Alex Asigno

Philippaerts Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Team’s David Philippaerts took a perfect 1-1 set of results at a cold and dark Montevarchi circuit for the first round of four in the Italian MX1 Championship. Completing a decent day of competition for the team Gautier Paulin enjoyed a successful debut on the 2010 YZ250F and in Monster Energy colours by also claiming two victories in the MX2 category. Ken De Dycker meanwhile triumphed at Lommel in Belgium. Philippaerts beat former Yamaha GP rider Davide Guarneri in both motos for an encouraging scorecard in what was just his second outing on the new fuel-injected rear slanting YZ450F. The Italian took to the tight, twisty and hard-pack track in order to gather more data and learn more about the settings of the machine under race conditions. It was a useful day as the wet terrain as slick and bumpy and far from easy. ‘I am happy with today, we had two good results and the races were not so easy,’ the 2008 MX1-GP World Champion said. ‘We worked a little bit on suspension and I am pleased with how everything is going. Even though there were not too many Grand Prix riders here the pace was still pretty good.’ Paulin In MX2 Paulin, who only returned from the USA and his brief outing in the AMA West Coast Lites SX series last week, was unstoppable in an emphatic opening statement for the team. He took the holeshot in both motos and won the first sprint by almost half a lap, going on to celebrate another victory later in the afternoon. ‘Two good starts and a positive way to begin the year with the team,’ he remarked. ‘I am pleased with what we did here and now we head to Valence and will continue to work and get ready for the season ahead.’ In second place behind Paulin was 2009 European Champion and Yamaha Monster Energy Gariboldi Racing’s Christophe Charlier. The French teenager will enter his first world championship term in 2010 and begin his racing activities this year with 3rd and 2nd positions. Team-mate Harri Kullas was an encouraging 4th overall. Further north in Belgium Ken De Dycker showed his customary precision in Belgian sand by taking the 2010 YZ450F to first place overall at a snowy and icy Lommel. The Belgian took a 3rd and 1st and celebrated his first garland with Yamaha by virtue of his second moto classification. Both Yamaha Monster Energy teams will line-up again this coming weekend, this time just south of Lyon for the Valence International.

Josh Hill at A3 Yamaha LandM San Manuel rider Josh Hill shares the points-lead in the 2010 AMA Supercross/FIM World Championship after scoring his fifth successive podium result and his fourth runner-up position in a row last Saturday in the final visit to the Angel Stadium, Anaheim in Los Angeles. The 20 year old finished the sixth round of seventeen behind Ryan Villopoto after a good start on the '10 YZ450F and is now tied on 123 points with Ryan Dungey. The third and last trek to Anaheim this year took place in front of over 34,000 spectators. Hill gated behind Villopoto and then had to deflect the attentions of Kevin Windham in the final stages to again ascend the second step. The consistency of the rider from Oregon has been impressive in 2010, especially as he has represented the team alone in the absence of champion James Stewart due to a broken right scaphoid. Hill 'I'm honestly starting to get sick of second place, but Ryan rode well tonight and the track was sketchy,' he said. 'I just tried to ride smart. I had to protect my lines from Windham for a while, too, and Ryan got away. I do better on the eastern tracks sometimes, so hopefully I can get a win next week.' Stewart gave an update through his official website last week: 'It's been five days now since my surgery, and my wrist is already feeling a lot better! Right now I'm following my doctor's orders so I can get back on the track racing as soon as possible. My plan is to be back out there just as soon as I can ride without pain. There's not an exact date yet, but if progress continues as is, I hope to be back very soon.' Hill is neck-and-neck with Dungey in the points and Valli Yamaha's Ivan Tedesco (who fell on lap one of the main event in Anaheim) is fifth with Joe Gibbs Racing's Justin Brayton in sixth. Brayton's team-mate Josh Grant still remains on the sidelines with an injured left shoulder and could make a return to the Indoors by the end of the campaign. Broc Tickle in LA In the West Coast Lites class Broc Tickle obtained his second rostrum finish of the season on the YZ250F and his best result so far in 2010 with second place. The Star Racing rider is currently 4th in the standings with just two more rounds to run in the category. He faces a gap of 14 points to the top three. A crash in the qualification Heat for Max Anstie meant that the British teenager could not participate in the main event and had to visit the hospital for a suspected pelvis injury. Round seven takes place next Saturday in the Lucas Oil Dome of Indianapolis as the series moves away from the West coast for the first time. Crowd: 34,227 Weather: Dry Lap Record: 0'44.601 (Ricky Carmichael , 01/01/2006) Last Years Winner: James Stewart 2010 AMA-SX Anaheim, CA 14/02/2010 Race 1 - 20 Laps Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Total Time 1 Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 20'28.224 2 Josh Hill Yamaha USA 0'04.678 3 Kevin Windham Honda USA 0'06.259 4 Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 0'09.609 5 David D Millsaps Honda USA 0'25.131 6 Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 0'27.819 7 Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA 0'46.547 8 Michael Byrne Yamaha AUS 0'47.526 9 Dan Reardon Yamaha USA 0'58.368 10 Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 1'00.565 11 Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 1'02.472 12 Chris Blose Honda USA -1Laps 13 Grant Langston Yamaha RSA -1Laps 14 Jarred Jet Browne Kawasaki USA -1Laps 15 Fabien Izoird Kawasaki FRA -1Laps 18 Weston Peick Yamaha USA -1Laps  Rider Standings 13/02/2010 Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Points 1. Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 123 2. Josh Hill Yamaha USA 123 3. Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 120 4. David D Millsaps Honda USA 98 5. Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 87 6. Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 87 7. Kevin Windham Honda USA 86 8. Andrew Short Honda USA 69 9. Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 61 10. Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 56 11. Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA 53 12. James Stewart Yamaha USA 51 13. Michael Byrne Yamaha AUS 49 14. Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 40 15. Chris Blose Honda USA 35 19. Dan Reardon Yamaha USA 20 27. Jason Lawrence Yamaha USA 4 30. Weston Peick Yamaha USA 3 32. Josh Grant Yamaha USA 1  Manufacturer Standings 13/02/2010 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1. Yamaha 133 2. Suzuki 123 3. Kawasaki 120 4. Honda 119 5. KTM 3

