I have not seen this subject on the board yet.
Why has Geoff not been given a factory ride? He's young, smart, hard working, fast as hell, and an overall well round rep for the average racer. How do the factories give rides out? How are riders selected?
I realize that some will totally disagree with my opinion on this, but it's a sad fact of reality. The old phrase "It's not WHAT you know, it's WHO you know" can be a major factor. There was a discussion along these same lines a while ago and I will give the examples I gave then. Look at many of the top performers and you'll soon see the 'in' they had into racing. Off the top of my head people like Duhamel, Pridmore, the Roberts boys, and on and on all had a racing father who greatly influenced their rise to the top thru there contacts. A situation like the Hayden boys who had a motorcycle obsessive father who provided them with everything they would ever need for racing and established contacts for them is also another not so uncommon situation. Most racers don't have either of the previous examples in their favor so they would most likely need to rely on the networking aspect, or in other words get to know the right people who will either personally assist you or know the people that can. The perfect example of this is Montez and his opportunity with Michael Jordan. From what I have heard Montez is a great guy that can ride the wheels off a bike, but those characteristics alone most likely will never land you a majorly supported ride on a Pro team. The chance meeting that Montez had with Jordan created a relationship which led to an opportunity he probably would have never had otherwise. I think it's great that Montez was presented with this opportunity and that MJ has expressed such strong enthusiasm for the sport at this time. Even at that, from what I have heard it's not MJ himself that is fronting the bill for this team, it's the people and sponsers that MJ was able to influence to support the team, which again is "Who you know" not "What you know". How many of the fast regional expert racers who race AMA Pro occasionally for the experience and chance of "getting noticed" will ever get an opportunity like this?
Networking has got to be one of the smartest things you can do to help improve your chances of going to the top. Hard work, racing smart, and dedication are all great characteristics that will probably help to make you a fast racer. But the relationships you make with people will probably be the ultimate deciding factor in taking you to the next level. Knowing people that can help you improve your racing thru technique, set-up, encouragement, and lastly but not least important introducing you to people or getting the word out about you will prove to be invaluable. Just being the fast racer out there isn't going to be enough in the majority of cases because there are plenty of other fast racers out there as well. Many racers have worked their way up to racing AMA Pro, but most will never have a full ride, only some lesser level of support instead.
It could be that Geoff doesn't have the needed relationships with the right people yet to propel his career further, or maybe he's not quite what sponsers are looking for as a representative of their product, who knows? :)
QuoteI have not seen this subject on the board yet.
Why has Geoff not been given a factory ride? He's young, smart, hard working, fast as hell, and an overall well round rep for the average racer. How do the factories give rides out? How are riders selected?
Believe it or not quite of few factory Racers started out on a factory Team by paying for their rides.
If you are to get a factory ride you also have to have some impressive results in most cases.Geoff although a good rider and finished well in Superbike standings this year did not have any really impressive races at the Pro level.
On another note , when it comes to the Jordan team although Pridmore is a capable rider I think i have a better chance of my hair growing back on my head before he wins a superbike race, that goes for any other rider they get. Just the facts of life.Montez is a great guy , no doubt about! Is MJ going to help racing grow , I doubt it. In my personal opinion it is a way for him to have some fun and enhance his celebrity status. When was the last time a sport has held it's collective breath in anticipation of MJ having a press conference and announcing anything.I applaud MJ for his efforts but also think if Motorcycle racing was such a big deal to outside companies NIKE would just write a check and do something special. Well that isn't going to happen! I think on the flipside MJ is just sucking inside the industry dollars from the riders and teams such as Geoff May and others. In the long term this will hurt the sport more than make it grow.Why doesn't a team such as Jordan give a guy like Geoff a ride?Will Team Jordan even be around after Michael gets bored?
This is just my personal opinion , it has nothing to do with race,color,creed. So before you flame me as a racist a little background. My sister in law and neice and nephew are african american all of who i Love very dearly.I have been in racing for over 20 years. I have seen the deep pocket teams that last a year or two, i have seen them suck the support away from other deserving teams so in that respect maybe it is who you know. Until evryone in this sport realizes that for it to grow we have to revamp how everything is done the geoff Mays of the world will always wondering "what If". Jim
QuoteBelieve it or not quite of few factory Racers started out on a factory Team by paying for their rides.
how much would such a ride cost, or, what woudl such a ride cost?
QuoteOn another note , when it comes to the Jordan team although Pridmore is a capable rider I think i have a better chance of my hair growing back on my head before he wins a superbike race, that goes for any other rider they get. Just the facts of life.Montez is a great guy , no doubt about! Is MJ going to help racing grow , I doubt it. In my personal opinion it is a way for him to have some fun and enhance his celebrity status. When was the last time a sport has held it's collective breath in anticipation of MJ having a press conference and announcing anything.I applaud MJ for his efforts but also think if Motorcycle racing was such a big deal to outside companies NIKE would just write a check and do something special. Well that isn't going to happen! I think on the flipside MJ is just sucking inside the industry dollars from the riders and teams such as Geoff May and others. In the long term this will hurt the sport more than make it grow.Why doesn't a team such as Jordan give a guy like Geoff a ride?Will Team Jordan even be around after Michael gets bored?
This is just my personal opinion , it has nothing to do with race,color,creed. So before you flame me as a racist a little background. My sister in law and neice and nephew are african american all of who i Love very dearly.I have been in racing for over 20 years. I have seen the deep pocket teams that last a year or two, i have seen them suck the support away from other deserving teams so in that respect maybe it is who you know. Until evryone in this sport realizes that for it to grow we have to revamp how everything is done the geoff Mays of the world will always wondering "what If". Jim
nice perspective. The only way this is going to last is if the corporate backer of Jordan's team determines in their marketing studies that this is actually doing anything. If the demongraphic of AMA racing audience changes because of Jordan's more "serious" involvement, then we have something. Otherwise yes, it would just be MJ's hobby for the time being and when he gets bored, or decided to move on to something else, this will go away.
