Alex Asigno

Noriyuki Haga and Andrew Pitt will race for the Yamaha Motor Italia squad in the 2006 Superbike World Championship, fulfilling the team's desire to retain the services of both its riders from the 2005 campaign. Both men played an important role in developing Yamaha's YZF-R1 in its first year of world superbike competition with Japanese ace Haga recording 10 podium finishes, including two wins, on his way to third place in the championship. Australian Pitt ended the year eighth in the standings with a best result of fourth in the opening race of the season in Qatar. The Yamaha Motor Italia squad will again benefit from the official backing of Yamaha Motor Europe and for 2006 will use the updated YZF-R1 as the base for their world superbike contender. Preparations for the new season have already begun, with the first test of the 2006 season due to take place in Valencia on 14-15 November. Noriyuki Haga "I wanted to stay with Yamaha as we ended the year very strongly and I am very pleased that we have been able to agree terms. We had a good first year together and it would have been a shame not to take advantage of all the development work we carried out. Yamaha knows what it has to do to make the bike into a championship winner and it was important for me to know that I have the support needed for 2006. We came close to winning the title in 2000 and my motivation to become champion is still as strong as it ever was. Becoming world superbike champion is the goal I still have to achieve and I believe that Yamaha can give me what it takes to turn this dream into reality." Andrew Pitt "When I signed for last year we always knew that it would be 2006 before we could really see the benefits of our work, therefore I'm delighted to continue with the team and hopefully take advantage of the hard work we put in last year. I enjoy working with this team and we've seen that the bike can be a winner. We know what we have to do to take it to the next level and with a year's experience of the class, the bike and the Pirelli tyres I feel that I can show my true ability next year." Laurens Klein Koerkamp - Racing Manager, Yamaha Motor Europe "We were quite late in starting this project last year and I said that our objective would be to develop the bike and put ourselves in a situation where we were winning races by the end of the year. By the middle of the season we were well on track, and we have shown that we can compete with the best in the class. For 2006 we can take advantage of our year's knowledge. We now have base settings for each circuit we race on, a year's development work behind us and some chassis improvements from the new YZF-R1. The team will again be run by Massimo Meregalli and working with Andrew and Noriyuki gives us great stability. Our learning year is over and we now know exactly what is required to challenge for the title. It will not be easy, but ultimately it is our goal for 2006." Click here to view the news

Yamaha Factory Racing rider Valentino Rossi scored his sixteenth podium from seventeen races in the final round of the 2005 MotoGP World Championship to put the shine on Yamaha's 0th Anniversary celebrations at Valencia. The Italian started from his lowest grid position of the season but produced a dramatic ride to end the race in third place, lapping quicker than eventual winner Marco Melandri (Honda). A crowd of 124,520 watched Rossi make up seven positions with an incredible surge on the first lap, although the early pace of Melandri and Nicky Hayden (Honda) provided them with an advantage that proved impossible to breach in the second half of the race. Round: 17 - MotoGP Valencia Circuit: Valencia Date: 6 November 2005 Crowd: 124520 Temp: 21ºC Weather: Sunny Rossi's Yamaha Factory team-mate Colin Edwards suffered a disappointing end to his first season with the team, losing three positions on the first lap after starting from sixth and only managing to recover one place by the end of the race. Nevertheless, the American has made significant progress with a new riding style over the course of the weekend and he is now looking forward to winter testing as he prepares for his second season as a Yamaha rider. In the meantime, Yamaha is left to reflect on a stunning Anniversary season, in which it has swept the board, taking the riders', teams' and constructors' World Championship titles. Valentino Rossi (Yamaha Factory Team), 3rd "The second part of the race was very positive because my pace was fast and I rode well but if you want to win a race then you can't start from fifteenth on the grid. I made a mistake yesterday with the crash but the truth is that we were struggling all weekend with the setting and we didn't understand until this morning what the problem was. We worked it out and in the race I was able to ride how I wanted to, but it was too late. It was good fun, I pushed hard but it wasn't enough. In the future we have to make sure we work better in practice. It's been a fantastic season and everyone has worked hard to achieve all our targets. Now we look forward to some holidays and some hard work during winter testing!" Colin Edwards (Yamaha Factory Team), 8th "I didn't ride great today. In the middle of the race I started to push hard and caught up again with the middle of the pack, but by that time I had abused my tyres a lot, they were moving around and so I decided to hold station. I have never been at the last race of a season counting down the days for winter testing to start. We have a lot of work to do and I want to get going as soon as possible. It's been an average season but we've learnt a lot for next year and the whole team has worked very hard for me. I want to thank them and thank Michelin and I'm looking forward to working with everyone over the winter and coming out strong next year." Davide Brivio - Yamaha Factory Team director "Basically we lost the race in practice, both with the setting difficulties we had and Valentino's starting position for the race. It is always going to be difficult from the fifth row, but he was 4.9 seconds down on the leader after four laps and by the end it was 2.9 so his pace was even better than the race winner. It's been a long season from January, when testing started, to November. We have won everything available, scored eleven race victories and right now I would accept the same statistics next season - only with Colin higher in the championship. That is our aim for next year but for now I just want to say thank you to all our staff, engineers, crew and both of our riders. It has been a fantastic season." Toni Elias (Fortuna Yamaha Team), 10th "We had a difficult weekend as we could not solve the problems we had on the first day. However, I still gave my best. I think it was a season where I built up very valuable experience. I have learnt a lot and, despite the injury that kept me out for a while, I think I have progressed well. Now I am going to rest for a few days which I think I deserve! I want to thank everyone at my team, the mechanics and everyone who has supported me." Ruben Xaus (Fortuna Yamaha Team), 15th It has been a difficult year in which I have been battling to adapt to the YZR-M1, but it has proved difficult. Today was another hard one, but despite not enjoying myself much on the bike, we got one point. I must look forward now and keep fighting." Race classification MotoGP Round: 17 - MotoGP Valencia Circuit: Valencia Circuit Length: 4005 Lap Record: 1' 33.043 (Marco Melandri, 2005) Fastest Lap Ever: 1' 31.874 (Sete Gibernau, 2005) Race: 30 Laps Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 M. Melandri Honda ITA 46' 58.152 2 N. Hayden Honda USA +0.097 3 V. Rossi Yamaha ITA +2.959 4 C. Checa Ducati ESP +18.718 5 A. Barros Honda BRA +20.706 6 M. Biaggi Honda ITA +21.254 7 L. Capirossi Ducati ITA +23.142 8 C. Edwards Yamaha USA +25.678 9 M. Tamada Honda JPN +36.710 10 T. Elias Yamaha ESP +39.116 11 S. Nakano Kawasaki JPN +41.136 12 R. Kiyonari Honda JPN +45.691 13 J. Hopkins Suzuki USA +46.507 14 A. Hofman Kawasaki GER +49.856 15 R. Xaus Yamaha ESP +1' 19.443 Fastest Race Lap: Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 M. Melandri Honda ITA 1' 33.043 Championship standings MotoGP Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Points 1 Valentino Rossi Yamaha ITA 367 2 Marco Melandri Honda ITA 220 3 Nicky Hayden Honda USA 206 4 Colin Edwards Yamaha USA 179 5 Max Biaggi Honda ITA 173 6 Loris Capirossi Ducati ITA 157 7 Sete Gibernau Honda ESP 150 8 Alex Barros Honda BRA 147 9 Carlos Checa Ducati ESP 138 10 Shinya Nakano Kawasaki JPN 98 11 Makato Tamada Honda JPN 91 12 Toni Elias Yamaha ESP 74 13 Kenny Roberts Suzuki USA 63 14 John Hopkins Suzuki USA 63 15 Troy Bayliss Honda AUS 54 16 Ruben Xaus Yamaha ESP 52 Manufacturers standings MotoGP Pos. Manufacturer Points 1 Yamaha 381 2 Honda 341 3 Ducati 202 4 Kawasaki 126 5 Suzuki 100 6 Blata WCM 13 7 Proton KR 1 8 Moriwaki 1 Team standings MotoGP Pos. Team Points 1 Yamaha Factory Team 546 2 Repsol Honda Team 379 3 Team Movistar Honda MotoGP 370 4 Ducati Marlboro Team 295 5 Honda Camel 220 6 Kawasaki Racing Team 150 7 Fortuna Yamaha Team 130 8 Team Suzuki MotoGP 126 9 Konica Minolta Honda 103 10 D'Antin MotoGP 25 11 Blata WCM 14 12 Team Roberts KR 1 Race classification GP250 Round: 16 - Valencia GP250 Circuit: Valencia Circuit Length: 4005 Lap Record: 1' 35.792 (Daniel Pedrosa, 2005) Fastest Lap Ever: 1' 35.298 (Daniel Pedrosa, 2005) Race: 27 Laps Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 D. Pedrosa Honda ESP 43' 33.395 2 J. Lorenzo Honda ESP +3.448 3 C. Stoner Aprilia AUS +14.372 4 A. de Angelis Aprilia SMR +17.771 5 H. Barbera Honda ESP +26.233 6 H. Aoyama Honda JPN +31.244 7 Y. Takahashi Honda JPN +35.518 8 R. de Puniet Aprilia FRA +36.488 9 A. Dovizioso Honda ITA +43.129 10 R. Locatelli Aprilia ITA +43.960 11 A. Debon Honda ESP +55.494 12 J. Smrz Honda CZE +57.265 13 M. Cardenas Aprilia COL +58.185 14 S. Guintoli Aprilia FRA +58.545 15 T. Sekiguchi Aprilia JPN +1' 1.485 Fastest Race Lap: Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 D. Pedrosa Honda ESP 1' 35.792 Championship standings GP250 Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Points 1 Daniel Pedrosa Honda ESP 309 2 Casey Stoner Aprilia AUS 254 3 Andrea Dovizioso Honda ITA 189 4 Hiroshi Aoyama Honda JPN 180 5 Jorge Lorenzo Honda ESP 167 6 Sebastian Porto Aprilia ARG 152 7 Alex de Angelis Aprilia SMR 151 8 Randy de Puniet Aprilia FRA 138 9 Hector Barbera Honda ESP 120 10 Sylvain Guintoli Aprilia FRA 84 11 Yuki Takahashi Honda JPN 77 12 Alex Debon Honda ESP 67 13 Roberto Locatelli Aprilia ITA 61 14 Simone Corsi Aprilia ITA 59 15 Mirko Giansanti Aprilia ITA 36 Manufacturers standings GP250 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1 Honda 349 2 Aprilia 339 3 KTM 30 Click here to view the news

