The RX-7V represents the summit of Arai’s knowledge, experience and know-how in helmet technology. With a completely new PB-SNC² outer shell, the revolutionary VAS (“Variable Axis System”) visor system and a significant increased smoother area around the temples, the RX-7V offers the new benchmark in the premium helmet segment. From the also new Eco Pure liner with an even slimmer frame, to the new ducts, improved diffuser and the integrated Air Channels, every part shows the attention to detail that is so typical for Arai. Arai has continually improved the “glancing off” performance by learning from real scenarios. Thanks to the new stronger and smoother shell and VAS, the RX-7V is closer to the ideal helmet shape than ever.

Glancing off

In any helmet, regardless of brand, the amount of energy that can be absorbed is limited. Throughout our long history, Arai has continually improved the “Glancing off” performance by learning from real cases.  Therefore, avoiding potential impact energy by glancing off should also be a key function of a helmet. So we have been pursuing a sleek shape that is more likely to glance off energy. Most shield mounting systems require indents with a high pivot point in the shell, even Arai, so as to open and close the shield. On the new “VAS”, the mounting position was lowered 24mm in pursuit of the ideal smoother shape that increases the ability of glancing off energy. As a result, this has made it possible for the shell to be completely smooth above the test line of the Snell standard.

New Form

The new outer shell design continues to benefit from that focus and delivers Arai’s smoothest shell shape. The benefit is to improve glancing off ability. VAS lowers the visor holder, and therefor lowers the visor mechanism below the test line, allowing for a smoother shell and better impact performance.

RX-7V FEATURES

VAS (Variable Axis System)

In any helmet, regardless of brand, the amount of energy that can be absorbed is limited. Therefore, avoiding potential impact energy by glancing off should also be a key function of a helmet. So we have been pursuing a sleek shape that is more likely to glance off energy. Most shield mounting systems require indents with a high pivot point in the shell, even Arai, so as to open and close the shield. On the new “VAS”, the mounting position was lowered 24mm in pursuit of the ideal smoother shape that increases the ability of glancing off energy. As a result, this has made it possible for the shell to be completely smooth above the test line of the Snell standard. VAS allows the shield to travel in an arc, allowing a lower and more compact visor mechanism. This not only improves helmet performance for enhance rider protection but also allows easier shield changes with more intuitive design.

PB-SNC² Shell

We use a net structure core, assembled and bonded within Super Fiber and other special synthetic fibers. These special fibers are also used for the visor panel of F-1 helmets and have superb characteristics in tensile strength and flexibility. Our shells are carefully molded with multiple material layers including a Super Fiber belt across the helmet, just above the visor opening for extra strength. We have also developed a new resin in pursuit of a lightweight but very strong shell. This new resin improves adhesiveness between each layer of fiber for a stronger outer shell. It also offer approximately 30g weight saving.

New interior

Thinner frame materials and redesigned frame connection points make the latest interior comfort head liner even more comfortable. Stress joints allow the liner to flex and even separate in necessary so as to not interfere with the helmets impact energy management properties/performance.

The result if this new design outer shell, is that there is now almost also 3mm of extra face/chin room.

Ventilation

The combined ventilation systems offer excellent and efficient ventilation. The new top duct provides 11% more airflow, with bigger switches for effortless operating. The Air Channel guides air from the eye port area to the side ducts. The new diffuser is 20 mm longer with improved aerodynamics, and 19% larger intake scoops, both work together with the Air Wing to improve stability. The chin cover blocks air intrusion and draws more air from the mouth area. Larger front intakes with intake shutters that better seal for a more aerodynamic effect when closed. Trailing sides of the diffuser body streamline the airflow to improve stability, drag and wind noise.

The new chin vent offers a dual pivot design, offering options to shield defogging or rider comfort. The vent is now also easily removable/replaceable via a single screw accessible from the front.

The RX-7V also features new neck roll exhaust vents to improve flow volume and efficiency with addition intakes port for better flow through. Flexibility of the neck roll is also improved for easy wearing/put on.