Crutchlow & Toseland The Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team today unveiled their new livery for the 2010 racing season. The team launched the new design on location at the Sterilgarda headquarters in Castiglione delle Stiviere to an audience of international journalists and sponsors. Riders James Toseland and Cal Crutchlow revealed their 2010 YZF-R1 racebikes then took time to answer questions about their upcoming season. Both two-time World Superbike champion Toseland and reigning World Supersport champion Crutchlow have the potential to fight for the championship title this year. New racing developments to the 2010 bike based upon the production crossplane crankshaft R1 include: • Increased engine power – Maximum engine power increased by 8hp, considerable power benefits over the full rev range. • Weight reduction – Overall bike weight reduced by 3kg without losing the electric starter. • Different radiator shape – For increased cooling capacity and also to reduce drag. • Different fuel tank – Now made entirely from carbon fibre with greater capability and lighter. • Re-designed bottom fairing – Narrower design for less drag, design allows for easier heat dispersal • New exhaust system – For increased power in the middle of the rev range. James Toseland, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team “The first race is coming up in two weeks and testing has been really promising after riding a GP bike for two years. After the test in Phillip island personally and machinery wise everything should be set to compete at the front from the first race.” Cal Crutchlow, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team “I’m looking forward to the year ahead, it’s going to be a good challenge, but tough! Testing has gone well, hopefully we can turn that into good results from the first few races and build from there. I know we can do a good job.” Laurens Klein Koerkamp, Yamaha Motor Europe Racing Manager “After an incredibly successful season last year it’s back to business. We have two new riders and we’ve taken the bike to the next level over the winter, we want to keep the world title at Yamaha. The grid is looking really tough this year but we have two of the toughest guys at the front.” Nando Sarzi, Sterilgarda Alimenti Spa CEO “We were delighted to be able to join up with Yamaha in Monza in 2009, it was amazing to be able to share the year of successful racing together. We are very excited about 2010 and are looking forward to more success and our relationship continuing to develop.” Sterilgarda joined up with Yamaha as a key Sponsor midway through the 2009 race season at the Monza round in Italy. The relationship has continued to grow successfully with Sterilgarda sharing in the championship success of 2009. For 2010 Yamaha and Sterilgarda have remained committed to strengthening their partnership further and continuing to work closely together, sharing a common passion for racing and the desire to be the best. Sterilgarda Alimenti Spa is the second largest UHT dairy manufacturer in Italy, operating from their headquarters in Castiglione delle Stiviere (Mantova, Italy) with a turnover of 258 million € (2009), main products include UHT milk and cream, béchamel sauce, pudding, yogurt, mascarpone, fruit juices and soft drinks. Photography of the 2010 livery launch along with riders Toseland and Crutchlow is available for download from Yamaha-racing.com. -ENDS- Sterilgarda company facts: - Sterilgarda Alimenti Spa founded in1969. - Based in Castiglione delle Stiviere (Mantova, Italy). - Second largest UHT dairy manufacturer in Italy. - Main products include UHT milk and cream and mascarpone etc. fruit juices and nectars, iced tea and soft drinks. -Turnover: 258 million € (2009). - Aprox. 90 % of turnover in Italy, 10 % outside Italy (mainly mascarpone – famous soft cheese). - 500 employees. - Production capacity exceeding 2.5 million products per day (aprox. 1.400 tons). - Most modern production and filling UHT/ Tetrabrik machinery in Italy.

2009 Videos online Yamaha were able to celebrate titles across the board of major FIM world championships in 2009 thanks to success in MotoGP, World Superbike, World Supersport, MX1-GP Motocross and Supercross (also AMA). Fans of riders like Ben Spies, Cal Crutchlow, Tony Cairoli and James Stewart, not to mention motorcycles like the YZF-R1, R6 and YZ450F, can now watch exciting and action-packed highlight-videos of the victorious campaigns on www.yamaha-racing.com What about Spies’ impressive World Superbike debut win at Phillip Island and Crutchlow’s dramatic last corner charge at Assen? Stewart’s celebrations in front of a massive crowd at Las Vegas for the final round of the championship and Cairoli taking the title in his maiden MX1-GP season; all-in-all some priceless memories in what was a historic year. To re-live these special moments and more click on the following links: 2009 Yamaha World Superbike video 2009 Yamaha World Supersport video 2009 Yamaha World Motocross and Supercross video

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.