It is like MJ's new hobby. If MJ really wants to help the sport like he gave an opportunity to tez, Geoff May and many other young racer should get some support from the team.
If I had the same financial backing I would provide a program for many privateers so they can have mroe support.
MJ wants to win by hiring Pridmore because he wants to win, its cool and fun. It isn't going to help the sport any unless the sport catches on with his outside the sport fans. That remains to be seen.
Quotehow much would such a ride cost, or, what woudl such a ride cost?
There have been rides in the range from $50,000 to over $100,000
QuoteThere have been rides in the range from $50,000 to over $100,000
So, if I pay that much I can ride with a Factory AMA team ???
Doesn't it cost just as much if your a privateer going to every round on your own with no support ???
Sorry, I'm ignorant on the matter.
Wonder how much MotoGP would cost to run a full season ???
Could you ride , NO. It's just not paying the money it is having some upside such as actually being able to go fast. To do that you would actually have to be a racer with some potential!
Makes sense. Ya know, I was talking to some people, and you'd be surprised how much money they spend to do things such as this. Believe it or not, I know some people that would actually pay that amount just to race, good or not. Some people just have too much money. I once met a guy that was some executive at Verizon. He got divorced, and spent all this money on a plane and personal instruction so he could learn to sky dive. He actually went and bought his own plane and pilot. Nevermind he never did it before. It's kinda like the guy that buys a $4000.00 set of golf clubs to play golf once. Seen those type too. I couldn't imagine what the grid would look like if all it took was some money and no talent :o
Exactly!
Now all you gotta do is convince one of these rich guys that's willing to spend that kind of money for fun, and get him/her to sponsor a team of talented riders, and I mean a full sponsorship. Full top of the line equipment, trucks, ect. 8)
Jim, some of us love reading (or listening) to your perspectives. :)
Thanks Bill !
Is Geoff on this board? I have a photo he might like.
The factorys should realize they are looking for great riders, and spokesmen/corporate reps. Geoff is a (the) prime candidate to be a great rider and an outstanding rep, he is well spoken, humbe, hard working, etc. As for "great races," I don't remember any privateers with any race results more impressive than Geoff. If any company was going to make an investment in potential future great that also had the ability to represent their company (without looking like a hiphop punk), Geoff is their man.
If he doesn't get a support ride this year, then something is definitely wrong w/ the system.
QuoteIf any company was going to make an investment in potential future great...
This is the point. Nothing against Geoff, but he is not a viable investment in the future in there eyes. Why? He is too old. They are looking to invest in younger riders. It may suck, but if you think about it, there are plenty of reasons why this makes sense.
I do agree that it is also who you know.
As far as the statement that someone made: "Geoff did not have the results as a pro" Please tell me why you said that. ( Top 5 as a pro in year 2, Rookie of the year in year 1) ( WERA national champ, ROC champ and a title win in FUSA)
Someone correct me if i'm wrong but Aron Yates did not come form a rich family ; he started off just like Geoff.
It would be nice if MJ did add Geoff to his team. I can see it now JP and GM in superbike, Tez on supersport, and stock. That would be a pipe dream but a good thought.
QuoteCould you ride , NO. It's just not paying the money it is having some upside such as actually being able to go fast. To do that you would actually have to be a racer with some potential!
so if Geoff May can come knocking on the door with 150k in hand you think he can get a ride, at least on attack or something?
I'm sure a good support ride could open up.
It's no different in WSB or MotoGP. The fastest guys don't get the best rides. Look at MotoGP rides from Spanish companies. They want Spanish riders.
I can tell you from experience the AMA is an interesting beast. It's not at all what you think it is on the outside. Support teams need paid rides so they can continue to exist. These teams DO NOT have the budgets you think they do.
One of the biggest problems in everyone is competing for inside the industry dollars and that piece of pie is only so big.
Big corporate, outside the industry sponsors are not impressed with their return on investment for sponsoring an AMA team from the coverage and number of fan attendees.
Thats why my survival and growth of my team isn't focused on fighting for a piece of the industry pie. My Safety program and outside the industry promotions give corporations a viable reason to invest with me. I'm committed to safety with kids, but it also makes companies look good as well.
Why do you think all of my stuff says POLICE on the side and I continue to maintain my officer status? It has huge marketing potential and is different from everyoneone else. I get a lot of recognition and coverage from it.
Secondly, I've surrounded myself with good, qualified people such as four and six. Jim has been around a long time, knows a ton of people and knows what it takes and how to build it at the AMA level to win. Saving a buck and working on my own bikes kills my program. It's cheaper, but how many years would it take me to try and learn Jim's knowledge and would I ever get there.......I wouldn't.
The same goes for people at the club level.
You want to try and save a buck and do everything yourself. How much does it really cost you in the long run in contingency, recognition, time, results, etc......and the list goes on.
Geoff is a good rider.......if he had a good financial backer doors would open up. There's also other good privateers though....like Jake Holden and John Haner.
Look at me for example. Geoff can ride circles around around me but raced out of a 6X10 trailer. I spent a huge amount of money on pit presence, being creative with marketing and top quality mechanics and doors have really opened up.
Plus....I'm committed to grooming upcoming racers. Name another AMA team doing that.
Also....a huge word of advice to fast club racers. Don't go to AMA support teams asking for free rides and RETARDED amounts of money! It's not going to happen!
Look at the money you spend for a ride is an investment in your future that can't be duplicated by trying to do it on your own. Instead, start networking, building relationships and saving you nickels now so to put yourself in a position to step up to AMA in future.
