31 Neil Midgley Alresford, UK Suzuki GSX 1428cc
TF32 Shaun Branch Horspath, UK Suzuki GSX Special Branch 1428cc
TF39 Viep Bloemen Netherlands Kawasaki The Laughing Matter 1327cc
P2 Vesa Rautio Finland Suzuki GSXR 1640cc
P3 Chris Hope Keyingham, UK Suzuki Hayabusa Nimbus Motorsport 1500cc
P5 Richard Gipp Kings Lynn, UK Suzuki GSXR 1570cc
P8 Martin Bishop Wilmington, UK Suzuki 1570cc
P9 Helen Curran Feltham, UK Suzuki GSX 1640cc
P10 Herman Van Driel Netherlands Suzuki GSXR Blue Thunder 1500cc
P15 Michal Ponca Czechoslovakia Yamaha 1450cc
P17 Len Paget Totton, UK Suzuki Hayabusa White Lightning 1650cc
P19 Paul Watson Chigwell, UK Suzuki Hayabusa DSD Racing 1640cc
P21 Dave Beck Whitchurch, UK Suzuki 1500cc
P22 Martin Newbury Yaxley, UK Kawasaki Crew 22 1500cc
P34 Remo Nasci Italy Suzuki GSXR 1500cc
Headline: Santa Pod to advertise on TV
Gossip:
Headline: Nickelberry and Bolton Take 2
Gossip:
Find out more about Vance & Hines at <http://www.vanceandhines.com/>
Find out more about Dynatek at <http://www.dynaonline.com/english/index.htm>
Find out more about RC Components at
<http://www.rccomponents.com/>
Find out more about Robinson Transmissions at <http://www.robinsonindustriesinc.com/>
Find out more about Glen and Tommy at <http://www.funnybikes.com/profile_nickelberry.htm>
Find out more about AMA/Prostar at <http://www.amaprostar.com/>
Find out more about the PMRA at <http://www.pmra.net/>
Headline: ET Brackets?
Gossip:
Headline: 10.90 / 10.50
Gossip:
Headline: Venerable performer for sale
Gossip:
Headline: ACU / UK Championship points posted
Gossip:
Headline: Koedam Racing Speedfreaks report
Gossip:
Headline: WSID Nitro Nationals Top Bike surprise
Gossip:
Headline: ET Bracket vs Index?
Gossip:
Headline: Upton's qualifiers
Gossip:
Headline: The thin blue line......
Gossip:
Headline: 10.90 / 10.50?
Gossip:
Headline: Blue line
Gossip:
Headline: Upton's 6.19 video clip
Gossip:
Headline: Gary Campbell
Gossip:
Headline: Judgement?
Gossip:
Headline: New TV production for FIA/UEM Series
Gossip:
Headline: Upton raises the bar!
Gossip:
Humidity - 48%
Abs. Barometric Pressure - 29.04
Track Temp - 17 deg. Celsius, 62.6 deg. Fahrenheit
Reaction - .633
60 Foot - 1.074
330 Foot - 2.765
660 Foot ET - 4.075
660 Foot Speed - 189.87 mph, 305.56 kmh
1000 Foot - 5.205
1320 Foot ET - 6.193
1320 Foot Speed - 219.86 mph, 353.82 kmh
Ron Webb USA 6.04
Roel Koedam NL 6.046
Elmer Trett USA 6.06
Tony Lang USA 6.08
Brian Johnson GB 6.10
Chris Hand USA 6.12
Peter Svensson SWE 6.14
Sverre Dahl NO 6.147
Jay Upton AUS 6.192
Tommy Smith USA 6.193
Doug Vancil USA 6.282
Mark Conner USA 6.33
Charley Karling SWE 6.361
Steve Stordeur USA 6.37
Headline: Upton runs a 6.19!
Gossip:
Headline: Veidec Gardermoen tests
Gossip:
Headline: ACU / UK Latest points
Gossip:
2) Steve Carey – 430
3) Antonio Ferretti – 110
2) Paul Knapp – 640
3) Dave Bailey – 500
2) Richard Gipp – 550
3) Dave Beck – 510
2) Vaughan Foster – 650
3) Philip Leamon – 570
2) Mark Fisher – 730
3) Steve Venables - 710
Headline: A fine vintage, I'm sure.........
Gossip:
Headline: Main Event notes
Gossip:
Headline: King Racing in the Daily Express
Gossip:
Headline: South Africa gets new dragstrip
Gossip:
Headline: MPS update
Gossip:
Headline: Pro qualifying?
Gossip:
Headline: REMINDER TO ALL RACERS!
Gossip:
Headline: Wanted!
Gossip:
Headline: Better than a Dyson?
Gossip:
Headline: Manor racing report
Gossip:
Headline: Speedfreaks!
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Registration fee
Gossip:
Jamie Millership, UK
Martyn de Haas, The Netherlands
Gary Jones, UK
Sandra Chaplain, UK
Tim Blakemore, UK
Neil Midgley, UK
Viep Bloemen, The Netherlands
Headline: Speedfreaks are go!
Gossip:
Headline: Larry sets new mark
Gossip:
Headline: Big CC, Big HP!
Gossip:
Headline: Criminal justice??
Gossip:
Headline: Paging Dutch Barry
Gossip:
Headline: King on Top Dog........
Gossip:
Headline: It's all go in Veidec!
Gossip:
Headline: King at low point?
Gossip:
Headline: Dave Beck / MRE Race Report – Richmond
Gossip:
Headline: Trading Places??
Gossip:
Headline: Sansoms Excitement Nationals
Picture Review
Gossip:
even this didn't go according to plan as a number of re-runs were held thanks to the timing system deciding it was also cold, wet and
miserable and chucking out random double reds at a infuriatingly
regular intervals.
Headline: Ivan's Secret........
Gossip:
Headline: Prostar Richmond round up
Gossip:
Pro Mod - Bernard Johnson vs Charlie Farrar
Pro Stock - Todd Doege vs Steve Johnson
Streetbike Shootout - Kent Stotz versus Rickey Gadson
Headline: Cookie on Monster Garage!
Gossip:
Headline: Paul Watson
misses SCR
Gossip:
Headline: Prostar Richmond qualifying
Gossip:
Funnybike - Korry Hogan, 6.626 @ 202.85
Pro Mod - Charlie Farrar, 6.719 @ 201
ProStock - Final positions delayed due to rain.
Headline: Beck lights up Virginia!
Gossip:
Headline: UEM qualifying
Gossip:
Headline: New UEM Entries
Gossip:
Headline: UEM PSB entries
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Nitro entries
Gossip:
Headline: Paul Giddings
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Licenses
Gossip:
Headline: Bentec Engineering remains in the Super Twin Championship
Gossip:
Headline: UEM medical decision explained?
Gossip:
Headline: Cannon photo of the week!
Gossip:
Headline:
Gossip: All-Harley dragracing for everyone at this years European SuperRally
Headline: Damn!
Gossip:
Headline: Team Lummus Making Big Power in 04
Gossip:
www.redlineoil.com
www.sscycle.com
www.ahdra.com
Headline: UEM Medicals
Gossip:
Headline: Svein's new Nitro Harley
Gossip:
Headline: Paul Giddings
Gossip:
Finance Dept
Community Council of Shropshire
1 College Hill
Shrewsbury
Shropshire, SY1 1LT
Direct Tel 01743 237870
Headline: Sought sensor supplied
Gossip:
Headline: Zodiac's new clothes!
Gossip:
Headline: Pressure sensor wanted!!
Gossip:
Headline: Excitement Nationals
Gossip:
Headline: Bill on the loose........
Gossip:
Headline: Jay to test CBD injector hat
Gossip:
Headline: Composite Race Technology support Beck
Gossip:
Headline: Blakemores ZX12 debut
Gossip:
Headline: Euro bikes on US TV
Gossip:
Headline: Per takes a rest
Gossip:
Headline: Nickelberry and Bolton Take Atlanta
Gossip:
Find out more about Vance & Hines at
www.vanceandhines.com
Find out more about Dynatek at
www.dynaonline.com/english/index.htm
Find out more about Robinson Transmissions at www.robinsonindustriesinc.com
Find out more about Glen and Tommy at
www.funnybikes.com/profile_nickelberry.htm
Find out more about the AMA/Prostar at
www.amaprostar.com
Headline: Paranoid Racing Press Release
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Medicals
Gossip:
Headline: GET THEM IN!!!!
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Headline: Plonka!
Gossip:
Headline: Hired Gun Racing Team Report
Gossip:
Headline: Didd alert!
Gossip:
Headline: Dave on Men and Motors
Gossip:
Headline: Excuses, excuses.........
Gossip:
Headline: Sarah Jane mending more!
Gossip:
Headline: Dance record?
Gossip:
Headline: ACU Points updated
Gossip:
Headline: Check out TopNitro.co.uk
Gossip:
Headline: Asko at Finland UEM
Gossip:
Headline: Stedman into the 9's!
Gossip:
Headline: Thunder Eagle Team is Tested in Texas
Gossip:
Headline: Department of apologies.......
Gossip:
Headline: Stoffer wins NHRA PSB
Gossip:
Headline: Furr crashes
Gossip:
Headline: Koedam Racing 2004 season preview
Gossip:
May 28-31 “Main Event” (FIM championship round #1) Santa Pod (GB)
June 11-13 “Fast & Furious” (Dutch round #1) Drachten (NL)
July 2-4 “Nitro Nationals” (FIM championship round #2) Alastaro (SF)
July 9-11 “Internationals” (Dutch round #2) Drachten (NL)
July 29- August 1 “Veidec Int’nals” (FIM championship round #3) Mantorp Park (S)
August 6-8 “Drag Challenge” (FIM championship round #4) Gardermoen (N)
August 20-22 “NitrolympX” (FIM championship round #5) Hockenheim (GER)
August 27-29 “Dutch Finals” (Dutch round #3) Drachten (NL)
September 9-12 “European Finals” (FIM championship round #6) Santa Pod (GB)
November 5-7 “Prostar AMA World Finals” Gainesville (USA)
Headline: Feel and see
Gossip:
Headline: Posh and
Becks??
Gossip:
Headline: Aasen about?
Gossip:
Headline: Composite Race Technology invests further
Gossip:
Headline: The `Steve Woollatt Collection'
Gossip:
Headline: Racepak contingency winners!
Gossip:
Headline: Sarah Jane on the mend
Gossip:
Headline: Only 15 days to go!!
Gossip:
Headline: King out, Carey in
Gossip:
Headline: Baldie's Gun III on schedule
Gossip:
Headline: Collis in for McBride
Gossip:
Headline: Message from the McClures
Gossip:
3707 Rochambeau Dr.
Williamsburg, Va. 23188
Tel +1 -757-566-0544
Headline: Rising Star Helen Curran!
Gossip:
Headline: Get well soon Sarah Jane!
Gossip:
Headline: Get well soon Sarah Jane!
Gossip:
Headline: Sarah Jane update
Gossip:
Headline: Keep it on!
Gossip:
Headline: Get well soon!
Gossip:
Headline: Sweary Jane!
Gossip:
Headline: Congrats and get well soon Sarah Jane
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Entry Fees
Gossip:
Headline: We're back!
Gossip:
Headline: Going racing?
Gossip:
Headline: Cara quits Prostar?
Gossip:
Headline: Star retort.
Gossip:
Headline: Shooting Star?
Gossip:
Headline: Kawasaki Comp/ bracket/
Super-street rolling chassis for
sale
Gossip:
Headline: King on the box
Gossip:
Headline: Tyre heating?
Gossip:
Headline: MPS update
Gossip:
Headline: MPM renews with Joey Bon racing
Gossip:
Headline: We're back!
Gossip:
Headline: `Da Judge' passes
Gossip:
Headline: Forum down
Gossip:
Headline: Venables prepares
Gossip:
Headline: Hired Gun Racing Team Report
Gossip:
Headline: Wanna have fun?
Gossip:
BAGGY'S HOG SHOP
308 CARLTON HILL
CARLTON
NOTTINGHAM NG4 1GD
Headline: Dragonslayer in NHRA PSB
Gossip:
Add new 10th sentence "Maximum allowable cylinder offset for Harley-Davidson engine and the NHRA-accepted American pushrod V-twin engine is one inch."
Headline: HeadMaster's sale!
Gossip:
GSX1100 lock-up clutch £200-00
Wiseco 1216 kit for Bandit 1200/GSXR1100 £350-00
Wiseco 1245 kit for same £350-00
Cosworth 1260 kit for GS1150 14-1 comp £350-00
Cosworth 1170 kit for GPZ1100 81-82 £300-00
Cosworth 1170 kit for GPZ1100 83-84 £300-00
Nitrous kit 4cyl £450-00 Mikuni 38 flatslides £450-00
M/T 15" pro-stock tyre (fresh March 1st) £145-00
M/T 7 x 17 slick £120-00 Mikuni 36 flatslides (used) £325-00
Mikuni 40 flatslides (used) £325-00
GSXR1100H big valve head complete with 390 lift cams (used) £600-00
Headline: Italian Drag series
Gossip:
Headline: New entry forms posted
Gossip:
Headline: Thunderball News
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Entry fee
Gossip:
Headline: APIRA Treasurer removed from post
Gossip:
Headline: Junior Top Fuel rider?
Gossip:
Headline: Track Prepped for Test & Tune This Weekend
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Entry forms posted
Gossip:
Headline: Prostock pussies - stop bickering!
Gossip:
Headline: Beck Announces Two Bike Team
Gossip:
Headline: Model mania!
Gossip:
Scotty Cannon Sleep Tight 1/16..............£189-00
Scotty Cannon Elite Forces 1/16..............£189-00
Scotty Cannon Mad Science 1/16..............£189-00
Whit Blazemore Iron Eagle 1/16..............£189-00
John Force 3 Stooges 1/16..............£149-00
John Force 11x world champ 1/16..............£149-00
John Force Space Shuttle 1/16..............£149-00
Tony Pedregon Castrol X 1/16..............£120-00
Doug Vancil nitro Harley 1/9..............£189-00
GT Tonglet V-Rod 1/9..............£49-00
Doug Kalitta 24k Gold Plated 1/24 special Rail..............£89-00
Don Schumacher's Stardust (Dave Stones car in UK) 1/24..............£79-00
John Force King of the Hill clear body 1/24..............£69-00
Dave Shultz memorial Hyabusa pro-stock 1/9...........£64-00
Antron Brown pro-stock, with rider in case................£64-00
BAGGY'S HOG SHOP
308 CARLTON HILL
CARLTON
NOTTINGHAM
NG4 1GD
UK
+44 (0) 115 940 1140 
Headline: Dream on.......!
Gossip:
Headline: Eric get's set!
Gossip:
Headline: I'm fastest!!
Gossip:
Headline: Not the quickest!
Gossip:
Headline: Quickest?
Gossip:
Headline: Oh-No Geno!!
Gossip:
Headline: Fairing sought
Gossip:
Headline: WRE Rain Out
Gossip:
Headline: Hale bitten by electrical gremlins at NHRA POWERade
Gatornationals.
Gossip:
Headline: SOUTH AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS AIR ON RACE WORLD
Gossip:
Headline: Sentimental?
Gossip:
Headline: Phone home........
Gossip:
Headline: Race Mace?
Gossip:
Headline: Rich's new ride
Gossip:
Headline: Oz TV
Gossip:
Headline: Guy Fawkes?
Gossip:
Headline: Bargain Mickey Thompsons
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA PSB
Gossip:
Headline: Five round ACU Top Fuel Bike Championship for 2004
Gossip:
1st - 3rd May
Excitement Nationals Shakespeare County Raceway
12th - 13th June Power Nationals
Shakespeare County Raceway
28th - 30th August All-Star Nationals
Shakespeare County Raceway
2nd - 3rd October UK National Finals
Santa Pod Raceway
Headline: Not the Italian Job!
Gossip:
Headline: Andy swinging the lead?
Gossip:
Headline: Thunderball entry list
Gossip:
Headline: Team Krol Top Fuel Bike
Gossip:
Headline: Harley `The Real Thing'?
Gossip:
Headline: O'Brien unveils
Gossip:
Headline: Dave's new colours
Gossip:
Headline: Angelle's tyresome qualifiers
Gossip:
Headline: Missed point?
Gossip:
Headline: Historic win for Harley-Davidson
Gossip:
1
Andrew Hines
(.049) 7.051-190.83
16
Josh Helvie
(.032) 7.285-186.37
Andrew Hines
(.031) 7.156-189.15
Joe DeSantis
(.256) 7.318-180.32
Andrew Hines
(.077) 7.118-188.63
Karen Stoffer
(.077) 7.315-178.00
Andrew Hines
(.055) 7.076-189.83
GT Tonglet
(.045) 7.161-182.96
8
Angie McBride
(.083) 7.217-183.33
9
Joe DeSantis
(.019) 7.277-185.37
4
Karen Stoffer
(.034) 7.172-186.87
13
Angelle Savoie
(.076) 7.165-185.68
Karen Stoffer
(.008) 7.207-184.19
Steve Johnson
(.018) 7.240-186.33
5
Shawn Gann
(.058) 7.172-188.52
12
Steve Johnson
(.029) 7.188-187.89
2
Geno Scali
(.098) 7.094-189.63
15
Michael Phillips
(.016) 7.251-185.87
Geno Scali
(.007) 7.175-188.16
Mike Berry
(.033) 7.254-184.31
Geno Scali
(.057) 7.140-188.87
GT Tonglet
(.065) 7.119-187.93
7
Mike Berry
(.028) 7.232-188.87
10
Craig Treble
(.020) 7.249-184.50
3
GT Tonglet
(.085) 7.092-189.87
14
Chris Bostick
(.038) 7.298-182.03
GT Tonglet
(.045) 7.085-190.27
Antron Brown
(.022) 7.264-183.48
6
Antron Brown
(.005) 7.258-184.91
11
Chip Hunter
(.093) 7.360-184.91
Headline: Harleys qualify 1 and 3
Gossip:
Vance and Hines are clearly stepping up taking 2 of the top 3 qualifying
positions after 4 rounds of qualifying in Pro Stock Bike at the NHRA POWERade
Drag Racing Series, 35th annual MAC Tools NHRA Gatornationals:
Psn Rider Vehicle ET Speed
1. Andrew Hines Screamin' Eagle Harley 7.097 189.43
2. Geno Scali Trim-Tex Suzuki 7.104 192.80
3. GT Tonglet Screamin' Eagle Harley 7.141 188.16
4. Karen Stoffer Jonco Motorsports Suzuki 7.173 187.11
5. Shawn Gann MAC Tools Suzuki 7.182 187.34
6. Antron Brown US Army Suzuki 7.186 190.07
7. Mike Berry MB Precision Suzuki 7.198 190.51
8. Angie McBride G Sqaured Motorsports Suzuki 7.217 182.29
9. Joe DeSantis Alamo City H-D Suzuki 7.218 187.93
10. Craig Treble Matco Tools Suzuki 7.221 186.64
11. Chip Hunter Lucas Oil/Team Tigue Suzuki 7.222 186.72
12. Steve Johnson K&N High Flow Filters Suzuki 7.241 185.64
13. Angelle Savoie US Army Suzuki 7.249 184.53
14. Chris Bostick Greenway Dodge Chrysler Jeep S 7.252 183.37
15. Michael Phillips Phillips Racing Suzuki 7.268 183.78
16. Josh Helvie Lake Mortgage Kawasaki 7.280 184.80
--------- Not Qualified ---------
17. Matthew Smith Red Line Oil Suzuki 7.285 184.80
18. Lloyd Straus Gotham City Racing Suzuki 7.289 183.18
19. Hector Arana Lucas Oil Suzuki 7.322 187.73
20. Kurt Matte VRoom Racing Suzuki 7.329 183.74
21. Blaine Hale Cornwell Tools Suzuki 7.331 182.14
22. Connie Cohen Yankee Harley Davidson Suzuki 7.341 177.20
23. Fred Camarena Embee Performance Suzuki 7.359 178.92
24. Tommy Grimes Jr Suzuki 7.424 177.51
25. Brian DeLong Suzuki 7.455 181.45
26. Michael Lozano Alamo City H-D Harley 7.461 174.31
27. Thomas Byrd Jr T & A Enterprise Suzuki 7.466 176.36
28. Wesley Wells Ray Skillman Performance Parts 7.484 173.27
29. Jason Sullivan Suzuki 7.681 176.29
30. Redell Harris P Miller/Clothing/Mater P Suzu 7.702 159.54
31. Bruce Dickson Daniel May Machine Kawasaki 8.443 157.61
Headline: Modena cancelled
Gossip:
Headline: Grateful?