2010 WSB R1 The Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team is pleased to announce that the new 2010 livery will be unveiled on Friday 12th of February at the Sterilgarda plant in Italy. Riders James Toseland and Cal Crutchlow will present the 2010 livery on their bikes to an audience of international media on Friday, in advance of shipping out to Australia for the second test of 2010 and the first race of the season at Phillip Island. Yamaha are delighted to be able to launch the new livery at the Sterilgarda headquarters in Castiglione delle Stiviere following Sterilgarda’s continued commitment as sponsor of the successful World Superbike Team. Sterilgarda is Italy’s second largest manufacturer of UHT dairy products. Photography of the bikes in their new livery along with riders Toseland and Crutchlow will be available for download from Yamaha-racing.com from Friday late afternoon.

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

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.”

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.”

2010 YZ450FM The 2010 Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Teams have broken cover for the upcoming season with the new YZ450 and 250Fs boasting a radical and fresh design. The ’10 machinery has received a youthful and modern look to completely reflect the innovative technology housed beneath. David Philippaerts and Gautier Paulin have been charged with responsibility of the YZ450 and 250FMs in the FIM Motocross World Championship MX1-GP and MX2-GP classes respectively for the factory Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Team. Ken De Dycker (MX1-GP), Loic Larrieu and Alessandro Lupino (MX2-GP) will represent the Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX squad. For the first time since 2005 the Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team, the most successful outfit in the history of MX1-GP, will divide their attentions between factory MX1 and MX2 machinery. 2008 world champion Philippaerts begins his third term with the crew and will be hoping to show race fans across the globe the potency of the ’10 YZ450FM and the renowned technical touch of the Rinaldi Group. Yamaha enter the 2010 GP schedule as defending champions (both Rider’s and Manufacturers) and with the rearward-slanted position of the new fuel-injected 450cc engine housed in a brand new chassis will aim for further prolificacy on the track. DP 25 year old Italian Philippaerts divided his winter time between cross-country training in the snowy mountains of northern Italy as well as riding in Belgium. He now believes he is ready to chase another title. ‘I feel good and I am really enjoying the new bike,’ he said. ‘We will keep on working through the season and although the level of the competition will again be high and there will be some surprises – as every year – I know I am in a good position. I must avoid mistakes and keep consistent with the points.’ Philippaerts is confident that the motorcycle will reveal its potential right away: ‘The standard motorcycle is already very good and the team have taken steps to personalise the race bike for me. Every time I ride it I am satisfied; it feels light and very responsive. We still have to see our level compared to the others but I am very positive.’ Gautier Paulin In MX2-GP Gautier Paulin is welcomed to the team and to Yamaha. The Frenchman finished 3rd in the 2009 series – only his second full GP season – and is expected to launch a valid campaign for the crown that Yamaha won in 2005 and 2007 on the revised YZ250FM. ‘I stayed in America for two months and all the motocross and supercross riding and training I did there really helped my mental and physical state, I am so excited to get started,’ said the 19 year old. ‘I was happy when I knew the team were interested in me and as soon as I tested the bike I wanted to sign the contract. The team is already pushing and supporting me so much and I have never had anything like that.’ ‘Even though the YZ450F is new, it is really good with excellent and smooth power delivery,’ commented Team Manager Mino Raspanti. ‘We are also very happy to have Ohlins with us this season. We are working really hard - as in every pre-season - to be organised and prepared. Having riders in two classes means we have to be busier at the races but we are excited about the potential of our riders and we have possibilities to win.’ Ken De Dycker Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX Team enter the MX1-GP series with the shrewd acquisition of Ken De Dycker for 2010. The Belgian has been part of the tussle for the crown in the premier class since 2007 and is feared for his capabilities in the sand. A Grand Prix winner each year since ‘07 and a regular ‘podiumee’, De Dycker will make his Yamaha debut at Mantova this weekend. ‘This is a bit of a change for me but I am already feeling quite comfortable in the team and its family atmosphere,’ said the 25 year old. ‘I feel really good on the bike. David won the title in his first year with Yamaha and the manufacturer certainly has won many titles so all this can help me this season.’ Under the stewardship of Ilario Ricci the team have not forgotten their MX2-GP roots and retain the services of teenager Loic Larrieu. The French youngster begins his second GP term after taking a sensational podium result at his home round at Ernee last summer. Larrieu has been battling to regain fitness after a double shoulder injury incurred late in 2009 but should be ready for the first Grand Prix: ‘I did not have the off-season I wanted but now I hope to start the GPs in the best way possible. I learnt a lot in 2009 and want to build on this.’ Alessandro Lupino begins his third year as a Yamaha rider on the YZ250F and hoping for more fortune in 2010 after several injuries hampered the 19 year old’s progression in the last twelve months. Yamaha Monster Army A new team joining the world championship paddock in 2010 will be Yamaha Gariboldi Monster Energy. The Italian outfit will bring highly-rated European Champion Christophe Charlier, from France, and promising Finn Harri Kullas to the Grand Prix circuits. The European motocross season comes alive this weekend with the popular Starcross International at the Mantova circuit in Italy. This unofficial ‘Grand Prix’ (by virtue of the burgeoning entry list of works riders) witnesses the start of activities for the Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Teams and the beginning of shake-down events and tests for the next eight weeks. In almost two months the first Grand Prix of fifteen, at Sevlievo in Bulgaria, will initiate the 2010 FIM Motocross World Championship. Paulin and Larrieu will make their first 2010 competitive outings next week at Montevarchi for the first round of the Italian Championship. For a selection of images highlighting the athletes and new YZ machinery of the Yamaha Monster Energy motocross efforts please visit www.yamaha-racing.com. Information and profiles of riders, teams and motorcycles can also be found in the relevant sections on the website.