Otherwise you are just throwing money away.
I KNOW ALL ABOUT THROWING MONEY AWAY.
i have decided to build a monster ysr racebike and smoke those little moped racers. anyone who wants a piece of me can come and get it. that should be cheap and open some eyes.
Knuppie,
PUT DOWN THE CRACK PIPE!!!
Kevin, good job on your team and program! I really enjoy reading your activities and seeing it making an impact for the kids. I used to work with inner city kids in a non-profit program for over 6 years, which was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life...
which gives me an idea, you got a great point in getting outside corporate money to sponsor a program that will give to the community that will make them look good, and that money should come from community program budget rather than marketing budget ;) good call.
now if I could bother you for some ideas/pointers, I would greatly appreciate it... if you don't mind.
Quoteso if Geoff May can come knocking on the door with 150k in hand you think he can get a ride, at least on attack or something?
Thats probably about what it would take for a factory ride in superstock or supersport
Kevin - I have met you (track day in May 03) and Jim (bought a bike from him). I'm in DC now, but have contacts w/ the gov't/GOP politics and IL. If there is anything I could do to help (try to line up endorsement of gov't official, etc.), I'd be happy to help your program.
And for the guy that said Geoff is too old, he's 23 for crisstake.
max.grant@lw.com
I want more comments from Jim, I love some of the cool stories about R. Muzzy and other stuff. He will put alot of you in a better thought process in what your plans should be.
Come'on give us more stories Jim!! How about if Jim gives us one story a week in a whole seperate thread? Who is for more cool stories!!??
You will have time Jim, if you just make Hansen do some of the friggin' work.
Love your stories at the track Jim!
Your friend PJ (VRS Instructor)
Hanson work? that would be novel ! just kidding.
Fourandsix's statement "Geoff although a good rider and finished well in superbike standings this year did not have any really impressive races this year on the pro level"! Are the words of what I consider a truly "uninformed fool"! How anyone who follows the AMA Superbike Series can make such a "lame brain " statement about a rider who not only finished 5th in the series but was top ten (and as high as 5th)in every round but two, can only be classified as a "fool at best"! Geoff's accomplishments on the track speak for themself while fourandsix does nothing more than talk out his ass!
HD
HD
QuoteGeoff's accomplishments on the track speak for themself while fourandsix does nothing more than talk out his ass!
:oDOH! :o
...and in this corner, wearing his boxing trunks backwards and speaking to the crowd thru his fly.....
...now go to your corners and come out fighting!
(LMAO! ;D)
:o
Here's the double edged sword I'm learning about with Superbike.
It's the best class for privateers to make some money and offset the hemoraging of their wallet during an AMA weekend.
However, the downside is the manufacturers discredit the privateers who finish well in it because of the disparity between a factory bike and a privateer bike......for clarification read Roadracing World this month on Toye riding Duhamel's Superbike.
Being top privateer in Superbike isn't really opening up any doors.
Manufacturers want to see results in Supersport and Superstock classes where the bikes are more closely match. You will get noticed more beating some factory guys in those classes than finishing top privateer in Superbike. However, they don't pay squat.
Racers wanting to make it in the AMA need to start positioning and marketing themselves before they ever ride in the AMA and have a plan. Riding fast just doesn't cut it. Look at what you spend going to college hoping to get a good paying job.
There are no guarantees when the job market is tight and tons of people are competing for the same job. It doesn't always go to the highest qualified applicate a lot of times. It comes down to who speaks well during the interview and has networked his/her way into knowing somebody in the company.
Racing is no different and even more difficult because the jobs are few and money is tight. However, it can be done and people willing to gut it out need to be armed with more than great throttle control with their right hand.
People really need to understand that free rides are extremely difficult until you have proven yourself on good equipment/team. The factories would be taking too big of a risk on someone going directly from club racing to a factory bike without proving themselves first on a satellite team.
Food for thought......You can have a free ride on a crappy team A with crap equipment or can pay for a ride with top of the line team B with top equipment.......which do you choose?
Which gets you farther in the end?
QuoteFood for thought......You can have a free ride on a crappy team A with crap equipment or can pay for a ride with top of the line team B with top equipment.......which do you choose?
Which gets you farther in the end?
NEITHER ! You stay amature and race CCS, WERA, ect. and sandbag, while taking everyone's contigency money
;) ;D :P
and still spend a lot of money out of pocket......
And that's fine.....
I really want people to understand what they are getting into if they really want to pursue AMA and not have these delusions of grandeur about getting a free ride and 50K for a salary and all the contingency/winnings you can win!!! :-*
Quoteand still spend a lot of money out of pocket......
And that's fine.....
I really want people to understand what they are getting into if they really want to pursue AMA and not have these delusions of grandeur about getting a free ride and 50K for a salary and all the contingency/winnings you can win!!! :-*
What about the guys like Denning? Don't they race more or less for a living? I know he has several lap records, but when it comes to it, where would he be come the checkered of an AMA race? I really don't know much about the subject, but what I've heard over time is that he pretty much races for a living and makes good money doing it. Again, it's what I heard. The truth of it may be a whole nother can of worms, but I've seen him ride and he's fast as hell. Same goes for teams like Vesrah Suzuki Endurance. Why aren't they running AMA? The obviously have some sort of backing, and can't be touched for Endurance. Tray Batey too old maybe? Who knows. It's a complex thing to try and figure out. When you look at track records, you see Denning's name all over the place, but why not run AMA if your that good?
???
Still trying to figure it all out
???