Diffuser Type 12

The exclusive and patented Arai AirWing® function has been improved due to being approximately 20mm farther back, a result of the longer diffusers. The diffusers also have a lower profile at the rear. Compared to the previous “Type 10” diffusers, the efficiency of the new “Type 12” diffusers have increased by 19%! The new air intake vents now have more adjustability with three positions of closed, half open and fully open.  These new vents are not only easy to use with gloves, they also have improved sealing that decreases wind noise and water intrusion.

Large size shield lock system

Borrowed from our F1 helmet, completely modified 3D moving new shield lock mechanism secures the shield like never before, but operates smoothly with an intuitive fluid – one finger operation – even with gloves. The unlock lever on the VAS visor holder makes removing the shield easier and faster. Reliability of the shield is also increased with the VAS feature. The new shield-latching lever has a positive mechanism that performs better against shock and is easier to use with gloves. This lever also has an anti-fog position.

Eco-Pure interior

The fully removable interior liner system has been improved with our new blue Eco-Pure material, which maintains a balanced pH. It also has antibacterial and deodorizing properties. With the aim of improving comfort we have developed a new softer liner frame material. The new liner also has adjustable padding thickness that allows a customized fit.

IN SUPERSTOCK 1000 LORENZO SAVADORI, FINISHING SECOND, CONFIRMS HIS LEADERSHIP AND THAT OF THE APRILIA RSV4

Portimão, Portugal 7 June 2015 – Leon Haslam finished the Portuguese Round this weekend brilliantly riding his Aprilia RSV4 RF to third place in Race 2. Leon's podium is the just reward for the hard work done by Aprilia Racing - Red Devils and the determination of the English rider, still struggling with rib pain from his accident at Imola.

In the first race Haslam was comfortably managing fourth place before the rains came in the fifteenth lap and forced all the riders to change tyres. Coming back out of pit lane, Leon had a bad slide in turn 5, slipping on the treacherous wet track. He got back on the bike and finished in twelfth place.

Starting Race 2 with severe pain in his side, aggravated by the crash in Race 1, Leon struggled for the first few laps and then found a good race pace. The English rider moved steadily up into third position and he was gaining on Giugliano who was in second place when the chequered flag came out.

Leon Haslam: “I made a bad mistake in Race 1 sliding out on the wet track and making my ribs worse. In the second race, on the other hand, I lost too much time at the beginning, missing a couple of gear changes, and losing touch with the leading group. In the middle section of the race I had a good pace and was able to move up a few positions to third place. When I had started catching up Giugliano I began to lose my feeling with the front. I was about a second behind but the race was over at that point. Getting onto the podium was important both for me and for the team considering how hard the guys worked this weekend.”

The two Portuguese races did not bring the results Jordi Torres had hoped for, despite looking good during the practice sessions. In the first race the Spanish rookie didn't get off to the best of starts so he was forced to make up positions. The rain toward the end of the race complicated matters, Jordi had never before ridden the RSV4 on the wet and he settled for finishing the race without taking any pointless risks.

His start in Race 2 was good, as was the way he managed the middle part of the race. Only an abrupt loss of grip kept Jordi from a fifth place finish which was well within his reach.

Jordi Torres: “This was a difficult weekend, but we made a lot of progress. The RSV4 works well here. We were able to improve even compared to yesterday with a small change we made before the races. In Race 1 I didn't start well. I was lacking confidence at the beginning. Then I set my pace until I was in about sixth place. Unfortunately the rain ruined everything. It was my first time riding the RSV4 in the wet and I was careful not to crash and ruin everything. In Race two I got off the line more aggressively and at mid-race I had the pace to defend sixth place well. But in the final laps I had a sudden loss of grip at the rear tyre. I didn't take any risks and I settled for bringing home some important points. Unfortunately during practice on a new track it isn't easy to make a good assessment of performance over race distance.”