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

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

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."

" /> " 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.

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

Choosing Motorbike Insurance Motorcycle insurance is compulsory on all public roads because without it the biker will be liable for bodily injury and property damage. Although it’s possible to get cheap motorbike insurance by simply getting Third Party Motorcycle coverage, there are many more options to choose from for better coverage. Types Of Motorcycle Insurance Comprehensive motorcycle insurance, this costs more but offers the most coverage. In the event of an accident, it not only covers both the motorcyclist and their motorcycle but it also covers other people injured by the collision and any damage to their property. Third Party Fire and Theft Motorcycle Insurance is for both fire and theft coverage. In the event of an accident, it also covers you for personal injury, as well as other people who may be injured and their property. However, it does not cover your motorcycle. Third Party Motorcycle Insurance offers basic coverage, excluding fire and theft. Motorbike Insurance Quotes It’s always a great idea to get insurance before you ride your motorbike. Although a motorcycle dealer may offer you a quote, usually these policies are not as good as those you can get from finding an insurance agency on your own because dealerships rarely work with the best insurance companies. In shopping for the best motorcycle insurance, begin by asking your current car and home insurance agent if they also offer motorcycle insurance. Besides asking your current insurer, you can look for motorcycle insurance online, a motorcycle magazine, or the phone book. Incidentally, if you have a Yamaha, do an online search for “Yamaha motorbike insurance” for some great price quotes. Top 5 Questions to Ask an Insurance Provider When seeking an insurance provider, what are some pertinent questions to ask? Here is a quick list of the top five questions you may want to ask your provider to get the best coverage at the lowest premiums. 1. What is the difference between the various types of insurance policies? Your goal is to get a very clear understanding on what is covered and what is not covered under each type of insurance. If you have an older bike, possibly a vintage model, check into the benefits of classic motorcycle insurance. 2. If I get comprehensive insurance, is it enough, or can I get something that is more thorough, covering all possibilities? 3. How do I make claims? 4. What happens to my premiums if I have an accident and need to make a claim? 5. Can I get a package deal by combining my motorcycle insurance with my other insurances and how much will my discount be?

Essentials of Motorcycle Breakdown Cover When your motorcycle breaks down, especially if you are in a remote location, you are not alone if you have excellent motorcycle breakdown cover. First, and perhaps most important, is roadside rescue. Waiting out in the elements after a breakdown, especially in unfamiliar territory, is very unpleasant, to say the least. Most policies for motorcycle breakdown guarantee only a 40 minute wait for a rescue, and most bikes can be fixed roadside. Most classic motorcycle breakdown coverage plans will send a mechanic to you, if you are only a mile or less from home, and fix your bike on the spot. If that cannot be managed, then your bike will be taken to the nearest garage. Motorcycle breakdown cover on a bike that cannot be fixed roadside will ensure that you are not stranded, and that you, your bike, and passengers are taken to a local garage service to repair your bike. The best motorcycle breakdown cover will take you and your party on to your destination or back home, or else put you all up in a hotel. The best motorcycle breakdown cover will insure other drivers on your bike, not just you. This gives you peace of mind when someone else rides your bike. If you yourself drive many different bikes, perhaps it is a good idea to cover yourself as well. If you become injured in a motorcycle accident, some breakdown covers for motorcycles in the UK will even pay to have a driver return your bike to your home. If you are stranded, motorbike breakdown cover can also contribute a fair amount to pay for vehicle hire until your bike is repaired. Key cover can even replace your house keys in the event that they are lost or stolen. Â European Breakdown Cover For European breakdown cover you can add to your home policy a special single trip cover, with roadside assistance, return home guarantee, and English speaking operators to help you with any breakdown you may experience while on the continent, and your cover begins on the day of the trip, from home, to the ferry across and back home again. You could also buy European coverage that will cover multiple trips to Europe. European cover is available for both car and motorbike breakdown, and most are available 24 hours every day, and can deliver replacement parts, trip continuation, replacement vehicle, and even bed and breakfast expenses. If necessary, the return of your entire party to home in the UK can be covered. Be aware that some policies do not cover a motorcycle of more than a certain size engine. If you have a bike with a larger engine, you would do well to search around for a policy that has no limitation or upper limit on engine size.

Choosing the Right Motorbike Finance Whether you are trying to purchase your first bike, add to your current collection, or purchase a bike for the best graduation present for your son or daughter, actually getting the bike involves choosing the right motorbike finance options for you and your budget. Bikes can be a bit pricey, so getting motorbike loans that will help you purchase the bike without breaking the bank and causing you to end up filing bankruptcy is very important. You want a guaranteed motorbike finance that you will understand and that will not cause you several penalties. The first thing you want to do is evaluate your credit rating and figure out what exactly you are scoring these days. You should be fairly aware of your credit score, but with so many influencing factors, your score is always subject to change without your notice. Having an excellent credit score will assist in landing 0% finance deals on motorbikes that will save you hundreds while giving you smaller monthly payment. If you have not so good credit and you still want to buy a motorbike on finance, there are various bad credit loans out there for you, but try improving your credit a bit first. Make sure that when searching for finance deals on motorbikes, you are not afraid to ask a lot of questions. There are no stupid questions other than the ones not asked so ask what you want to know. Chances are if you don’t ask, the lenders will not tell you so ask as many questions needed to give you the best understanding of what you are in for. Several questions would include: • How will this loan affect my credit score and rating? • Will the interest change during my loan term? • Will there be a pay in full request before the end of the term? • What will be the monthly payment? Asking these questions should not be a nuisance on the lender and if they begin to act frustrated, you may want to find another lender, after all they are just giving you the information you need to know about getting the finance for a motorbike. Loans for motorbikes are dependent on, yes, motorbikes. This means you need to make sure you are shopping for the right bike. Getting a brand new bike will obviously call for a higher loan, but this can be done through your credit union or bank very easily if you have good standing. There are many online lenders that specialize in used motorbike finance and will assist in getting the right used motorbike loans. When shopping for loans, remember not to murder your credit score with too many inquiries.