Gossip:
Headline: Gators Friday report
Gossip:
Headline: AMA/Prostar: Pro Mod Safety Rules Revision
Gossip:
Headline: Bikefest!
Gossip:
Headline: U.S. Army Pro Stock Bike riders ready for boot camp
Gossip:
Headline: Pay your Pal BJ
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Medicals
Gossip:
Headline: ACU Championship Prize Monies
Gossip:
Headline: Retribution?
Gossip:
Headline: The Dealer at Bikes of Brighton
Gossip:
Headline: Scam!
Gossip:
Headline: Starter wanted?
Gossip:
Headline: Dragmasters Defend Florida!
Gossip:
Headline: Thunder Eagle Racing 2004 Schedule
Gossip:
April 15-18 O’Reilly Springnationals Houston, TX
May 20-23 Lucas Oil Route 66 Nationals Joliet, IL
June 25-27 Sears Craftsman Nationals St. Louis, MO
July 16-18 Mopar Mile High Nationals Denver, CO
August 12-15 Lucas Oil Nationals Brainerd, MN
September 1-6 Mac Tools US Nationals Indianapolis, IN
September 16-19 Lucas Oil Nationals Reading, PA
October 28-31 AC Delco Las Vegas Nationals Las Vegas, NV
November 11-14 Automobile Club NHRA Finals Pomona, CA
Find out more about Bradford’s team at www.thundereagleracing.com
Find out more about the NHRA at www.nhra.com
Headline: Hale ready to make full assault on the 2004 POWERade Pro
Bike title.
Gossip:
Headline: Oz Bikes
Gossip:
Headline: Lucky?
Gossip:
Headline: Dave Beck Racing
Gossip:
Headline: Top Fuel Bike in Custom Car?
Gossip:
Headline: Fuel Bikers - what are you up to?
Gossip:
Headline: Greg downunda
Gossip:
Headline: Oz race coverage
Gossip:
Headline: Entry forms for SPRC events
Gossip:
Headline: Mosten Race Day latest
Gossip:
Finn Asserbo - Denmark
Sverre Dahl - Norway
Ian King - England
Peter Ström - Sweden
Eric Teboul - France
Svein Olaf Rolfstad - Norway
Vidar Ravensborg - Norway
Svein Gottenberg - Norway
Anders Charley Karling - Sweden
Ronny Aasen - Norway
Carsten Andersson - Sweden
Harley Class - Restricted to Harley’s under 1450cc
Harley Drag Class - International rules
Open Drag Class - Any bikes meeting safety rules
Open Class - For general Streetbikes including modern British bikes.
Headline: Grumpy's plans
Gossip:
Headline: Useful Scammers?
Gossip:
Headline: Snow Queen?
Gossip:
Headline: On 2 Wheels
Gossip:
Headline: Thunderball entry closing soon
Gossip:
Headline: Thanks from Mosten!
Gossip:
Headline: Nigel Tee's it up!
Gossip:
Headline: Cannon's race report
Gossip:
Headline: Speedfreaks Ball shaping up!
Gossip:
Roel Koedam
Steve Woollatt
Rob Van Geffen
Ronny Aasen
Headline: Scammers multiply
Gossip:
Headline: DSD Decals
Gossip:
Headline: Get your orders in!
Gossip:
BAGGY'S HOG SHOP
308 CARLTON HILL
CARLTON
NOTTINGHAM NG4 1GD
Headline: Oz Top Bike on TV
Gossip:
Headline: Well done Cannon!
Gossip:
Headline: Mosten Fuel Bike Invitational
Gossip:
2nd place: 15000 dk/kr
3rd place: 10000 dk/kr
Headline: Harley ride?
Gossip:
Headline: Scam!
Gossip:
Joey Bon
Date: 9th March 2004 Its nice to hear someone is interested enough in 9.90 bike to offer £50 vouchers to the winner of each round. Might I suggest we help DSD by putting their decals on participating bikes?
Fred Furlong 9.90 Bike Date: 9th March 2004 Mickey Thompson have signed a contingency sponsorship deal for this year's UK National Championship at Santa Pod and Shakespeare County Raceways.
£50 will be awarded will be awarded to the winner and £25 to the runner-up in Super Modified, Super Gas and Super Street Bike starting at the Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod Raceway in April. To collect the prize money, racers must be using Mickey Thompson tyres and carry MT decals which will be available at both tracks together with full terms and conditions of the sponsorship deal.
"This contingency sponsorship programme was the result of a lot of hard work by Julian Baldwin, Roger Everson and Jerry Francis of Avon Cooper Tyres Ltd and Mickey Thompson", says Lee Child of LA Performance Services, who promote events at Shakespeare County Raceway. "This is the first joint sponsorship deal between Santa Pod Raceway and LA Performance Services for Shakespeare County Raceway, and Caroline Day of Santa Pod Raceway and I will be continuing to work together on sponsorship ventures."
For more information on the Mickey Thompson contingency sponsorship programme for the UK National
Championship call Lee Child at LA Performance Services on 01803 554308. Sent by Eurodragster Date: 8th March 2004 Despite the fact that three Nitro Harleys made the semi finals of Top
Fuel Bike, Larry McBride defended the honour of the blown fours with a 6.026 @ 238.41 win over Doug Vancil’s game 6.502 @ 208.38
Larry was joined by Korry Hogan in defending the four cylinder machine’s honour in
Funnybike when his Suzuki took the honours with a 6.942 @ 200.89 over Mark Conner’s (consistent until the final) Nitro Harley’s troubled 9.780 @ 102.24
In Prostock Bike Star Racing’s new but controversial signing proved she was much more than just a pretty face when she progressed to the semi finals where she run a 7.188 @ 185.83 only to be beaten by slower 7.205 @ 185.32 by veteran Steve Johnson’s stunning reaction of .009 over her `good’ .046.
Steve Johnson’s winning streak continued in the final where his 7.167 @ 186.56 took out a redlighting Geno Scali’s 7.183 @ 188.60
Pro Mod saw Charlie Farrar’s 2003 form continue in the new season with a 6.832 @ 193.84 win over Steve Smithers 6.968 @ 191.81.
The Streetbike Shootout Class saw Mike Slowe’s stunning 7.47 @ 194 number one qualifier performance propel him to the event honours with a 7.514 @ 193.59 win over Bud Yoders 8.050 @ 183.22 – on streetyres and no bars!
Date: 8th March 2004 Looks like Richard Gipp got some new boots at the Xtreme Wheels show, or maybe it's his new crew now that Mr Tombleson walks with a limp.........!
Cindy Butler
Date: 8th March 2004 Unfortunately, both Chris Hannam and Dave Beck failed to overcome their first round opponents at the Prostar event in Gainesville this weekend.
Cannon, who ran his first ever six in qualifying, found his 7.145 @ 195.1 was not enough to overcome nitro Harley
mounted Doug Vancil who posted a 6.533 @ 213.52. It seems Vancil left the big man on the line after a surprisingly tardy .268 reaction from Chris.......
Despite carding a game 6.974 @ 186.76, Dave Beck found it was not quite enough to beat Bernard Johnsons 6.939 @ 192.71 in Pro Mod.
As reported earlier, gremlins with Dave Holland's newly reconfigured alcohol turbo funnybike combination prevented him qualifying for the show. Date: 7th March 2004 Well its 12.45am here in the USA and we have just come in from the ale house after a few deserved beers after not leaving the track until after 10.30 pm. We had to change the cylinder head as we had big leak down on all cylinders. Our 2nd pass of 7.11 @ 192 was OK but there was rider error to say the least. However, this was still respectable as even Ron Webb is only 1st alternate. The maintenance has been so hard that even Mr Lang himself was seen to be getting his hands dirty, we have had several jetting problems and when we were running on three cylinders Mrs Lang put her head out of the motorhome window to inform husband Tony that number two cylinder was not firing, this was quickly corrected and we made the pass. We now have the hard task of running against Doug Vancil on the Harley and as yet do not have a healthy motor. But it is running and the fuel system will have to be gone through to hopefully give us a fighting chance.
Finally, the team has worked very very hard for me to achieve this goal and this would not have been possible without their help and enthusiasm. Right we're off to bed to try and get some rest for race day and do the best we can and a full report will follow on my return.
Once again thanks to all concerned who helped make this happen.
Regards, Cannon Date: 7th March 2004 We'd like to thank King Racing crew chief Michael Beaumont
for this brief race report posted just before he was dragged kicking and screaming to the Cabot happy hour :-
"Rain stopped play just after the second session. Cannon backed up his 6.98 with a 7.11. Dave Holland broke his new bike big time on friday, and Ken worked hard all evening and today to get
it back together only for it to die on the launch.
One of the streetbike shootout machines ran an astounding 7.47 @ 194mph and Tom Perry ran 210 mph on his
Funnybike!" Date: 7th March 2004 I was in town the other day lookin to buy a new pair of riggers, when who should I see but a former racer buying a job lot of right foot shoes and trainers! When questioned he said "I've worn all the toes out on my others kicking tyres all year!"..........
Richard Gipp Date: 6th March 2004 We just had a call from Cannon who informs us that he's run his first six at Gainesville -
6.98 @ 193 mph to put him in 5th position - well done team! Date: 6th March 2004 Ian Marshall of Webster Race Engineering has let us know that Mickey Thompson have reduced the price of their MCR2 SBS tyre from £136.92 + VAT down to £117.92 + VAT, seemingly to counteract the move for riders to import the tyres themselves due to the good dollar rate for sterling.
The tyres can be ordered from WRE. Contact e mail - jw@w-r-e.com or telephone
01933 315236 Date: 5th March 2004 Ian, just to let you know that not only has Pete Davies arrived in the hi tech world of email and web access but also reaches the grand old age of 60 this Sunday.
Allan Davies.
Gossip comment :
Thanks for the heads up on the old 'un Allan. I'm sure all our readers from across the world would like to join us in wishing Pete a very happy birthday for Sunday, and many more of them to come! Hope he's not thinking of retiring just yet, we need our Top Fuel parts.......... Date: 5th March 2004 Well here’s our 1st update as the big stinker’s pc has been offline and as such we have been out of touch with the normal world.
After much hard work the bike is now fired and at the track complete with the new 9 stage MTC clutch, Racepak computer (that worked perfectly 1st time) and the engine has had a full top end rebuild with more compression and a new blower and drive fitted to hopefully combat the problems of last November, and Professor Midgley has designed a state of the art clutch release to run with the Van Geffen timer system.
In the absence of Frank Brachtvogel it is hoped thatTony Lang will put in a better clutch setup than Ken Cooper did in Dave Holland’s new turbo alcohol Funnybike as rumour has it he has just removed Gainsvilles 1/8 mile timing lights in testing……… However, I’m sure there’s good things to come from the Gary Clark designed machine and if it goes as good as it looks it will be a contender no probs.
Well that’s it for now as I’m sat here typing in the Cabot Lodge waiting for the free bar to open as the Gainesville track personnel have decided not to let anyone in until 9am in the morning.
I will however try to update as much as possible if there’s anything worth telling.
Regards, Cannon
Date: 4th March It is with great delight that we bring you the news that the maestro of Top Fuel bike engines, and manufacturer of the fastest dragbike engine the world has ever seen has now succumbed to the electronic age and got on line. Yes, Pete `who needs CAD?' Davis of Puma Engineering has internet access and an email address. Pete has written to us with information on current projects and with interesting information for those interested in Joey Bon's bike sale :-
"I see with interest that Joey Bon's bike is for sale. If you're thinking of buying it I have a variety of crank and cases which will fit the bike. Through various projects I have Yamaha XS1100 and FJ1200, Suzuki and Kawasaki parts that will all fit.
It reminds me that Mark Pemble raced this bike in the early 90's - I'm currently working with him at the moment on V8's made using two FZR Yamaha top ends. We've built five so far to fit into light kit cars and with 320bhp on stock carbs the really move!
The other project that I've got underway is a mountain motor for the funnybike class. Based on the FJ1200 stud layout it's 90 x 90 giving 2400cc capacity. By juggling crankcase height and rod length it doesn't have any liner spigots and will have plated bores or a lightweight cast iron barrel - cheap to replace and transfers the heat better than a composite one.
Please drop me a line if you have any comments, and best of luck for the lads at Gainesville."
Pete Davies - Puma Engineering
pete.daviespuma@btinternet.com
tel: + 44 1788 822849 (UK) Date: 4th March 2004 We dropped into the busy workshops of Rob van Geffen yesterday and saw a 4 cylinder jewel amongst the V twins - Eric Teboul's Top Fuel Bike.
Rob is currently in the process of fitting a brand new Vortex head procured from Larry McBride on the French fueller, but it has not been without `problems'. Due to the valve angle of the head the cam cover now fouls on the top frame tube, necessitating modification. In addition, new exhaust pipes and a blower manifold are underway. Due to the head configuration the cylinder barrels have also needed to be reversed, resulting in work to resite the cam chain tensioner.
I hope Eric's famous wallet is healthy............
Eric plans on debuting the new configuration at the UEM opener at Santa Pod in May, after riding the peroxide rocket bike at the Easter meet at the same venue. Date: 3rd March 2004 Monique Pels informs us that Zodiac Racing's new rolling chassis is now up on its wheels and that pictures can be seen on the News page at http://www.zodiacracing.com.
"The chassis will go to Theo van den Berg's 'Polyester Racing Parts' this coming Friday for the necessary adjustments to the bodywork", says Monique.
In the meantime, Ton and Vincent plan to start working on the engines, building a new primary engine and refreshing and updating the spare. Date: 3rd March 2004 Never mind Prostar, the real season opener is well underway at Gainesville right now and looking HOT!!!!
http://www.ahdra.com/liveupdate.html
So far ten of the bikes in AHDRA top fuel are in the sixes and the total entry field is awesome in all classes. Eliminations start today and there is a live sound broadcast tonight at 9-30 gmt onwards from the AHDRA.COM site.
http://WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM - the ultimate drag racing resource.
Visit our shop at:-
TURBO VILLE, BAGGY'S HOG SHOP, 308 CARLTON HILL, CARLTON, NOTTINGHAM NG4 1GD
+44 (0) 115 940 1140 Date: 3rd March 2004 It looks like Chris Hand and the Redneck Express Top Fuel Bike team will be short handed at this weekend's Prostar season opener in Gainesville, Florida.
Crewman (and Gainesville Ale House chief beer tester) Steve has been poached for Jim Head's NHRA Top Fuel team. Although a wrench for the popular Prostar regular, the offer was just too good to refuse.
Good luck from all of us at King Racing in your new career - but don't forget that Long Island you still owe me....... ! Date: 3rd March 2004 LA Performance Services have announced the addition of a new sponsor and the renewal of another sponsorship for this year's Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship at Shakespeare County Raceway.
"I am very pleased to welcome Power Race Graphics as a sponsor of the 2004 Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship", says LA Performance Services' Lee Child, who is one of Eurodragster's Link sponsors through his company LA Racing Parts. "Racers and fans will be familiar with Darren West's work on designing such cars as the Shockwave and Houndog Fuel Funny Cars and Gordon Appleton's Pro Mod, and I am pleased to be associated with such a professional company."
Power Race Graphics provide a complete graphics service from the design of paint schemes for race vehicles to a cut-vinyl race number. PRG will be selling their products at Shakespeare County Raceway this season, or can be contacted on 01305 854895 or E-Mail powergrfx@dw1320.fsnet.co.uk.
Gleeson Wright Security Services have renewed their contingency sponsorship of the Ultimate Power series. The Waltham Abbey-based company are posting £50 for the winner of Super Street and £25 for the runner-up, and will also be posting a bonus of £25 for the first Super Street racer to post a perfect 10.900 in eliminations.
"I am also very pleased to welcome Gleeson Wright Security back to the Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship", says Lee Child. "As well as posting sponsorship, Gleeson Wright provided excellent security cover around the facility last season and I am very grateful to Gary Gleeson and Matthew Wright for their continued support."
Gleeson Wright Security Services are based in Waltham Abbey in Essex. The company specialises in twenty four/seven manned guarding, security fencing, closed circuit TV, and other services to customers' requirements. You can contact Gleeson Wright Security on 01992 767164. Date: 2nd March 2004 Richard Lyon from the Pennine Drag Racing Club got in touch to let us know that they had a very good night at the Annual Dinner Dance and Awards Evening last weekend. They raised £722 from the auction and would like to thank all those who contributed items. Date: 2nd March 2004 Hello Again Racers:
The first Prostar race is this week! Wow, how time flies!
We rewarded our customers in the month of February, drawing from our February invoices and sent a MPS LED Lifetime Shift Light Bulb to: Craig Staff, Richard Bailey, Bruce Sauer of Power By Sauer, Mathew Fitzpatrick, and Shane McCoy of McCoy Motorsports. Congratulations to you all!
Don't delay! Order today because we won't honor this Internet special after 3/31/2004 at midnight! Remember, you must mention the Internet special when ordering to get this deal. Either add it to the comment section on our secure order form or mention it on the phone. You will get the regular price if you don't! For all the gory details go to:
www.mpsracing.com/Pages/specials.htm
We are continuing to show you the money in 2004! We are rejoining Prostar as a major contingency sponsor as well as continuing our exclusive Private Label Contingency Program. Go enroll today! It's free money! Here is the link:
www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contingency.htm
Just in case you were dying to know who won the Tether Kill Switch Contest For February, it was:
Joe Carafa Jr. of Glenolden, PA. Congratulations Joe! Don't forget to enter this month at:
www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contest.asp
Thank you for your time and good luck in 2004.
Dan Rudd
www.mpsracing.com
Date: 2nd March 2004 Our old Top Fuel bike is now for sale - the complete bike excluding engine & gearbox.
This means:
Complete frame
It also includes:
Body, Fuel-tank, Stainless-steel wheeliebars, air-tanks, sketch-plates, exhaust-pipes, 2x Sprintex-blowers 1000cc with pulleys, 1x Mallory Magneto + wires, 1x Trett single-stage clutch and a solid piece of cast aluminium to make a new cylinder block.
If anybody is interested they can look on our website:
www.joeybonracing.nl or contact us at:
j.bon@joeybonracing.nl
Joey Bon Date: 2nd March 2004 Well I had a horror Western Nationals, I think about three more passes and I think we would be close to a baseline. On 1st Q we took some static out of the clutch and put back some throwout after the track hire day on the Thursday but burnt up the plates on 1/2 a turn of the tyre.
On the 2nd Q we put more static back in, launched well but pulled a bit right and it was going to be a foot peg scraper with the wall so with discretion being the better part of valour I lifted.
On the 3rd Q I left the clutch, launched well but had an ignition miss in 2nd and 3rd gear coughing to the line. This was the 1st time ever something like this has happened. I then installed a new battery (the old one being four years old) and put some new plugs in it ready for the next day.