Another thing is if AMA is such a pain in the ass to run, why run it? Why run it against the factory teams if you don't stand a chance, especially if your not going to make the money to justify it? Yeah, it's more "prestigous" but still. If privateers quit running AMA, where do the AMA teams look for new riders? CCS, WERA, ect. right? Why go thru more trouble for less or equal pay off? I don't get it, but then again I haven't been there to deal with it. I've never filled out a contigency form in my life. The two times I won a race it was unexpected, so I never filled out any forms, and the contingency wouldn't have even paid for lunch. Plus, that's not why I showed up. I showed up because I love the track, my bike, and the challenge. I'm far from fast enough to even expect to place top 10 on a "serious" grid with semi fast people. I'm there for the fun. As long as I go home the same way I came in, and had a good time over the weekend, I"m happy.
QuoteFourandsix's statement "Geoff although a good rider and finished well in superbike standings this year did not have any really impressive races this year on the pro level"! Are the words of what I consider a truly "uninformed fool"! How anyone who follows the AMA Superbike Series can make such a "lame brain " statement about a rider who not only finished 5th in the series but was top ten (and as high as 5th)in every round but two, can only be classified as a "fool at best"! Geoff's accomplishments on the track speak for themself while fourandsix does nothing more than talk out his ass!
HD
HD
I am impressed! The unfortunate part is that you are uninformed. What people look at is who did he beat. As i said he is a good rider . So as far as talking out of you ass what factory rider did he beat or was even close to in any of those races? I am not talking about factory riders that broke or fell. He was able only to get within 2 secs of any of the winners lap times and in most cases was about a minute behind the leader at any event. In the class that had the most competition Superstock he had finishes of 17th,10th,18th,13th,19th,12th,and then didn't run the whole season...... Yes geoff is a good rider , great rider not yet that can happen.So pull your head out of your own ass and wake up. And by the way if your going to call people names at least don't hide behind a screenname. Without knowing who you are i would have to say i am a better judge of talent then you! Flame away. Jim
The other problem with this sport is all the negative crap on these boards and in the papers from Morons like you , the only reason i posted in here was to give some insight , then what happens is whiners like you that get all beered up and post rude remarks , so to answer PJ no i won't waste my time trying to educate anyone it's not worth it! Jim
Jim, isn't it past your bedtime and you need your beauty rest.
I think if you go to bed now you will wake up with a full head of hair!! You're buyin lunch tommorrow and am I'm going to have pie ala mode since it's on your dime!
To answer Dan , people race AMA because that is the top level of racing here in the US. If your going to be the best you have to beat the best. Thats why racers go AMA and why they will continue to do so .
QuoteJim, isn't it past your bedtime and you need your beauty rest.
I think if you go to bed now you will wake up with a full head of hair!! You're buyin lunch tommorrow and am I'm going to have pie ala mode since it's on your dime!
I needed some pre sleep entertainment. yeah you need some more pie!
Yes Denning makes a good living and is one of the few that has figured it out. However, its getting tougher for him now with other people also trying to do it.
Larry doesn't care about running the AMA and having to do all the promotional stuff. He has his nitch and likes be able to do it his way.
Vesrah...same deal. Mark is a friend of mine and has a very good program and makes a decent living at it. There's no incentive for him to move. He has the market cornered and keeps delivering championships and results to his sponsors.
Why run AMA.....that's a good question. Why run the local stock car series and never aspire to do Nextel Cup. It's all in the individual in what he wants to accomplish.
AMA is the biggest show in town.
Why not go compete against the big dogs? Once you've done it, you understand why. I love the challege and love the sport. I think roadracing is still the coolest thing on earth and I'm committed to doing my part to growing/promoting the sport. It continues to sit stagnant and everyone fighting for the same little piece of pie within the industry.
People need to think outside of the box!
Yes...I agree people need to not hide behind screen names. Unhook your skirt HD!
Goodnight JimBob!! ; :-*
QuoteYes...I agree people need to not hide behind screen names. Unhook your skirt HD!
Hdpromos is Henry DeGouw, president of CCS Florida. He's never hidden behind his screen name.
Dawn :)
QuoteHdpromos is Henry DeGouw, president of CCS Florida. He's never hidden behind his screen name.
Dawn :)
I knew quite well who hdpromos was ,and he has given us another example why Motorcycle racing does not grow in the US.Just read the stuff written here , on the WERA board and in Roadracing world and you have no reason to wonder why outside the industry sponsors are not involved.When someone has a difference of opinion they are labeled "fools and talk out of their ass".This comes from a person that is considered one of the movers and shakers in our sport.I understand why Henry attacked me on a personal level as he was thinking with his heart not his head. I personally have stated that Geoff is a great guy and a good racer and wish him nothing but the best. But being all that and a dollar still will not get you a factory ride.Until all the mudslinging and name calling go away we will still be considered a sideshow by the mainstream advertisers and TV people.If you look what the questition was that started this post you can see how it has went from a great question to a waste of evryones time. I gave my opinion and i am done . Henry have a great day!
Quoteand still spend a lot of money out of pocket......
And that's fine.....
I really want people to understand what they are getting into if they really want to pursue AMA and not have these delusions of grandeur about getting a free ride and 50K for a salary and all the contingency/winnings you can win!!! :-*
Thanks Kevin
You are correct I and others had no idea how things were in the AMA. From you being there you place a real life perspective on things.
I had a lot stronger language in mind for fourandsix but I had to restrain myself. It is very obvious that this guy doesn't know "raw talent" when it's right in front of him! Nobody said Geoff May beat the factory guys. What he did was prove that he is the best of the rest and he did it on very inferior equipment. If this guy doesn't think much of the talent in that class that is not factory, than he backs up what I call him! Geoff May has been praised by his fellow competitors (factory, satellite and privateer). And as for you Mr. fourandsix, you are none of the above and you can take that to the bank, you fool! ::)
HD
Quotenice perspective.