Josh Hill at A2 LandM San Manuel Yamaha pair, Josh Hill and James Stewart, gave the new YZ450F a double podium appearance respectively at Angel Stadium, Anaheim in Los Angeles for the third round of seventeen in the AMA Supercross/FIM World SX Championship. On the second visit of three to the venue in California, Hill took his second rostrum result in as many weeks with the runner-up position behind Ryan Dungey. Reigning champion Stewart nursed a sore right hand - a consequence of his Heat race fall last week in Phoenix - to take third place and rise to fifth in the standings. After continuous rainfall during the week on the west coast there were fears that the latest instalment of the Anaheim trilogy would be a muddy one. However some decent track prep and effective use of covers provided a reasonably tacky surface for the riders. Yamaha LandM riders Stewart's hand seemed to bother him in practice but he was able to make the most of a bright start to lead the first quarter of the Main Event. Team-mate Hill was not far away and powered into the lead by lap seven. Dungey was the quickest rider on the track and battled with Hill entering the final five laps. The youngster was denied his second career SX triumph but his runner-up slot, some three seconds ahead of Stewart, means that he is now second in the series. Stewart is still chasing his 38th AMA Supercross victory after his initial success at Anaheim several weeks ago. The 24 year old is currently 22 points adrift of Dungey, and left the arena promptly after finishing the Main Event. 'I don't know if I wasn't breathing in the beginning or what but that pace was ridiculous and I couldn't do it for 20 laps,' remarked Hill, who lies 15 points behind Dungey. 'By the time Dungey passed me, I had nothing left. I'm pretty bummed because with James hurt, I know I have a limited time to get up there and start winning. Hopefully next week.' Paulin in LA Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Team's Gautier Paulin negotiated his third and final AMA Supercross West Coast Lites outing and was able to leave LA with 6th place; his highest finish to-date on the YZ250F as the best Yamaha rider that evening. The Frenchman, who had been schooled by AMA winner and fellow countryman David Vuillemin in the US, will now return to Europe to fully prepare for his FIM Motocross World Championship MX2-GP title assault. 'I had a big crash in the whoops and David had been telling me to not be so timid in them, so it felt good in my last supercross this year to put in my best finish in the Main,' he said. 'I think I could have done better but it was my best by far. Hopefully, if I can come back next year, it won't be so new to me then.' British rookie Max Anstie was right behind Paulin with 7th place; the best Indoor classification so far for the teenager. Round four takes place next Saturday at the ATandT Park in San Francisco. Crowd: NA Weather: Humid Lap Record: 0'44.601 (Ricky Carmichael , 01/01/2006) Last Years Winner: James Stewart 2010 AMA-SX Anaheim, CA 24/01/2010 Race 1 - 20 Laps Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Total Time 1 Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 19'47.620 2 Josh Hill Yamaha USA 0'03.139 3 James Stewart Yamaha USA 0'06.109 4 Andrew Short Honda USA 0'10.812 5 Kevin Windham Honda USA 0'15.871 6 Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 0'16.861 7 Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 0'18.240 8 David D Millsaps Honda USA 0'34.697 9 Michael Byrne Kawasaki AUS 0'36.971 10 Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 0'40.461 11 Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA 0'43.942 12 Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 0'49.176 13 Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 0'50.618 14 Jason Thomas Suzuki USA 0'53.532 15 Chris Blose Honda USA 1'01.518 16 Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 1'03.896 Â Rider Standings 23/01/2010 Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Points 1. Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 72 2. Josh Hill Yamaha USA 57 3. Andrew Short Honda USA 52 4. Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 52 5. Kevin Windham Honda USA 51 6. James Stewart Yamaha USA 51 7. Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 43 8. Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 41 9. David D Millsaps Honda USA 37 10. Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 30 11. Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 25 12. Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 19 13. Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA 19 14. Michael Byrne Kawasaki AUS 18 15. Austin Stroupe Suzuki USA 18 22. Jason Lawrence Yamaha USA 4 25. Josh Grant Yamaha USA 1 Â Manufacturer Standings 23/01/2010 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1. Suzuki 72 2. Yamaha 67 3. Honda 54 4. Kawasaki 52

