It was Event 5 in the Bike Tyrestore Track Action programme, this time with Michelin!
Becca piloting the Michelin F1 Simulator, and setting a cracking pace, at Oulton Park.
It seems longer than just over a week since our sunny Track Day, with Michelin inviting 42 guest riders, and too long until the next Track Action event, which will be early in the New Year. Details are to be announced, but it seems likely we'll be back at Oulton.
Right now, we're working on the day's photography and everyone who rode with us on 13th August will soon receive a souvenir picture, as a reminder of a great "World Of Bike Tyres" day out.
Motorcycle Trader's intrepid reporter was one of several long-haul visitors to Oulton, and the event will be the subject of a major feature in the next issue of the magazine, out mid September. If you don't receive this leading industry publication, which is free-of-charge to the trade, please contact Sarah Jones on 01273 616040, or visit www.motorcycletrader.net where you can also sign up, again free-of-charge, to receive hot-off-the-press trade and industry news via Trader’s priority e-newsletter service.
The 2008 MotoGP season restarted at Brno last weekend, with the Grand Prix Ceske Republiky and the first eight places going to Bridgestone riders, including outright winner, Valentino Rossi.
A crash early on took Casey Stoner out of the race, although he turned in stunning lap times during practice and started from pole position.
Michelin riders were unhappy with the rubber made available at Brno, and number three Championship runner, Dani Pedrosa, was unusually outspoken, claiming to have been "embarrassed" by the performance he was able to deliver due to lack of confidence in the tyres, although he was clearly still suffering from the injuries sustained at Sachsenring a few weeks ago.
Inevitably, Michelin's performance at Brno has re-ignited the one-make tyre rule controversy, with a majority of riders, and Dorna boss Carmelo Ezpeleta, apparently backing the idea. About this time last year the same controversy was raging, and nothing happened, so who knows if everything will finally change in 2009?
Next stop, "GP Cinzano Di San Marino E Della Riviera Di Rimini" on 31st August, at Misano.
PRICE INCREASE ALERT!
15th September 2008. Dunlop two wheel product prices increase by 6%.
Several manufacturers will raise their two wheel product prices on 1st September, now Dunlop have announced an increase brought about by escalating raw material costs worldwide.
We expect further adjustments, by other manufacturers, before the end of the year!
Sunday 7th September will see the Donington Park World Superbikes round, and we'll be there entertaining guests in our suite on Redgate corner - many thanks to Pirelli for a terrific allocation of tickets - yet again!!
Technically, the invitation list is full, but there is the possibility that we may have last minute availability so, if you are interested, please call Event Co-ordinator Becca on freephone 0800 281 413 right away. No promises, but we'll see what we can do!
It's a washout - again! The summer of 2007 was supposed to be a one-off, but as we run up to the August Bank Holiday weekend, traditionally one of the busiest times of the year, the outlook is nothing but sunshine and showers. Just like last year!
Sales of Sport/Touring tyres are holding up well, but pure sports tyres are in freefall as machines remain garaged and much of the country is flooded, again!!
We have a little secret. Well, quite a big one actually, and it has to do with a fabulous new promotion from the UK Market Leader. Sorry to tease, but more we can't say just now. All will be revealed next Friday!
More generous input from the Italian manufacturer will enable a group of customers to visit Cadwell Park this coming weekend, for another exciting round of the Bennett's British Superbikes Championship.
There's a fast right hand bend just by the entrance, but riders who have fore knowledge, or super quick reactions, have a treat in store on Sunday 31st August, at Bikers World's superstore in Lichfield Road, Water Orton, near Coleshill outside Birmingham.
Bridgestone's RoadShow will be there to support a major customer, Wheel House Tyres, one of the nation's leading motorcycle tyre specialists, and we'll be there too as part of the Bridgestone team taking part in what promises to be a landmark Customer Open Day!
Not least amongst the planned attractions, is a guest appearance by both Ron and Leon Haslam and it is hoped that Ron will be signing copies of his autobiography "Rocket Men", published in July!
Finally this week, stand by to be "fleeced" by Moto-Vate, our Customer Loyalty Rewards programme!
September's featured promotion will be a free of charge, smart, branded fleece from Michelin. Perfect for the colder winter months, we're hoping "sods' law" will apply and this clothing will induce a sudden improvement in the weather!