Gauloises Yamaha Team rider Valentino Rossi took his fifteenth podium from sixteen races this season after finishing second in the inaugural Grand Prix of Turkey. Whilst Marco Melandri (Honda) backed up his practice pace with a strong victory at the front, Rossi overcame a series of set-up problems and a bad start in the race to push his fellow Italian hard over the final few laps. Rossi's Gauloises Yamaha team-mate Colin Edwards finished seventh today, improving his pace towards the end of the race as he continued to adapt to a new riding style. Starting from the second row of the grid Rossi, did not get the ideal jump from the line and had dropped two places to sixth by the end of the first lap. As the Italian made his way through the field Sete Gibernau (Honda) took the lead, only to run off the track two laps later and allow Melandri, Nicky Hayden (Honda) and Rossi through. Rossi passed Hayden on lap eight and began an intense pursuit of Melandri over the final two thirds of the race, although he was unable to make up the gap between the pair and could do nothing to prevent the youngster from clinching his first ever MotoGP victory. Valentino Rossi (2nd +1.513) "On Friday and Saturday we struggled to find a good setting for the bike; yesterday morning I felt like I wanted to go home! It wasn't until qualifying practice yesterday afternoon that we began to understand what the problem was. We made some more steps forward in the warm-up this morning and went in a slightly different direction with the setting, which in the end wasn't so bad. Unfortunately I made a big mistake at the start and conceded a couple of seconds to the leader, which proved to be a big gap to make up. Melandri was very fast throughout the race and in certain points of the track I knew he was faster than me, so it would have been very hard to pass him. Anyway, I am satisfied with second place - it is a good result for us after all the troubles we've had this weekend and I'm really pleased with the way the team worked to overcome a difficult situation." Colin Edwards (7th +29.255) "I struggled today. I've been trying a new riding style this weekend which has really helped me find some more pace from the bike, but my instinct took over at the start of the race and I just went back to my old superbike style, trying to squeeze everything out of the bike. Once I had calmed down and focused on the new style I managed to get it together and I actually set my fastest lap of the race on lap 20, which tells its own story. I hate to say that this Grand Prix has been like a test but we have to look to improving our performances next season and I firmly believe we have contributed to that here, even though the race result was not what we were after." Davide Brivio - Gauloises Yamaha Team Director "Valentino had a very difficult weekend so second place in the race today is a good result. After the problems we had on Friday and Saturday morning the team worked very hard right up to the start of the race, as they always do, and helped Vale find some more speed. Second place is not so bad and now he has one more race to try to make it twelve wins for the season. Colin also had a few problems this weekend but he has tried something completely new to him and this race was like a transition. I think we will see the benefit of it next season." Toni Elias - 6th "I got away well, but it was impossible to keep up with the rhythm of the top three of four riders - I'm still not at that level yet. I was going along comfortably with Checa and we left behind the group who were chasing us. Then I made a mistake and he got away from me. From that moment I fought hard and got ahead of Tamada and Barros and, on the last lap, caught up with Edwards. I got past him two corners from the end in a section I knew I was quicker than him. This morning I got up and noticed that the temperature was about five degrees higher and we decided to use a hard Michelin tyre during the warm-up and then in the race also. It was a bit risky, but after five laps of the race they had warmed up and after that they worked very well. I am very happy with our progression and I hope to continue like this in the final race of the season." Ruben Xaus - 14th "After starting badly I fought my way up through the field and the fact that my best lap was my last lap says it all. It took me 12 laps to get past Rolfo and in the end I was able to pass Hopkins also." Round: 16 - Turkish Grand Prix Circuit: Istanbul Circuit Length: 5378 Lap Record: 1' 53.111 (Marco Melandri, 2005) Fastest Lap Ever: 1' 52.334 (Sete Gibernau, 2005) Race: 22 Laps Pos.Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 M. Melandri Honda ITA 41' 44.139 2 V. Rossi Yamaha ITA +1.513 3 N. Hayden Honda USA +6.873 4 S. Gibernau Honda ESP +12.420 5 C. Checa Ducati ESP +26.963 6 T. Elias Yamaha ESP +29.105 7 C. Edwards Yamaha USA +29.255 8 M. Tamada Honda JPN +33.345 9 A. Barros Honda BRA +33.790 10 S. Nakano Kawasaki JPN +44.225 11 C. Vermeulen Honda AUS +46.099 12 M. Biaggi Honda ITA +50.184 13 O. Jacque Kawasaki FRA +56.766 14 R. Xaus Yamaha ESP +1' 1.360 15 J. Hopkins Suzuki USA +1' 3.391 Fastest Race Lap: Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 M. Melandri Honda ITA 1' 53.111 Championship standings MotoGP Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Points 1 Valentino Rossi Yamaha ITA 351 2 Marco Melandri Honda ITA 195 3 Nicky Hayden Honda USA 186 4 Colin Edwards Yamaha USA 171 5 Max Biaggi Honda ITA 163 6 Sete Gibernau Honda ESP 150 7 Loris Capirossi Ducati ITA 148 8 Alex Barros Honda BRA 136 9 Carlos Checa Ducati ESP 125 10 Shinya Nakano Kawasaki JPN 93 11 Makato Tamada Honda JPN 84 12 Toni Elias Yamaha ESP 68 13 Kenny Roberts Suzuki USA 63 14 John Hopkins Suzuki USA 60 15 Troy Bayliss Honda AUS 54 16 Ruben Xaus Yamaha ESP 51 Manufacturers standings MotoGP Pos. Manufacturer Points 1 Yamaha 365 2 Honda 316 3 Ducati 189 4 Kawasaki 121 5 Suzuki 97 6 Blata WCM 13 7 Proton KR 1 7 Moriwaki 1 Team standings MotoGP Pos. Team Points 1 Gauloises Yamaha Team 522 2 Repsol Honda Team 349 3 Team Movistar Honda MotoGP 345 4 Ducati Marlboro Team 273 5 Honda Camel 205 6 Kawasaki Racing Team 143 7 Fortuna Yamaha Team 123 8 Team Suzuki MotoGP 123 9 Konica Minolta Honda 96 10 D'Antin MotoGP 25 11 Blata WCM 14 12 Team Roberts KR 1 Race classification GP250 Round: 16 - Turkish Grand Prix - GP250 Circuit: Istanbul Circuit Length: 5378 Lap Record: 1' 57.595 (Daniel Pedrosa, 2005) Fastest Lap Ever: 1' 56.930 (Daniel Pedrosa, 2005) Race: 20 Laps Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 C. Stoner Aprilia AUS 39' 28.243 2 D. Pedrosa Honda ESP +0.093 3 H. Aoyama Honda JPN +11.647 4 J. Lorenzo Honda ESP +21.861 5 A. Dovizioso Honda ITA +21.940 6 H. Barbera Honda ESP +22.258 7 A. de Angelis Aprilia SMR +43.755 8 R. Locatelli Aprilia ITA +44.105 9 S. Guintoli Aprilia FRA +48.918 10 C. Davies Aprilia GBR +54.376 11 A. Baldolini Aprilia ITA +54.651 12 A. Debon Honda ESP +59.791 13 A. Ballerini Aprilia ITA +1' 0.082 14 M. Giansanti Aprilia ITA +1' 0.225 15 J. Smrz Honda CZE +1' 0.338 Fastest Race Lap: Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Total Time 1 D. Pedrosa Honda ESP 1' 57.595 Championship standings GP250 Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Points 1 Daniel Pedrosa Honda ESP 284 2 Casey Stoner Aprilia AUS 238 3 Andrea Dovizioso Honda ITA 182 4 Hiroshi Aoyama Honda JPN 170 5 Sebastian Porto Aprilia ARG 152 6 Jorge Lorenzo Honda ESP 147 7 Alex de Angelis Aprilia SMR 138 8 Randy de Puniet Aprilia FRA 130 9 Hector Barbera Honda ESP 109 10 Sylvain Guintoli Aprilia FRA 82 11 Yuki Takahashi Honda JPN 68 12 Alex Debon Honda ESP 62 13 Simone Corsi Aprilia ITA 59 14 Roberto Locatelli Aprilia ITA 55 15 Mirko Giansanti Aprilia ITA 36 Manufacturers standings GP250 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1 Honda 324 2 Aprilia 323 3 KTM 30 Click here to view the news