SUPERSTOCK 1000: APRILIA AND SAVADORI STILL FIRMLY IN THE LEAD IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP

With his second place finish at Portimão, Lorenzo Savadori and the Team Nuova M2 Racing Aprilia RSV4 confirmed that they are in grand form. Thanks to a shortened race, Lorenzo managed his second place finish which allows him to keep a firm grip on the championship lead just three races from the end of the season.

Kevin Calia made his ninth top-10 finish, seventh under the chequered flag and now ninth in the rider standings.

The Manufacturer standings are also dominated by Aprilia who, thanks to the RSV4's positive success (on the podium in every race since the beginning of the season), they now have a 25 point advantage over BMW in second place and Ducati in third.

The new MV Agusta F4 EAS ABS AMG Limited Edition arrives at Cayenne this month, MV Agusta have made a number of AMG Limited Edition models since AMG Mercedes have bought into the Italian Mark, it’s also seen the launch of some stunning new and limited edition models that have come out of the factory.

“By far one of the best looking models is the new F4 AMG,” said Craig Langton Sales Director for MV Agusta SA.” “Crossing the border of imagination, the new F4 AMG is one of their best yet, encompassing the latest technology and engine developments, they are true state of the art masterpieces.” After many months of intense design, development and testing, MV Agusta has redefined the characteristics of the F4 with an ambitious underlying goal to make the F4 the most advanced hyper sport motorcycle on the market.” said Langton

 They achieved this by creating three versions to form the new range all sharing the same distinctive DNA yet possessing different technical solutions to satisfy every rider. The F4 RR models contain the most advanced engineering solutions, enhanced by a range of technical features for maximum performance, chassis control utilizing vehicle inertia sensor, a unique engine control with a Ride-by- Wire system, Ohlins electronic control suspension and steering damper as well as GP spec titanium connecting rods.

The unique and comprehensive technology of the F4 RR has been extended to the Limited Edition version models such as the new F4 EAS ABS AMG, also included is the repositioned and lighter signature four exit silencer, new lightweight forged wheels and a new front spoiler integrated into the front fairing with DRL (Daylight Running Lights) that enhance the overall design, the tail light also incorporates light guide technology.

This is all complemented with the completely new graphics and colours this also applies to the Limited Edition EAS ABS AMG model

• Short-stroke inline four-cylinder engine with central cam chain and radial valves
• MVICS Technology (Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System)
• ELDOR electronics package with Ride-By-Wire system and four maps engine
• Throttle sensitivity adjustable (selectable between Normal, Sport and Rain)
• Max torque (selectable between Normal, Sport and Rain)
• Variable Engine response (selectable between Normal, Sport and Rain)
• Engine Braking (selectable between Normal, Sport and Rain) with ABS
• RPM limiter (selectable between Normal, Sport and Rain)
• Inertial vehicle lean angle sensor
• Traction control adjustable on eight levels
• Electronic EAS (Electronically Assisted Shift)
• Modular mixed structure frame with hand TIG welded tubular steel trellis and aluminium plates
• Öhlins suspension with electronic control (F4 RR
• Brembo monobloc brake calipers (model M50 on the F4 RR)

For more information call Berto and Clinton at Cayenne World on 011 244 1900

2016 YAMAHA YZ450F

WHAT’S NEW ON THE 2016 YZ450F

1. Launch Control System (LCS) uses high-precision ECU calculations to optimize power output, providing ideal acceleration off the gate, especially on hard track surfaces.
2. New intake and exhaust cam profiles and timing boost combustion efficiency and improve the engine’s ease of use in the low- to mid-rpm range.
3. Revisions to the clutch boss and shift stopper arm provide smooth clutch engagement feel and more precise shifting action when the gate drops.
4. Revised engine mounts and a reshaped swingarm pivot section of the aluminum frame improve lateral rigidity
5. New 270mm front disc brake (up from 250mm) also features a new brake pad material for exceptional stopping power and control for aggressive corner entries.
6. The lift and overlap on the valves has been changed to produce more low-to-mid power.
7. The water pump impeller has been drilled to improve pressure distribution
8. Triple clamp offset has been changed from 22mm to the 25mm.
9. The shock spring rate has been softened from 58Nm to 56Nm.
10. The footpegs have been lowered by 5mm.
11. The aluminum Bilateral Beam frame features a new forged section at the swingarm pivot and 2mm thicker motor mounts to further improve the rigidity balance for more front-end feel, cornering traction and unmatched lightweight handling.