If I had the same financial backing I would provide a program for many privateers so they can have mroe support.
Well, first...
Would just money help someone?
I'll answer. No.
Do you know what to spend money on...really?
Reality is that the Jordan team had options on who could have supported their program at the ground level. Building bikes, telling a rider what was expected of them, what they should be doing, etc.
Their "experience" led them to a decision...
Could the Jordan team have selected a second option that would have given the rider they chose a better opportunity for learning? I mean, let's be honest...how much experience did Tez have in the arena that he was in? Almost none. There are people in this industry that might have given him much better guidance. Maybe someone with twenty years of experience running teams, riders, etc.
Back to Geoff...
Seems like a good guy.
Someone correct me, but I know that he has some very direct support from Suzuki. Who's payin' for your mechanics? He's got one.
I think Robert Jensen was in this quandry a couple of years ago. He finished as high as second in an individual AMA Superstock event. Additionally, his overall finishes were very good for the season.
No offers.
Well, it cost him like $70k to do the series, tearing his motors down on the road between races. All for what...well, he wasn't makin' his $70k back.
So, he started racing for Yamaha and Suzuki money. Made a decent financial living the past couple of years. Not an easy living. When he and I talked in July at MAM, he hadn't been home since April.
The question has to be: what are you trying to accomplish? Yeah, if you're a Hayden, Janisch, or a DiSalvo...maybe you're young enough that you can get an opportunity...if you're hungry enough and willing to work with your team, and on your own. There certainly aren't any guaruntees.
If you're a few years older...well, why not race for contingency money.
I hear people complaining about "those guys" taking "our contingency money". Right.
Who's money? Hey, Suzuki, Honda, MZ, Yamaha, and who ever is putting the money up. It's there for the taking for the guy that finishes first or how ever far down it pays.
Haven't I said that there's no affirmitive action in racing?
I made the same point to Robbie Jensen at MAM...I should just kick his butt off and take the money. Intially, he took it as some kind of insult, but then he realized the wisdom in what I was saying...it's my responsibility to go faster than him...he's at the top of his game. Up to me to set up my bike, get myself in order in one way or another to win.
Geoff's a good guy. Fast guy. So, what's next?
Does anyone in their right mihgt think that he thinks that he's "fast enough"? Doubt it.
Anyone think that Rossi thinks to himself that he's "fast enough"? Doubt it.
So goes the cycle.
Motivation goes a long way too.
When you've got blinders on looking at yourself for so long...you know what you're doing...but what more can you do? Do you go find someone else to help you think differently? Do you look for different opportunities? Are you really motivated to go faster...or are you going "fast enough"?
Would you know what "faster" even looked like?
I'm sure there are maybe a very tiny hand full of people that even recognize the small nuances that really set the really talented guys apart from the regular Joes.
Even then, some of those talented guys are covered with bumps and all that need to be cleaned off.
QuoteSomeone correct me if i'm wrong but Aron Yates did not come form a rich family ; he started off just like Geoff.
I raced AMA when Yates was starting out in the AMA. Yates put his private CBR600F2 on the front row of the AMA Supersport grid at Mid-Ohio in 1993. Yeah, I heard that there were grumblings that it was gonna get torn down...
Regardless of the legality, Yates rode really, really well. You could see it. He was hungry and motivated.
QuoteIt would be nice if MJ did add Geoff to his team. I can see it now JP and GM in superbike, Tez on supersport, and stock. That would be a pipe dream but a good thought.
Really?
Maybe the offer has been made but Geoff declined. Again, will money always help? Or is it the technical help that is best?
Does Honda have more money or Yamaha? Was Rossi more motivated to win than anyone else? Was his wisdom more logical that he took his whole crew along with him to Yamaha?
Who races Rossi in MotoGP?
I'll answer...everyone.
More importantly, Rossi only races himself. I believe that he has the focus to work on HIS set up and HIS bike. Seems like most guys are racing against Rossi rather than really focusing on the things that they can really change.
Certainly were a lot of Honda's our there. Yeah, they aren't all the same, yes, but Rossi won on them last year.
Focus on the task at hand. - Chuck Yeager
QuoteI had a lot stronger language in mind for fourandsix but I had to restrain myself. It is very obvious that this guy doesn't know "raw talent" when it's right in front of him! Nobody said Geoff May beat the factory guys. What he did was prove that he is the best of the rest and he did it on very inferior equipment. If this guy doesn't think much of the talent in that class that is not factory, than he backs up what I call him! Geoff May has been praised by his fellow competitors (factory, satellite and privateer). And as for you Mr. fourandsix, you are none of the above and you can take that to the bank, you fool! ::)
HD
I guess then you can lump me in with the rest of the idiots that don't know raw talent, that would be all the factory and sattelite teams! If that the case i take that as a compliment thanks Henry!
Please don't hold back you can reach me anytime by phone at (847) 763-9900 i am sitting here waiting on your call so you can educate me on how to spot raw talent.
Not so fast fourandsix. You don't rate being "lumped with the factory or sat. teams". You're "senseless opinion" has nothing to do with whether Geoff gets an offer or a ride with any of them! And the only compliment you'll get from me, is what a "first class idiot you are sitting there by the phone waiting for me to call you"! It's impossible to educate an idiot! So I guess it's time for you to "take off your skirt?
HD
I know Jim, a little, and he is a knowledgeable/fair guy.
Back to understanding the system: Does this mean that the Hayden's/DiSalvo's were in large part able to get started b/c their well-to-do fathers subsidized the factory's initial investment in their talent? IE, they were fast, got some good results as privateers, then their dad when to the factory and said "how much $$ will it take to give my kid a ride?" If so, that makes the system more understandable, if not necessarily fair. Does this explain value of the family connections (Gobert, Hayden, Bostrom, DuHamel)?