I had John Parker in the first elimination, a sharp competition bike racer, but this is where it gets crazy! We put the clutch static back in it as per the 1st Q as the ambient temp. was 39 degress celsius and we thought the track wouldn't hold the tyre, but on the drop of the clutch it again burnt up the clutch on 1/2 a turn of the tyre, and that was that, we called it wrong and paid the price. Anyway the beers, BBQ and bench racing after offset the disappointment of the weekend, oh and by the way, the low static springs are now rusting away quite peacefully in a landfill.
You can check out some photos of the track hire day on February 26 and the Western Nationals by going to
www.motorplex.com.au and then to links and to the
WAdragracing site.
I must say I am pretty impressed with the BHP MFI fuel system, just bolted it on and it performed faultlessly. We played with the settings but went back to what Bill Hahn shipped it as. It certainly makes more power than the EFI alcohol system I had on before, and I think contributed to dealing with trying to get that power to the ground. Looking forward to when I get to play again!
Greg Durack Date: 2nd March 2004 We heard the sad news this morning from our good friend and veteran dragbike photojournalist
Greg Guarinello that US racer Brian Schultz died in a car crash yesterday evening when leaving Russ Nyberg's C&W Cycle works in Fort Myers, Florida.
As you know, Brian's father and Prostock legend Dave recently succumbed to cancer, widowing his mother Meredith.
Our thoughts at this time go out to his partner Amy and her children, his mother Meredith and all his family and friends. Date: 1st March 2004 Jay Upton broke a chain in the 2nd round, and saw the
two Jack Daniels HD's battle it out for the event honours :-
Date: 1st March 2004 www.turboville.com/turbo-7/collectables.htm
WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM
the ultimate drag racing resource.
Visit our shop at:-
TURBO VILLE Date: 1st March 2004 I have a trailer for sale that would be ideal for any bike race team, it is a former display trailer made by Lynton, it has twin axles and the side opens out to give a covered pit area.
I am asking £900 but will be open to sensible offers after it has been viewed. It is in perfect condition mechanically with almost new tyres and a recent full service by Lyntons.
It will be available for viewing at the end of March in Ipswich, Suffolk.
All the best for the coming season and keep up the great web site, it is the only way that I can keep in touch with what's happening.
John Williamson - RMD Racing
Headline: Thanks DSD!
Gossip:
Headline: MT sign up for contingency
Gossip:
Headline: Prostar Gainesville final results
Gossip:
Headline: Tricky Dickies New Boots and Panties.....
Gossip:
Headline: Brits out in first
Gossip:
Headline: Cannon race report
Gossip:
Headline: Gainesville
Gossip:
Headline: Ohhh, okey okey cokey......
Gossip:
Headline: Cannon hit for six!
Gossip:
Headline: Mickey Thompson's down at WRE
Gossip:
Headline: Happy 60th Pete!!
Gossip:
Headline: A letter from America
Gossip:
Headline: Puma Engineering online!!
Gossip:
Headline: Hot headed?
Gossip:
Headline: Zodiac's finest up on wheels!
Gossip:
Headline: Never mind the quality, feel the width!
Gossip:
Headline: Steve's new assignment
Gossip:
Headline: LA add sponsor
Gossip:
Headline: PDRC Dinner Dance
Gossip:
Headline: MPS Sale...........
Gossip:
Headline: Top Fuel roller for sale!
Gossip:
Front fork + wheel + handlebar
Complete rear-tire (rim & tire + cog-wheel)
Chain (funny bike-chain)
Complete brake system.
Headline: Greg's Kwinana review
Gossip:
Headline: Brian Schultz
Gossip:
Headline: Kwinana Results
Elimination
Results
Winner
Brett
Stevens
Runner
Up
Troy
McLean
Low
ET
6.702
(Jay Upton)
High
Speed
194.38
(Jay Upton)
1
434
Jay
Upton
w
(0.208)
6.929 - 168.22
8
2204
Dennis
Grant
0
Jay
Upton
#
(0.138)
8.977 - 136.77
(0.239)
BROKE -
Brett
Stevens
4
1538
Mark Ashelford
0
w
(0.265)
7.965 - 174.75
(0.075)
7.282 - 191.89
5
649
Brett
Stevens
w
Brett
Stevens
w
(0.159)
7.871 - 151.26
(0.146)
7.682 - 155.70
Troy
McLean
2
2916
Troy
McLean
w
(0.098)
7.884 - 144.92
(0.126)
8.059 - 142.18
7
1
Ian
Ashelford
0
Troy
McLean
w
(0.142)
8.113 - 157.89
(0.120)
7.789 - 157.34
Sydney
Standring
3
1863
Sydney
Standring
w
#
(0.367)
7.787 - 172.08
(0.236)
BROKE -
6
3145
Kim
Stevens
0
(0.212)
9.266 - 148.51
Headline: Check out these deals!!!
Gossip:
BAGGY'S HOG SHOP
308 CARLTON HILL
CARLTON
NOTTINGHAM
NG4 1GD
UK
+44 (0) 115 940 1140
Headline: Trailer for sale
Gossip:
Date: 1st March 2004 THANKS - I would like to thank all the people who voted for me to receive the Paul Giddings memorial trophy. It's nice to know people are taking notice of what Dave and I are doing.
Sarah Jane Head Date: 1st March 2004 Stu Chamberlain of UK Funnybike Team PREDATOR RACING -
www.predatorracing.co.uk is proud to announce that after 14 years in the sport they are going to race in 2004 with a sponsor. A local LPG installer who also installs nitrous oxide kits, is sponsoring the team with all its nitrous requirements for the coming year. GAS AND GO -
www.gasandgo.co.uk are having an open day on the 17th April and also present will be
Rachel Pattison's turbo/nitrous Superstreet bike and the Day-Glo Twister Ford Pop of
Pete Ashworth as well as many other vehicles which have benefited from the addition of Gas and Go's nitrous kits.
Business owner Steve Brown has offered 10% discount on all Gas and kits sold on the day.
Team Predator racing are looking forward to the start of the seasons as their engine has had the
"biggest overhaul of its life " said crew chief Shaun Howard.
"We did some rev related damage at the end of last season which necessitated a new crank / piston / valve train assembly, as well as the parts which were due for renewal anyway.
We do need to step up our game if we are to catch the Bikes that are coming over from the states. The parts are all coming together now, we just need to assemble it in such a way that it goes half a second quicker than last year - Easy"
Stu Chamberlain Date: 29th February 2004 Could King Racing crew chief Michael Beaumont (on extended leave in the US) contact Ian King by email -
ian@kingracing.com or telephone - 01144 7785 341099 - thanks! Date: 29th February 2004 Not my usual news update but racers and race fans who
use junction 15 of the M40 to get to Shakespeare
County Raceway are advised to read the following. As
from Monday 1st March 2004 major construction work
around the traffic island is about to start by the
Highways Agency, and will last approximately for the
better part of 6 months till August. Temporary road
closuers will effect the north bound exit slip and the
south bound entry/exit roads of the M40 as well as the
A429 Wellsbourne/Oxford road.
The work scheduled is to help eliminate some of the
traffic problems encountered during busy rush hour
periods by widening the lanes to three and possibly
four of all approach roads, but it is advised that
between now and end of August you find an alternative
route to make your journey to the race track less
stressful!
Jeremy Cookson
Date: 29th February 2004 The pressure was on ex pat Brit Jay Upton to impress after his 6.3 last event showing, but he left it very late to get in the field at Kwinana when he broke a belt first pass and stalled on the line in the penultimate qualifier. However, third run lucky with a 6.702 to put him firmly in number one spot for today's eliminations :-
1 JAY UPTON TRIUMPH - NITRO SUPERCHARGED 6.702
NON QUALIFIERS
9 BRETT JONAS HARLEY DAVIDSON 8.284 Date: 28th February 2004 Dave Beck has been in contact asking us to inform people of his new US based cellphone number to contact him on whilst he is racing in the US :-
001 727 487 3811 Date: 28th February 2004 Aussie Funnybike rider and Greek gold miner Greg Durack sent us a preview of his preparations for this weekends race at Kwinana Motorplex in Perth, Western Australia :-
"I had a track hire day earlier this week, the first time on the bike in a year with the new BHP injected alcohol system on it. It made nice crisp smooth power, more than the EFI alcohol system I used to have on it. I did five passes, smoked off the line for 4 launches and ended up running to the left into the other lane. I kept taking static out and some weight off the arms, and for the last pass pulled the alignment of the rear tyre to the left a bit, launched straight and hard onto the bars, but then burnt the clutch out after 60 feet, so that was it - nothing special. I will bring the clutch back and see how we go. Only got three qualifiers on Saturday, so hope I can get my act together.........!"
Good luck Greg! Date: 28th February 2004 Santa Pod Raceway's Kelly Ingall has been in touch with details of VIP packages available to racers' sponsors and fans at the Easter Thunderball on 10th-12th April.
For £79 plus VAT per person, or £38 plus VAT for under-12s, the package includes access to the VIP balcony, refreshments throughout the day, buffet lunch, VIP parking and toilets, complimentary ear plugs and event programme, and a souvenir of the day.
To make a booking or for more information E-Mail Kelly at kelly@santapod.fsnet.co.uk, or telephone her on 01234 782828 (outside the UK +44 1234 782828) Date: 27th February 2004 Financial constraints and work commitments are resulting in a more focused UK race programme for Dave Beck in 2004, with only three rounds to be contested.
While this means relinquishing the title Dave has held six times, the team is looking to reset its own current fastest and quickest in Europe marks of 7.295 and 183mph. Dave is single-mindedly pursuing a 7.1 second ET and looking to push the speed mark to over 185mph.
To support this ambition, two new Roger Upperton prepared 1640cc motors were readied at the end of last season. In addition, a third motor is being assembled from the current spares stock. While rumours abound of at least three “mountain motors” of over 1700cc making their way across from the US, the Beck team sees no need to follow this route – “The fastest motor in Europe is a Roger Upperton bullet, so if that’s working, why change?” notes Dave. To support this, Dave has revealed that winter dyno testing and tuning extracted a further 20bhp from the motor set-up.
The bike is also sporting a new Al Cook carbon and kevlar TL1000 bodykit, and a brand new PMFR double disc front end. Motor tweaks include 50mm Lectron carbs with a bespoke Paul Gast tune-up, and ceramic gearbox bearings.
Look out for an upcoming photo feature of the bike in Streetfighters Magazine.
Supporting Dave’s Pro Stock efforts for this season are: Roger Upperton, Jay Regan of MRE, Steve Conway of Bikes of Brighton, Nimbus Motorsports, and Bates
Leathers. Many thanks to all of these sponsors for their invaluable backup.
An appearance at the European Finals is still a possibility, providing a sponsorship of
£2,500 can be secured. Any interested parties please contact beck.racing@virgin.net or
stephen@stephenmoon.com Date: 27th February 2004 Mountain motors! Big pockets? guess I'd better retire as the only thing i'm changing is the oil, has anyone got any spare?
Richard Gipp Date: 27th February 2004 That's the spirit Eric, that's the spirit. So 42 now, that means you are almost grown up. Now you can almost trade in your screamer for a humping and stumping V-Twin, grow your balls and run with the real man.
Many Happy Returns! Cheers, Ton Date: 27th February 2004 For Sale - 1981 Yamaha Chappy (Red). Runs great but needs TLC to be in mint condition. Located in northwest Georgia.
Email smithbs30165@yahoo.com if interested.
Brooks Smith Date: 26th February 2004 This weekend, the Malta Drag Racing Association www.maltadragracing.com will be holding their first series of races of the year at Hal Far. With the interest in road cars consistently on the increase, the two-day meeting will be reserved for this particular category only - Street Legal Cars.
With over a 100 entries, motor sport enthusiasts are in for an exciting weekend of racing, likely to be dominated by the popular Hondas, Toyotas, Mazdas, Subarus and Cosworths apart from the Ford Escorts.
Saturday is dedicated for final tuning as competitors will be urged to get accustomed with the launching light system during a meeting where rules will be explained. Date: 26th February 2004 After a long winter, Ray Price continues to mend slowly from his fall at Las Vegas in May, 2003. Although Price is pleased with his recovery to date, there is much room for improvement. Price says, "I've regained some feeling in my upper arm and can see some muscle tone but I've still got a long way to go. My shoulder is now strong enough to support my arm and the pain is decreasing with the improvement in the muscles."
But where does this leave Ray Price Racing? According to Price. "At this time, our plans include some local races and a few match races so that the team and Wayne Pollack can keep their hand in the program. Beyond that we have no plans at this time for a points campaign. We wish our competition well."
Price is devoting more time to Ray Price Harley-Davidson/Buell and can be reached at the dealership.
919-843-2261 www.rayprice.com
Mary Lou Brewton
Date: 26th February 2004 Can whoever posted the Cannon 3 speed for sale in January on our `for sale and wanted' section please contact Steve Moor asap on
steve.moor@w3z.co.uk Date: 26th February 2004 I would like to say thanks to everyone who voted for us in the SPRC "Best appearing bike" category. Whilst I would like to take all the credit for the way the bike looked last year, most of the credit needs to go to Martin at Wackyshack Custom Paint for the outstanding paintwork, which is why the new bodywork is currently there with a promise it will be better than last year's!!!!
A brand new PMFR rolling chassis has also just arrived, which will go nicely with the new Ward motors, carbs and Pete Briggs/R&D 6 speed, for a proper assault on the 2004 National and European Championships.
Others to thank for their support are Penta Design and Promotion, Peterborough Kawasaki Centre and last but not least
Richard Gipp.
Martin Newbury Date: 25th February 2003 Whilst we're on the subject of Prostock bike, it seems that the Hope team have a bottomless pit of money they are throwing at their race effort for this season...... Date: 25th February 2004 It seems that at least three Pro stock bike riders are to debut humungous mountain motors in the UK Championship this year....... Date: 25th February 2004 "It was a very unbelievable year," 2003 AHDRA Super Gas champion Willie Herschberger said recently while working late in his Bradenton, Florida garage. His Dragmasters team won three sportsman championships in 2003 on the AHDRA (All Harley Drag Racing Association) tour, and now he was preparing for 2004.
"Winning three championships certainly wasn't our goal. I was concentrating on the Super Gas championship, but after three races that seemed out the window. Meanwhile, David (Atkins in Hot Street) and Larry (Guy in Super Eliminator) started kicking butt. Then about midseason we realized that we could win three championships."
If two outta three ain't bad, then three of three is just plain awesome. But anybody who's done it knows just how much work it is to win even one championship.
"It became a job and took a lot of the fun out of it," admitted Herschberger, a 42 year-old Bradenton homebuilder. "It was strenuous. You wondered if it was worth it or not, but we did it and it was fun."
"We were lucky this past year," said Atkins, an insurance adjuster. "It was just a great year for the new Hot Street class, for the AHDRA and Dragmasters."
Dragmasters sponsor the Hot Street class, but what exactly is Dragmasters?
"We're about promoting racing," said Herschberger "Eventually I plan on having a bike shop, but within a year I hope to have a catalog business selling components and building complete bikes. We're also developing a couple of parts."
Herschberger is also developing a Pro Dragster to campaign in '04. "It's going to be a big learning curve," admitted Willie, wrenching on a nitro bullet while he spoke. "We've started from scratch. I bought a single cam motor, which I think will be good for my learning curve. I'm looking at the Derringer motor that Chuck Jones runs. If that turns out to be good I'll run
one of those. Chuck's my nitro guru, along with Johnny Vickers. "I'm running a D&G chassis, and it looks different," continued Herschberger. He won his Super Gas championship on a D&G chassis with a 114 cubic inch motor originally built by David Feazell and rebuilt by Willie.
"It's not your standard appearing Pro Dragster chassis. I changed the geometry. It may
not be fast, but it's sure going to look good. Hopefully it'll get down the track."
You can bet that the new bike will do both as the Dragmasters build on the standard of performance and professionalism they set last season. They know their opponents are out to get them. "I assume that I'm gonna have the large bullseye on my back," laughed Atkins. "I love competition and I know I'll get it. That's why I like Hot Street. I really enjoy where the class is going. I think we're gonna have some heavy hitters coming in and back to the class.
"We're gonna try some new set-ups and try to do a little more testing before we go to Gainesville. That bike is like riding a bull," Atkins said about the 98 cubic inch Evo "basic bare bones bike. It's a big heavy bike. We're maxed on weight and cubic inches. Put a little attitude with it and that's a bull."
Rossiter's Harley-Davidson tech Larry Guy will try to defend his Super Eliminator championship on his '97 Buell Thunderbolt and unseat Herschberger in Super Gas on a Big Twin. "We put some different cams in the Buell, so hopefully we'll step it up there. If we get on a roll early, we'll chase it hard. We'll see how it goes."
45 year-old Guy actually demoted himself from Rossiter's service manager to a tech position in order to pursue his '03 championship. "As the points chase narrowed I realized I had to take more time off," said Larry. "With three of us on the same team and looking at possibly winning championships, Rossiter's knew we were serious and understood that I had to do what I needed to do to accomplish this victory."
"I'll be running Super Gas and ET along with Pro Dragster, though everybody tells me you can't run nitro and gas at the same events," said Herschberger. Willie will be looking to erase the bad taste left in his mouth when he gave away the Super Gas win at the AHDRA season finale in Las Vegas. After holeshotting Chris Rivas, Herschberger misjudged the stripe at the big end.
"I've regretted it every day of my life. But Chris is a terrific guy and I appreciate his sportsmanship and friendship. "I want to thank all our sponsors, friends at home and most of all our new friends we look forward to seeing at the events," continued Willie. "We all
became good friends and it was really a wonderful thing."
"Just to have the opportunity to race with them is a thrill to me," agreed Akins.
All three Dragmasters thanked Rossiter's Harley-Davidson, Cycle-Rama, Herschberger Construction, D&G Chassis and Energy One.
Tim Hailey Date: 24th February 2004 Sweden's Veidec Racing Pro Stock Bike team will be fielding three bikes at some events this season, says Crew Chief Roger Lyrén. 2003 FIM/UEM Pro Stock Bike Champion Roger Pettersson and the UK's Helen Curran will contest the entire 2004 Championship Tour, and Italy's Remo Nassi will compete at two or three events with the Veidec team.
"It has been a very intensive and exciting winter with more discussions than ever with existing sponsors and new ones", says Roger Lyrén. "Veidec will remain as main sponsor, and Suzuki, MotoSpeed and Valvoline will be our other biggest partners. We also have support from Dynatek Performance ignition, Arlen Ness Lethers, Shoei Helmets, RK Chains, Mickey Thompson Tyres, NGK Sparkplugs and Cometic Gaskets. Papyrus will support us with all the best products for our VIPs, and Wiklunds Akeri will take care of services on the bus.
"What is interesting is that this season there will be a large mix of nationalities racing: Swedish, Italian and British racers and at some events there will be racers from Norway. The mix of nationalities is really one of the biggest challenges of this season, also to show that Italy is on the map of drag racing and also to try to help them to raise the level of the sport in their country.
"There will be even more of Italy in the team as VM Dragracing, a company owned by Carlo Molinari and partner Martino, MotoSpeed and Vance and Hines Motorsport will be supporting the team with engines. We will use both two-valve and four-valve engines the season, so that we can try different combinations to see what is best." Date: 24th Febraury 2004 This is the official entry list for the nine riders entered in the Top Bike class at this weekend's Westernationals in Australia :-
IAN ASHELFORD (WA), 167 cu/in HD OVERKILL Date: 24th February 2004 Yesterday I celebrated my 42nd birthday. I hope that in 20 years I will still be racing just like Ton Pels!!!