There are few internationally renowned motorcycling events which marry together history, tradition, endurance, technology and competition as well as the Isle of Man TT, and this is one of the key reasons that Motul joins with the thousands of riders, teams, fans and motorcycling enthusiasts who make the pilgrimage to ‘The Mountain’ each year.

The partnership between the Isle of Man TT fuelled by Monster Energy and Motul was first formed in 2010 and the global specialist in the field of motorcycle lubricants and lubrication has now renewed its links with the world’s most famous road race for the sixth consecutive year.  Named as Official Lubricant Partner to the event, Motul will be present at the spiritual home of motorcycles and their riders to once again enjoy the mythology, history and excitement of the event.

Testing on the 37.73 mile public road course begins on Saturday (30th May), and the 100+ competitors will be putting themselves through their paces on the scenic Isle of Man, which lies in the Irish Sea between the North West coast of England and Northern Ireland. Motul’s iconic red and white colours will once again be seen on two specific corners – Quarter Bridge and Gooseneck.  

Motul views the IoM TT as an integral part of its two-wheel test and development programme and the complexity and duration of the event provides a perfect backdrop at which to carry out that research. Furthermore, with the company’s technologically advanced motorcycle lubricant range in mind, the event allows Motul multiple opportunities to reach its consumers on a personal level. Within the range is the 100% synthetic 300V Factory Line lubricant which will be used by partner teams and riders throughout the 2015 entry list.  

The most high profile team receiving support from Motul is Honda Racing with the two-man riding squad of John McGuinness and Conor Cummins.  The legendary ‘Morecambe Missile’ – 21 times a winner at the TT – and the Manxman Cummins will contest the RST Superbike and PokerStars Senior races on Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP machines. Both will be aiming to repeat the team’s previous year’s successes – a target which, in the hands of the Mountain maestro McGuinness, now fully fit for 2015, is seriously achievable.  McGuinness will be backed up by the undeniable talent and ambition of Cummins who last year finished on the podium at the TT.  

In addition to his commitment with the Honda Motor Europe-backed Honda Racing squad, McGuinness will also be entering the Supersport class with his own EMC² team which will also receive technical support from Motul.

The Isle of Man’s busiest rider, McGuinness, will additionally be competing in the TT Zero Challenge class for Team Mugen – a category he won in 2014. He and fellow rider Bruce Anstey will be striving for a second title in a row on the electric powered Shinden Yon machine.

Spectators and fans worldwide will be eagerly awaiting the Senior TT race on Friday, 12th June – undoubtedly the highlight of the whole 14 days of action – to see if the British rider can extend his winning streak at this pinnacle of road racing.

As part of its partnership with the event, Motul will also be offering the “Motul Award for Technical Performance” to the most meritorious team, to be awarded on Friday 12th June.

A trip of more than 7 500 kilometres is a challenge for any motorcyclist, if the route leads through jungle, swampland and into the Himalayas the trip becomes tough, dangerous and a huge adventure when tackled as a solo ride. The 27 year old Vaune Phan from Singapore on her med capacity dual purpose Suzuki DR 200, describes herself as a feminine but tough and rugged enough to take this on. Her trip will take her through half of Asia and into the foot hills of Himalayas to the Mount Everest base camp.

 Vaune Phan has ridden motorbikes for seven years and has participated in various Enduro races. Besides her passion for motorbikes she also has an Advanced Open Water Diver License, loves surfing and skydiving.

After many months of preparation the young woman will start her big adventure this month. Vaune Phan rides with the support of LIQUI MOLY from Singapore via Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, China and Tibet to the Nepalese capital Kathmandu. If everything works according to her plan, Vaune, pronounced “Von“, will arrive on the 28th of June after more than 7,500 kilometres in Kathmandu. The absolute highlight of the tour is riding to the Mount Everest Base Camp Shigatse 5,100 meters above sea level. On her way she will regularly update her blog so that you can follow her with various social media with the hashtag #beyondeverest.