If so, then it seems like the key is what Kevin is saying, figuring out how to demonstrate value to non-motorcycle sponsors, like Home Depot in NASCAR, and build a team based on that. The problem may be in the demographics of our audience, from an advertiser's perspective.
One thing no one has really stated is that, what is the desire for a late 20's, 30 something, 40 something, plus when it comes to racing. Do any of the people in these age group really want to try to build a race career from scratch to a professional level that gets AMA attention. I would say most have such delusions of grandeur, but at the same time would settle for having the reputation of Larry Denning, Robert Jensen, or Shawn Conrad. Whenever these guys show up to our races, all of the local guys and gals treat them like the Mladins, Bostroms and Haydens.
If we can really get our club-base minds around that, they WE can make OUR championship more likeable to outside sponsors. But it can't be about the one or two guys that are tearing it up. It's got to be about the entertainment value of all the races on the card. This is bring sponsors within reach of the Janischs and the Youngs, so when they make the leaps that they truly have the potential to make, they've got more significant backing.
On the subject of Geoff May. I think he is a talented privateer that doesn't get enough respect. At VIR, he was running in like 3rd position and Freddie Spencer didn't say a word. It was almost like he assumed Geoff was a lapper on the first 2-3 laps of the race and didn't deserve comment. Brian Drebber definitely saved the day on that one, but it was still too little in my opinion.
I'd say let's make the club level racing, America's premiere entertainment. It's more local and offers more entertainment outlets for Joe and Jill racer and their fans. The question is can the dollars to spent in so many ways? Probably not, so we've got to think regionally and act regionally. Create strict boundaries and blitz the companies. Most regions have 10 rounds, that would likely offer a lot of opportunities for attractive marketing programs.
QuoteNot so fast fourandsix. You don't rate being "lumped with the factory or sat. teams". You're "senseless opinion" has nothing to do with whether Geoff gets an offer or a ride with any of them! And the only compliment you'll get from me, is what a "first class idiot you are sitting there by the phone waiting for me to call you"! It's impossible to educate an idiot! So I guess it's time for you to "take off your skirt?
I'm impressed Henry your wide breadth of knowledge and vocabulary and how you express yourself impresses me. You can call me all the names you want pal but i'm still right and your wrong.I see the factories are all beating down the doors . It's a shame that if you have that much respect and admiration for geoff you keep attaching his name to a smuck like yourself. I'm sure all the sponsors will be impressed and line up to help him so they won't get names called at them by you.Your pathetic!
HD
i'll be at daytona in March come over and educate me ,Since your the guru our sport has been waiting for.
Obviously there are some strong feelings between Jim and Henry....
Take it off line guys.
Thanks!
Dawn :)
QuoteObviously there are some strong feelings between Jim, Shawn and Henry....
Take it off line guys.
Thanks!
Dawn :)
I apoligize Dawn , i attempted to do that , and Shawn was not involved just happened to be on his computer.
QuoteI apoligize Dawn , i attempted to do that , and Shawn was not involved just happened to be on his computer.
Thank you Jim.
I have corrected my post.
Dawn :)
Speaking of privateers and factory teams in the AMA. Who was the last true privateer to win an AMA National ? (not considering 750 SS)
mmmm.......I think that would be 4 & 6 in 600 Supersport.
Getting back to outside sponsorship. Most companies won't spend 500k or whatever it costs for the amount of the exposure AMA racing gets just from people at the track and speed channel.
Thats why you have to generate outside the sport promotional events and media coverage.
Quotemmmm.......I think that would be 4 & 6 in 600 Supersport.
.
Kevin.. actually that would technically be Scott Greenwood at NHIS in 2001 in 600SS. :P
QuoteKevin.. actually that would technically be Scott Greenwood at NHIS in 2001 in 600SS. :P
I thought the factory boys boycotted that race.
QuoteI thought the factory boys boycotted that race.
You are correct sir! That's why I said.. "technically" :P
Quotemmmm.......I think that would be 4 & 6 in 600 Supersport.
Wasn't that like 12 years ago?
I think that we all agree that Geoff is a good guy, and fast.
However, bottom line if Henry is right, Geoff will get a factory ride.
Until Geoff gets that factory ride, it sounds like Jim knows what he is talking about....
Bill, if that is your take on what has gone back and forth here between fourandsix and me, you have got it wrong. It has nothing to do with getting a factory ride or not. It was his initial comment "Geoff although a good rider and finished well in Superbike standings this year did not have any really impressive races at the pro level"! That is where we disagree, plain and simple.
HD
QuoteOne thing no one has really stated is that, what is the desire for a late 20's, 30 something, 40 something, plus when it comes to racing. Do any of the people in these age group really want to try to build a race career from scratch to a professional level that gets AMA attention. I would say most have such delusions of grandeur, but at the same time would settle for having the reputation of Larry Denning, Robert Jensen, or Shawn Conrad. Whenever these guys show up to our races, all of the local guys and gals treat them like the Mladins, Bostroms and Haydens.
If we can really get our club-base minds around that, they WE can make OUR championship more likeable to outside sponsors. But it can't be about the one or two guys that are tearing it up. It's got to be about the entertainment value of all the races on the card. This is bring sponsors within reach of the Janischs and the Youngs, so when they make the leaps that they truly have the potential to make, they've got more significant backing.
On the subject of Geoff May. I think he is a talented privateer that doesn't get enough respect. At VIR, he was running in like 3rd position and Freddie Spencer didn't say a word. It was almost like he assumed Geoff was a lapper on the first 2-3 laps of the race and didn't deserve comment. Brian Drebber definitely saved the day on that one, but it was still too little in my opinion.