Eric Teboul Date: 24th February 2004 From today’s New Zealand Herald Newspaper:-
Motorsport: Land speed attempts
Oamaru man Eric Shepherd is planning to break three world land speed records on a 750cc motorbike he has built from scratch.
The records he hopes to break are for the standing start quarter-mile, the standing start kilometre, and the standing start mile. The world records in the three events are 134km/h, 186km/h and 213km/h respectively. Date: 24th February 2004 Eurodragster have asked us to pass on this disappointing news to our readers from Lee Child :-
Lee Child of LA Performance Services has announced that this year's
Ultimate
Power Drag Racing Championship Dinner Dance and Trophy Evening has been
cancelled. The Dinner Dance was scheduled to take place in Coventry on
Saturday 20th March, but lack of support has forced Lee to call it off.
"We do understand that the Custom Car Street Eliminator, Wild
Bunch/Supercharged Outlaws, and Santa Pod Racers Club Dinner Dances
coming
along at one a month is hard on the racer's budget" says Lee. "All
cheques
which I have received so far will be returned."
The 2003 Ultimate Power Champions will be presented with their trophies
at
the Excitement Nationals at Shakespeare County Raceway in May. Date: 23rd february 2004 Rumour has it that UK Prostock racer Chris Hope has forsaken his Upperton motor for a state of the art 1640 top end from over the pond to make a bid for UK and Euro championships this year. Any truth in this, does anybody know?
Deep Throat Date: 22nd February 2004 www.competitionplus.com/02_18_2004/new_star_look.html Date: 22nd february 2004 Congratulations to the two wheeled Perpetual Award winners at the SPRC Dinner Dance and Trophy Presentation in Bedford last night.
Best-Looking Bike: Martin Newbury (Pro Stock Bike)
Most Professional Appearing Team: Steve Woollatt and the Dealer Top Fuel Bike team
Paul Giddings Memorial Trophy: Sarah Jane Head (Funny Bike) Date: 21st February 2004 Mary Lou Brewton sent us this update on Nitro HD rider Jim McClure's progress after his heart transplant a few weeks ago :-
"Just got home from the hospital. I stayed from Tuesday until today. Jim is doing better each day, although his steps are very small. The doctor told Phyllis today that he may be in the hospital at least two more months and he has to learn how to do all physical activity over. He is talking and his mind is just as sharp as ever, even talking back to me just like he always does. I try to fuss with him and yesterday he asked me where my stupid sign was - he was always saying to me, `where's your sign?'.
He still cannot eat and at night he is put back on the vent so he can rest. Thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers, he is not out of the woods but we can see a little light at the end of the tunnel. He may be moved the first of nest week to HICU and then they will have a phone in the room and I will give y'all the phone number. Phyllis will be able to talk from there and tell him who is calling".
Date: 21st February 2004 Riders from both ends of the UK Top Fuel Bike scale rookie Chris Hannam and veteran Steve Woollatt take delivery of their Dutch built clutch timer systems from `FedEx Koedam' later today.
The programmable system sported in past seasons to good effect by Ian King, Roel Koedam and Rob van Geffen has proved to be this year's `must have' for the European Nitro bike riders to control their state of the art multistage clutch and fuel systems. Date: 21st February 2004 TL 1000 drag bike for sale. Air shifter, power commander, shift light and minder, lengthened arm, 128bhp at back wheel. Also includes new race fairing and all road legal bits and bobs.
Call Andy on 07786 936787 Date: 20th February 2004 Due to unforseen circumstances, Steve Woollatt has a pair of tickets for the SPRC dinner dance for sale.
Call him on 07860 375500 Date: 20th February 2004 After riding for 3 years with our 28 year old Puma, on which many known riders have been riding (Brian Johnson, Mark Pemble, Roger Forsythe, Henk Geeve), Team Bon decided at the end of the season that this bike was ready for the history-books. This did not go without a notice, because the best times ever driven with this bike in 28 years were done by Team Bon: a time of 6.71 seconds and 330 km/h and of course the 2nd place in the European Championship.
After the last race in Santa Pod we immediately started engineering the new bike, that has become a lot larger (wheelbase 2,5 mtr, 60 cm wide and only 93 cm high). A bike that meets modern demands. Everything is being built by Team Bon itself, like frame, body, cylinder head, carter etc. The 1600cc engine is also equipped with a new blower and a multi-stage coupling. With this, we hope to have an even better season then last year and also to end in the top of the European Championship.
We also plan to do 1 or 2 races in the USA at the end of the European season.
Construction of the new bike can be followed on our completely renewed website: www.joeybonracing.nl
Date: 20th February 2004 Re.Turboville's new ultra secure Papal system. Does the Pope know?Does he get a cut of the profits?Are the suits at the Vatican worshipping at the church of Nitro? etc etc etc......
Chris McMoose
Date: 20th February 2004 BIG CC RACING are pleased to announce the setting up of
VELOCITY RACING EUROPE as the distribution centre for Velocity Racing Turbo systems. Velocity Racing's founder Barry Henson is not only the fastest man alive on a streetbike doing a 7.47 quarter but also the only turbo builder to push over 500bhp at the AMI shootout. Various levels of kits are available from bolt on street kits to full stage 1 & stage 2 race applications for 500+ bhp shootout bikes like Busa's & ZX12R. Veocity Racing Europe will be looking to appoint not only UK dealers but also Distrbutors throughout Europe. Rider contingency deals for racers / teams wishing to use the most proven 7 second streetbike formula in the USA please contact BIG CC RACING direct until a local 'in country' distributor is appointed. All current enquiries should be sent to
sales@bigccracing.com Date: 19th February 2004 It was not only the King Racing machine that won a trophy at the Xtreme Wheels show due to it's Wackyshack applied House of Kolor paint as Roland and Sandra Chaplain explain in their team report :-
"Think Pink Racing attended the Xtreme Wheels
Show at Alexandra Palace and what a great weekend. The bike in its new livery was placed between King Racing’s Top Fuel Monster and Nobby Hill’s new Top Fuel Funny Car. Sandra Chaplain and her team were in the pink when Think Pink Racing was awarded the coveted Exhibitors Choice Trophy. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all those who chose to vote for our machine. It is particularly rewarding to be nominated by fellow enthusiasts, particularly given the amazing standard of the other exhibits.
The show was a most enjoyable experience and a chance to meet up with old friends and make some new ones. It was especially good to see Nobby Hills is ready for action again, and still as enthusiastic and dynamic as he was in the 70’s. We also had the chance to show our latest creation to some of our current sponsors who visited the show and who were impressed with the displays.
We would like to thank Terry and Tina Gibbs for inviting us to Xtreme Wheels and thanks also go to everyone else who made the event run so smoothly. We hope that this year’s show represents the beginning of many such events in the future.
We also extend special thanks to the House of Kolor for providing the superb paint and, last but not least Wacky Shack Paintshop, Cambridge for creating yet another show-winning masterpiece. Date: 18th February 2004 Turboville.com has just been appointed the sole Nottinghamshire dealer for the Craft helmet range from Germany, writes Ian Turburville. "I raced in a Craft helmet last year and was I so impressed I invested heavily in a product I truly believe in", says Turbo. "The new Craft 2004 range is extensive, ranging from carbon superlight Barracudas to olive drab Mirage jet-fighter helmets. These helmets are incredible value, very light and strong due to the tri-layer, carbon-dyneema weave construction. They have click and lock strap systems (great when you are all suited up waiting with gloves on), unique air venting, removable washable linings, and hi-tech optically-correct quick-release visors, in a lot of shades and tints. The helmets are ECE 22.05 compliant and are all ACU Gold Stamped for racing! They are also considerably cheaper than their equivalent competitor's helmets. The new paint finishes and graphics are truly stunning, including the new black-chrome models, no cartoons here! Most models are in stock at the shop now, but check out the Helmets button at www.turboville.com/turbo-7/race_wear.htm for full details. I will get a price chart up on the site as soon as possible, in the meantime please E-Mail me at
i.turboville@ntlworld.com. If you hadn't noticed we now take any major credit card through the ultra secure Papal system." Date: 18th February 2004 Hi from Norway!
I think the track is a litle slippery, but some just cant wait!
Svein Gottenberg
Date: 18th February 2004 We've heard from Ian Weatherley that he has an Opcon 2087 supercharger for sale brand new and unused after his plans to fit one on his racecar has changed.
Interested parties can contact Ian on 01322 346553 (UK) Date: 18th February 2004 It seems that the ex Brian Johnson Top Fuel Bike `Imperial Wizard' is heading back to Europe. Eric Teboul alleges that fellow countryman
Eric Muccignato has acquired the bike from it's last owner Jimmy Brantley and will be leaving the US for France this week! Date: 18th February 2004 Has any one out there had a change of plan regarding the SPRC dinner and dance this weekend, if so I'll be more than happy to buy a couple of tickets.
Shaun Jones 07931 766973 (UK)
email :- gronzal@hotmail.com Date: 17th February 2004 The sign of good things to come? The King Racing Top Fuel Bike team kicked off the 2004 season with a win - at the excellent
Xtreme Wheels show in London's Alexandra Palace.
The Puma machine in all it's 2004 liveried glory was the winner of the `Best Competition Bike' category, and to see bike owner Ian King collect the trophy was none other than the suppliers of the fabulous paints applied by paint wizards
Wackyshack, House of Kolor UK of Doncaster. Date: 17th February 2004 Well, another of dragracings worst kept secrets is that the Pro Mod and I have finally kicked the NOS habit and stepped up to a turbo.
Sine Gainesville 2003 Funnybike guru Gary Clarke and Ken Cooper have invested their efforts into creating a mechanical injected alcohol blow thru turbo system onto the ex MRE Pro Mod I have enjoyed the last 3 seasons on.
In a weeks time Ken will be packing the snowboard and flying to Iowa to complete the job and learn the new system under Gary Clarks watchful eye. The result
was a sizeable investment of time and money but mostly commitment from both Ken and Gary.
With a project of this size there are heroes and villains, and once again as my step up to slick and wheeliebars Ken has been there for me showing the way ahead and silencing any of his last critics in his performance that we have shared (not a bad drinking partner either.....)
Without Ken this project would not even have started as I would have given in and let the Long Island's flow.........
Then there are Jay and Andy at MRE who have once again proved themselves to be team players in a project that has been difficult to keep sight of the primary objective (you know Jay the nappy changer, blagger) then to Nigel at Titanium International who has overcome his own difficulties to show his loyalty and commitment to push the project ahead.
Last but not least to Sergeant and Starr, Big Up.
The bike will make it's debut at the MRE Sunshine Nationals
in two weeks time and those making the trip to the Long Island can look forward to a full on floor show from the mob that will be joining me, see ya there!!
Finally, please see attached the spy picture of our new "closed loop system" that we will be running, for more info visit my
site..............
Dave Holland
Date: 17th February 2004 Following Vaughan's little tussle with the force of gravity at SPR at the
end of last season, he has had all
the useful bits taken off the old bike and is retiring it. Chris Hall has
taken said useful bits, fettled and modified
them as appropriate and installed them in his old Funny Bike Chassis
(participants in the 2000 ACU championship
will have been particularly familiar with the rear view...).
As well as an organ transplant, the bike has had various upgrades; a nice
shiny Schnitz Pro Series II controller makes everything work;
enlarged valves in the cylinder head should cure the asthma, and a 1-2-3
auto modification to the five speed manual
gearbox should help it through the 60 foot.
The bike will be running in ACU Comp bike and ought to run sevens once it is
sorted out. The previous two seasons in
which the chassis saw action resulted in two ACU championships - now it's
coming out again it stands a good
chance of getting another.
Chris Hall
Date: 16th February 2004 Just to break the dull off season, a sneak report of the going-ons at BLASTOFF Dragracing HQ located near The Hague, Holland, the navel of the world complete with fluff and all.
After extensive deliberations and miniscule investigation of video footage, it was decided by an absolute majoraty of Viep. Bart, Herman and Sjoerd (family names will be disclosed later this week), that the looks of the Super Street Twin BUELL Hurricane (ST modified, or Modified Harley) was spot on. It was also decided that the performance lacked, namely in ET.
Off course Rob the Metal Meister had already taken to his grinder and welding torch and reworked the frame to sport a 30 cm forward and 25 cm lower seating position. Complete with a new steeper (that's right steeper) headstock with more (that's right more) trail steering oughta be a piece of cake. Working from a 70" wheelbase and replacing the 19" frontwheel with an 18" one the engine was effectively put 20cm forward in the frame. Needless to say new bodywork was called for. After lengthy and unfruitful various forms of communication with our friends on the other side of the pond (that's Americans that is) it was decided that we were to make our own bodywork. More on that (yes there are pics) later, just keep checking back. Upping the engine to 114 cui (app. 1900cc) ,leaving the heads as they are should result in a 1 to 15.5 CR, a DYNA 4000 SP,a DIY MegaSquirt EFI, two (2) dataloggers of an exotic kind, a proposed gymnastic posture (Kama Sutra Chapter 5 par. 4, no giggling please) an unquenchable thirst for C114, and a perpetual broken relationship with the neigbhours (hey, they can move when they want to, right?), sounds to the BLASTOFF Dragracing team like the perfect mix for a an all out winning season.
Nitpickers and anoraks please point out the error of our ways on this forum. More later, we will volunteer to be the content automaton for this site until Ian King shuts us off or finally buys us a drink.
Greetings from an almost other world, Dr. Blastoff
Gossip comment :- Shurely some mistake regarding the drink??? Date: 15th February 2004 Hi Everyone !
Here's the latest issue of Power News: www.mototuneusa.com/circular_logic.htm
The 23 back issues are here: www.mototuneusa.com/thanx.htm
Your feedback has been very helpful, and is always appreciated !
Have a great day !! Sincerely,
Pat McGivern -~MotoMan Date: 15th February 2004 Eurodragster have asked us to post this news from Ultimate Power Series supremo Lee Child:-
"LA Performance Services have signed a sponsorship deal with parts manufacturer Federal Mogul for the 2004 Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship at Shakespeare County Raceway. Federal Mogul count amongst their brands such names as Champion Spark Plugs, Anco Windscreen Wipers, Moog Chassis Parts for US vehicles, Sealed Power Engine Components, Speed-Pro, Wagner Brake Products, Fel-Pro Gaskets and National Oil Seals.
"It gives me a lot of pleasure to announce another major American company as a sponsor", says Lee Child of LA Performance Services. "Federal Mogul's product list includes a large number of prestigious brands already used by UK National and Ultimate Power Champions. I am grateful to Federal Mogul for their support and look forward to a long and successful partnership."
Federal Mogul products can be purchased through LA Racing Parts on 01803 554308 or at
www.laracingparts.com, or through your local dealership of fellow Ultimate Power Championship sponsor Ampar Parts and Service Network. You can find the Federal Mogul web site at
www.federalmogul.com. Date: 15th February 2004 Chip Hunter has announced that he will be contesting the full 2004 NHRA season for Lucas Oil / Team Tigue with power by Vance & Hines and tuning by Harry Lartigue. Date: 14th February 2004 Top Fuel Bike rider Ian King is to feature as an `expert witness' on a new motorcycling TV show entitled
`Top Dog' on Granada's Men and Motors channel later this year.
Ian travels to the legendary Ace Cafe on London's North Circular this monday for the programme shoot where the relative merits of various motorcycles will be discussed and argued by an `expert' panel.
Coincidentally, Ian was also consulted earlier in the week by the producers of `Scrapheap Challenge' (Junkyard Wars in the US) for a three wheel vehicle related theme for a forthcoming edition of the popular show.
John Webster, expect a call......! Date: 14th February 2004 Harry, that's a very good looking setup! So when do we run the first bikedragracing-"Finnkamp" between Finland and Sweden?
Regards, PiPPi Date: 14th February 2004 Yesterday saw the unveiling of the King Racing Top Fuel Bike team's 2004 livery at the press day for
Xtreme Wheels in London, England.
For a comprehensive review of the show and a gallery of pictures of the vehicles, surf over to Eurodragster's coverage
by clicking here
Pictures courtesy of Eurodragster Date: 13th February 2004 The season has already started in Finland... The Finnish Drag Bike Association
(FDBA) had a stand at amotorcycle show in Helsinki. All classes were represented:
Tony Falk in Junior Bike, Vesa Rautio´s Pro Stock Bike, Affe Kosonen with his turbocharged Top Gas
HD,
Kimmo Rantala's Street Bike, Timo Savolainen with his Super Gas Bike, Mika Saroma's Super Pro Street Bike (former
SSB) and in the middle the J&J Top Fuel Harley projectile.
Harry Raikkonen - Finland
Date: 11th February 2004 Interesting. If you undress a championship winning Nitro Harley engine it actually looks pretty timid... Check the page at http://af.harley-davidson.se/karlingracing/parts4sale.asp Click on the picture for a good close-up of what's been driving Mr Karling to mid-6's and better in the last few years. And why not put in a bid while you're at it?
Regards, PiPPi Date: 11th February 2004 11 April York Dragway
It was decided at the Straightliners Forum in Blackpool this weekend to have a payment of £30 to the rider who gets a perfect bracket time i.e. a perfect 9.5 and so on. It was also decided to pay a bonus of £500 to the first 7 second run at Elvington. Details will be on the Straightliners web site. We also took the decision to lower the indexes for 2005 by .2 of a second to 12.3/11.3/10.3/9.3
Trevor Duckworth - Straightliners Date: 10th February 2004 Hi!
Last Saturday we finished the new frame, so I've put some more workshop
photos on-line on the NEWS page of www.zodiacracing.com
Ton & Vincent can now start building a new engine. Since Ton gave the
bottom end of last year's spare engine to Svein Gottenberg we need to build
a new engine, which will be identical to our other engine. The new one will
be built in the new frame and the engine we raced last year will be our
spare for 2004.
There's also a photo of our brand new new rear wheel with reinforced
sprocket hub we got from our sponsor "Performance Machine Inc." (www.performancemachine.com)
And as always we would like to thank our main sponsor "ZODIAC Performance
Products for Harley Davidson" (www.zodiac.nl/) for their continuing
support.
Best regards,
Monique Pels
Date: 10th February 2004 We recently heard some news from our old friend and builder of the world's
first `New Generation Funnybike', Martin Peck. He emigrated to New Zealand last
year with his family and most importantly his Puma Engined Nitrous Suzuki(!).
Martin takes up the story :-
"In January 2003 I took the crated bike to the shipping company warehouse in
Croydon and I left the UK in February.
The bike arrived in New Zealand in May but took a further month to get the
bike released from customs. The bike survived the trip very well, there was
no damage whatsoever.
The New Zealand drag racing season starts in December and ends in April. I
have attended two meetings so far, both at the Masterton drag strip.
Masterton is about 100km from my house and is a working airport which is
closed down a few weekends a year for Drag Racing. The strip is flat, wide
and very long with concrete launch pads. Grip off the line is good, but
its not so good further down the track.
The two meeting's so far have been badly affected by rain, and I have only
been able to do a couple of runs. I have taken clutch out of the bike to try
and get off the line without wheel spin although the last pass I made on the bike
was its best ever up to the 1/8th mile.
The next meeting I will be attending will be the New Zealand nationals,
which is the biggest meeting of the year. The meeting is held at a track
near Auckland, it's a 6 hour drive for me. The track is the best track in
the country, it has plenty of grip, but is a bit bumpy and the shut down
area is not very long.
Work should hopefully be starting soon on building a brand new permanent
strip at a small town called Foxton. Its just 15 minutes drive a way from
my house. Work is due to be completed by the end of the year, ready for the
2004/05 season.