The route is not only ambitious for the rider, but also for her equipment. To prepare the Suzuki DR 200 for the tour with great variations in temperature, extreme altitudes and dusty roads, she trusts in motor and gear oils from LIQUI MOLY.

Vaune does not only care about the challenge. On her route she also has another objective: raising the awareness and collecting donations for the Singapore Disability Sports Council, to support people who want to participate in sports despite their disabilities.

Vaune Phan
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1. Revised cylinder head. The engine is tuned such that the torque curve follows the limit of running resistance for as long as possible. Cylinder is offset (8.5 mm forward), reducing friction and enabling more efficient power generation.

2. Revised intake valves and intake cam timing change are designed to complement cylinder exhaust system revisions. Intake ports are less curved, contributing to increase performance at all rpm. Revised intake cam timing (advanced 2-degrees) contributes to increased low-rpm performance. Intake valves have a revised head area. The new design, with slimmer throat angle and reduced recess (similar to valves on super sport models), contributes to increased high-rpm performance.

3. Piston crown design matches the revised intake valves and maintains the compression ratio at 12.8:1, contributing to the engine’s increased performance.

4. The addition of a new resonator (US and Canadian models only) effectively increases the exhaust pipe length and reduces exhaust noise volume by approximately 2db.

5. Excess meat was trimmed from transmission gears and shafts to reduce weight by approximately 260 grams (9.2 ounces).

6. New KX FI Calibration Kit (Accessory) features the handheld KX FI Calibration Controller, which enables riders to adjust engine characteristics (by rewriting actual data maps) to suit their preference. This simple tool can be used without a PC, simply by plugging into the engine’s ECU. There are 7 pre-set engine maps included.

7. All-new aluminium perimeter frame offers revised rigidity from a slimmer and lighter layout.

8. The radiator orientation has been turned inward to allow for a slimmer shroud design for improved ergonomics.

9. Oversized 270 mm front brake rotor.

10. Flatter seat and tank to facilitate riding position changes. Top of the fuel tank is lower, allowing an even flatter progression from the seat to the tank. 

11. Adjustable Ergonomics with 4-position handlebar and 2-position foot pegs.

12. Intake ducts added below the rear of the seat contribute to improved throttle response.

13. Weighing in at 239 pounds, the new KX450F is over 6.6 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The weight reduction comes via a thorough re-evaluation of both engine and chassis components.

14. SFF-Air TAC front fork locates its damping assembly in the left fork tube and a pneumatic spring, comprised of three pressurized air chambers, in the right. Light weight, low friction, easy adjustability, a wide setting range and precise settings are some of the advantages. Super-hard titanium coating protects the fork from wear abrasion. Self-lubricating alumite coating creates a hard, low-friction surface on the outer tube, further reducing friction to promote smooth fork action.

15. Aggressive new bodywork makes the bike look more compact and is complemented by factory-style design and graphics. Black alumite1 rims, black fork guards, and green highlights help create a distinctive Kawasaki identity. Green alumite1 finish on the suspension adjusters and green finish on some of the engine trim add to the KX450F’s high-performance image. 

HOW KAWASAKI SAVED WEIGHT
1. A thorough revision of engine and chassis components yielded 3.4 kg (6.6 pounds) in weight savings, bringing the weight of the KX450F down to a trim 108.7 kg (239 pounds). The lighter weight contributes to quicker turn-in and sharper overall handling.

2. Savings from the engine group (including intake and exhaust systems) amounted to approximately 2.0 kg (4.4 pounds). Savings from chassis components totalled approximately 1.4 kg (3 pounds).

3. Previously an extruded part, the redesigned down tube is now a combination forged/cast piece (front part is forged; rear part is cast). The new piece, along with a revised head pipe and brace tubes, contributes to greater front-end feel.