I'd say let's make the club level racing, America's premiere entertainment. It's more local and offers more entertainment outlets for Joe and Jill racer and their fans. The question is can the dollars to spent in so many ways? Probably not, so we've got to think regionally and act regionally. Create strict boundaries and blitz the companies. Most regions have 10 rounds, that would likely offer a lot of opportunities for attractive marketing programs.
Not one comment. I thought I'd repeat it just in case the discussion wanted to get back on track.
QuoteBill, if that is your take on what has gone back and forth here between fourandsix and me, you have got it wrong. It has nothing to do with getting a factory ride or not. It was his initial comment "Geoff although a good rider and finished well in Superbike standings this year did not have any really impressive races at the pro level"! That is where we disagree, plain and simple.
HD
I guess I was just trying to link it to the original topic of this thread, which asks why he has not gotten a factory ride.
It sounds like you both agree on the fact that "Geoff ... a good rider and finished well in Superbike standings this year..." Where you disagree is "...did not have any really impressive races at the pro level"
I agree with Jim. Geoff did well, was very consistent, etc. However, in the context of the thread, "really impressive races at the pro level." I don't think he did. An impressive race would have been him finishing ninth but only being 30 seconds back at the end of the race. That might have earned some looks.
Again, I am taking anything away from Geoff. It just sounds like you and Jim have a different idea of what is 'impressive.' I believe that Jim is taking the viewpoint of a 'factory.' And if the factories were 'impressed', they would be looking at him for a factory ride. They aren't. )Although, as stated earlier I think that other things factor into getting a ride like who you know, how much money you have, and how old you are.)
No big deal, we can agree to disagree... and with so many factors and opinions, it is bound to happen.
QuoteWasn't that like 12 years ago?
Wow it has been a long time , actually it was 96 . I guess were going to have to get JJ , Jessie or Jason on the box in 05.
QuoteWow it has been a long time , actually it was 96 . I guess were going to have to get JJ , Jessie or Jason on the box in 05.
Hmmm......Seems awful suspicous to me that all your riders names start with the letter 'J', must be some type of conspiracy. :o ;) :)
It's no longer Safety First Racing. We are simply going by the code name "The J-Team" 8) 8)
Maybe Mr. T could be our mascot and just become Mr. J.
Getting back to another point. It will be interesting to see if other good riders with good results will get any rides i.e. Jake Holden and John Haner. Jake finished several times inside the top 10 in Superstock and beat E-Boz at Mid-Ohio.
Those wanting to compare results with riders go to www.amaproracing.com and look up 04 overall results in the class at VIR by rider name. It shows every result this year at every race.
QuoteIt's no longer Safety First Racing. We are simply going by the code name "The J-Team" 8) 8)
Maybe Mr. T could be our mascot and just become Mr. J.
LOL ;D
Trying to remove the thought from my head of Mr.T as your umbrella girl in high heels, short shorts, and a tube top ! :o :o :o ;) :) LMAO!
QuoteIf you are to get a factory ride you also have to have some impressive results in most cases.Geoff although a good rider and finished well in Superbike standings this year did not have any really impressive races at the Pro level.
I was rather impressed with Geoff this year as I attended my first motorcycle racing event ever. I saw him at a club race here in WI at Road America. He smoked everyone that weakend!!!
I had another opertunity to see him this year at an AMA race later that year. The month previous, he was in Colorado where he blew 2 motors up and finsihed 10th on a loaned bike from David Bell. That's pretty impressive considering he had no time to set the bike up or test it out.
On to WI. He blew 3 motors while he was here. Motor 1 blew in 1st practice in SS. Motor 2 blew in SB practice and the 3rd in SS qualifying 1hr 30 min before the race. Geoff and his mechanic had to work his ass off to get ready the bike ready. David Bell had loaned him his bike, which allowed them to setup their suspension on David's bike. He place 8th & 9th with a good run of bad luck.
My point is simple. He has performed to the best of his ability on inferior equiptment. When he comes out a corner ahead of Eric Bostrom and gets smoked in the straight away, thats not riding!! Thats horsepower and superior equiptment. I'd like to see what you have to say after somebody puts Geoff on a factory bike IE Honda, Suzuki and runs in the top 4 1-2 seconds off of the leader.
Given crappy equiptment, finishing 5th overall says a hell of a lot about his ability. This is just an opinion from a casual observer
QuoteWasn't that like 12 years ago?
No, it was in like 1996, I think.
Still in the age of manufacturer teams winning.
It was a heads up win against Miguel et al at Road America, I think.
QuoteGiven crappy equiptment, finishing 5th overall says a hell of a lot about his ability. This is just an opinion from a casual observer
Ok, your observations don't seem to be casual.
But if we want to talk more about it.
You're claiming that it's the HP...
At Daytona, the bike that qualified fastest did a lap time of 1:46.835, with Eric Bostrom.
Geoff May, a very good racer, did a lap time of 1:51.864 on his GSXR1000. A machine that has probably an easy 150 to 160 HP.
Do we assume that Eric had 200 HP with is bike?
Anyway, Jason DiSalvo qualified at a 1:50.998 on his Yamaha...in 600 Supersport. Yeah, that was an outstanding time, but the Yamaha 600 factory bike makes, what, 120 HP? My R6 doesn't make that much, but if we want to make the HP the issue...
Then we have to have something to back it up....
At VIR Geoff's qualifying time was a little more than 2.5 seconds off the pole and only 0.10 and 0.2 seconds behind the Factory Ducati's.
Opportunities....
Did it change the result?
That Valentino guy had a bike that had less HP...I think I said this once before...but he won races.