Regards,
Headline: Thanks
Gossip:
Headline: Predator gassed
Gossip:
Headline: Paging Michael Beaumont!
Gossip:
Headline: MAJOR CONSTRUCTION WORK
Gossip:
Headline: Kwinana Toip Bike Final Qualifying
Gossip:
2 TROY MCLEAN (QLD) BRETT STEVENS RACING 7.280
3 SYDNEY STANDRING HARLEY DAVIDSON 7.433
4 MARK ASHELFORD MCLURE NITRO HARLEY 7.666
5 BRETT STEVENS BRETT STEVENS RACING 7.712
6 KIM STEVENS (QLD) TOP FUEL HARLEY 7.728
7 IAN ASHELFORD TOP FUEL HARLEY 7.764
8 DENNIS GRANT (SA) H/D MCLURE O/KILL 7.951
Headline: England calling Dave
Gossip:
Headline: Greg's Kwinana Preview
Gossip:
Headline: Santa Pod VIP
Gossip:
Headline: Dave Beck Racing – 2004 Race Programme
Gossip:
Headline: Oil Baron?
Gossip:
Headline: Growing pains?
Gossip:
Headline: My chap needs TLC
Gossip:
Headline: Malta kicks off!
Gossip:
Headline: Ray Price Racing Plans
Gossip:
Headline: Cannon 3 speed
Gossip:
Headline: Thanks!
Gossip:
Headline: Hope springs eternal?
Gossip:
Headline: Moving mountains?
Gossip:
Headline: Dragmasters: 3 in '03, More in '04?
Gossip:
Headline: Three bikes for Veidec in 2004
Gossip:
Headline: Westernationals Top Bikes
Gossip:
JAY UPTON (WA) TRIUMPH 1409 CC
MARK ASHELFORD (WA) 158 cu/in HD OVERKILL
BRETT JONAS (WA) 158 cu/in HD
SYDNEY STANDRING (WA) 117 cu/in HD OVERKILL
DENNIS GRANT (SA) 166 cu/in HD
TROY MCLEAN (QLD)172 cu/in HD OVERKILL
KIM STEVENS (WA) 178 cu/in HD
BRETT STEVENS (QLD) 167 cu/in HD
Headline: Happy birthday Eric!
Gossip:
Headline: New Zealand world beater?
Gossip:
Headline: Ultimate Power Dinner cancelled
Gossip:
Headline: Unforsaken?
Gossip:
Headline: Star in the ascendancy?
Gossip:
Headline: Congratulations!
Gossip:
Headline: Jim McClure update
Gossip:
Headline: Two timing Fuel Bike riders?
Gossip:
Headline: Not another ad...........
Gossip:
Headline: SPRC Tickets for sale!
Gossip:
Headline: Bon bon?
Gossip:
Headline: In the name of the Father?
Gossip:
Headline: Velocity Racing Turbo Systems come to Europe.
Gossip:
Headline: Xtremely Pink Report
Gossip:
Headline: Turbo Craft
Gossip:
Headline: Top Fuel Luge?
Gossip:
Headline: Want to be blown?
Gossip:
Headline: Le Imperial Wizard??
Gossip:
Headline: Ticketmaster?
Gossip:
Headline: King Racing off to winning ways?
Gossip:
Headline: DUTCH GETS A HAIR DRYER AND KEN GETS THE TONY AND GUY
Gossip:
Headline: Vaughan Foster's new ride
Gossip:
Headline: The crepe de la creme of Dutch Dragracing gathers at
BLASTOFF Dragracing HQ
Gossip:
Headline: Power News latest
Gossip:
Headline: LA secure Federal Mogul
Gossip:
Headline: Chip with Lartigue
Gossip:
Headline: King on Top Dog?
Gossip:
Headline: Finnkamping???
Gossip:
Headline: King Racing 2004 unveiled!
Gossip:
Headline: Finland dragbike season opener
Gossip:
Headline: Interesting
Gossip:
Headline: Straightliners dates for 2004
Gossip:
25 April Elvington
2 May East Kirkby
30 May Elvington
13 June Elvington
27 June East Kirkby
10/11 July Crail
24/25 July Jurby Isle of Man
8 August Elvington
30 August York Dragway
12 September East Kirkby
10 October Elvington - The Finals
Headline: Team Zodiac News
Gossip:
Headline: Martin Peck downunda!
Gossip:
Pictures courtesy of Mike Ashton
Drag Racing Photography - www.dragpixs.co.nz
Date: 8th February 2004 Jay Upton (Puma Triumph) beat Brett Stevens (HD) in their fourth final against one another in a row of Top Bike at WSID with another PB of 6.392 @ 215.31, backing up his earlier 6.45 for a new National Record.
Upton 6.392 / 215.31 bt Stevens 6.997 187.99
Well done team! Date: 8th February 2004 Hi Folks,
Team Fang's plans for 2004 are progressing well, and Saturday saw the new billet big bore cylinder block nearly finished.
On the News 2004 www.thefang.co.uk/news2004.htm page you can follow in photos how the block was carved from a chunk of heat treated aluminium, plus first photo of the new Eaton supercharger mounted in the chassis.
Would any Junior Dragbike racers who have anything for sale please get in touch, as a 'for sale' page is under construction. I would also like to hear from any new teams planning to contest the 2004 series, please contact me on:
carl@turnertech.co.uk
Cheers,
Carl Wadkin-Snaith.
Date: 8th February 2004 I don't know if anyone else has been experiencing problems with the mydoom virus but my server screens all virus's from my mail and as such I haven't been receiving many apart from the report of virus intercepted so appologies to anyone who hasn't had a reply from me and please try again.
Many thanks, Richard Gipp
(hope to see some of you at Xtreme Wheels next weekend) Date: 7th February 2004 As we left the workshops of those masters of their art Wackyshack Paintshop to view their latest and greatest as applied to the 2004 scheme on the King Racing Top Fuel Bike, we spied
Martin and Cindy Newbury on their way in to have their new paint done.
Rumour has it that the Newburys will be sporting an all new state of the art machine in PSB competition this year........ Date: 7th February 2004 Our man who wishes he was in Oz Ivan Sansom mentioned it was hot at the WSID meet in Australia. We thought he meant the Top Fuel car and Bike qualifying with Mike Dunn, Cowin and Jay Upton impressing all. However, he has just explained how hot it REALLY was - two track crew personnel suffered heart attacks whilst two others fainted, alongside two or three power failures….... Phew! Date: 7th February 2004 Jay Upton ran a 6.455 @ 198.44 on Friday - I think that gave him just under a second on the field…
Ivan Sansom
Date: 7th February 2004 Hi, I'd just like to add support to the site and thank Ian for what he does, not only with the site, but the sport in general.
If the site wasn't running, I would probably not have found Roalds TF bike for sale, and still be looking at putting my old Supertwin back together (which I had been looking to do for the last 10 years).
I guess it's like a lot of other things in life, we all get used to it and take it for granted that it will always be there, but don't perhaps appreciate the time, effort and enthusiasm needed to keep it going. So a big thanks to Ian from me and my crew.
Steve Carey
Gossip comment: Thanks Steve and team! Date: 7th February 2004 Re the Flatlander Returns!
Would this be the very same racer who was going Top Fuel, then Pro Mod (USA), then Prostock, then Pro Mod again, then back to Prostock??? Or someone else who can't make his mind up??
Richard Gipp
Gossip comment : As we are the soul of discretion we cannot confirm that Tumbledsome can't make his mind up......... Date: 6th February 2004 Whilst on the subject of Top Fuel Bike rumours abound that a ex Prostock Bike rider from the flatlands may be making positive steps towards becoming a big fish in a small pond........ Date: 6th February 2004 Italian Top Fuel Bike rider and bike organiser for the inaugural Italian Dragrace series Antonio Ferretti has been in touch with an invitation for Nitro fuelled machine riders to take part in two of the events -
12th - 13th June and 18th - 19th September
The locality of the events is Marzaglia (Modena) and will hopefully help raise the profile of the series through their promotions with the media, with the target of constructing a top grade dragstrip in the future.
Any interested riders should contact Antonio for details of prize monies etc. If the meets are rained out there will be a contingency fund available, but rain in Italy at that time and that region is very unusual!
The track is of good size, but will be run for this category over an eighth of a mile.
Contact - info@ferrettiracing.com tel.fax: ++39 545 969995 mob: ++39 3386456433 Date: 6th February 2004 The current representative for the European Championship Supertwin Class at the PRP meetings Per Bengtsson has unfortunately had to step down from his role due to work pressures. At this moment in time a potential candidate from the class has not been forthcoming and so the riders have requested that the current Top Fuel Bike representative, Ian King, also undertake this roles alongside his existing responsibilities.
In the meantime, if any Supertwin rider or individual with connections to the class would like to take up the position, please inform Per Bengtsson or Ton Pels. Date: 6th February 2004 Do not change gossip. The first thing I do in the morning when I came to work is check Eurodragster and the gossip at King Racing. We need some european chanels for gossip and news. I wish we could make it more official with more news, but this is really off season. I hope that Ian continues this excellent work.
Lars Andersson - UEM Dragbike Series Co ordinator
Gossip comment :-
Well I'd like to thank all of you who have sent me letters of support to keep the Gossip Pages up and running. It's great to know that our efforts would be missed, and we promise to try our utmost to make this site an invaluable read. Just remember to keep sending us your news and gossip, however small.
Thanks!!!
Date: 6th February 2004 For what its worth Obsession Motorsports (myself and Tina) would be saddened to see you close the site down. Your assistance in our early days at Avon Park when we were promoting the Super Series events was invaluable. Through your guidance along with others in the bike scene we gradually learnt to understand the bikers requirements which we feel we tried to accommodate at our meetings. The site has always been informative and entertaining, don't let the others have the monopoly. We need more sites to keep spreading the word in the professional way you have to date. If there is anyway we can help you for the future with the site, let us know. Remember we still would hope to work with you in the future. We have every intention of returning with another venue.
See you at the Xtreme Wheels show, looking forward to the unveiling of your new paint scheme!
Regards, Terry Gibbs Date: 6th February 2004 I have seen a lot of banter about the 'scumbags' on this site recently. They ask to buy your item at an inflated price and ask the reminder tobe sent somewhere. They ALSO are the perpetrators of the classic emails abut their grandfather having squirrelled away millions whilst working for some government department or other and ask for bank details to 'launder' this money. BEWARE these people are ONLY after your IDENTITY, bank account number etc. P{eople have died as a result of these scams, one or two have disappeared without trace after getting to the meeting stage with these b***ards. Please just ignore and delete any mail from them, once they realise there is no response, they go elsewhere. ANSWER AT YOUR PERIL.
John Roberts
Date: 5th February 2004 Ex pat Top Fuel Bike rider Jay Upton ran a new PB ET
6.53 @ 205 in Wednesday's test session at WSID prior to this weekend's Summernationals...
Ivan Sansom Date: 5th February 2004 For all UK funny bike riders and teams, it's that time again when we get
together for our 6th annual winter gathering. I am proposing March 13th
at our usual venue The New Inn, just down the road from Shaky. Can all
interested people get in touch with me either by e-mail on
heather@bondh.fsworld.co.uk or on my mobile 07771545765. I will need to
know numbers etc as soon as possible to check availability of rooms for
those who want to stay over.
Heather Bond Date: 5th February 2004 11:00 at night here and rather then help the Mrs. with young Adam wailing away, I'll just act like I'm working and hopefully help prevent someone from getting taken...
To further the "Scumbag" discussion, I've had numerous replies to ad's of mine from these degenerate types. Most all of them use @hotmail.com addresses and they all pretty much can't spell very well in English, as you read their mail, you can just hear them in their broken English (I am having to the hardest time refraining from using racial, ethical and religious slurs here; For those of you who know me; I'll just leave it at the fact I believe these are the types of scumbags who are carrying these scams on......)
I had one idiot reply that he wanted to buy a Pro Stock chassis I had for sale and that he wanted to actually over pay for it by cashiers check that was conveniently owed to him by a third party via overnight mail and that he would arrange fop the parcel to be picked up the next day and for me to return the overpayment via Western Union (also the very next day) to his banking agent in London. I politely replied to him that I would have to put a hold on the check by however long my bank said it would take to clear the funds for sure. Nonetheless, the idiot overnighted me a cashiers check and I deposited it into my account. He then proceeded to send me growingly nastier emails nearly every hour demanding me to have the bike ready to pickup and to Western Union him the overpayment. I cut and pasted my original payment terms to him a couple times and then just disregarded subsequent emails. They slowly tapered off and after 3 days my bank called to tell me the check was (surprise) counterfeit.
I prepared to send him a nasty reply but decided instead to turn the tables on him. I replied that my bank had called to confirm the funds were verified and how was I supposed to get the "extra" back to him. I got an almost immediate, nearly loving reply (surprise 2) with the exact details of who and where to send the funds to in London and exactly where the closest Western Union office was to my shop.......
So I called Mr. London himself, Red Ken and asked him where this address was. True to form, it was located in the nastiest part of London that all born on English soil had long since vacated.......
I got Ken to give me the name of a very close by part of London that was still lived in by English people and I fired off a reply to him that the joke was on him and I just got off the phone with a few close friends who have;
A) too much time on their hands.
b) baseball bats
c) bad tempers
living in the said part of close by London who were now on their way over and would be continuing to come by daily until they came across the said Mr. Zulu and that I wouldn't want to be him when they caught up with him!!
Needless to say, his next reply wasn't fit for printing.......
"if it's too good to be true, it most likely is a scam"
Oops, the boss is yelling for me, gotta go change a dirty nappy!
Jay Regan Date: 5th February 2004 Where shall I send the money? I will do everything to prevent the gossip page shutting down – it makes the winter easier to cope with and more fun!
Jan Egil – John Leret Racing
Date: 4th February 2004 Dan Welberry has been in touch to bring us the news of the latest exhibits to be announced for the On 2 Xtreme Wheels show at Alexandra Palace :-
Ian King, Top Fuel Bike
The Mynheer stand also hope to include some wild two wheeled machines
with
some outstanding paint jobs. One of these machines is said to be worth
£70,000! Date: 4th February 2004 I can only echo Tog's comment that the loss of Pit Lane Gossip would be a loss to the sport. I would also like to thank those that sent details of their UEM Top Fuel bikes/best time/speed etc so that I could add them to the first ever bike list on Draglist.com which I am compiling at the moment. With 34 bikes to add to the list and only half a dozen replies I still need more information so if you could please send details of engine size/chassis make/best time and speed/owners home town and crew chiefs name it would help me to complete the list.
Date: 3rd February 2004 At Eurodragster we work closely with Ian and the loss of one of the leading members of the co-operative of European web sites who share news, advice etc. would be to the detriment of the sport. Ian is making nothing out of running this site except the respect of his peers which is worth a hell of a lot but has to be reckoned against time given up (and Ian has a family as well as a racing operation), phone bills, aggravation etc. Any company running at such a 'loss' would long ago have been shut down.
As long as Pit Lane Gossip is there it will be our pleasure to continue working with Ian. We might even scoop him on bike news occasionally...
Tog - Eurodragster
Gossip comment :- Thanks for the support Tog - but a little too occasionally......! Date: 3rd February 2004 We have been fielding a number of calls today regarding the posting of `surprise' additional ACU Rounds for Top Fuel Bike and Superstreet Bike on Eurodragster subsequent to information
supplied to them. We'd like to inform all riders that these `new' events are NOT yet agreed with the ACU, and seem to be due to a misunderstanding by the SPRC after a direct request was made to an ACU official by telephone.
Originally these dates were declined by the championship co ordinator after consultation with riders from the Superstreet and Top Fuel Bike classes, but the request will once again be considered under the correct protocols before reconsideration of the decision can be reached. Date: 3rd February 2004 History will show us that over four decades ago, a quartet of Persian Gulf nations, comprised of Iran, Iraq, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, along with Venezuela, formed a group called OPEC with the primary objective of obtaining higher prices for their crude oil. The plan had a reverse effect in the early going as prices fell from $10.85 per barrel (in a more modern pricing scale) to as low as $7.46, according to Benjamin Zycher's Encyclopedia of Economics report. In the 1970s, their movement began to take root, however, and the convenient excuse of the Arab-Israeli War caused the price to skyrocket to upwards of $27.00 per barrel.
In the wake of an exclusive contract brokered with VP Racing Fuels and Wego Chemical, an importer of Chinese-produced nitromethane, the cost of the exotic fuel vaulted from $650.00 a barrel to $900.00, with the promise that it could go even higher by the end of the summer.
If this seems like business as usual in the modern day corporate world, be advised that VP was also the exclusive distributor for the American-made Angus brand of nitro. So what does this all mean? The emotions run the gamut on the situation. Depending on what side of the track the individual is on, the attitude among some is that it's simply the free enterprise system at work. Others claim that it's nothing more than a monopoly being supported by the NHRA. Prior to the deal with VP Racing Fuels, the Wego brand had been distributed by Sunoco Race Fuels.
Bobby Bennett Date: 3rd February 2004 With January in the books, we are over the hump and on our way to spring. The 2004 race season is painfully close! We would like to reward our customers in the month of February. We will draw from our February invoices and send a MPS LED Lifetime Shift Light Bulb to the five lucky winners. No special entry is required. Just buy something from us in February! Please!!
Last year we had such a great response to our $299.00 Bracket Racer Leathers special we are bringing it back this year. Just in time to start the season in a new set of leathers. That's $50.00 off racer pricing!
Don't delay! Order today because we won't honor this Internet special after 2/29/2004 at midnight! Remember, you must mention the Internet special when ordering to get this deal. Either add it to the comment section on our secure order form or mention it on the phone. You will get the regular price if you don't! For all the gory details go to:
www.mpsracing.com/Pages/specials.htm
We are continuing to show you the money in 2004! We are rejoining Prostar as a major contingency sponsor as well as continuing our exclusive Private Label Contingency Program. Go enroll today! It's free money! Here is the link:
www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contingency.htm
Just in case you were dying to know who won the Tether Kill Switch Contest For January, it was:
Curtis Henry of Scottsboro, AL. Congratulations Curtis! Don't forget to enter this month at:
www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contest.asp
Thank you for your time and good luck in 2004.
Dan Rudd
www.mpsracing.com Date: 3rd February 2004 Ongoing coverage of the Oz Nats hits the prime time slot of 1 pm on Motors TV tomorrow - think there are some similarly headlining slots over the rest of the week...
Ivan S Date: 3rd February 2004 You certainly bit on that one about the gossip page becoming boring, don't people understand that when the season's over the news is less and the only reportable items are who's got what new sponsor in the car classes. It'll pick up as the Thunderball gets closer, cheer up Ian the days are getting longer and we may see the sun in a week or two!
Richard Gipp Date: 3rd February 2004 Is that comment about an advertising board a wind up – if not you might want to point out that you’ve had 69 news item postings and a grand total of 13 for sale in January.....
Gossip comment :- Unlucky for some? Date: 3rd February 2004 I'm trying to work out what I know is going to be a very busy year - I have several projects on the go in various classes in various countries. All will be revealed very soon......
Helen Curran is still looking for sponsors for the 2004 season. If anybody can help even a little bit please contact her and she will send one of her portfolios for you to look at.
Thanks, Red Ken Cooper.
Contact Helen on kencooper1@blueyonder.co.uk Date: 3rd February 2004 This may be of interest to you, it tells you how to trace these scumbags, and may be of interest :-
www.ukgser.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=16040
Paul Beaumont Date: 3rd February 2004 Progress on 'The Fang's' new cylinder block is going well as you can see below, a photo essay following the block's creation from billet is being updated every weekend at
www.thefang.co.uk/news2004.htm
I would be interested to hear from anyone who has run an Eaton supercharger in reverse ie; inlet as outlet.