4. Width across the main frames is approximately 6mm slimmer. This facilitates position changes, making it easier for riders to slide forward and backward. Weighing 400 grams (14 ounces) less than the previous unit (thanks in large part to revised head pipe and upper/lower rear shock brackets), the frame’s lighter weight contributes to the bike’s quicker handling.

5. Rigidity of the swingarm was also revised. The cast front portion is taller with thinner walls, and the wall thickness of the spars was idealized, with thinner side walls and thicker top/bottom walls. The new construction saves approximately 220 grams (7.7 ounces).

6. Smaller fuel tank has a lower top. This lowers the bike’s centre of gravity, further contributing to the sharper handling.

7. Revised for rigidity, the KX450F’s new frame features a slimmer design and lighter overall weight. Thicker walls for the sub-frame (seat rails) offer increased strength.

8. Aggressive design of the new front fender adds to the racy looks and saves 50 grams (2 ounces) in weight.

9. New design for the aluminium rear sprocket contributes to the bike’s sharp looks and saves 50 grams (2 ounces)

2016 Kawasaki KX250F has been mildly updated over the 2015 model.

2016 KTM 250 SX Highlights
With enough power to excel on all sorts of tracks and terrain, combined with an extremely lightweight chassis, the 250SX has one of the best power-to-weight ratios in motocross. The unrivaled performance of the 2-stroke engine makes it a true contender against the more complex four-Strokes. For 2016 the 250 SX features detail improvements and new colors and graphics, but retains the same excellent chassis and engine specifications as 2015.

KTM 250SX Updates for 2016:
•    New CNC machined triple clamp with 22 mm offset and new handlebar rubber damping system for reduced engine vibrations to the rider for less fatigue.
•    Wheels with new lighter spokes with a weight reduction of 100 grams.
•    New generation Dunlop Geomax MX32 tires for traction and performance, complementing the 250 SX’s handling and power.
•    High-tech Brembo brakes in conjunction with newly designed and lighter Galfer Wave rotors ensuring class-leading brake performance.

2016 KTM 450 SXF Highlights
If asked for maximum power there is no other way but the KTM 450SXF. This model has proven itself in championships around the world over the years. Thanks to its compact SOHC engine that delivers explosive but controllable power, it is the weapon of choice for the US KTM Factory Team’s successful 2013 & 2014 AMA Motocross Outdoor championships and 2015 AMA Supercross Championship. For 2016 the 450SXF presents itself with an all new chassis and engine, reducing overall weight 7.9 pounds making the new model even easier to ride. All the while, setting a new benchmark of 62hp in terms of peak power. The 2016 KTM 450SXF is the lightest, fastest 450 MX bike on the track, consider the game changed.

450SXF ENGINE
• The new 450SXF engine design is more compact, lighter and provides higher performance throughout the entire range of power.
• New engine cases redesigned to centralize the rotating mass of the crankshaft and clutch and reduce overall length and width.
• Completely reworked Keihin Engine Management System with new 44mm throttle body featuring a lightweight direct-connect design.
• New electronic Launch Control for efficient starts and multiple engine maps to control the overall power delivery.
• New cylinder head combustion chamber geometry, optimized ports, shorter timing chain and friction reduced chain guides for improved power and reduced weight.
• New 6mm shorter cylinder, lightweight piston connected to a shorter con-rod and a crankshaft with 10% more inertia contribute to the compact design, light engine feel and massive power.
• New lighter 5-Speed transmission that is narrower and features a new surface treatment on 1st and 5th gears along with a special low-friction coating on the shift forks to provide precise and easy shifting.
• New “No Dirt” shift lever prevents dirt from fouling the lever joint to ensure proper shifting in any condition.
• DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch has a new lighter basket along with a reworked inner hub and pressure plate providing better oil supply and improved cooling of the clutch.
• New super compact and lightweight 1.1lb Lithium-Ion starter battery.
• New WP flow optimized radiator design features a substantial improvement in engine cooling.
• New Flow Design Header (FDH) with an integrated sound resonator that is also designed to increase power along with a new lightweight silencer that is 40mm shorter than the previous design for quick throttle response. 