Gauloises Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards got their first taste of the Istanbul Park circuit today as bright sunshine and moderate temperatures welcomed the MotoGP World Championship to Turkey for the first time. The riders had an extra half hour of free practice this morning as they aimed to get to grips with the new track, which proved to be somewhat trickier than expected, with several riders running off the circuit throughout the day. Gauloises Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards got their first taste of the Istanbul Park circuit today as bright sunshine and moderate temperatures welcomed the MotoGP World Championship to Turkey for the first time. The riders had an extra half hour of free practice this morning as they aimed to get to grips with the new track, which proved to be somewhat trickier than expected, with several riders running off the circuit throughout the day. Rossi and Edwards were amongst those to make minor miscalculations this morning, the Italian missing his braking marker and running into the gravel traps on two occasions and the American losing the front end of his YZR-M1 and sliding off completely. Edwards' eventful day continued in the afternoon when an engine problem resulted in a small fire that warmed his ankles but brought no serious damage to either the rider or machine. Despite the setback Edwards set the seventh fastest lap of the day over the two sessions, two places behind Rossi on the combined time sheets, which were headed by Marco Melandri (Honda). Valentino Rossi (5th - 1'55.078) "The track is not so bad - very similar to China but with more up and down and our problems today are similar to the ones we had there. There are some long, fast corners and also some slow hairpins; it is difficult to find the right setting. The bike is not working as well as we would like and we couldn't be at the top. There is quite a lot of damage to the surface in the hard-braking areas from the Formula 1 and there are a lot of bumps. Our problem is mainly with the front end; we need to understand this to be able to ride the bike at the maximum. Anyway, it is only the first day at a new track so it is not so bad - tomorrow we will try and understand things a bit better." Colin Edwards (7th - 1'55.171) "The crash this morning was a strange one; I felt like I was actually going slower than I had done on the previous lap but then the front end just went away. I guess you have to put it down to this being a new track. The bike was still running on its side for quite a while before I could get over and shut it off, which seems to have been what caused the problem with the engine in the afternoon - these things are designed to run standing up! As far as the track is concerned, it's pretty cool; I like it. The first seven turns are awesome, although I'm not too sure about that last section, it's a bit too slow for my liking and I reckon it would be better if they took the right hand kink out of it. I would like to be a second quicker but we lost a little bit of time compared to the other guys with the problems we had today so hopefully we can have an incident-free day tomorrow and make the most of both sessions." Davide Brivio - Gauloises Yamaha Team Director "Today we made an uphill start! Colin had a small crash in the morning and in general both riders were struggling for the lap times, but they will come. This is a new track and Friday is basically the opportunity to check things and see which is the best way to work. We have collected a lot of information from both riders and the job for the team now is to look everything over tonight and see how we can improve the bikes for tomorrow. It is a pleasure for the team to be competing in a new country like Turkey so hopefully we can enjoy the success here that we have had at other circuits this season." Tony Elias (8th - 1'55.208) "The important thing is that we are in the top ten again. Being at a new circuit we are all starting from an equal footing, but it is a difficult circuit with a lot of ups and downs and my Yamaha is maybe more sensitive than some of the other bikes. I like the circuit a lot, but with the rear-end being a bit unpredictable, enjoying yourself can be dangerous! We are working hard to resolve the problem though." Ruben Xaus (17th - 1'57.058) "It has been a while since I crashed because we have been working well, we understand better the characteristics of the bike and have not been taking too many risks. After changing for a tyre with more grip I tried to push harder into a corner and the bike locked and down I went. Because of the crash I lost nearly all of the first session, but in the second I spent time looking for the right settings and lines. I like the track, I'm not as comfortable as I would want to be but we are progressing which is the important thing." 1 M. Melandri Honda ITA 1' 53.506 2 S. Gibernau Honda ESP 1' 53.945 3 N. Hayden Honda USA 1' 54.774 4 S. Nakano Kawasaki JPN 1' 55.015 5 V. Rossi Yamaha ITA 1' 55.078 6 C. Checa Ducati ESP 1' 55.171 7 C. Edwards Yamaha USA 1' 55.172 8 T. Elias Yamaha ESP 1' 55.208 9 J. Hopkins Suzuki USA 1' 55.292 10 M. Biaggi Honda ITA 1' 55.478 11 M. Tamada Honda JPN 1' 55.657 12 A. Barros Honda BRA 1' 55.670 13 O. Jacque Kawasaki FRA 1' 55.925 14 C. Vermeulen Honda AUS 1' 56,665.000 15 R. Rolfo Ducati ITA 1' 56.865 16 S. Ito Ducati JPN 1' 5,691.000 17 R. Xaus Yamaha ESP 1' 57.058 Click here to view the news

Yamaha Engineering Corporation (YEC) is again producing a full range of racing parts for the YZF-R1 and YZF-R6 machines, designed in accordance with FIM superbike and supersport regulations. YEC is a Yamaha subsidiary company based in Japan. One of its activities is the production of high performance racing parts, which provide that vital edge for Yamaha riders to compete successfully on race tracks the world over. Among the successful riders that used YEC kitparts in 2005 were Noriyuki Haga, winning two races in the Superbike World Championship, and the Yamaha GMT94 team, winning the Le Mans 24-hour race. For 2006, YEC has developed a range of parts to turn the all-new YZF-R6 into a world and national level supersport racer. Next to that, new YZF-R1 parts are also available to order now. As an additional service, European YEC customers competing at national, European or world championship level will be invited at the end of December to sign up, free-of-charge, for the Yamaha Race Training (YRT). YRT is a three-day course where teams receive invaluable technical training from Yamaha's Japanese and European race engineers, with ample track time available for pre-season testing. This special training will be held at the Valencia circuit in Spain between 22-24 March 2006 (limited places available). Motocross riders are catered for too with their own range of racing parts developed by Yamaha Rinaldi Research and Development (YRRD), the company that is also responsible for preparing the factory Yamaha YZ450FM machines of MX1 world champion Stefan Everts. YRRD parts are available for the YZ450F, YZ250F and YZ125 models. Further information on YEC, including recommended retail prices, YRRD parts and copyright-free high-resolution images, as well as more YRT information, is available by visiting www.yamaha-racingparts.com. The order deadline for the first delivery of 2006 is November 14. To order, customers are requested to contact their national Yamaha distributor. Click here to view the news

Valencia, Spain To commemorate Yamaha's 50th Anniversary and its extraordinarily successful year in racing this season, Yamaha has decided to race the last round of the 2005 MotoGP World Championship in the company's traditional red, white and black racing color scheme. This follows the Yamaha Factory Team's earlier showing of the yellow and black traditional US racing colors in the US MotoGP round at Laguna Seca. As a result the YZR-M1 machines of Yamaha Factory Team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards will sport the red, white and black colors as seen on many of Yamaha's past factory racing bikes. In fact in 1975, exactly 30 years ago, Yamaha won its first GP500 world championship with Giacomo Agostini riding the then revolutionary two-stoke OW23 YZR500, also painted in Yamaha's corporate racing colors. The team will present itself with the riders and bikes on Thursday, November 3 at 17.00 on the main straight for a photo call. Yamaha has enjoyed probably the most successful year in racing ever, winning no less the seven world titles across the MotoGP, MX1 and MX2 World Championships in truly dominant style. By racing in the traditional corporate racing colors Yamaha endeavors once more to exceed expectations and touch people's hearts, making sure the 2005 racing season will be remembered for a long time to come as Yamaha enters "the next 50". The media can visit www.yamahamotogp.com for pictures of the team presentation and other related content, while members of the public can go to Yamaha's official racing site www.yamaha-racing.com Click here to view the news

Yamaha Factory Racing riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards began making preparations for the final round of the 2005 MotoGP World Championship at Valencia today, with the cloudy conditions at the Ricardo Tormo circuit brightened by the return of the factory's traditional red, white and black racing colours. Both riders' YZR-M1 machines and leathers are decorated in the famous livery, in commemoration of Yamaha's 50th Anniversary and its extraordinarily successful year in racing this season. MotoGP : Yamaha Factory Racing riders prepare for final push Round: 17 - MotoGP Valencia Circuit: Valencia Date: 4 November 2005 Temp: 21ºC Weather: Dry Rossi was seventh fastest in both sessions as he worked on adapting the set-up of his machine to the demands of a tight and twisty circuit after the fast and flowing characteristics of Phillip Island and Istanbul. There is certainly more to come from the Italian tomorrow after he ended the day with a lap time which was over 1.5 seconds outside his pole position record of 1'32.478, set two seasons ago. Colin Edwards also made a steady start to the weekend, lapping tenth fastest as he continued to work on a new riding style designed to increase his corner speed. Valentino Rossi (Yamaha Factory Team), 7th - 1'34.040 "I like the colour scheme very much - it is like going back to the 1970s. The bike and the leathers look really nice. Today we're having a few problems with the front end and also with acceleration. We are losing a lot of time in the slow corners and we are not strong at the end of the lap in general. We have some problems and some of the others are very fast but I am not too worried. We've had difficulties before on a Friday and worked them out for Saturday so I am confident we can overcome them on this occasion too. Everybody is tired because seventeen races in a season is a lot but we will keep pushing until the end." Colin Edwards (Yamaha Factory Team), 10th - 1'34.129 "I am getting to grips with this new riding style and I feel I have made a big step forward already this weekend. Every time I go out on the track I make progress and the team has been very helpful. My Crew Chief Daniele is showing me where I can be faster and where I can be later on the brakes, which is really helping - there's definitely a team effort going on. I feel the times are there this weekend but I now have to find the confidence in myself to push on and keep moving forward. We will see what else we can come up with tomorrow." Davide Brivio - Yamaha Factory Team director "It was another slow start to the weekend for us, something we have become used to this season! The positions don't look good but there are a lot of riders who are close together and if we make the improvements we know we are capable of, then both our riders should be much higher up tomorrow. As usual on a Friday we analyse the information and try to find as many solutions before practice continues tomorrow." Toni Elias (Fortuna Yamaha Team), 11th - 1'34.161 "We've been improving in the right direction though this circuit is really difficult and there are riders with many different riding styles. If you make one small mistake you can lose a lot of time here. The race will be very difficult and we cannot do big steps from all the problems we've had this season. We give our best, trying to improve for a good result on Sunday." Ruben Xaus (Fortuna Yamaha Team), 19th - 1'36.057 "This morning were not sure about the condition of one of our engines so we really had only one bike left, so our morning practice was a little bit different than usual. In the afternoon we've been improving step-by-step even though we still need some extra corner speed. The bike is working quite good here and I hope to leave Valencia with a good result." Round: 17 - MotoGP Valencia Circuit: Valencia Circuit Length: 4005 Lap Record: 1' 33.317 (Valentino Rossi, 2003) Fastest Lap Ever: 1' 32.478 (Valentino Rossi, 2003) Date: 4 November 2005 Temp: 21ºC Free Practice : Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. Free Practice 1 M. Melandri Honda ITA 1' 33.464 2 C. Checa Ducati ESP 1' 33.506 3 S. Gibernau Honda ESP 1' 33.523 4 N. Hayden Honda USA 1' 33.722 5 L. Capirossi Ducati ITA 1' 33.730 6 A. Barros Honda BRA 1' 33.967 7 V. Rossi Yamaha ITA 1' 34.040 8 M. Biaggi Honda ITA 1' 34.094 9 M. Tamada Honda JPN 1' 34.103 10 C. Edwards Yamaha USA 1' 34.129 11 T. Elias Yamaha ESP 1' 34.161 12 N. Aoki Suzuki JPN 1' 34.512 13 J. Hopkins Suzuki USA 1' 34.651 14 A. Hofman Kawasaki GER 1' 34.778 15 S. Nakano Kawasaki JPN 1' 34.832 16 R. Kiyonari Honda JPN 1' 35.157 19 R. Xaus Yamaha ESP 1' 36.057 Click here to view the news