On the subject of the 'gossip' page I admit it: I'm your daily visitor, breakfast wouldn't be the same without it! It doesn't take much effort to submit a photo and a few lines of news / insults / lies, let's see what's going on in all those sheds around the country.......
Cheers, Carl. Date: 3rd February 2004 Personally, I'd miss this site if it was to go. I haven't been racing in years, but I still check this site out every morning, and during the season maybe 2 or 3 times a day. It is after all a reader and riders site, and if the readers and riders don't submit anything, what are ya gonna end up with? As for the ads, what site doesn't have them nowadays? I don't think
Ian's getting rich with this site, I'm sure he's happy just to break even at the end of the month. We should be happy that Ian has allowed us a place where we are able to contact one and other to share ideas and problems with our sport, and there enough of both out there. I'm gonna stop before I really start rambling. Ian, I'm glad you're here, and I hope you stay.
Karl Thiecke - The Netherlands
Gossip comment:-
Thanks Karl for your invaluable support. And for those that think there is some financial income from this site, let me put it in simply - none, zero, zilch! It is funded purely out of my own pocket and my own time. I chose to have the site uncluttered by pop ups and adverts, and to maintain our independence from outside influences or potential conflicts of interest. Date: 3rd February 2004 I think its pretty obvious that the gossip section will be a bit quiet during the off season but will soon liven up once the racing starts. Once the backbiting starts all will be back to normal ;)
As for the "For Sale" ads I guess as it's a King Racing site it's a King Racing call, I for one would be sorry to see gossip go.
Rich Fielding
Gossip comment :-
Thnaks for your mail. For the information of those unaware, we do have a for sale and wanted section in the discussion forum for those who wish to post their own ads. Click on the link at the top right of this page. Date: 3rd February 2004 By no means DO NOT consider closing down the gossip section.
Marius van der Zijden - Koedam Racing Holland Date: 2nd February 2004 £50 quid the lot - payment in bourbon and doughnuts - I'm planning on starting a circus freak show and I think they'd make an ideal starting point...
Ivan S
Date: 2nd February 2004 The Gossip Page has lost it, what happened? It's now turned into mostly an advertising page with a few extras with no enticement for regular visits due its newsworthiness like it used to be. The old popularity was not due to a certain frequency in updates, it was due to the quality of the news/gossip items you put up. I used to visit your Gossip page on an almost daily basis but due to all the adverts that frequency has gone way down and is now close to like once a month or so. Why don't you seperate the Gossip page and adverts by putting up a dedicated adverts page and charge for the adverts or simply close the Gossip page down and call it what it is, "Free Adverts"?
Who cares! - E-mail:
everythingis@forsale.com
Gossip comment :-
Thanks for your mail, although why you don't have the courage of your own convictions to put your name to the comment probably answers your own question. The bottom line is that we rely on people providing input to run alongside the gossip I dig up by my own exhaustive research - nothing in - little out.
I am just not getting the level of input I used to with most European riders opting for Eurodragster. You are right, the posts are not what they used to be and the effort I have to put it for such meagre return is pretty disappointing,
particularly as the time would be better spent improving our race effort. What about your news or gossip? Maybe you do provide
something for us to post, but as I'm not 100% sure (without doing a search that I can't be bothered with) I can only assume you don't.
Maybe it is time to close down - Eurodragster copes admirably with both bike and car news, the riders provide more
news items to them than us, and maybe a bike only site is a luxury we don't need. Date: 1st February 2004 Apparently Jim is looking better everyday, he is moving his fingers and toes and yesterday he moved an arm. He still cannot talk because of the tubes. He knows everyone and is able to communicate through moving his head and eyes. He has a long road to recovery but he is going to make it. The prayers and thoughts have been wonderful and they really appreciate them. Jim is still in CVT which is intensive care but a step up for even intensive care and a nurse is with him every second.
The hospital address is:-
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital Date: 1st February 2004 After posting the last scam item, we received another that we just had to show you. So how much are we worth then........?
hello,
how are you,i'm interested in buying your Top Fuel Bike class riders,so i want you to give me the price and the mode of payment,so that i can be able to prepare for the payment,and my method of payment is by cheque
thanks.
ayo johnson [johnson2004@jojomail.com]
Go on, make him an offer on our behalf - you can have a 25% percent commission! Date: 1st February 2004 French Top Fuel and Rocket Bike rider Eric Teboul has a Sprintex blower for sale.
He can be contacted at tebouleric@aol.com Date: 1st February 2004 Further to the submissions on scams recently, we would like to show you a couple we received yesterday as examples of the type of communications sent out by these conmen. These two unrelated itesm were sent on the same day but months after we ran a piece on the sale of Jimmy Brantleys ex Imperial Wizard Top Fuel Bike:-
Hello to the seller this is charles am from u,k am the
security officer pl i will like to purchase ur (Imperial Wizard) that u
posted on internet i will like to know the price of it and i want u
to tell me the recently condition of and i want u to know that i will
make arrangement for the pick up by my sevl cos we have our personal
shipping agent company that will take care of the shippment of it.so
i want u to get back to me with pice of the item and condition of
it.the mode of my payment is through certifield cashier's check drawn
from ur country bank.hope to hear from u asap.
Thanks, Regards
Management....
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello Ian,
I am interested in buying your Imperial Wizard Bike for one of my clients, I have a shipping agent that will take care of the shippment. So I want you to send me your last price and its present condition before I can continue with the transaction. Also, if there's any fault don't hesistate to let me know.
Reply asap.
Regards, John.
Seller beware!!!!
Date: 1st February 2004 TJ O'Briens TL 1000 (quickest in europe apparently!). M4 pipe, shift light and minder, air shifter, power commander, progressive nos, lengthened swinging arm, new race fairing. Runs 9.7's. Plus all road stuff. MOT. £3450.00 ONO
Ring Andy on 07786 936787 Date: 31st January 2004 Complete 4 Piston set of Total Seal XC piston rings for turbo / nitrous /
blown applications, 80mm. Brand new and surplus to requirements - only £100 (140 €) inc.
shipping, anywhere in Europe
contact sales@kingracing.com,
submit gossip item or telephone 07785 341099 Date: 31st January 2004 Can Steve Venables (or anyone who knows his telephone number) contact us by submitting a gossip item please? Date: 31st January 2004 The biggest thing to hit NHRA in the last few years has been the entry of the Screamin Eagle HD’s into Pro Stock bike competition. With the American sanction bending over backwards to take advantage of the huge upsurge in popularity of the Harley Davidson brand (and the commensurate dollar income) their profile is higher than even the winningest teams.
So, do you aspire to land a similar level of interest on a European scale? Well look no further than
Benke Eriksson of Stockholm, Sweden who has a brand new and unused Trac T4 chassis for sale, just the same as the V&H Team have in the US. Designed to take pretty much any type of V Twin engine, it could be used in many classes other than Pro Stock (e.g. Top Gas).
Benke can be contacted by email at :- pi@ariana.se
Hurry, it won’t be around for long!
Date: 30th Jnauary 2004 To echo John's experience I was in email correspondance with a person claiming to be in Egypt wanting the 7 sets of 1428cc pistons I have for sale PLUS another 23 sets if i could obtain them!!!!! Bearing in mind I am the only person in the UK I know of using this size and spec of piston I was suspicious and told them so. My email address was subsequently bombarded with viruses!!! So an internet based email account is a wise move if you are selling parts on the web.
Rich Fielding
Date: 29th January 2004 `Pommie' Pete Allen is entered in Top Bike at the Australian WSID Summernationals – two ex-pats at the head of the qualifying lists?
Ivan S
Date: 29th January 2004 Brand new never installed and run 883 motor complete with carb, charging system etc. SLASHED to 3000 Euros. This is less than 50% off its retail price.
Got to go fast...
Full paperwork included, taxes and shipping extra if applicable.
contact info@greekracer.net Date: 29th January 2004 Hi all,
I have been corresponding with a person on the e-mail who was
supposed to want to buy a drag bike engine off me that was advertised on Eurodragster. The person seemed genuine enough until the cheque was being sent and it was for more money than I was asking and requesting I
send on the over payment to an address in London. I have had a similar e-mail regarding my drag bike for sale on Turbos site and am still waiting for the follow up. I did a bit of research on this as it stunk to high
heaven and came up with this web site ;-
www.quatloos.com/nigerian419forum.htm
The cheque was supposed to
be coming from Ireland but when I called Fedex to redirect it they told me it was coming from Nigeria. It is another of those scams that has
been doing the round but one that is possibly not so well known. So you
have been warned.
John Williamson (RMD Racing)
Gossip comment:-
Thanks for that John. We've also recently been targeted for such scams with offers to buy our bike from people supposedly in the UK but who are clearly
not good English speakers. E Bay is a good source for these characters, as are on line sites selling bikes etc. It is a giveaway when they cannot provide a telephone number and wish to deal by e mail only!
Date: 29th January 2004 Just a quick note to update on our plans with the Fuel bike. Neil Midgley, Al Cook and myself are to fly to MRE in the sunshine state to work on the bike this weekend,. Waiting for us should be the new 9 stage MTC clutch and Racepak datalogger, all of which have been confirmed as arrived by Andy and the big stinker J himself. The weekend is mainly to work on the clutch, strip and rebuild the motor, check the compression ratio and measure every thing from the block up as Tony Lang is also doing us a new block and cylinder head which was brought back by prostock tuning guru Roger Upperton for some much needed port work and chamber machining. All will be matched up to the present head to provide a direct replacement top end, Cannon Engineering has also been very busy making new pick up sensor brackets for the new Racepak and two new supercharger snout drives as the last design has been a cause for concern for some time. Hopefully the new drive will keep us on the track and not in the pits, so we have our work cut out with all this to fit and design some kind of fuel timer system to work with the clutch. With Frank Brachtvogel sourcing the parts I’m sure we will be fine. There is, however, a good point to this coming weekend as we were planning on attending the Palm Harbor ale house on sunday evening to watch the Superbowl and our host, lord and master of ceremonies Mr Jimmy Hayes himself has seen fit to book us the two prime tables and procured $50 all you can eat and drink all evening tickets which is sure to turn into a drunken mess! All I can say is ohhh the shrimp……..
Well that’s it for now, I will post further developments as they happen and would like to take this opportunity to thank the people who are helping to make this happen and I just hope it helps us get ready for the season opener at Gainesville :-
Neil Midgley, Al Cook, J, Cheeky, Tony and Gina Lang (MTC), Roger Upperton, Frank Brachtvogel, Ian King, Terry Gibbs, Malcolm Francis , Larry and Steve McBride and Marius
all whose help and advcse has been invaluable as in my opinion the world of top fuel would be a very lonely place without them, so thanks a million.
Cannon
Date: 27th January 2004 Swedish Supertwin rider Stefan Junerud has been in touch with his plans for the coming season on his unique Nitro V Twin, the `Servex Twister'. Stefan, who made a name for himself after using the end two cylinders off a Keith Black engine and tuning the bike to stunning six second performances, plans to run the full UEM European championship
this coming season (subject to finances). As the bike was performing very well towards the end of last season they look forward with
confidence - the engine seems to like the conditions and the major parts don't wear or break as in past seasons. Their best last year was a
6.69 (clicked off at 1000ft, in the final at Gardemoen). He has yet to take the bike to the finish line under full throttle have yet not had the bike to the finish line at full throttle- impressive stuff with a best 1/8 mile of
4.35 secs @ 184mph (296kmh) despite sacrificing the 60 ft to a 1.18sec in order to maintain traction between 60 -200ft. Date: 27th January 2004 Italian Top Fuel Bike rider Antonio Ferretti has informed us that he has further revamped his 2004 race effort alongside the new Fiat racebus acquired earlier. A new crew have been confirmed as well as a new oil sponsor.
In addition, the new racebus has enabled him to sell space to two additional riders to join him on his plannned program of events that kick off with the UK Championship opener at Santa Pod in easter, and followed up with the UEM European tour. Date: 26th January 2004 Due to the fact that the bike had serious handling problems at full
power
last season, Ton and Vincent decided to build a new chassis for the 2004
Zodiac Top Fuel Harley dragbike. After all the measurements were
determined
and the computer drawings were done they spent "a few" hours in the
workshop and it's now starting to look like a frame. I've put quite a
few
workshop photos of last weekend on the NEWS page of www.zodiacracing.com for
those interested in checking out their progress.
Monique Pels Date: 26th January 2004 Eurodragster.com's Perfect Light Award scheme is to run again in 2004 with backing from Speedflow Products, producers of high-performance hoses and fittings. The deal reunites Eurodragster with Fay and Paul Fischer, last seen on the track in Super Pro ET, who were Eurodragster's first-ever sponsors. The award scheme will now be known as the Eurodragster.com/Speedflow Perfect Light Award.
"We've missed our involvement with drag racing since we last competed, so we're delighted to join up again with our good friends at Eurodragster.com to present the Perfect Light Award", say Fay and Paul Fischer. "Speedflow has enjoyed rapid growth in recent years; we reckon that our aim to provide the right automotive plumbing parts, give good service and keep prices in check has been recognised by an ever-growing customer base. Within drag racing Andy Robinson, Rob Loaring, Kenny Coleman, Peter Knight, Jon Webster and too many other folks to mention all use Speedflow. Hopefully that says volumes about us."
"Eurodragster.com are very pleased indeed to be back in business with Speedflow", says Eurodragster.com News Editor Tog. "Fay and Paul Fischer gave us much practical help and support when we were getting Eurodragster off the ground back in 1998 and they have taken an active interest in our progress since then, both with moral and practical support and with sponsorship. The same commitment to their business is proven by the success of Speedflow and a long list of customers which includes several Champions and record holders. As with all of Eurodragster's sponsors please be sure to return their support and faith both in Eurodragster.com and in drag racing by using their products whenever possible."
The 2004 Eurodragster.com/Speedflow Perfect Light Award will run to the same rules as in previous seasons, with a cash prize being awarded to the first racer at an event to record a perfect Reaction Time, 0.400 or 0.500 as appropriate. The Award is open to all classes and is available during qualifying of eliminations but not open practice. The prize fund will start at £50 and will grow by £25 per event if not won; if the Award is won at an event then the prize fund will be reset to £50 at the next. The Eurodragster.com/Speedflow Perfect Light Award is available at any Championship event covered by Eurodragster, which in 2004 will be:
Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
"The 2004 season looks like it's going to be another great year for the quarter-mile brigade and we're excited to be part of the show again", say Fay and Paul Fischer. "Now is a good time to put something back and we're sure that Eurodragster.com and the Perfect Light Award is a great place to do it! So, all you start-line scientists, do your stuff...". Date: 25th January 2004 Sorting through some old photos I discovered this evidence of Paul Rose's first attempt at running a Funny Bike team, sadly the inclusion of Wolf Man in the crew was not a
success.....
There have been a few minor updates at www.thefang.co.uk with the start of a News 2004 page, and news on the V-twins page that Joe Smith and his Harley may not have been the first bike into the 8's - in fact it was a Triumph! Check out the piece on Joe Smith.
Carl Wadkin Snaith
Date: 25th January 2004 1992 Ford Transit 100 LWB, semi high roof, 1994cc petrol (electronic fuel injection) engine, 93000 miles, MOT end July 04, only two owners from new. £1000 or near offer, contact Augy on 01778 380931 or email
augyharrison@aol.com Date: 25th January 2004 1993 XLH 883 for sale with lots of work and parts on it:
Screaming Eagle flat track rear section and seat
Andrews cams, S&S E carb, SE ignition and coil, Axell wires
Shortened fork with SE brace, Fournales rear air shocks
Ceriani steering damper, Late model 13 spoke cast wheels Harrison billet calipers front and rear, Chain conversion
Extra set of cylinders and 883 heads and new coated HD/SE pistons for conversion. Goes straight and turns too.
$9300, trade for Fuel stuff. e-mail zman@greekracer.net Date: 24th January 2004 Paranoid Racing of Athens, Greece are in the parts gathering stage for their fuel chassis after a frustratingly busy 2003, and are ready to start CNC machining on their new motor design. In addition to White Line Cycles they have secured sponsorship from Riders motorcycle rentals -
www.harleyriders.gr and team principal and rider ZMan plans to race at the AHDRA / Big Race in Brainerd with a sportsman entry as well as a couple of races in the Greek and Italian series with a carburreted Buell X1.
At the same time they are liquidating old stock in order to round up cash for the projects and plan to start a mobile dyno operation that will travel to European events as well as domestic. Date: 23rd January 2004 Regarding the rocket stuff:
Turbonique inc. was an Orlando Florida based company who did all kind of "interesting" things with those rocket engines - like snowmobiles, go-karts, bikes, VW Beetles, you name it. I still have their original brochure from somewhere in the 60's (oh oh there goes my age again....).
Those items on ebay must be interesting for an insider.
Marius van der Zijden Date: 22nd January 2004 http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3170427295&category=2567 Date: 21st January 2004 Antonio Ferretti has now announced the dates for the inaugural Italian Dragrace series. This week they distributed nearly 3000 ticket and race cards, and are negotiating for race and result coverage in a motorsport magazine.
Class rules are to be based on the established UEM / ACU rules. The race calendar is as follows :-
20th - 21st March FAST & FURIOUS
Race venues are to be confirmed in the near future.
For further information contact Lorenzo Lauro +39 3355910599 (cars) and
Antonio Ferretti +39 3386456433 (bikes)
For rules and entry info go to www.dragster.it
Date: 21st January 2004 Thanks to Swedish Top Fuel Bike rider Peter Strom for pointing out that satellite channel Motors TV are featuring dragracing from Willowbank Raceway on Saturday at 15.30 GMT. Date: 21st January 2003 Congratulations to Italian Top Fuel bike rider Antonio Ferretti and his wife Federica on the birth of their baby girl Georgia who was born on Monday this week. Glad she looks like her mother......!! Date: 20th January 2004
Star Racing team owner George Bryce has named Angie McBride as the new rider of his Pro Stock Bike entry. McBride, 24, will fill the seat recently vacated by Fred Collis, last year’s eighth place finisher in NHRA POWERade points standings.
“When we looked at all the factors that make a successful rider, Angie was a natural choice, said Bryce. “She learns extremely quickly, and has the desire and motivation to be successful. The first time we met, it was obvious to me that she is willing to work hard and put forth the effort necessary to make this a career. I also know that Angie has what it takes to do a great job for any potential marketing partner.”
“Angie has been to our drag racing school in Gainesville (Fla.) three times, Bryce continued. “The first time, she did very well. The second time, she was even better, and by the third time, we were sold on her.”
In addition to the runs she’s made at Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, McBride is also the current Southeastern Motorcycle Drag Racing Association (SEMDRA) Outlaw class champion. She has run as quick as a 7.28 at over 191-mph on a bike with a small rear tire and no wheelie bars.
“It’s a dream come true for me to be racing with the Star/G Squared team, said McBride, a nurse who resides near Winston Salem, N.C. “I think everyone who’s ever raced a motorcycle wants to race in Pro Stock Bike. Even though my current bike is fast, it was big step up to ride a Pro Stock Bike. In my first few runs, my best sixty-foot time was 1.12 and then we made a few adjustments, and I had a 1.06. That’s when George asked me if I wanted to ride his bike this season. Obviously, it didn’t take me long to say yes. I can hardly wait for the season to start.”
As a rider, team owner and crew chief, Bryce has won over 60 NHRA national events and has claimed six season championships with the late John Myers (1990, 1992, and 1995) and most recently with Angelle Savoie (2000 – 2002). “If you look at our history, every rider we’ve ever had has done well, and I’m sure Angie will continue that tradition,” Bryce stated.