450SXF CHASSIS
• New lighter chromoly steel frame provides higher torsional rigidity with less longitudinal stiffness resulting in improved handling and energy absorption.
• New smaller, lighter subframe design made with new aluminum profiles.
• New lighter swingarm features a revised internal structure to match the new frame characteristics.
• New lighter “No Dirt” footpeg design that provides a larger surface area and features a “scraper” to reduce dirt build-up in the hinge.
• New CNC machined upper triple clamp featuring a rubber damping system for the new Neken handlebar and ODI lock-on grips.
• The advanced WP 4CS (Four Chamber System) Fork has been specifically designed for Motocross and features revised damping settings optimized for the new chassis.
• New generation WP shock has been developed in conjunction with the new frame and swingarm architecture including a new linkage/pullrod system.
• Super lightweight Galfer Wave rotors, CNC machined hubs, high-end Excel rims and are fitted with Dunlop Geomax MX32 tires are standard equipment.
• New airbox and air filter design offers maximum protection for the engine while ensuring maximum airflow and providing quick “no tools” air filter changes.
• New ergonomics and bodywork to centralize mass, improve handling and rider comfort.
• The new 2016 450SXF weighs only 224.7lbs / 101.9kg.

Donington Park, 24 May 2015 – The championship for factory derivative bikes arrived in England, the country with the highest number of riders competing in the championship, six in both WSBK and WSS, in the case of the latter thanks to the participation of a few local wild cards.

Among the home town heroes for the British fans Leon Camier is held in high regard because, in addition to being a media sweetheart due to his strong image, he is also extremely fast, even to the point of taking pole position in the Friday practice sessions with a time of 1’29.314. The MV Agusta Reparto Corse team rider, hailing from Ashford in Kent, was also fast on Saturday, riding his F4 RC to take the seventh best time (1’.28.011), his best result in qualifying this season.

In WSS the battle for the starting grid spots was complicated by the participation of a few local riders such as Ryde and Stapleford, respectively on Yamaha and Triumph, who wedged their way between Sofuoglu at the top and Cluzel in third, whereas Lorenzo Zanetti took the fifth spot.

In the race Jules was the fastest going into the first braking section to move into the lead, putting Sofuoglu and Ryde behind him. And so, on the ups and downs of the track built near Sherwood Forest, the leading trio began to break away from the closest followers, maintaining their positions until the fourth lap when Sofuoglu attacked Cluzel.

The two touched and there to exploit the moment was the seventeen-year-old English rider who overtook Jules whilst the Turkish Kawasaki rider moved into the lead. Four laps later the Frenchman finally managed to break down Ryde's resistance and he began to narrow the gap behind Sofuoglu. In the meantime Zanetti, in full comeback mode, caught up Ryde in the fourteenth lap, overtaking him, whilst Cluzel set the track record with a time of 1’30.05, drawing closer to the Kawasaki rider. His mad dash, however, was by now at an end due to a worn rear tyre that forced him to settle for second place, 0.891 behind a victorious Sofuoglu. Finishing third was the indomitable Ryde who got the best of a generous Zanetti, fourth across the wire. 

At the end of the race Jules was visibly pleased: "We managed to bring home another good result. I'm pleased because we improved consistently throughout the weekend. The conditions here were difficult, with low temperatures that gave us grip problems, but we managed them as best we could."

Accepting defeat in a hand-to-hand struggle is never easy, but Lorenzo Zanetti nevertheless was positive about the result of the English round: “I think I rode a good race. Unfortunately I wasn't able to get onto the podium but I battled and I just barely missed repeating the performance from Imola. I can tell that the feeling with the bike is getting better and better and that is a great sensation!"

Leon Camier had a more complicated day, finishing Race 1 in ninth place after dropping back to sixteenth when he ran straight on in the seventh lap. Race 2 promised to be an exciting one when Leon, lying sixth at the time behind Davies' Ducati, lost grip on the third lap, ending his race prematurely. 

The next WSBK round is scheduled for 7 June in Portugal on the Algarve circuit at Portimão