Riders Cal Crutchlow and James Toseland completed their final day of testing today at the Portimao circuit in Portugal. The two British riders have worked hard over the three days, experiencing a variety of weather conditions from dry to wet to intermediate as they and the team worked through various electronic and bike set ups ahead of the 2010 season. The final session saw Cal fall victim to the drastically reduced grip of the track following yesterday’s rain. Fifty minutes from the end he lost the front of the bike on the slippery surface on the last corner before the home straight. In typical form he was back on his spare bike shortly afterwards for the remainder of the session. Team-mate James was consistently fast all day, ending the last test day just outside the top five in sixth position. Cal Crutchlow Cal Crutchlow, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team, (4th, 1’42.9) “it was frustrating to fall today, the track so was so slippery it was unavoidable, but it cost me some time on the track. Having said that we’ve had a really good test, we’ve worked through a lot of things and I think we’ve got closer to a good set-up for the first race. I’m really keen to get to Australia and start the next test before we kick-off racing.” James Toseland James Toseland, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team, (6th, 1’43.1) “I’m really pleased overall. We’ve worked through a lot of stuff over the last three days and I feel I’ve got a lot more understanding of the bike. The team has worked really well and I’m pleased we’ve managed to keep consistent fast pace over the test. I think there’s more to come so I’m looking forward to getting started again!” Massimo Meregalli, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team Manager “Unfortunately the grip level was much less than Friday, so until the soft tyres went on the lap times were not as fast as when we started the test. All the riders struggled to find good grip, so the problem was with the track, not the riders. Cal lost some time after his fall, he switched bikes but had no experience on the tyre on the second bike so couldn’t push so hard. James rode really well today, he is always consistent and was definitely fast enough for the conditions out there. Overall we go to Australia feeling confident and with a good spirit. We’ve had a really successful test, we’ve got some great feedback and have made a good start to 2010.”

Day two of the first World Superbike test of 2010 saw wet sessions for Yamaha riders Cal Crutchlow and James Toseland, with dry track only appearing towards the end of the day. Both riders took it easy and enjoyed the opportunity to familiarize themselves with how their bikes worked in the wet for the first time. The second day saw more extensive testing of the electronic settings and also an opportunity to test the wet and intermediate Pirellis tyres for the season ahead. Cal was again one of the quickest riders of the day, finishing in the top five, whilst James took a more relaxed approach, not pushing too hard in the wet weather. Cal Crutchlow Cal Crutchlow, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team, (4th, 1’50.1) “It wasn’t so bad today, it dried up in the end. It was a bit of a last minute thing to get a good time in. In the end we only had two laps on intermediate tyres. We got through some more electronics today but we still have some work to do on chassis and other electronics tomorrow.” James Toseland James Toseland, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team, (15th, 1’55.4) “It was one of those situations today, we had the last ten minutes getting to grips with intermediate tyres, I was getting up to speed as the last session ended. It’s a bit of a risk to get a good time in the wet on those tyres. It’s looking good for tomorrow though so we’re looking forward to some more dry time. Having said that it’s been good to get out on rain tyres and ride in the damp to experience how the bike behaved.” Massimo Meregalli, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team Manager “Today was our first fully wet practice, the second practice started wet and slowly dried out. We worked a lot on the electronics adjustments with both riders. Last year we didn’t have so many wet practices so it has been very helpful today to gather data and information. We’ve had a full day to get a good wet strategy together, so we’re happy and looking forward to some more sunshine tomorrow.”

New for 2010 Yamaha World Superbike riders Cal Crutchlow and James Toseland took their first rides of the year today at the Portimao circuit in Portugal. Day one of the three day test saw the riders re-familiarize themselves with their YZF-R1’s and start working on their set-ups for the year. The riders focus for the first day was continuing the development of their preferred settings. Crutchlow was on typically fast form, ending the day in second on the timesheet, less than two tenths of a second from the fastest rider. Team-mate James Toseland was also on form, ending the first ride of the year in fifth just half a second off the front. Cal Crutchlow Cal Crutchlow, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team (2nd, 1’42.9) “It wasn’t so bad for the first day. We’re still trying to get comfortable on the bike as we progress but we’re getting there. I’m working away at it and I think the times were good enough. To still be working out our settings and have good times near the top of the board is very satisfying.” James Toseland James Toseland, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team (5th, 1’43.3) “I think I ended up in fifth at the end of the day but only about half a second separates me from first. I’m pretty pleased, we’ve been trying a lot out on the bike and it’s been a really productive day. We’ve tested a lot of things and eliminated a few. I’m hoping the weather holds for out tomorrow but rain is forecast. Having said that, I’ve not ridden this bike in the rain yet so I’m happy for it to rain tomorrow and then be dry on Sunday so we’re testing in all conditions.” Massimo Meregalli, Yamaha Sterilgarda World Superbike Team Manager “We did a great job today, everything was on schedule as it should have been. The team and riders worked really hard, we tested some tyres and as always also we have some other things in development. Cal was working hard on the positioning for his bike and James continues to get more confidence with bike as he gets used to his change from MotoGP.”