“George Smith (part owner and chairman of the board of S&S Cycle, the leading manufacturer of go fast V-Twin parts) and I have formed a new company, G Squared Motorsports, and we are working with S&S to refine our V-Twin program,” Bryce noted.
McBride will begin the season on the Suzuki that Collis rode last year, or the S&S powered V-Twin Pro Stock Bike that Bryce is developing along with partner George Smith.
“With all these new opportunities, this is the most excited and motivated I’ve been in years to start a new season!” said Bryce. Date: 19th January 2004 Check out WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM for the latest updates and special offers from the new shop. There are some great bargains on exclusive, drag racing, die cast collectables including the fabulous, gigantic, 1/16 scale funny cars of John Force and Tony Pedregon. These cars are nearly twice the size of normal die-casts and the detail is incredible, they even have hand laid fibreglass bodies like the real thing! There are offers on the regular 1/24 cars and lots of great new imported stuff like flamed shorty helmets, gangster sunglasses, Italian goggles that turn into sunglasses, nitro-Harley posters, Shirley Muldowney film stills and collectables, Jesse James choppers, Muscle Machine Gassers, John Force knives, Doug Vancil fuel bikes, Antron Brown, GT Tonglet and John Ayers pro stock bikes, NASCAR jackets, Force jackets, Wildside dragsters and starter packs for collectors!
They are also a supplier of RED LINE OIL, the ultimate oil for racers or the street! Plus the full range from ZODIAC and CUSTOM CHROME including the West Coast Choppers 'Jesse James' and our own 'NITRO MAFIA' range of clothing. This is all alongside the Santa Pod range of merchandise and videos. Call in or e-mail from the web site!
the ultimate drag racing resource.
Visit our shop at:-
TURBO VILLE
Telephone +44 (0) 115 940 1140 Date: 19th January 2004 Well, at 3 o’clock yesterday afternoon with the temperature at 4 degrees
Centigrade we wheeled our new EFI blowthrough methanol Funnybike out of the
workshop. We did a quick systems check, filled the tank with 100% methanol, set
the fuel pressure, pressed the starter and hey presto it started! However, it was very rich, and so a small alteration to a fuel mapping before pressing the starter letting it sit idling. What a good day for us after a year off, and we did not even plug in the lambda sensor........
Dave Friend
Date: 19th January 2004 Date: 19th January 2004 Gabriel Uttley from Beauchamps School in Essex has informed us that he has now acquired two Honda Blackbird engines for his land speed record attempt in the `Angelic Bulldog’.
You may recall that his original plans were to use one of the ex - King Racing Puma V8 Top Fuel Bike engines but he failed to reach agreement with the current owners of the unique powerplants.
Date: 19th January 2004 Last year 50, this year 60 years of age. Time flies when you’re having fun!
Marius van der Zijden
Date: 19th January 2004 Congratulations to Eurodragster.com in the Internet Site of the Year vote on the US' Competition Plus web site. For the second year running, Eurodragster.com was runner-up in this category, this time to NHRA.com. You can see the outcome of the Competition Plus Dot Com Awards at :-www.competitionplus.com/01_15_2004/dot_com_awards.html.
Date: 18th January 2004 We'd like to wish the kingracing.com crew chief of the year Marius van der Zijden of Koedam Racing a very Happy 60th birthday from all of us!!! Date: 18th January 2004 Wanted - 2 axle box trailer to carry fuel bike. Minimum 10 feet long inside, must be modern and light. Any offers?
Telephone 01484 650000
Bernie Hepworth Date: 18th January 2004 Nitro Harley rider Wayne Pollack has announced the launch of his new website -
Wayne recently became one of the three
quickest T/F Harley pilots on the planet riding the HD of Ray Price, running 217 mph in 6.33 seconds in the 1/4 mile. Wayne also recorded a personal best in the 1/8 mile, running 182 mph in 4.14 seconds. Date: 17th January 2004 Doug Hays has New Zealand's quickest motorbike and describes the action on his 2500cc nitro-powered Harley-Davidson as "like riding a hand grenade".
Worried he won't pass the medical because of a bad back, Hays has passed the riding job to his mechanic Ross Buchanan, who describes the take-off for the quarter-mile drag strip runs as "like sitting on a railway line and being shunted by a fast-moving freight train".
The pair secured the New Zealand record of 7.9 seconds for the quarter-mile at the Meremere raceway in December and are hoping to bring it in further at the national series meeting there tomorrow.
"We want to set a challenge for someone else and, if no one comes along, then we'll have it for a long time," Hays said of the fastest mark.
They have so far had the bike at only half power, he reckons. The purpose-built racing machine is a Fast Cat model, its V-twin engine capable of producing up to 650 horsepower. But so far it has been pushed to only 500hp in New Zealand.
Hays, who owns motorbike specialists Number 1 Cycles in Morningside, bought the bike from Mississippi racer Barry Monjure, who had to ditch it as part of his divorce settlement.
"It was like his baby. He was nearly in tears when we drove off with it," Hays said. He had seen the machine for sale on an internet site and, when a US-based friend agreed to check it out for him, Monjure produced a 7.5s run.
The bike is capable of 6.9s for the quarter mile, at the end of which it would be hitting 320km/h. Two consecutive runs are required to break a record. Buchanan did 7.9s twice in December, his top speed hitting 240km/h.
"We're shutting it down after one-eighth," Hays said. Part of the reason for that is the learning process. The machine's front wheel barely touches the ground during a run, with only its 12inch back slick on the tarmac. There is no gearbox, the straight drive being controlled by a centrifugal clutch.
The engine, the only New Zealand-based drag machine running on nitro-methane, is built to incredibly fine tolerances. A battery failure in early runs caused the head block to disintegrate, firing bits of metal in all directions. Buchanan wears a bullet-proof vest to protect himself from injury and it proved its worth when a bolt from the head flew into his chest in what would have been an injury incident.
"You need a little bit of insanity to ride it," Hays said. And deep pockets. The Harley is worth around $120,000, costs plenty to maintain and burns around four litres of fuel costing about $200 in each sprint.
Garth Hogan, the last man to run a nitro-methane vehicle here in the 1980s and still a national and Meremere record-holder with rail runs at 5.6s and 255km/h, is part-sponsor.
Tomorrow's meeting is round three of a series where racers qualify for the national championships at Meremere on March 28. The country's fastest machines in top alcohol and door slammer class are expected to compete, with Waiuku's Craig Brown the favourite in the door slammer class with his 1955 Chev. Also on show will be the new "boy racer" class, the pro-imports, including two street-legal cars capable of around 9s runs.
Hays' Harley will be on display at the Kumeu Hot Rod Show on Sunday.
By PETER JESSUP Date: 17th January 2004 Congratulations to all the 2003 ACU Dragbike Champions who will tonight receive their trophies at tonight's prestigious ACU Awards Dinner in Coventry.
Steve Woollatt (Top Fuel), Neil Midgley (Funnybike), Dave Beck (Prostock), Philip Leamon (Comp Bike) and Karl Larcombe will line up alongside all the UK champions from other motorcycle sports at the glittering dinner, the highlight of the ACU Calendar. Date: 17th January 2004 APIRA Officials have today announced that Sunday 8th
February 2004 has been set aside for the associations
Annual General Meeting to be held at the Hilton Hotel
Coventry; the same venue for the following month's
Ultimate Power Drag Racing Championship Presentation.
The AGM will be held in the York Suite starting at
1.00pm prompt and ending at 4.00pm. The meeting will
break for Tea/Coffee at 2.30pm. For a map of the
Hilton's location, log on to www.hilton.co.uk.
In the meantime if you have any items open for
discussion, these should be submitted in writing to
the Club & Race Secretary Wendy Talbot, 121 High Road,
Wortwell, Harleston, Norfolk IP20 0EN or by e-mail to wendy@apira.org.uk by Monday 2nd February.
Jeremy Cookson - Shakespeare County Raceway Press Officer/Commentator Date: 17th January 2004 The National Association of Supertwins have announced the date for its AGM - Saturday 7th February at the White Lion Pubic House, Beeston, Nottingham.
Ian `Rush' Carruthers will attend for the final time as the Chairman of the NAST as he is standing down to concentrate on his anh his son's racing programs.
The NAST AGM starts at 3.00pm at the White Lion Pub - found from junction 25 of the M1/A52 to Nottingham road. The pub is located on the Woolaton Road direction Beeston.
If any member has any input for the meeting then please e-mail Rush at rush.supertwinshq@ntlworld.com, telephone 01159 463758 or alternatively e-mail NAST Secretary Sue Beneke at
suebeneke@btinternet.com Date: 15th February 2003 We’d like to congratulate former Top Fuel Bike rider Phil Brachtvogel and his lovely wife Kim on the happy news that they are expecting a baby.
Phil, who tied the knot last year, was expected to be seen out this year on the racetrack on one of the former bikes co owned with his brother and crew chief Frank. However, it seems that his inability to keep the same level of discipline in the bedroom as he had in his race effort has put paid to that for the foreseeable future.......
Date: 15th January 2004 Following our news of Italian Top Fuel Bike rider Antonio Ferretti yesterday, he has now announced that his bike is to be featured this week at the
Bike Expo Show that is incorporated into the Auto Tuning Show in Padova. He will be promoting the planned 2004
Dragbike tour with a live burnout for the visitors. The Peter Schofer Racing Team will also feature
their TMD at the Auto Tuning Show, the biggest of it’s kind in Italy.
Date: 15th January 2004 Brian Johnson has announced that the first four of last year’s Prostar event videos are all now available on DVD. The excellent videos feature footage from all the Pro classes on the worlds top motorcycle dragracing tour.
He is currently working on the Indianapolis event DVD as we speak, and will follow up with a 2003 season review DVD soon after.
The DVD’s can be obtained from Brian direct on 01344 625182, or by mail order from Ian Turburville’s new emporium :-
Baggy's Hog Shop
Telephone: 0115 940 1140 (outside the UK +44 115 940 1140)
For more details, or to contact Turbo, visit his web site at www.turboville.com.
Date: 14th January 2003 Take a look at these fabulous miniature billet engines, blowers etc:-
www.nvbackflow.com/engines/index.html Date: 14th January 2003 Italian Top Fuel bike rider Antonio Ferretti has informed us of his acquisition of a Fiat Bus to allow him to better cater for the needs of travelling on the 2004 UEM European Championship tour.
On a seperate item he mentions that he is also involved in the planning of a dragbike series to be run on airstrip venues in his native Italy. Date: 14th January 2003 Pete Briggs Racing is pleased to announce the release of the long awaited six-speed automatic transmission for the Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson race case. Liberty Manufacturing (Taylor, MI) has designed and manufactured the transmission exclusively for R&D Motorsports of Clearwater, Florida. This is the first time a six-speed transmission has been available for Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson pro stock motorcycles. The six-speed transmission creates a closer gear ratio which in turn allows the motorcycle to accelerate faster.
Mark Doucette of R&DMotorsports has been working closely with Craig Liberty of Liberty Manufacturing over the past year on the development of this transmission to design the finest six-speed available. These transmissions are manufactured to the highest possible standards. They can be customized with various first and sixth gear ratios.
For additional information and to order, please contact Mark (727) 447-4552.
CONTACT:
Pete Briggs
Pete Briggs Racing
+1 219 769 5941- xt 322
Date: 12th January 2003 Hi there,
Can Sandra or Roland Chaplain please drop a quick e-mail to
klaus@sarembe-racing.com as I need to contact you.
Regards, Klaus Sarembe Date: 12th January 2003 Eurodragster.com and race vehicle painter Curbishley Automotive have teamed up to post a new award for Sportsman racers in 2004.
The Eurodragster.com/Curbishley Automotive Perfect ET Award will be presented to the first racer at any event covered by Eurodragster to run to the thousandth either on their class index or on their dial-in as appropriate. As with the Eurodragster Perfect Light award, the Eurodragster.com/Curbishley Automotive Perfect ET Award will start at £50 and increase by £25 at each event if not won. If the Award is won then it will be reset to £50 for the next event.
The Eurodragster.com/Curbishley Automotive Perfect ET Award is open to racers in Super Pro ET, Pro ET, Sportsman ET, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, Junior Dragster, Wild Bunch, 9.90 Bike, 10.90 Bike and Junior Drag Bike and will be available at the following events:
Easter Thunderball, Santa Pod Raceway
Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
FIA Main Event, Santa Pod Raceway
Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
FIA European Finals, Santa Pod Raceway
UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway
It is also planned to post the Award in the appropriate Nordic Drag Racing Series classes at the Veidec Nitro Festival at Mantorp Park; details will be confirmed in the near future.
"Curbishley Automotive are proud to be associated with Eurodragster.com", says Martin Curbishley whose customers include the Showtime Fuel Funny Car team, Custom Car Street Eliminator racer Andy Frost, Super Modified racers Ian and Paula Marshall, and Super Pro ET racers Gary Malin and Paula Atkin. "We would like to wish everybody a successful and safe 2004 season".
"We are very grateful indeed to Martin Curbishley for his support and we feel privileged that a company which has presented so many stunning-looking race vehicles and has such a high reputation for professionalism has chosen to associate its name with us", says Tog of Eurodragster.com. "As with all of Eurodragster's sponsors please be sure to show your appreciation for Martin's support of Sportsman racing and of Eurodragster.com by approaching him if you are considering having your race vehicle painted."
If you are interested in having your race vehicle painted by Martin Curbishley then you can contact him by E-Mail at mcbrogieroadster@aol.com or call him on 07812 942097. Date: 11th January 2004 Is it time 9.90 bike was re-indexed to 9.50? I believe it is and should be done before the 2004 season starts for the following reasons :-
(1) Present index is to slow for modern bikes
Fred Furlong
Date: 11th January 2003 For sale - 1989 GSXR1100 30,000 miles, mot`ed - all legal! - £1250
Michael Beaumont
Tel 07966 390606 (Sarf London) or email mebeau@hotmail.com Date: 10th January 2004 In response to the rumours circulating about the health of legendary dragbike tuner Ron Krol, his team have issued a press release explaining
the situation. Ron was famed for his extremely large capacity nitrous
snorting engines an example of which was campaigned to great effect in the
UK by the recently emigrated Martin Peck.
Apparently in late September and after a long illness, Ron was treated for a
serious infection which had started in his gall bladder and spread
throughout his body. Major surgery was required to remove the
infected gall bladder, and to treat the infection in his other
organs. He has made good progress after surgery, and a full recovery
is expected. Rumours had spread that Ron has cancer. This is not at all the case,
but anyone who saw Ron in the months before the surgery would have
been tempted to think so. He lost a lot of weight very quickly, and
did appear to be wasting away and was in obvious distress. As Ron
said, "For the first time in my life I felt my age." He has since
regained about 30 pounds and is exercising regularly to restore lost
muscle tone and control.
Ron's illness has seriously impaired his plans to campaign his new Race Visions
fabricated Top Fuel Bike which he hopes will showcase some of his innovative ideas, and make him the fastest dragbike racer on the planet. All of us at King Racing wish Ron well, and hope to see him back on the track in the very near future. Date: 10th January 2003 WWW.TURBOVILLE.COM the ultimate drag racing resource. Visit our shop at:- Date: 9th January 2004 Installing the latest state of the art clutch and then "kicking butt"
in Gainesville!?....
If only life would be that easy!
Good luck anyway !
Marius van der Zijden.
Gossip comment:
Oh sorry, I forgot to add the caveat of AFTER he gets your e mail address and orders the timer system he wants delivered in the next week or so...... Date: 8th January 2004 Webster Race Engineering have now announced their five Test Days taking place at Santa Pod during 2004. The days are an excellent opportunity to take advantage of a fully-prepped track without the queues suffered at What You Brungs. The 2004 dates are:
Wednesday 24th March
Saturday 24th April
Wednesday 14th July
Wednesday 18th August
Wednesday 22nd September
WRE will also offer a trackside assistance service along with expert advice tailored to individual race vehicles.
The Test Days are open to both cars and bikes and also include full marshal and paramedic cover.
Gates will open at 9:00 am with the track open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Mobile catering will also be on-site at each event.
Entry to each track day is £125 plus VAT per driver or rider. Racers will need to produce a DVLA driving licence to sign on, with the exception of Junior Dragsters.
For more information, or to book a slot on a Test Day, contact Webster Race Engineering on 01933 315236.
Date: 8th January 2004 Rookie Top Fuel rider Chris `Cannon' Hannam is not resting on his laurels after leaving the bike co owned with Jon Morton in the Sunshine State over the winter break.
Cannon, along with his latest crew of Neil Midgley and Al Cook, are to travel to Florida at the end of this month to install his latest acquisition, a state of the art 9 stage MTC clutch system in anticipation of kicking butt at the Prostar season opener at Gainesville in March. Date: 8th January 2004 It has not taken long for the warning of the old `closed loop virus' to
spread from the US has it.....?
Dave Friend Date: 8th January 2004 Hello Again Racers:
Happy New Year everyone! We at MPS wish you the best in 2004.
Our
first Internet special for 2004 will be our world famous billet aluminum
Tether Kill Switches for a mere $35.00! That's 10.00 off racer pricing!
You should pick up a couple for that price!
Our Fast FI Mixture
Control Unit with "instant rich" for dry nitrous systems regularly sells
for $229.00. This month you can tune your fuel-injected bike for only
$199.00.
Don't delay! Order today cause we won't honor this one after 1/31/2004
at midnight! Remember, you must mention the Internet special to get
this deal. You will get the regular price if you don't!
For all the
gory details go to: www.mpsracing.com/Pages/specials.htm
We are continuing to show you the money in 2004! We are rejoining
Prostar as a major contingency sponsor as well as continuing our
exclusive Private Label Contingency Program. Go enroll today! It's
free money! Here is the link: www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contingency.htm
Just in case you were dying to know who won the Tether Kill Switch
Contest For December, it was: Stephen Kintner of Grand Haven, MI.
Congratulations Stephen! Don't forget to enter this month at: www.mpsracing.com/Pages/contest.asp
We have had a great response to our new "Make It Fast" T-shirts and hats.
If you haven't already seen them they are at: www.mpsracing.com/products/MPS/shirts.asp
Thank you for your time and good luck in 2004.
Dan Rudd - www.mpsracing.com Date: 7th January 2004 I have now been the representative for the Top Fuel Bike class at the PRP meetings for over a year now, and believe that in the spirit of democracy that I should offer the position to any other person, rider or otherwise, who wishes to take on the task. I am willing to continue in the role should there be no one else interested, but would be happy to support another nomination should it be proposed.
Any person who wishes to put themselves forward must have support from more than 50% of the Top Fuel Bike class riders, and must be prepared to attend 3 - 4 meetings per year, at various venues within Europe. The meetings normally take a whole day, and generally entail an overnight hotel stay. The majority to date have also been during a normal working week, so someone needs to have the holiday or the flexibility of work to attend. The position is unpaid as are the expenses, so you must be prepared to rely on your own funds and contributions from appreciative riders. One of the most important requirements is to be able to negotiate between promoters, organisers and riders, and have an ability to see all sides of a discussion, even in the face of criticism from those who they are trying to represent.
If you are interested in the role, please contact me at uem@kingracing.com or submit a gossip item for further details.
Ian King Date: 7th January 2004 A point that I would like raised at the PRP meeting is that if there is any way that the fee for the euro series can be on a round for round basis. I, and I expect a lot of other racers / crew cannot get the time off work and do not have the money to travel to the euro rounds, as much as I would like to. So, would there be a possibility of paying at each round to gain entitlement to any qualifying / prize money?