Yamaha Factory Racing rider Valentino Rossi faces an uphill battle in the final round of the 2005 MotoGP World Championship tomorrow after qualifying fifteenth fastest at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia. Rossi slid from his YZR-M1 machine just over eleven minutes from the end of this afternoon's qualifying session and, despite returning to the track on his second machine, he lost several positions in the final push for times. The Italian will start from the fifth row of the grid as he aims to score his twelfth victory of the season and repeat the success he has enjoyed at this circuit for the past two years. MotoGP : Yamaha Factory Racing face Sunday challenge at Valencia Round: 17 - MotoGP Valencia Circuit: Valencia Date: 5 November 2005 Temp: 19ºC Weather: Sunny Rossi's Yamaha Factory team-mate Colin Edwards benefited from a more productive afternoon, making major progress with his new riding style and knocking almost two seconds off his best practice time from yesterday. For the second successive race the American will start from the second row of the grid in sixth place as he aims to improve his championship position with a good finish tomorrow. Pole position went to Sete Gibernau (Honda) in a new record time of 1'31.874 and the Spaniard is joined on the front row by Marco Melandri and Nicky Hayden (both Honda), who will fight for the runner-up spot behind Rossi in the championship in tomorrow's race. Colin Edwards (Yamaha Factory Team), 6th - 1'32.456 "I'm halfway happy with the result. We had a few problems early in the session but we worked things out and I was able to set a decent time on a qualifying tyre. The second row isn't terrible but we have work to do to find a better race pace. We made more progress with the new riding style but in reality I need 100 laps to perfect it, so I can't wait for winter testing! It takes me five or six laps to get going and we just need to get it ingrained in my system. The team has worked hard today and Michelin has given us some good options for tomorrow - I am determined to finish the season on a high. The stadium style atmosphere here is always fantastic so I'm looking forward to tomorrow." Valentino Rossi (Yamaha Factory Team), 15th - 1'33.503 "When I crashed I was pushing hard with the qualifying tyre and honestly I felt confident that I could do a good time. I was maybe a little too aggressive and when I touched the brake I just lost the front and went down. I was going fast and I have some small bruises on my elbow and on my leg, but I will be fine tomorrow for the race. I was lucky. The grid position is not so good, my worst for a very long time! The situation on the track is actually not so bad; the rhythm is okay, although we do have some problems and for sure I am slower than some of the other riders. The main problem is that it's hard to overtake at this circuit. A lot will depend on how many riders I can pass at the start and in the first lap. Anyway, we will try to make some progress tomorrow morning and see what happens in the race. My target is to be in the top five, any higher is maybe too difficult, but it's going to be a good battle!" Davide Brivio - Yamaha Factory Team director "We are in a strange situation. Colin is on the second row but his race pace is not as good as we would like, whilst Valentino is on the fifth row with a better race pace than his team-mate. We need to combine the two! Valentino's starting position is going to make it very difficult for him and it will not be his easiest race, but that is the reality of the situation and we have to deal with it. Luckily we have already won everything but we still want to have a good last race. It's going to be tough but we'll work hard in the morning and see what the race brings." Toni Elias (Fortuna Yamaha Team), 13th - 1'33.005 "This morning I had a spectacular crash without getting any injuries. Unfortunately this afternoon we did not have the same pace as in the morning session. Throughout the day we've been working with a full fuel tank and a race tyre and we've got a good pace even though we do not have a top position. This will make the race more difficult for me but I hope I will have a good start and will be able to get in touch with the top group as fast as I can." Ruben Xaus (Fortuna Yamaha Team), 17th - 1'34.874 "It's hard to do things right when you're in a difficult situation like now, but I'm not looking for excuses. I'm working hard to get a good feeling and the bike itself is working fine. Tomorrow I hope to find a good rhythm and to score some points." Round: 17 - MotoGP Valencia Circuit: Valencia Circuit Length: 4005 Lap Record: 1' 33.317 (Valentino Rossi, 2003) Fastest Lap Ever: 1' 31.874 (Sete Gibernau, 2005) Date: 5 November 2005 Temp: 19ºC Session 1 : Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. 1st Qualifying 1 S. Gibernau Honda ESP 1' 31.874 2 M. Melandri Honda ITA 1' 32.111 3 N. Hayden Honda USA 1' 32.217 4 C. Checa Ducati ESP 1' 32.374 5 M. Biaggi Honda ITA 1' 32.384 6 C. Edwards Yamaha USA 1' 32.456 7 L. Capirossi Ducati ITA 1' 32.482 8 A. Barros Honda BRA 1' 32.518 9 S. Nakano Kawasaki JPN 1' 32.663 10 M. Tamada Honda JPN 1' 32.682 11 J. Hopkins Suzuki USA 1' 32.785 12 A. Hofman Kawasaki GER 1' 32.966 13 T. Elias Yamaha ESP 1' 33.005 14 N. Aoki Suzuki JPN 1' 33.393 15 V. Rossi Yamaha ITA 1' 33.503 16 R. Kiyonari Honda JPN 1' 33.846 17 R. Xaus Yamaha ESP 1' 34.874 Click here to view the news

2004 MotoGP race summary At Valencia Valentino Rossi secured his ninth and final win of his world championship winning first season with Yamaha. Down in sixth after a tricky start he used his improving pace to good effect, winning 0.425 seconds ahead of second-placed rider Max Biaggi (Honda) and final podium finisher, Troy Bayliss (Ducati). After a difficult start, when Rossi did not get the drive he wanted, he immediately set about reducing the margin of advantage enjoyed by early leader Makoto Tamada (Honda), and on lap six he made a determined inside pass to lead the race for the first time. A gritty duel between the pairing saw Tamada pass on turn one of lap seven, leading the ranks ahead of Rossi, Nicky Hayden (Honda) and Biaggi. To the rapture of the 122,000-strong crowd, Rossi went back into a final leading position with a pass on the entrance to the last chicane. Circuit: Valencia Country: Spain Track length: 4005 m Opened: 1999 Fastest Lap Ever: 1' 32.478 (Valentino Rossi, 2003) MotoGP lap record: 1' 33.317 (Valentino Rossi, 2003) Last year MotoGP winner: Valentino Rossi Circuit tel: +34 96 2525220 Circuit web site: http://www.circuitvalencia.com Colin Edwards had a less rewarding time at Valencia only finishing in eight position, still this was enough to secure a very commendable fourth position in the final 2004 standings. 2005 set-up report YZR-M1 Valencia is a circuit that offers a slightly undulating layout with good camber combined and an abrasive surface. It has many stop-and-go 90-degree corners, bumps and a tight design which has claimed many of victims losing the front-end. This is especially the case with the faster and heavier MotoGP machines. For this reason riders will be chasing security on this very point, followed by stability under brakes, while still offering the agility to deal with a circuit that is more suited to a 250 than a 240Hp MotoGP four-stroke. The latest spec YZR-M1 offers all the traits that a winning MotoGP bike should have; agility, drivability off slow and medium speed turns, enough horsepower to survive on the straights and all of this offered consistently throughout an entire race. The linear character of the 'big-bang' YZR-M1 power plant is supported by state-of-the art electronic engine management systems that offer a much more rider and tyre friendly delivery - making it easier to get on the power earlier in the turn and with more confidence. This is essential in the final turn - the run onto the front straight and the start/finish line. With all of these qualities secured, the main challenge will be to set-up the bike giving enough front-end confidence on corner entry in order to not fall victim to a low side crash. Regarding the geometry and suspension set-up, the Yamaha will have a front-end lifted slightly, compared to most other circuits, and the rear lowered. Combined with the right front spring rates and preload, all controlled by the rebound, this will allow for improved stability under brakes and a planted front-end. With good camber, except for the penultimate sweeping turn, the ability to leap the M1 hard off the turns is essential. Especially with the high corner speeds Rossi likes to carry. To ensure this the rear suspension preload will be set to prevent an excessive amount of rear-end squat - reducing understeer - while still offering a plush enough ride to provide good, consistent traction. Click here to view the news

2006 YZF-R1 A MASTERPIECE REFINED More than any other motorcycle, the R1 has become synonymous with awe-inspiring engine performance and remarkable handling qualities. Yet, at the same time as being one of the world’s premier large-capacity supersport machines, the Yamaha R1 has also established a reputation for being one of the most stylish and beautifully-finished motorcycles that money can buy – in any category. On the race track the YZF-R1 has been quick to make its presence felt, and in 2004 the R1 won three major titles – the AMA Superstock Championship, the European Superstock Championship, and the FIM World Endurance Championship. R1 riders have also performed strongly in the prestigious All Japan Championships, and the R1 was victorious in the Isle of Man TT races on the world’s toughest road circuit. More recently the YZF-R1 had an impressive victory in the 2005 24-hour race of Le Mans and took its debut race win in the 2005 World Superbike Championship, underlining the machine’s ability to win at the very highest level. 2006 R1. THE HUMAN TOUCH The development goals of the R1 have always been the same since day one: to create the definitive high performance supersport motorcycle with class-leading engine and chassis technology combined with aggressive and distinctive styling, that delivers the ultimate riding experience and unrivalled cornering performance. Yamaha has always been an innovative and forward-looking company, and for these reasons the R1 development team are constantly striving for an even higher degree of perfection. When the fourth generation YZF-R1 was launched it immediately set new standards for cornering, performance and styling, and the wide range of engine and chassis changes introduced for 2006 are designed to enhance the R1 experience even further. The higher powered engine and more agile chassis are sure to underline the R1’s unrivalled cornering performance and handling qualities on secondary roads – and will undoubtedly reinforce its reputation as the most exciting and rewarding supersport machine. All these developments are the result of Yamaha’s ongoing research and development programme, in which the R1 has been constantly pushed to the limit by our factory test riders. It is their input that has helped to make the latest model feel and perform the way it does, and it underlines how human sensitivity has played a key role in forming the distinctive character of the R1. ENGINE 3 horsepower increase The 2006 model runs with the same 998 cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 4-cylinder 5-valve layout featuring a 77 x 53.6 mm bore and stroke and 12.4:1 compression ratio. Equipped with a 3-axis transmission, fuel injection and 40 degree forward slanted cylinders, this ultra-compact powerplant is one of the most highly respected supersport engines of all time. Yamaha’s engineers have conducted a thorough examination of the R1’s intake and exhaust efficiency, and for 2006 a range of detailed changes in this area have achieved a 3 Hp increase in power at 12,500 rpm without direct air induction. One of the most significant changes is the use of shorter intake valve guides for 2006. Measuring 27.5 mm, these new guides are 5 mm shorter than the 2005 model, and this 15% reduction in length increases engine efficiency by increasing intake air flow, and reducing frictional power losses. To match the new intake valve guides, the 2006 model also features smoother intake ports. Furthermore, the clutch boss has been modified to increase the oil flow to the clutch assembly. Other detail changes The design of the compact cam chain tensioner has been revised, and now features a different sealing system for improved durability. The overall length of the main gear axle is increased by 5 mm, and the engine cover is modified accordingly. ENGINE TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS 998 cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 4-cylinder 5-valve 3 hp power increase to 175 Hp @ 12,500 rpm* 40 degree forward incline cylinder Fuel injection Ultra compact 3-axis transmission 77 x 53.6 mm bore and stroke 12.4:1 compression ratio New smoother intake port design New shorter intake valve guides Higher intake and exhaust efficiency Modified cam chain tensioner Redesigned clutch boss * Without direct air induction 2006 YZF-R1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, forward inclined parallel cylinder, 20 valves, D0HC Displacement 998 cc Bore and stroke 77.0 x 53.6 mm Compression ratio 12.4:1 Max. power 128.7 kW (175 HP) @ 12,500 rpm* Max. torque 106.6 Nm (11.0 kg-m) @ 10,500 rpm* Lubrication Wet sump Carburettor/fuel supply Fuel injection Clutch type Wet multiple - disc Ignition TCI (digital) Starter system Electric Transmission Constant mesh, 6 speed Final transmission Chain Primary reduction ratio 1.512 Secondary reduction ratio 2.647 Gear ratio: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th 2.533, 2.063, 1.762, 1.522, 1.364, 1.269 * Without direct air injection CHASSIS Frame Aluminium die-cast Deltabox V Front suspension Telescopic forks, Ø 43 mm Front wheel travel 120 mm Rear suspension Swingarm (link suspension) Rear wheel travel 130 mm Caster angle 24° Trial 97 mm Front brake Dual floating discs, Ø 320 mm Rear brake Single disc, Ø 220 mm Front tyre 120/70 ZR17 M/C (58W) Rear tyre 190/50 ZR17 M/C (73W) DIMENSIONS Overall length 2,085 mm Overall width 720 mm Overall height 1,105 mm Seat height 835 mm Wheelbase 1,415 mm Min. ground clearance 135 mm Dry weight 173 kg Fuel tank capacity (reserve) 18 litres (3.4 litres) Oil capacity 3.8 litres Specifications are subject to change without notice, in accordance with national regulation and legislations Click here to view the news

Gauloises Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards will start the inaugural Grand Prix of Turkey from the second row of the MotoGP grid tomorrow, after lapping fourth and fifth fastest in this afternoon's single qualifying session. After making the most of another extended 90-minute free practice in the morning, the difference between the leading riders was much closer today, with the top six all pulling to within a second of the pole position time of 1'52.334 set by Sete Gibernau (Honda). After a difficult morning, Rossi clocked the fourth fastest lap of the day after making a series of improvements to his YZR-M1 machine designed to meet the demands of this new and challenging circuit. The Italian knocked almost two seconds off his best time from yesterday and is targeting even more set-up refinements in tomorrow's warm-up session before challenging for a record-equalling twelfth victory of the season in the race. After suffering a series of setbacks yesterday Edwards was able to work without interruption today and the American emerged as one of the strongest contenders for a pole challenge in the final stages of the session. Edwards, who revealed that he has made a change to his riding style here after struggling to compete for the podium in recent weeks, launched his final attack in the very last minute but was held up by a slower rider and ended up conceding 0.042 seconds to Rossi, eventually lining up just behind his team-mate in fifth place. VALENTINO ROSSI (4th - 1'53.177; 27 laps) "This morning was not good at all, I had some big problems and we were quite worried. Then this afternoon we made some major modifications and the bike began to work much better. In the end the lap time was not so bad and we were able to finish the session on the second row. After this morning's troubles I am quite happy with this fourth place and maybe we can fight at the front tomorrow. We need to use the warm-up well and make a few more small changes to the set-up. I think it's going to be a very hard race tomorrow; Melandri and Gibernau were very fast today and I think tomorrow will be a big, big battle." COLIN EDWARDS (5th - 1'53.219; 25 laps) "We've struggled to find a set-up in recent weeks so here in Istanbul we've basically gone to Valentino's base setting and made gradual changes to suit my style. I've had to adapt my riding more to a 250 style, carrying much more corner speed, and as the weekend's gone on I've learnt more and more tricks that are helping me to go faster. This afternoon I felt good, I had much more confidence in the set-up and it helped me set some consistent times. To be honest I'm a little disappointed not to be on the front row because I felt like I had a 1'52 in me, but it wasn't to be. The main thing is that we've made improvements and if we can keep doing that in the warm-up tomorrow then we should be okay for the race." DAVIDE BRIVIO - GAULOISES YAMAHA TEAM DIRECTOR "The team has worked very well to improve the situation; it is still not the best but it is certainly much better than yesterday. The steps forward with the bike have allowed the riders to think more about where they can improve and both Valentino and Colin have created a good base to work from in the race. We have some very fast rivals and it will be a hard battle in the race but I can definitely say that we will be trying our best to be a part of it." Toni Elias (6th, 1.53,230) "I am very happy. We have worked very well, always with a full tank of fuel to simulate race conditions. I think we have a good rhythm, but I hope we don't have any unforeseen problems as we did at Phillip Island. I have learnt a lot this year from riding the M1, and I am very happy with how things have gone. This morning I fell when trying to keep pace with Melandri, but his tyres were fresh and mine were not." Ruben Xaus (16th, 1.55.414) "With race tyres on I have improved a lot, but I was not able to improve with qualifying tyres on. I will try to make best use of the warm-up as I want to have a good race." Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. 1st Qualifying 1 S. Gibernau Honda ESP 1' 52.334 2 M. Melandri Honda ITA 1' 52.463 3 N. Hayden Honda USA 1' 52.976 4 V. Rossi Yamaha ITA 1' 53.177 5 C. Edwards Yamaha USA 1' 53.219 6 T. Elias Yamaha ESP 1' 53.230 7 M. Tamada Honda JPN 1' 53.667 8 A. Barros Honda BRA 1' 53.719 9 C. Checa Ducati ESP 1' 53.836 10 S. Nakano Kawasaki JPN 1' 54.023 11 C. Vermeulen Honda AUS 1' 54.217 12 M. Biaggi Honda ITA 1' 54.358 13 O. Jacque Kawasaki FRA 1' 54.407 14 J. Hopkins Suzuki USA 1' 54.434 15 S. Ito Ducati JPN 1' 54.669 16 R. Xaus Yamaha ESP 1' 55.414 Click here to view the news

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Australia : Gauloises Yamaha - Race Yamaha completed a clean sweep for 2005 today as the Constructors' World Championship was added to the Riders' and Teams' titles thanks to Valentino Rossi's eleventh win of the season at Phillip Island. The Gauloises Yamaha Team rider held off a strong challenge from Nicky Hayden (Honda) to continue his undefeated run at this circuit, which stretches back to 2001. Rossi started well from second on the grid and chased pole setter Hayden over the opening two laps before taking the lead and making several attempts to escape. However the American hung on and was presented with the opportunity to retake the lead when Rossi dropped the pace at the halfway stage. After studying Hayden for three laps, Rossi regained control on lap nineteen and managed to open out a one-second cushion as Hayden became embroiled in a scrap with Marco Melandri (Honda). Hayden eventually got the better of the Italian but Rossi was able to control his lead until the end of the race, winning by 1.007 seconds. Colin Edwards remains in the hunt for second in the riders' championship after a battling sixth place finish today. The Texan had struggled all weekend to match the excellent pace he found here during pre-season testing and was unable to hang on to the front group after starting from fifth on the grid. Edwards now lies in fourth place overall, eight points behind Hayden and Melandri, who are tied for second with two rounds remaining. Valentino Rossi : 1st – 41'08.542 “It has been an amazing season and today we have won the constructors' title for Yamaha in the year of their 50th Anniversary, so I am very happy. Congratulations to everybody. Eleven wins in the year matches my own record and to do it at Phillip Island is very special for me. I have won a lot of important races here, especially the 2001 500cc title and the title last year for Yamaha and it is a magic track for me – I love it. Today was tough, I had a great rival in Nicky Hayden and it was a great race. I got to the front after two laps and had a good rhythm so I pushed two or three times to escape. Every time Nicky came with me so I let him pass me just to see how it was. Then some more riders arrived so I tried again and this time I managed to get a one second advantage, which was like gold! I managed to hold it until the last lap and to celebrate the win in front of this great crowd is always a magnificent pleasure. Thank you to them and to everybody else who has made this season so special.” Colin Edwards : 6th – +33.200 “That wasn't great. We've been chasing our tail a little bit all weekend with the set-up and unfortunately we ran out of time and ideas. In the winter everything seemed okay here but this time we've been playing catch-up. In the end we went towards Valentino's setting, which was obviously working well for him, but for me it was just spinning up too much, even with the front wheel off the ground, which isn't normal. I want to thank the whole team for their hard work and congratulate Yamaha for the constructors' title. It's just a shame it didn't work out for me today.” Jeremy Burgess - Valentino Rossi's crew chief “It's been a good weekend for us, starting off with some fast and consistent times on Friday and Saturday and then staying in good shape as the other riders got better in the build-up to the race. Valentino controlled the race today and gave another example of why he is World Champion – he rides with his head as much as his wrist. It was nice for the Australian guys in the team to win their home race but more than that we are delighted for Yamaha to win the constructors' title. It was our only remaining target for the season so now we can look forward to the last two rounds and see what comes up.” Press Release Yamaha Racing Click here to view the news

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Yamaha riders played their part in the annual ‘Superbiker’ race in Mettet, Belgium. The legendary Superbiker is one of the world’s most important non-championship supermoto races. A 25.000 strong crowd witnessed the clash of styles with stars invited from supermoto, motocross and racing categories. Stefan Everts, fresh from a dominant supermoto win in the Belgian championship last weekend, showed probably his best speed ever at Mettet. Unfortunately Everts had bad starting positions in both finals and finished ninth overall. However the Belgian was the best placed motocross rider, young German supermoto star Bernd Hiemer won the event ahead of S2 world champ Jerome Giraudo.Sunny weather and dry conditions provided excellent conditions for both the seasoned supermoto stars and the occasional riders. French Supersport star Stephane Chambon won the Starbiker, the qualifying race between road racing and motocross stars. MX1 runner-up Josh Coppins finished fifth behind Superbike world champion Troy Corser.Both Superbiker finals saw many interesting battles within the race, where the supermoto regulars were leading the pack and a mixed bag of riders was trying has hard as they could. Newly crowned Superstock champion Didier Van Keymeulen (Yamaha Motor Germany) even rode his first supermoto race in Mettet: “Every race I was getting faster and I made a lot of progress during the weekend. My lap times would have dropped drastically by the end of the day, but because the track was getting rougher it did not show as much in the end. It certainly was a great experience!” Broc Parkes Stefan Everts – Yamaha L&M Motocross Team “I really enjoyed the racing this weekend and I was pretty dialed in here. I had to start from the 10th line in the finals after we encountered a small problem during the Starbiker race, but in each final race I easily worked my way up. My bad starting position was a bit frustrating, because with a normal result during the qualifying race I would have been on the front row. Anyway I think I have proved to be the best allround rider here, because all the guys in front of me are fulltime supermoto riders.” Broc Parkes – Yamaha Motor Germany “In the first final I was lying around sixth when some guys crashed in front of me in the second corner! That was a real shame, because my speed was quite good. I tried to use my dirt track experience as much as I could, but for now I miss the motocross skills to hang with the best riders. It’s definitely been a cool weekend and a great way to end the season, on Wednesday I go back to Australia to enjoy my holiday.” Overall result Superbiker 1. Bernd Hiemer (Ger-KTM), 2. Jerome Giraudo (Fra-Aprilia), 3. Jurgen Kûnzel (Ger-KTM), 4. Eddy Seel (Bel-Husqvarna), 5. Gerald Delepine (Bel-Husqvarna), 6. Stephane Chambon (Fra-KTM), 7. Christian Ravaglia (Ita-Suzuki), 8. Marc Fraikin (Bel-KTM), 9. Stefan Everts (Bel-Yamaha), 10. Wilfried Reiter (Aut-KTM) Click here to view the news

Third generation R6Yamaha announce the launch of the third generation YZF-R6, which is undoubtedly the most radical and advanced new middleweight supersport ever produced. In addition to its new engine, chassis and bodywork, the third generation R6 features a sophisticated new Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) developed from our MotoGP bikes. This new ‘fly-by-wire’ throttle technology represents a first for the motorcycle market, and its debut on the new R6 is one of the most exciting developments in the middleweight supersport category for many years. Seven years of successOriginally launched in 1999, the first R6 made its presence felt immediately in the European marketplace. With its class-leading engine and chassis designs and aggressive R-series styling, the first generation R6 model proved to be the most exciting performer on twisty roads, and became the industry standard for middleweight high performance machinery. Its reputation as the number one 600 was to be confirmed when it won the World Supersport Championship in the year 2000. The new third generation YZF-R6 has been developed specifically to meet the changing demands and requirements of the new generation of riders who are looking for even more extreme performance. Many of these riders are looking for a high performance middleweight that delivers the most exciting engine and chassis performance, combined with the ability to perform well in practical day-to-day riding situations. There is a growing element of riders who, as well as wanting a high performance road machine, are also looking for a high-tech 600 with an advanced specification that will deliver extreme performance for track and race use. Featuring a great deal of technology based ontechnical feedback that has come from our Moto GP-winning YZR-M1, the all-new YZF-R6 is set to redefine the parameters of the 600 supersport class, and looks ready to stake its claim as the definitive high performance middleweight for 2006 and beyond. Click here to view the news

The Istanbul Otodrom track was finished earlier this year and succesfully inaugurated by the F1 circus, coming weekend it is up to the MotoGP boys to attack this new venue. The circuit is one of Herman Tilke's creations, the famous designer who also created the Sepang, Bahrain and Shanghai tracks. It can seat 130.000 spectators and is situated in the Asian part of Turkey, about 80 km's east from Istanbul.Circuit: Istanbul Otodrom Circuit: Istanbul Otodrom Country: Turkey Track length: 5378 m Opened: 2005 Circuit tel: +90 (216) 418 5222 Circuit web site: http://www.turkeygrandprix.com The track runs anti clockwise and is 5378 metres long with an average width of 15 m. It consists of 14 corners of which six are right turns and eight are to the left. The first part of the circuit is tight and technical, while the second part is open and fast featuring a backside straight with what looks to be a very exciting high speed kink in it. The riders are then slowed down by a chicane before they hit the relatively short 655,5 m start and finish straight. Interesting is that the track runs over four level sections with rising and descending grades. With a new tack and not knowing what to expect both Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards will attack the race with a different base set-up on each bike. The bikes will start with a neutral setting enabling to experiement with various set-up direction. During Friday the crew and rider will then decide which machine feels most comfortable and will then start to make changes to come up with the ideal setting for the race. Click here to view the news

Fiat Yamaha Team rider Jorge Lorenzo has undergone surgery in his right hand following an accident whilst training near his home in Barcelona yesterday, Thursday 11th February. The 22-year-old was riding his motocross bike at the practice course near Montmeló during a routine training session as part of his pre-season preparation. He fell in a slow corner, doing approximately 30km/h, and hurt his right hand as he landed. He was taken immediately to the Capio Hospital General de Catalunya and found to have a fracture at the base of the first metacarpal and a displaced thumb. Dr. Augusto J. Casanovas made an open reduction and osteosynthesis with a small titanium plate. Lorenzo will require hand protection for four to six weeks. The Spaniard is leaving the hospital this morning and will return to his home in Barcelona to recuperate. He will not participate in the next Sepang test but he is expected to make a full recovery in time for the final pre-season test at Qatar in March. Click here to view the news

DP in Mantova Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team and the Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX Team kicked off their 2010 schedules at the Starcross International at Mantova last Sunday. After revealing the new black and green liveries and designs to be worn by the YZ450F and YZ250F the Friday prior to the gathering at the venue, the 2010 MX1-GP machine made its debut in front of a reasonable attendance that braved the temperate conditions. David Philippaerts was 5th overall under the Italian sunshine in what was very much a shake-down outing for the team. The 2008 MX1-GP World Champion started well in all three motos (of 20 minutes and 2 laps duration) and his finest finish was a determined push through to the runner-up slot in the first race. The sand was bumpy and rough after heavy rainfall. A small crash in the next outing dropped him to 8th while a steady run to 6th in the last moto of the day – with low sunshine obscuring some of the jumps - assisted in his priority to further refine the set-up of his new machinery. De Dycker at the Starcross Ken De Dycker was the sole representative of the Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX crew with Loic Larrieu still recovering from his shoulder injury and Alessandro Lupino nursing a sore wrist. French 19 year old Larrieu started riding three weeks ago. De Dycker, making his maiden appearance in Monster Energy colours and with Yamaha, again used the motos to flex his muscles after the off-season and learn more about his new mount in race conditions. He finished 9th twice before struggling slightly in the last race that necessitated a visit to the pits. He ended the day 12th overall. The opening round of the Italian Championship takes place next weekend at Montevarchi and will see a virtually full entry of the Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Teams. Larrieu will hold off participation until the International event at Valence in France in two weeks. Gautier Paulin will compete with the 2010 YZ250F for the first time after arriving back from the United States last week. Mantova Starcross International Classification: Moto1 1. Tony Cairoli, ITA 2. David Philippaerts, ITA, Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team 3. Marc de Reuver, NED 9. Ken De Dycker, BEL, Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX Team Moto2 1. Tony Cairoli, ITA 2. Clement Desalle, BEL 3. Tanel Leok, EST 8. David Philippaerts, ITA, Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team 9. Ken De Dycker, BEL, Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX Team Moto3 1. Tanel Leok, EST 2. Clement Desalle, BEL 3. Tony Cairoli, ITA 6. David Philippaerts, ITA, Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team 38. Ken De Dycker, BEL, Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX Team David Philippaerts: “I am pretty happy. Today the first moto was good and we did some work with the bike. My main goal was to get time on the track and running the speed with the others. Many riders crashed and I did not want to make mistakes; the track was difficult. We collected some data, which was important and we are ready for the next step. The season has started earlier this year and I am not 100% but this is fine and I am pleased with the level we have.” Ken De Dycker: “Today was a start. We did some work and development of the bike to get the setting right for me and that was the main reason for coming here. The last moto was not going well and it was a little dangerous with the sun so low. We will continue with what we need to do and I may travel down to race at Montevarchi next week.” Click here to view the news

Josh Hill LandM San Manuel Yamaha were down to single rider representation at the ATandT Park in San Francisco for the fourth round of seventeen in the AMA Supercross/FIM World Championship series as Josh Hill captured his third podium result in a row with second position. Hill was left to steer the 2010 YZ450F after team-mate and defending champion James Stewart required surgery on a broken scaphoid in his right wrist and will now assess his recovery and fitness on a weekly basis. Over 41,000 spectators were present in the scenic city of northern California for only the eighth AMA Supercross event to take place in the metropolis. Ryan Villopoto won his first Main event of the season on the open and exposed track after a crash by rookie and points-leader Ryan Dungey but Josh Hill had started brightly and kept a strong pace to push Villopoto all the way to the chequered flag. The 20 year old is currently second in the standings and 11 points adrift of Dungey. 'Those guys were riding great, but with James out, any of us could've won tonight,' said Hill who has taken 6th, 3rd, 2nd and 2nd in 2010 so far. 'Villopoto was tough tonight and I did what I could to hold him behind me but I didn't want to do anything dirty. This is my second second-place in a row, and that's good. It's not a win, but it's good.' Justin Brayton (6th) and Ivan Tedesco (7th) were other YZ450F campaigners notably placed on the San Francisco leader-board. Stewart, who broke his wrist in a Heat race incident in Phoenix two weeks ago and then raced to a brave 3rd place the following week in LA, is 9th in the table and is facing an steep uphill task to retain his crown. Broc Tickle On the same evening Yamaha's Broc Tickle gave the YZ250F its first podium in the West Coast Lites division with 3rd spot. British rookie Max Anstie was 8th. Tickle sits 4th in the Lites ranking and 12 points away from further promotion. 'It's funny because I know this is my first podium of the season, but I think third place is as far back as I should ever finish this year,' said Tickle. 'So even tonight I can't really be that happy about it. I could've and should've done better. At least there's next week.' The fifth round takes place next Saturday at the Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego. Circuit Length: unknown Crowd: 41, 872 Weather: Dry Lap Record: 1'09.187 (Ricky Carmichael , 01/01/2006) Last Years Winner: James Stewart 2010 AMA-SX San Francisco, CA 31/01/2010 Race 1 - 20 Laps Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Total Time 1 Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 18'12.229 2 Josh Hill Yamaha USA 0'03.885 3 David D Millsaps Honda USA 0'06.328 4 Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 0'08.563 5 Andrew Short Honda USA 0'22.443 6 Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 0'24.594 7 Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 0'25.899 8 Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 0'33.298 9 Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 0'35.101 10 Michael Byrne Yamaha AUS 0'44.732 11 Kevin Windham Honda USA 0'55.550 12 Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA -1Laps 13 Jason Thomas Suzuki USA -1Laps 14 Cyrille Coulon Kawasaki FRA -1Laps 15 Fabien Izoird Kawasaki FRA -1Laps  Rider Standings 30/01/2010 Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Points 1. Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 90 2. Josh Hill Yamaha USA 79 3. Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 77 4. Andrew Short Honda USA 68 5. Kevin Windham Honda USA 61 6. David D Millsaps Honda USA 57 7. Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 57 8. Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 56 9. James Stewart Yamaha USA 51 10. Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 42 11. Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 38 12. Michael Byrne Yamaha AUS 29 13. Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA 28 14. Jason Thomas Suzuki USA 22 15. Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 19 23. Jason Lawrence Yamaha USA 4 28. Josh Grant Yamaha USA 1  Manufacturer Standings 30/01/2010 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1. Suzuki 90 2. Yamaha 89 3. Kawasaki 77 4. Honda 74 5. KTM 3 Click here to view the news

" /> " allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"> The Fiat Yamaha Team is pleased to announce that it will unveil its final 2010 livery on the morning of the first MotoGP test day in Sepang, Malaysia. Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo will ride at the test in this new livery. On Thursday 4 February at 9am (CET), studio photography of the 2010 YZR-M1s and of riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo will go live on www.yamaha-racing.com. There will also be video interviews on the site with both riders as well as with Lin Jarvis, Davide Brivio and Wilco Zeelenberg. Click here to view the news

2010 YZR-M1 The Fiat Yamaha Team unveiled its new 2010 livery today, on the morning of the first MotoGP test of the pre-season in Sepang, Malaysia. The championship-winning team will field the same line-up as last year with World Champion Valentino Rossi and runner-up Jorge Lorenzo once again spearheading its attack. The two-day test began today, 4th February, the first of three pre-season tests before the first race at Qatar on 11th April. The new 2010 YZR-M1 of both Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo as well as several videos of the riders and Team Managers are now available for you online. Go to www.yamaha-racing.com, visit the MotoGP photo and video gallery and be the first to discover the new 2010 livery! Lin Jarvis - Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing "2009 was the most successful year for Yamaha's racing activities for many years. It will be difficult to follow such a performance but we are intending to try! We are lucky to have the same fantastic rider line-up with Valentino and Jorge and we are looking forward to getting started with our work on track. "Of course, Yamaha has not been able to escape the global economic situation but MotoGP forms a key part of the company's recovery plan. It is a very important brand image tool and MotoGP will remain a flag-waving activity for Yamaha worldwide. "We are extremely fortunate to have retained all of our existing loyal sponsors and even to have added a few more to the team. Our title sponsor Fiat is with us for a fourth year and Petronas, Packard Bell and Yamalube will continue as major sponsors of the team. We have two new sponsors in the form of Yamaha Indonesia, who join us with the aim of promoting their activities in Indonesia, the most important market for Yamaha at the moment, and Iveco. We have also retained all of our existing technical sponsors and suppliers. "Last but not least I would like to welcome back to all of our team members and staff and also extend a warm welcome to our two new team members; Wilco Zeelenberg joins from the successful Yamaha World Supersport team as Jorge's new team manager and Davide Marelli comes in as his new Data Technician." Click here to view the news

Valentino Rossi Valentino Rossi led the way for the second day running in Sepang today, concluding the first test of the year on top of the standings. His Fiat Yamaha team-mate Jorge Lorenzo was also on the pace today, finishing the test third fastest behind Casey Stoner. Rain this morning meant the track did not fully dry out until lunchtime and it was after one o'clock before Rossi left the garage on his 2010 YZR-M1. The World Champion, who turns 31 in ten days time, completed 32 laps and set a best time of 2'00.925, only half a second slower than the record pole time for the track, which he set last year. Lorenzo put in a few laps in the late morning but the track was still wet in places and so he, too, waited until after lunch to really get started. The 22-year-old made a big improvement from yesterday and felt much more comfortable on the bike, finishing third fastest in a time of 2'01.680 after 60 laps. The team will return to Sepang at the end of the month for the second of three pre-season tests. Rossi and Burgess Valentino Rossi - Position: 1st Time: 2'00.925 Laps: 32 "After yesterday this second day has been very good as well, even though we lost a few hours to the rain, and the end we were still able to finish all our work. We worked on the new bike to find a better setting and I was happy to be the fastest overall - even though this is just testing this is important for me! At the next test we will have a few more new things but we're already happy because we're fast and strong. There is room to improve of course; Sepang is always a good track for the Yamaha so we will have to wait until Qatar to get a better understanding of our level, but we have made a great start." Jorge Lorenzo Jorge Lorenzo - Position: 3rd Time: 2'01.680 Laps: 60 "I felt much better today and I was able to be fast straight away. It wasn't a big problem yesterday, it's just that after such a long break I forget how to ride a little bit! I need a bit of time, but it was much better today. I'm happy about my performance and about my feeling with the new bike. Yamaha have made good improvements without changing the best parts of the bike and this is the best way. They have made some good modifications to the chassis and the engine and this has already improved our pace. We don't have many days on the bike until the start of the season so we will make the most of the time here next month to continue our good work." Ben Spies and Colin Edwards happy with Sepang test The Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team ended its first track action of 2010 in positive mood after a rain-hit final day of MotoGP testing at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia. Colin Edwards and Ben Spies were unable to begin any meaningful testing until the track had completely dried this afternoon after heavy morning rain badly disrupting this morning's session. Once damp patches had cleared though the Texan duo were able to make significant progress, taking full advantage of the valuable track time before further heavy rain brought an early end to proceedings at 5pm. Texan Spies showed more of his true potential today when he clocked the fifth quickest time, despite the reigning World Superbike champion still feeling below his physical best. Working closely with his Monster Yamaha Tech 3 crew, Spies focused his efforts on continuing to adapt his riding style to the YZR-M1 machine. The American made significant progress with his braking style and managed to slice close to a second off his best lap time set yesterday with a time of 2.02.266 in his 31-lap stint. Edwards, who was third quickest yesterday, finished seventh fastest with a best time of 2.02.479. That was just 0.2s slower than Spies as the 35-year-old evaluated several different chassis and swingarm setting options. The Monster Yamaha Tech 3 squad will be back on track at Sepang for another two-day test session later this month before winter testing concludes in Qatar in March. Ben Spies - Position 5th Time: 2'02.266 Laps: 31 “I rode as good and as hard as I could considering how I've been feeling. I'm not wanting to make any excuses but I didn't feel really good with the jetlag. It was still a good test because I learned a lot about improving my riding and adapting my style to suit the Yamaha MotoGP bike. It is hard to break some of my old superbike habits at the moment but I made some big improvements in a couple of places on the track where I was really struggling, particularly in the braking. It started to feel more natural today and I got down to some decent times on race tyres. I was a second faster than the first day, so we made some good progress but this is a really difficult track to learn. This track is really long and really wide, but I got to a respectable pace. I've said it a load of times but it's a learning process and every lap I'm learning. My guys at Monster Yamaha Tech 3 though have been brilliant again. We're all putting in a lot of effort and I'm pleased with the steps I've made.” Colin Edwards - Position:7th Time: 2'02.479 Laps: 42 “This has been a great test and I'm really happy. The big bonus of the test has been the performance of the engine. Putting it simply it seems they have made the engine with more power and more reliable. Accelerating off the corner was a problem last season but with the new engine it is a strong point. I tried a few things with the chassis and at this stage of the year it is all about crossing off pieces that work and those that don't. We found a couple of things that improved the bike and gave me more confidence and a couple of things we need to work on. It's been a great first test and hopefully we can carry this momentum on for the rest of the pre-season and into the serious business of the racing.” Test Times: 1. Valentino Rossi (ITA) Fiat Yamaha Team 2'00.925 2. Casey Stoner (AUS) Ducati Marlboro Team 2'01.320 3. Jorge Lorenzo (SPA) Fiat Yamaha Team 2'01.680 4. Dani Pedrosa (SPA) Repsol Honda Team 2'01.822 5. Ben Spies (USA) Monster Yamaha Tech 3 2'02.266 6. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA) Repsol Honda Team 2'02.272 7. Colin Edwards (USA) Monster Yamaha Tech 3 2'02.479 8. Nicky Hayden (USA) Ducati Marlboro Team 2'02.493 9. Aleix Espargaro (SPA) Pramac Green Team 2'02.647 10. Loris Capirossi (ITA) Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 2'02.763 11. Marco Melandri (ITA) San Carlo Honda Gresini 2'02.810 12. Hector Barbera (SPA) Aspar Team 2'03.032 13. Randy de Puniet (FRA) LCR Honda MotoGP 2'03.043 14. Hiroshi Aoyama (JAP) Interwetten-Honda MotoGP 2'03.195 15. Marco Simoncelli (ITA) San Carlo Honda Gresini 2'03.245 16. Alvaro Bautista (SPA) Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 2'03.274 17. Mika Kallio (FIN) Pramac Green Team 2'03.359 Sepang: Record Lap C. Stoner (Ducati) 2007, 2'02.108 Sepang: Best Lap V. Rossi (Yamaha) 2009, 2'00.518 Click here to view the news

Josh Hill in San Diego Yamaha San Manuel LandM Team's Josh Hill scored his fourth consecutive podium result and his second runner-up position in a week at a wet Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego for the fourth round of seventeen in the AMA Supercross series, also an FIM World Championship. The visit to southern California was a good one for Yamaha and the 2010 YZ450F as Valli Motorsports' Ivan Tedesco rode to third place for his first piece of silverware of the season. Joe Gibbs Racing's Justin Brayton steered the third YZ inside the top five to a personal-best of 5th spot. Mike Bell won the first San Diego SX on a Yamaha 30 years ago and Hill tried his best to add another garland in what was the 28th Main Event in the city. He was part of a five rider dice across a slippery and rutted track caused by rainfall. While Davi Millsaps would eventually become the fourth different winner in the first five outings of the championship, Hill rode smartly to hold off the attentions of Tedesco and continue his impressive consistency since climbing aboard the YZ450F and joining the LandM crew. 'I felt really good out there but I spent way too much time trying to pass Ivan and I think that let Davi get away a bit too far for the time I had left,' he said. 'I just coming into every week thinking about doing my best and so far that's working but I haven't won one yet. I hope to soon, and I really think I will, but I just need to put everything together at the same time.' Ivan Tedesco at the Qualcomm 'I'm happy that I finally got on the box because I've been close this year but haven't gotten up here until now,' said Tedesco. 'I'm pumped, though. This is some momentum that I can build on for next week before we head east.' In the West Coast Lites category British teenager and rookie Max Anstie took a career-best 4th position on the YZ250F, one rank ahead of Broc Tickle. The American is currently 4th in the points table. Max Anstie Hill has gained ground on SX standings leader Ryan Dungey who could only finish 6th. The Yamaha man is just four points from the lead of the competitive AMA contest and is flying the flag for the team with defending champion James Stewart on the sidelines with a broken right scaphoid. Tedesco is 5th and Brayton 6th. 'I'm pumped to be that close in points now but I know Dungey isn't going to keep having these weekends, so I need to win soon,' commented Hill. Round six goes back to the Angel Stadium, Anaheim in Los Angeles next week for the third and final visit of the 2010 calendar.  Crowd: 51, 843 Weather: Wet Lap Record: 0'47.448 (James Stewart, 01/01/2006) Last Years Winner: James Stewart  2010 AMA-SX San Diego, CA 07/02/2010 Race 1 - 20 Laps Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Total Time 1 David D Millsaps Honda USA 18'27.078 2 Josh Hill Yamaha USA 0'03.696 3 Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 0'04.983 4 Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 0'26.210 5 Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 0'29.377 6 Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 0'30.048 7 Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 0'39.073 8 Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 0'41.504 9 Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 0'44.469 10 Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA -1Laps 11 Chris Blose Honda USA -1Laps 12 Fabien Izoird Kawasaki FRA -1Laps 13 Dan Reardon Yamaha USA -1Laps 14 Michael Byrne Yamaha AUS -1Laps 15 Bobby Bonds Kawasaki USA -1Laps  Rider Standings 06/02/2010 Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Points 1. Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 105 2. Josh Hill Yamaha USA 101 3. Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 95 4. David D Millsaps Honda USA 82 5. Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 77 6. Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 72 7. Andrew Short Honda USA 69 8. Kevin Windham Honda USA 66 9. Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 56 10. James Stewart Yamaha USA 51 11. Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 50 12. Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA 39 13. Michael Byrne Yamaha AUS 36 14. Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 32 15. Chris Blose Honda USA 26 21. Dan Reardon Yamaha USA 8 25. Jason Lawrence Yamaha USA 4 30. Josh Grant Yamaha USA 1  Manufacturer Standings 06/02/2010 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1. Yamaha 111 2. Suzuki 105 3. Honda 99 4. Kawasaki 95 5. KTM 3 Click here to view the news

Lorenzo - Rossi Reigning World Champion Valentino Rossi got his pre-season off to the best possible start today, finishing fastest on the first day of testing in Sepang. His Fiat Yamaha team-mate and last season's runner-up Jorge Lorenzo also made a strong start, ending the day in fifth. Both riders concentrated on completing as many laps as possible on the latest evolution of the 2010 YZR-M1 and, with the weather staying dry until just a few minutes before the end of the session, it was a productive day all round. Rossi led the way and was one of four riders to dip under the existing lap record. His time of 2'01.411, set this morning on his 15th of 54 laps, was half a second quicker than second-placed Casey Stoner. Lorenzo found it a little harder to get back into the swing of things and took it gently this morning, but he felt much more comfortable on the new M1 this afternoon and gradually began to improve his time, setting his best time of 2'02.165 on the penultimate lap of the day, leaving him in fifth. Valentino Rossi - Position: 1st Time: 2'01.411 Laps: 54 "Today was very important because this year we have just six days of testing in which to set the bike, so we can not waste any time. This first day was very positive, we tried the new bike for 2010, with a different chassis and a new engine, which can do more kilometres, and it is quite fast. Yamaha has worked very well over the winter. Now we need to spend time on setting some electronics and other things. This is only the start but it seems we're already in good shape." Jorge Lorenzo - Position: 5th Time: 2'02.165 Laps: 57 "After such a long break I found it quite hard to find my rhythm on the bike today - motocross bikes are not the same as the new M1! It was quite a difficult start to the day but little by little i started to feel more comfortable and to improve my pace. This afternoon, when it was a bit warmer, i began to improve my times even more and get closer to the first rider, so in the end I was quite happy with our work. Yamaha have brought some good things for us; the bike is not completely different to the old one but the small details make it easier to ride and this is important. Today was my first day of riding with my new team manager, Wilco Zeelenberg, and I feel good with him. He is an ex rider and so we were able to share a lot of information and he was able to give me some good advice." Colin Edwards makes flying start to 2010 in Sepang Refreshed after a long winter break and boosted by the impressive performance of Yamaha's new 2010 YZR-M1 machine, Colin Edwards produced a stunning return to MotoGP action at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia today. The Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider ended the first day of 2010 pre-season testing with the third fastest time, a best lap of 2.01.932 only bettered by Valentino Rossi and Casey Stoner as the MotoGP paddock reconvened after a three-month winter break. Edwards completed 48 laps in typically demanding Sepang conditions as air temperatures reached close to 40 degrees and track temperatures hitting a searing 60 degrees. Edwards, who finished fifth in last y ear's MotoGP world championship, was one of four riders who managed to lap under the existing lap record and he finished just 0.030s behind Stoner. The Texan was thrilled with the performance of Yamaha's new 2010 YZR-M1 machine, particularly with bottom end performance on the in-line four-cylinder motor. Ben Spies kicked off his 2010 challenge with a fastest lap of 2.03.142 helping the reigning World Superbike champion secure 12th spot. A chronic bout of jetlag after the long trip to Kuala Lumpur stopped Spies from displaying his true potential, with the Texan continuing to adjust to the prototype YZR-M1 machine while also trying to learn the long and technical Sepang circuit. Colin Edwards Colin Edwards - Position: 3rd Time: 2.01.932 Laps: 48 laps “After I blew off a few cobwebs this morning I've got to say the bike worked really great and I've got to say a big thanks to Yamaha. They have impressed me because we knew it was a big challenge to achieve a high level of performance while also getting more durability out of the engine for the new rules. And they have done that and I'm really happy, so I'm already excited about the new season. The engine seems much better off the bottom. Last year I'd open the throttle and nothing really happened, but this year there's a response when you push. I never even touched the bike today, I just got on it and rode it and it felt really natural and I could do what I wanted with the bike. It accelerated how I wanted, I could hold a line how I wanted and I was riding round talking to myself inside my helmet saying ‘how much fun is this?' When the bike does what you ask, it's pretty easy. It was a great way to start what hopefully is going to be another successful year with Herve Poncharal and the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team.” Ben Spies Ben Spies - Position: 12th Time: 2.03.142 Laps: 55 laps “I tried as hard as I could for the first day but I've got a little bit of jetlag and I wasn't at 100 per cent. Despite that though the new bike is really good. I got behind a couple of people and the engine performance was really good and that is a real positive. I'm still working on my mid-corner speed and trusting the Bridgestone tyres and today was still a good day even if I'd like to have been a bit further up the timesheets. My times aren't far off on a track that these guys know like the back of their hand, so I know there is plenty more to come from me. My guy's asked me what I need to work on for tomorrow and right now it's just me. There's a good half-a-second just in myself. I've got a lot to learn and it takes time. I've already been getting a lot of help and advice from Colin about the track and that is great for me and for the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team that we are working together like that.” Test Times 1. Valentino Rossi (ITA) Fiat Yamaha Team 2'01.411 2. Casey Stoner (AUS) Ducati Marlboro Team 2'01.902 3. Colin Edwards (USA) Monster Yamaha Tech 3 2'01.932 4. Loris Capirossi (ITA) Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 2'02.102 5. Jorge Lorenzo (SPA) Fiat Yamaha Team 2'02.165 6. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA) Repsol Honda Team 2'02.630 7. Nicky Hayden (USA) Ducati Marlboro Team 2'02.792 8. Dani Pedrosa (SPA) Repsol Honda Team 2'02.866 9. Mika Kallio (FIN) Pramac Green Team 2'02.987 10. Hector Barbera (SPA) Aspar Team 2'03.030 11. Aleix Espargaro (SPA) Pramac Green Team 2'03.133 12. Ben Spies (USA) Monster Yamaha Tech 3 2'03.142 13. Randy de Puniet (FRA) LCR Honda MotoGP 2'03.456 14. Alvaro Bautista (SPA) Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 2'03.558 15. Marco Simoncelli (ITA) San Carlo Honda Gresini 2'03.609 16. Marco Melandri (ITA) San Carlo Honda Gresini 2'03.609 17. Hiroshi Aoyama (JAP) Interwetten-Honda MotoGP 2'03.651 Sepang: Record Lap C. Stoner (Ducati) 2007, 2'02.108 Sepang: Best Lap V. Rossi (Yamaha) 2009, 2'00.518 Click here to view the news