Josh Hill An LandM San Manuel Yamaha rider finished on the podium of the second round of the 2010 AMA Supercross/FIM World Championship at Chase Field in Phoenix but it was Josh Hill gaining his first silverware for the team instead of defending champion and Anaheim 1 winner James Stewart. Hill gave the 2010 YZ450F its second rostrum appearance in as many weeks last Saturday when he rode to a steady 3rd place in Arizona behind the two Ryans; Dungey and Villopoto. After setting the fastest time in the first practice session Stewart suffered a heavy fall in the qualification Heat and left trackside in some pain. He was able to participate and win the Last Chance race but in discomfort. In the Main Event the Floridian was tussling for a slot just inside the top ten when he tangled with arch-rival Chad Reed causing him to be lapped and drop down the order to 15th. Reed retired for his second DNF and apparently is now on the sidelines with a broken hand. Stewart catching up Stewart was able to obtain 6 points for his efforts in reaching the chequered flag but has slipped from 1st to 7th after 2 of 17 meetings in the 2010 schedule. Hill meanwhile survived his own scare prior to his run to 3rd position: "I had a big crash in practice," he said. "I almost got into a head-on collision with [Fabien] Izoird, but I came out of that and didn't get hurt. I just got good starts, which is something I don't usually do, so it was awesome. I was just able to keep a good track position." The 20 year old celebrated his fifth podium in the supercross class and finished just ahead of Ivan Tedesco, who was 4th, with Justin Brayton taking another top-ten finish with 8th place. Broc Tickle was 5th on the YZ250F in the West Coast Lites series and Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Team's Gautier Paulin finished the second Main Event of his career in 12th after a mediocre start. Round three will take place next weekend back in the Angel Stadium of Anaheim, Los Angeles. Circuit Length: unknown Crowd: NA Weather: Dry Lap Record: 0'51.216 (Ricky Carmichael, 01/01/2005) Last Years Winner: James Stewart 2010 AMA-SX Phoenix, AZ 17/01/2010 Race 1 - 20 Laps Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Total Time 1 Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 18'09.406 2 Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 0'06.053 3 Josh Hill Yamaha USA 0'13.094 4 Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 0'17.388 5 Andrew Short Honda USA 0'22.908 6 Kevin Windham Honda USA 0'25.322 7 Austin Stroupe Suzuki USA 0'28.008 8 Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 0'30.858 9 David D Millsaps Honda USA 0'43.755 10 Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 0'53.034 11 Manuel Gomes Rivas Kawasaki ESP -1Laps 12 Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA -1Laps 13 Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA -1Laps 14 Jason Thomas Honda USA -1Laps 15 James Stewart Yamaha USA -1Laps 18 Grant Langston Yamaha RSA -3Laps  Rider Standings 16/01/2010 Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Points 1. Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 47 2. Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 38 3. Josh Hill Yamaha USA 35 4. Kevin Windham Honda USA 35 5. Andrew Short Honda USA 34 6. Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 32 7. James Stewart Yamaha USA 31 8. Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 26 9. David D Millsaps Honda USA 24 10. Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 21 11. Austin Stroupe Suzuki USA 17 12. Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 17 13. Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 14 14. Manuel Gomes Rivas Kawasaki ESP 10 15. Kyle Chisholm Yamaha USA 9 24. Jason Lawrence Yamaha USA 4 25. Josh Grant Yamaha USA 1  Manufacturer Standings 16/01/2010 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1. Suzuki 47 2. Yamaha 45 3. Kawasaki 38 4. Honda 36

Fretigne in the dunes Portugal’s Helder Rodrigues has completed the 9000km, 14 stage loop through Argentina and Chile that formed the 2010 Dakar rally in a fine fourth place on the WR450F. The 30 year old was one position ahead of France’s David Fretigne who added to his Dakar stage win tally by earning victory on the second day. The WR accumulated 10 top three results in total through the endurance and skill of both riders in the 32nd edition of the historic and challenging event. Rodrigues was hunting for a podium place in the latter half of the two-week rally and traversed a variety of terrain and conditions in what was the second year of the spectacle being based in South America. The Enduro expert finished in the top three in four stages and dropped out of the first ten only once across the entire fourteen. Helder Rodrigues “I am really happy because I proved I have the speed and consistency to run at the front of the Dakar,” he said. “I am in good shape and arrived to the finish without any injuries or physical problems and I am really motivated to do well again here. I am one of the youngest riders among the leaders and after this result I feel that I win the Dakar; this will be a dream and I hope I can achieve it soon.” Although Rodrigues could not topple Cyril Despres, who had led from the third stage, to give Yamaha their tenth Dakar triumph he was nevertheless the highest runner for the brand, just over half an hour in front of Fretigne. The Frenchman, a former winner of seven Dakar stages prior to the 2010 trek and also a victor in the old 450cc classification, had a bittersweet run through the continent. Celebration in stage two and a further four more runner-up positions were ultimately undone by an electrical problem on stage three that cost the Dakar veteran the better part of two hours. “I did not achieve my goal of third place but to finish fifth despite losing one hour and forty-five minutes with a problem in the dunes, well, I could not hope for better,” reflected ‘Fretos’, who had charged from 20th place in the standings after his misfortune. “I won a stage and was pretty consistent throughout. I showed that I can be considered a candidate for victory.” Fretigne and Pain 2010 was the first year in which all motorcycles were operating near a level ‘playing field’ with a technical limit of 450cc; larger capacity machines faced air restrictions. Only 450cc bikes will be permitted in 2011. “Next year we will all be on 450s so I am already impatient for 2011 when we will all be on equal machines; the competition has been revived,” added Fretigne. Fellow Frenchman Olivier Pain was 9th overall, placing three Yamahas in the final top ten. Yamaha dominated the quad category thanks to the skills of Argentinean brothers Marco and Alejandro Patronelli respectively with their YFM700Rs. Marco, runner-up in 2009, clinched the title with a commanding lead of over two hours. Along with his older brother the South American’s ruled six stages. Yamaha filled five positions in the top six with Spain’s Juan Manuel Gonzalez in third, Poland’s Rafal Sonik in fifth and Argentina Sebastien Halpern in sixth. In total Yamaha grabbed ten stage wins from a possible fourteen. “In my dreams I could not have imagined this; two brothers finishing first and second at the Dakar! I think it is a bit of history for the rally,” said the winner. “This was a really hard Dakar and the toughest part was the climb through the north of Chile and Antofagasta, navigation was tricky and it seemed to never-end. I want to thank my team and my family who always supported me.”

Stewart wins 2010 Rnd1 The opening round of the 2010 AMA Supercross/FIM SX World Championship at the Angel Stadium, Anaheim in Los Angeles was won in fine style by defending champion L and M San Manuel's James Stewart. The Floridian gave the new Yamaha YZ450F its first victory in a major series. The 51st supercross race in Anaheim and the first of three visits in the 2010 schedule saw a tense beginning to the current campaign that runs almost every week across the US and into Canada until the beginning of May. Stewart was dominant in practice and took first pick in the gate for Saturday's main event that was attended by more than 43,000 people. James Stewart The 24 year old started in second place and hunted the rear wheel of rookie Ryan Dungey for 17 of the 20 laps before making his play for the lead in the closing stages. He crossed the line for his seventh win in Los Angeles by nearly four seconds from Dungey with Kevin Windham over thirty seconds adrift in third. Stewart's arch-rival, Chad Reed, retired on the second lap after a collision left him with broken wheel spokes. "The first few laps, I was trying to settle in and see where everything was, checking out the bike and everything was cool, but I messed up a rhythm section and then he [Dungey] got a pretty good gap," Stewart recalled. "I looked up and it was like lap 13, so I had to put in another charge. I felt like I had a lot left in the tank and I was able to catch him, pass him, and then he ended up trying to pass me back, but I was able to hold him off until the end of the last lap and win the race." "I feel like my endurance is really good, and that's what I really work for hard every week. I felt way better at lap 17 than I did at the beginning." "It's going to be a long season," he added. "Unfortunately, Chad DNF-ed tonight, so there were a lot of crazy things going on but I'm happy to be out of here with a win and the points lead." Josh Hill Stewart's success could start another Anaheim 'clean sweep' for Yamaha as the champion claimed two events last year and Joe Gibbs Racing's Josh Grant was another victor. Grant on this occasion did not start the Main Event after feeling the ill-effects of a practice crash on Tuesday before the meeting. Other YZ450Fs were present in the top half of the leader-board with Stewart's new team-mate Josh Hill running to 6th place and being followed by Ivan Tedesco in 7th and Paris Bercy SX winner Justin Brayton in 8th. Paulin in AMA-SX debut Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team's Gautier Paulin made his AMA SX debut at Anaheim in the West Coast Lites class. The Frenchman, supported for the event by Yamaha Star Racing, made the first of three scheduled appearances as part of his winter build-up to the FIM MX2-GP Motocross World Championship and finished in 15th, the victim of two falls, the first coming through contact with another rider while holding 4th spot. "I felt good," he said. "It was my first time. But Trey Canard hit me and knocked me down, and then I fell again later. My speed was good, but I need to be more consistent next week." Broc Tickle was the highest YZ250F runner with 6th position. Round two of seventeen takes place at Chase Field in Phoenix next Saturday. Crowd: 43,841 Weather: Dry Lap Record: 0'44.601 (Ricky Carmichael , 01/01/2006) Last Years Winner: James Stewart 2010 AMA-SX Anaheim, CA 10/01/2010 Race 1 - 20 Laps Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Total Time 1 James Stewart Yamaha USA 18'59.724 2 Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 0'03.423 3 Kevin Windham Honda USA 0'37.074 4 Andrew Short Honda USA 0'41.282 5 Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 0'44.902 6 Josh Hill Yamaha USA 0'49.151 7 Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 0'50.266 8 Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 0'57.308 9 David D Millsaps Honda USA 1'00.003 10 Grant Langston Yamaha RSA -1Laps 11 Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA -1Laps 12 Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA -1Laps 13 Gregory Aranda Kawasaki FRA -1Laps 14 Fabien Izoird Kawasaki FRA -1Laps 15 Justin Keeney Kawasaki USA -2Laps 17 Jason Lawrence Yamaha USA -16Laps 20 Josh Grant Yamaha USA -20Laps  Rider Standings 09/01/2010 Pos. Rider Manu. Nat. Points 1. James Stewart Yamaha USA 25 2. Ryan Dungey Suzuki USA 22 3. Kevin Windham Honda USA 20 4. Andrew Short Honda USA 18 5. Ryan Villopoto Kawasaki USA 16 6. Josh Hill Yamaha USA 15 7. Ivan Tedesco Yamaha USA 14 8. Justin Brayton Yamaha USA 13 9. David D Millsaps Honda USA 12 10. Grant Langston Yamaha RSA 11 11. Thomas Hahn Yamaha USA 10 12. Nicholas Wey Kawasaki USA 9 13. Gregory Aranda Kawasaki FRA 8 14. Fabien Izoird Kawasaki FRA 7 15. Justin Keeney Kawasaki USA 6 17. Jason Lawrence Yamaha USA 4 20. Josh Grant Yamaha USA 1  Manufacturer Standings 09/01/2010 Pos. Manufacturer Points 1. Yamaha 25 2. Suzuki 22 3. Honda 20 4. Kawasaki 16 Â