Steve Carey – Top Fuel Bike
Gossip comment:
Hi Steve, this request has been made to me by two other UK riders in the last week, so seems to be a bit of a hot UK topic!
The reasons why it has not been possible to do this to date has been well explained to many so far, but it does not please everybody. You do indeed have to pay all of the EUR600 enscription fee before the first event of the year in which you are to compete, not a percentage per round. The basis for this agreement was that in return for the set fee we would receive an increase of over 50% in prize monies that would more than compensate. This increase was weighted into the qualifying money in a larger percentage than the round win increase in order to help those riders travelling abroad, qualifying but not progressing past the first round.
The enscription fee has been called the `TV fee', but it is really a misnomer as it should be considered as a championship fee to be used for general promotion where required, not just TV.
The net result is that even if you `only' qualify for the two events the increase in qualifying money than before the enscription fee goes a good way towards the fee. Then you get increased round win money, and most importantly, and the whole basis behind this deal, guaranteed TV exposure to benefit your sponsorship efforts.
So to summarise, it is very fair even with you only competing in two rounds - you will get greater value for your entry than before! It was a very good deal for the UEM Bikes.
Much of the enscription fee is to be used for TV promotion, the most of which must be paid up before the start of the season to the production company. If the bulk was not paid before the Main Event then the contract could not be placed and we would then not have the TV schedule in place. That's the major reason for no `pay as you go' arrangement.
Basically, the principle of the European Championship is that it is a step up from country specific National Championships. You do your`apprenticeship' in the National and then move to the European when you are ready or wish to compete on the next level. The Euro Championship is for those committed to European Championship dragracing, not really built to suit those of us that can only compete in our home rounds. And remember that even for those `new' competitors that don't think they
have a chance of qualifying, you can enter an event and win championship points WITHOUT paying the enscription fee. You just do not then qualify for any money. If you aren't going to or have no chance of qualifying then there's nothing to lose!
However, circumstances change and I will make this request on behalf of the UK riders who have broached it to date.
Ian King – UEM Top Fuel Bike representative
Date: 7th January 2004 I just want to agree with Ken Cooper. It would be interesting to know how many Funnybike /Pro mod racers would do the European circuit if they had a decent chance of qualifying and or winning.
Regards, Mike Vickers and H.
Date: 7th January 2004 With 2 US bikes and some home grown blow throughs it looks like our tech guys will need to brush up on their electronic skills to keep an eye on closed loop injection. But only if they go too fast!
Steve French Date: 6th January 2003 Following on from the story of the Muzzy Bike coming into the UK, further news reaches us of another 6 second capable Pro Mod configuration with the involvement of US Funnybike wizard Gary Clark.
If so, it will probably be a blow through injected alcohol configuration. We'll bring you more concrete news as it develops. Date: 6th January 2004 Exciting news reaches us from Muzzy Racing and tuning legend Rob Muzzy that the famous `outlawed’ turbo Pro Mod bike ridden by Ryan Schnitz is coming to a buyer in the UK.
For those of you unfamiliar with the outstanding performance of the Kawasaki based machine, feast your eyes on the following best stats:-
1224cc and 25 lbs boost
60' 1.111
330' 2.894
660' 4.384/ 168.56 mph
1000' 5.706
1/4 6.834 / 196.53 mph
Phew.....! Date: 6th January 2003 At the annual Banquet of the Royal Dutch Motorcycle Federation (KNMV) last Sunday European Top Fuel Bike Champion Roel Koedam and European Supertwin Vice-Champion Ton Pels were honoured for last year's accomplishments. When they were called on stage, the speaker apologised for not having the UEM medals present at the ceremony. Ton's reply was that it was probably in the same place as last year's medal, because he had never received that one either (applause from the crowd).
The KNMV is not to blame, because after frequent Email contact that didn't result in anything, they contacted the UEM by phone a couple of times over the last few weeks, but no medals.
So a kind request to our UEM representative Mr. Lars Andersson to make a formal complaint about this and see to it that all dragracers get their 2003 (and 2002) medals.
Thank you very much.
Monique Pels – Zodiac Racing, Holland
Date: 6th January 2003 UEM Funnybike Class ? - My opinion is that it makes no sense to add another class to a non-healthy championship. Entries are still low and funding, marketing etc. has to get much much
better to draw more attention from racers as well as from spectators.
When I started in 1994 with the Funnybike we had over 25 entries in competition bike (today’s Top Fuel) and I thought I never will make the 8 bike field. At that time at least 4 to 6 fuel bikes ran in the class and occupied the first half of the field.
Theoretical. To be successful you have to be consistent and to show up at all events! This is the point were it comes back to marketing, travel and prize money...........
Last year we saw some very, very fast Funnybikes and I think they will step further in the future. This will create pressure for the fuel bikes and may show some suprising results.
My wish is to keep the class open for different approaches. Do not make rules for one kind of bike only.
Thomas Joswig - Germany
Date: 6th January 2003 I saw Ken Cooper's post on your board. I would therefore let you know that my
brother and I are very much interested in a European Funny / ProMod bike class as
well. I am fairly sure Viep Bloemen from Holland who is currently building a Funnybike is also planning to do most of the European events after he finishes the bike but he will probably contact you himself.
I think the class could provide an important stepping stone for a lot of people to enter European dragbike racing. In Holland we had a class like that for the first time this year which
Had approx. 12 contestants at each of the events.
Kind regards,
Joeri de Haas, Holland
Date: 5th January 2004 See you next year!
Eric , Nathalie , Aurelie et Morgane
We've heard the expression about needing a rocket up the a**e, but never this
one...... Date: 5th January 2004 Re FIM/UEM Funny/Pro Bike.
I think the proposal could be a very good idea, but what we may need to do is to approach the organisers to see if we could run it as a demo class for a year to show possible support, and how well we could organise things.
What we may also need to do is to outline prospective rules, and put forward a collated package that we can use to win friends and influence people. If you think we could get somewhere then drop me a line.
Neil Diggens - neil@gn-racing.co.uk
P.S. Subject to employment and finance I will hopefully be out in 2004. Date: 5th January 2004 This year's Brentwood Racing Car Show, which takes place at the Brentwood Centre in Essex on 17th-18th January, almost went without its traditional drag racing presence. Luckily Paul Marston stepped in to make the arrangements as soon as he heard, and he tells us that there is still room at the show for race teams and exhibitors to represent drag racing.
"If you would like to exhibit at the Brentwood Show then we are looking for both a race car and a bike with uniformed crew who can be available throughout the weekend to talk to the public and to potential sponsors - I have acquired sponsors at Brentwood", says Paul. "The emphasis of the Show this year is on race car construction so we would also like to invite a constructor who can exhibit a chassis and have staff present to take orders. Brentwood is a show for business - the trade stands there take up to £20,000 over the two days. The exhibition centre is minutes from the M25 making it very convenient wherever you come from."
If you would be interested in exhibiting either your car or bike or your business at the Brentwood Show then give Paul a call as soon as possible on 07831 650230 (mobile) or 0208 597 4575 (office), or E-Mail
office@pmracing.fsnet.co.uk.
The Brentwood Racing Car Show is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on both Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January. Entry is £10 for adults and £5 for children and senior citizens. A Family ticket admits two adults and up to three children for £25. Date: 4th January 2004 Ken Cooper has called for a response from interested riders to his request for a UEM Funnybike / Pro Mod class :-
"Re FIM/UEM meeting. As the now called Top Fuel Bike class has more fuel bikes than ever before, it now makes it very hard for any other bike to even qualify. This must call for the setting up of a European Funny bike / Pro bike class. There are a lot of Funny / Pro-mod / Comp bikes around Europe that would be more than interested in travelling to events where they had a good chance of qualifying and racing. I believe that this could become the biggest class in the FIM/UEM.
The Funnybike class in the UK looks as though it is going to be packed in 2004 season with some very quick bikes. A European Funnybike championship needs to be talked about. The gap between Funnybikes and Top Fuel bikes has grown ever larger over the past couple of years. Now is the time to start the ball rolling for the 2005 season.
Please submit your views for discussion on this page"
Ken Cooper Date: 4th January 2004 For this and other cool pictures of the Prostar Finals (and others) surf on over to
www.dragbikephotos.com Date: 4th January 2004 Star Racing’s George Bryce has been enlightening us on the costs of his NHRA PSB race program. He explains :-
“to contend for The Title... you need to be able to spend around $350 to $400k. Can you do it for less? Yes, but no one has in recent years. This will cover 3 or 4 salaries, testing time and travel, lots of engine R&D, blow ups repairs etc. Please understand, nowadays it takes a full time effort to win the Championship. No hobbies anymore. This 350 to 400 is after you already have the bike, truck, dyno, full machine shop, crew, knowhow.... and years of doing it wrong, to finally get it right. Look at our Champs, John 3, Dave 3, Matt 3, Angelle 3, and now Geno..... John was our last Champ that had to get off work to go race.
A win in NHRA is $4k... Contingency adds up to 3 or 4K more. The $400K is all for performance. Some for uniforms, hero cards, redecorate 18 w, driver fee, 1 or 2 dedicated employees. The 18 w costs about 50k to use it, and another 50 to run it.......the engine program is over 100k....plus travel, airfare, hotels, food, rentals...etc.”
Thanks for the interesting info GB3!
Date: 3rd January 2004 Following yesterdays gossip on Charley's rumoured purchase of two engines
from Jim McClure, we can report that after months of waiting, the US Nitro HD legend
went into hospital at 10.30 am US eastern time today for a heart transplant.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jim and Phyllis at this time. Date: 2nd January 2004 Rumours reach us from the US that Charley Karling obtained a pair of brand new Overkill engines from Jim McClure for his assault on the racetrack in 2004...... Date: 2nd January 2004 A special thank you to Dom Trickett from staff & racers at BIG CC RACING for the sponsored cylinder heads that reside on all 3 of the 400+ bhp Superstreet bikes in our stable.
Subtly & quietly still the No 1 teddy.........
Date: 2nd January 2004 Aussie based Top Fuel Bike rider Jay Upton has reported the status of his race program on the innovative Triumph streamliner.
He has been running a 21 gallon pump on it until now and had it all in the engine for the last few outings. They overcame the slipping throttle problem they were suffering that caused some inadvertent easing off and have put a bit more wing on the back as he was experiencing some top end traction troubles. The bike is about as slowed down as it will go, and with more wing it burnt the motor every pass so he is looking to an even bigger pump for the future.
He hopes to add a little more clutch and pick up the pace a bit as his recent incrementals have been slower than those in the past. Plans for the winter may include backhalving the chassis to run a slighter wider tyre like the MT, and add some strength.
Jay believes the aerodynamics are getting pretty sorted now with runs of 6.60 with the front wheel on the ground the whole way and a pretty smooth ride. The suspension is still topped out most of the run though (he logs the position) and is close to bottomed when he gets off the throttle, so he feels he needs more front spring before we can add more front wing.
Since the last modifications they made it is pretty easy to steer at the top end - it just wouldn't stop on the short tracks without the parachute, despite having big brakes and the softest 500GP bike front slick (it bangs the stops under braking since he went to the softest compound). Even from 215mph it stops easily with the chute whilst some of the Harleys are 200+ lbs lighter and pass him with 20mph slower terminals in the braking area.
Unfortunately he reports that the ANDRA has now banned his nose section again so he will have to do some more development on a different front wing arrangement.
We'd like to wish Jay good luck in his endeavours on the amazing looking
machine. Date: 1st January 2004 I'd like to advise all riders that the next meeting of the PRP Board will take place on January 11th at the Autosports Show in Birmingham.
All riders who wish to have any items discussed on the subject of the UEM European Dragbike Championship at the meeting are requested to contact their class representatives directly or submit their comments to us by clicking on the `Submit Gossip' link above left. Unless requested, the comments will be kept confidential and not published on these pages. Date: 1st January 2004 The "Czech TFB" on the site referred to by Carl is sadly a German bogus promo. The hub centre bike featured at the "Fighterama" is owned by "the slightly different motorcycle magazine" (self-advertised) called MOPPED. The Bike was built in the 80s by Swiss sidecar specialist LCR but I have NEVER seen it run. What class would it run in anyway with a BMW F1 Turbo lump? But it is a good showbike, looks spectacular and no damage can be done!
Benni - the Hockers announcer Date: 1st January 2004 The HTG race pipes will have silencers - I don't like the noise either.......
Bo Thorselius
Date: 1st January 2004 One of the Xmas presents we were very grateful to receive was a new program for Gossip Submission from the guys at Eurodragster to replace our sadly broken one.
So, you can now again send us your gossip directly from the link above left - sadly lacking over the last few weeks. No excuse now not to send us your news or just idle gossip for posting on these pages - we look forward to it!
Thanks very much guys! Date: 1st January 2004 All of us here at King Racing would like to wish all of our readers a very Happy and Successful New Year!
Headline: It's Upton!
Gossip:
Headline: Fang news
Gossip:
Headline: Gipp's nasty infection
Gossip:
Headline: Psssst.......
Gossip:
Headline: Hot in Sydney
Gossip:
Headline: Upton storming!
Gossip:
Headline: Gossip
Gossip:
Headline: Hokey Cokey boys strike again......
Gossip:
Headline: Shhh...........
Gossip:
Headline: Top Fuel Bikes invited to Italy
Gossip:
Headline: PRP Supertwin Representative
Gossip:
Headline: Gossip 2
Gossip:
Headline: Gossip
Gossip:
Headline: WARNING !!!
Gossip:
Headline: Upton up's the ante
Gossip:
Headline: Funnybike meet
Gossip:
Headline: That'll learn 'em
Gossip:
Headline: Keep it up!
Gossip:
Headline: Xtreme Bikes!
Gossip:
Richard Gipp - Prostock Bike
Ian Berry, Super Street bike and Funny Bike
Paul Pittourtou, Super Street bike
Sandra Chaplain and the 'Think Pink' racing Pro Mod bike
Martin Bishop, Pro Stock bike
Headline: Gossip
Gossip:
Headline: Gossip no more?
Gossip:
Headline: ACU Championship Rounds
Gossip:
Headline: Oh bugger........
Gossip:
Headline: MPS Sale! whoops..................
Gossip:
Headline: Oz Drags on Euro TV
Gossip:
Headline: Touchy........
Gossip:
Headline: For sale?
Gossip:
Headline: Cooperized bizzy!
Gossip:
Headline: Scam tracing!
Gossip:
Headline: The Fang update!
Gossip:
Headline: Missed?
Gossip:
Headline: Gossip no more?
Gossip:
Headline: No more Gossip?
Gossip:
Headline: Top Fool Rider offer
Gossip:
Headline: Who cares?
Gossip:
Headline: Jim McClure update
Gossip:
600 Gresham Drive
Norfolk, VA 23507
Headline: The best scam?
Gossip:
Headline: Want to be blown?
Gossip:
Headline: More scams!!
Gossip:
Headline: FOR SALE.
Gossip:
Headline: BARGAIN!!!!!
Headline: Desperately seeking Steve Venables
Gossip:
Headline: Screamin Eagle Pro Stock Chassis for sale!
Gossip:
Headline: More scams
Gossip:
Headline: Poms in Oz
Gossip:
Headline: Bargain XL Engine fer sale
Gossip:
Headline: Urgent Warning.
Gossip:
Headline: Cannons Superbowl errr Fuel Bike weekend....
Gossip:
Headline: Stefans plan of action
Gossip:
Headline: Ferretti Racing update
Gossip:
Headline: Zodiac Racing Workshop News
Gossip:
Headline: Eurodragster.com's Perfect Light Award
Gossip:
Excitement Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
FIA Main Event, Santa Pod Raceway
Power Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
SPRC Summernationals, Santa Pod Raceway
Veidec Nitro Festival, Mantorp Park
Allstar Nationals, Shakespeare County Raceway
FIA European Finals, Santa Pod Raceway
UK National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway
Headline: Paul Rose joins X Men?
Gossip:
Headline: Bike transport?
Gossip:
Headline: Sporty for sale
Gossip:
Headline: Paranoid gear up for 2004
Gossip:
Headline: I remember the good old days......
Gossip:
Headline: Move over Eric.........
Gossip:
Headline: Italian Drag series
Gossip:
1st - 2nd May UNIVERSITY DRAG
12th - 13th June PLANET DRAG
18th - 19th September NITRO DRAG DAY
2nd - 3rd October RACE WARS
Headline: Oz Drags on Euro TV
Gossip:
Headline: New member of Team Ferretti!
Gossip:
Headline: McBride Joins Star Pro Stock Bike Team
Gossip:
Headline: Check it out!!
Gossip:
BAGGY'S HOG SHOP
308 CARLTON HILL
CARLTON
NOTTINGHAM NG4 1GD
UK
Headline: It's alive!
Gossip:
Headline: SOS!
Gossip:
Headline: Angelic Blackbird?
Gossip:
Headline: Old git...........
Gossip:
Headline: Congratulations!
Gossip:
Headline: Happy Birthday Marius!
Gossip:
Headline: 2 Axle Box Trailer wanted
Gossip:
Headline: Wayne Pollack Racing - website of the week
Gossip:
Headline: Reaching Harley heaven at hellish 240km/h
Gossip:
Headline: ACU Champions honoured
Gossip:
Headline: APIRA AGM
Gossip:
Headline: SUPERTWIN AGM
Gossip:
Headline: Another Brachtvogel production....
Gossip:
Headline: Spaghetti Draggin'
Gossip:
Headline: New Wizzard DVD's
Gossip:
308 Carlton Hill
Carlton
Nottingham
NG4 1GD
Headline: Junior Dragbike V Twin?
Gossip:
Headline: Fast be Ferretti?
Gossip:
Headline: Six Speed Transmission for Kwak and HD
Gossip:
Headline: Desperately seeking
Gossip:
Headline: New `Perfect ET' award
Gossip:
Headline: 9.90 to 9.50?
Gossip:
(2) Straightliners have been racing 9.50 for years no problem
(3) As a national championship we should be at the forefront
(4) Superstreet has moved on, so should 9.90 to 9.50
(5) Entries would increase
Headline: Fer sale
Gossip:
Headline: Ron Krol press release
Gossip:
Headline: Turbo's new bike revealed?????????
Gossip:
TURBO VILLE
BAGGY'S HOG SHOP
308 CARLTON HILL
CARLTON
NOTTINGHAM
NG4 1GD
UK
+44 (0) 115 940 1140
Headline: Cannon's 9 stage clutch.
Gossip:
Headline: 2004 WRE Test Days
Gossip:
Headline: Many hands........
Gossip:
Headline: Beware the Closed Loop Virus!
Gossip:
Headline: Happy New Year from MPS!
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Top Fuel BIke representative
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Enscription fee
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Funnybike - yes!
Gossip:
Headline: Blow through headache for tech guys?
Gossip:
Headline: Nudge nudge, wink wink...........
Gossip:
Headline: 6.834 Pro Mod comes to UK?
Gossip:
Headline: Where are our medals?
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Funnybike? No thanks!
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Funnybike - yes please!
Gossip:
Headline: Eric Teboul Greetings
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Funnybike proposal
Gossip:
Headline: Sponsorship opportunity?
Gossip:
Headline: Call for UEM Funnybike class
Gossip:
Headline: Beauty and the Beast?
Gossip:
Headline: NHRA PSB Race program costs!
Gossip:
Headline: Jim gets new heart
Gossip:
Headline: Karling Overkilled?
Gossip:
Headline: Thanks Dom!
Gossip:
Headline: Jay Upton updates
Gossip:
Headline: UEM Dragbike Championship topics?
Gossip:
Headline: Bogus Czech!
Gossip:
Headline: Deaf???
Gossip:
Headline: Thanks guys!
Gossip:
Headline: Happy New Year!
Gossip: