New engine for Yamaha
MotoGP GossipYamaha is expected to come back from the three-week summer break with a new engine, possibly running pneumatic valves but retaining the inline-four configuration. It's a late season roll of the dice as the firm desperately tries to get its champ Valentino Rossi (pictured) back on an even footing with Australian Casey Stoner and his Ducati.
The draft calendar for next year has been released, and the Australian round is likely to be moved because it clashes with the AFL grand final. At the moment it is: March 9 Qatar, March 30 Jerez, April 20 Estoril, May 4 Shanghai, May 18 Le Mans, June 1 Mugello, June 8 Catalunyam June 22 Donington, June 28 Assen, July 13 Sachsenring, July 20 Laguna Seca, August 17 Brno, August 31 Misano, September 14 Indianapolis, September 28 Phillip Islandm October 5 Motegi, October 19 Sepang, November 2 Valencia.
Spanish 250 champ Jorge Lorenzo is tipped to leave his Aprilia team in favour of a Yamaha MotoGP ride next year, possibly in a satellite team.
Aussie Chris Vermeulen re-signed with the Suzuki at the conclusion of the American race. He wants to stay with Suzuki despite attempts from other manufactures to tempt him away. Team Manager Paul Denning has been in negotiations with Vermeulen for some time and the number 71 racer put pen to paper shortly after the American Grand Prix, which saw Vermeulen take second behind Casey Stoner's Ducati. "I am very excited to be staying with Suzuki. I really enjoy working with the whole team, especially my Chief Mechanic Tom O'Kane. The involvement of the factory staff has also been a big factor in my decision, in particular Sahara-san and our Racing Group Leader Oonishi-san. The way the development has gone since I first rode the GSV-R in 2005 is incredible! I am sure if we can continue in that direction we will be pushing up to the front every weekend. That has got to be the goal; I want to be World Champion and if I can do it with Suzuki I will be so happy!" he said.
Roger Lee Hayden, younger brother to current champ Nicky, is tipped to fill the third Kawasaki saddle in 2007.
(Pic: Yamaha)
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