If it was all about HP, we could just have a dyno shoot out and be done with it, but each rider and crew still has to go and select the tire, the suspension set up, etc...then ride it.
I think Geoff is very good. I think he'd be a good addition to a B team for a start. Is that how Suzuki has him set up now? Might be. So, what can he do next to go faster? You've constantly got to look for that.
At Road America, in Race One, Geoff's trap speed was 175.20, the same as Aaron Yates. Mladin's was 176.87. Mladin finished second, three MPH down from DuHammel.
Interestingly, Geoff's trap speed was faster in race two at Road America at 179.11, fourth fastest, only 0.75 MPH down from the fastest trap speed, and winner. That put him more than three MPH faster than Mladin who finished third.
In race two, Geoff finished ninth. In tenth, Eric Wood finished the race with a top speed of 168.11, well down from Geoff.
QuoteI was rather impressed with Geoff this year as I attended my first motorcycle racing event ever. I saw him at a club race here in WI at Road America. He smoked everyone that weakend!!!
I had another opertunity to see him this year at an AMA race later that year. The month previous, he was in Colorado where he blew 2 motors up and finsihed 10th on a loaned bike from David Bell. That's pretty impressive considering he had no time to set the bike up or test it out.
On to WI. He blew 3 motors while he was here. Motor 1 blew in 1st practice in SS. Motor 2 blew in SB practice and the 3rd in SS qualifying 1hr 30 min before the race. Geoff and his mechanic had to work his ass off to get ready the bike ready. David Bell had loaned him his bike, which allowed them to setup their suspension on David's bike. He place 8th & 9th with a good run of bad luck.
My point is simple. He has performed to the best of his ability on inferior equiptment. When he comes out a corner ahead of Eric Bostrom and gets smoked in the straight away, thats not riding!! Thats horsepower and superior equiptment. I'd like to see what you have to say after somebody puts Geoff on a factory bike IE Honda, Suzuki and runs in the top 4 1-2 seconds off of the leader.
Given crappy equiptment, finishing 5th overall says a hell of a lot about his ability. This is just an opinion from a casual observer
Wow, you sure are up to date and in touch with a lot of specific information for being such a casual observer. ;)
I don't think anyone is debating that May is a superb racer and had some very good finishes relative to the other privateers and in the course of compiling those results the deck was stacked against him when compared to the factory teams – both in equipment and resources as well as, to some degree, the individual racers themselves. I think most would agree to that.
I hope he gets an opportunity. He has a fan here.
On a seperate note. According to an article from Superbike Planet Ben Bostrom is facing a simular situation as touched on earlier in this thread with regards to bringing money to the table for a ride.
Good numbers Super Dave, very interesting and it really sheds alot of light on the situation. :)
Thanks, Garth.
I'm a May fan too.
I like a lot of the guys, really. Yeah, it would be good if there was more support further down so that more guys could train for AMA Superbike racing. Additionally, I'd like to see some pieces be available to more teams so that we had a little better mixing of the riders. As it is, hey, you can count on one hand which riders are probably going to win before qualifying starts.
Try doing that in NASCAR. Good luck.
F1? Well...no.
So...I say go Jesse. And let's have some ice to go ride on.
Lets see how long we can split hairs over a few words.
I don't think anyone has ever said Geoff wasn't a good rider.
The argument seems to be over everyones interpretation of the word impressive.
It's up for subjective interpretation. What's impressive to one person may not be as impressive to another. Someone with many years of AMA experience may think of it differently from someone who has less experience or even no experience inside the industry or somone not even a racer reading this board.
Mmmm......communication...it's how the world works.
I wonder how long this post can last?
We can keep this up forever.
I personally think that Uma Thurman is impressive. But my wife thinks she's ugly.
She married me, so what does she know? 8)
QuoteI personally think that Uma Thurman is impressive. But my wife thinks she's ugly.
She married me, so what does she know? 8)
LOL!!!!
;D
WOW this thread is STILL going???
The same holds true for racing as it does anywhere else - it's not WHAT you know, it's WHO you know.. I wouldn't have had any of the sponsorships I've had if it weren't for the contacts my teammate had. We had several 'A' level sponsorships from a few motorcycle-industry sponsors as amateurs. Some of it was due to our nice resume... but some of it was due to our contacts.
And I'm sure we can ALL attest to the fact that it takes money to go somewhere. Some of the prices that have been asked for a support contract seem crazy. But hey, what do I know.
Jim and HD - not taking sides, but you're BOTH digging yourselves holes here. Jim this might be a time to turn on your mental internet feature that you told me you often use when reading CLSB ;)
It all goes both ways, Jim.
Yeah, who you know....
Can help.
What you know can too.
But what's really better?
Do you think that Larry Denning, as an example, has been offered some rides for teams?
Would it pay the same as what he can make on his own?
Would it offer the independence that he has now?
There's always more there than meets the eye.
Guys, HP and suspension play a part, but it's really the tires ..
There's a big BINGO!
I've watched May, Rapp and all the other guys at FUSA and CCS races. May is unbelieveable. To do what he does on inferior equipment to me is amazing. The guy has the heart. I think he'd make a great factory rider. At the very least, I'd think all of the larger non factory teams like Attack and Valvoline would be looking at him.
QuoteGuys, HP and suspension play a part, but it's really the tires ..
REALLY! :o If only those AMA guys ran on 120/160s, I'd be fighting the tire reps for the used practice tires.
Hey Kevin, maybe I'll lurk around your pit to snag your team's take-offs ;D You've been wanting to campaign an SV right? ;D ;D
H-man
Yeah, those 190's fit nicely on SV rims 8)
Ultimately.....AMA is still business. It's not like NASCAR where people are pounding on the door to get in. However, I'm sure there are people buying rides there and in the Busch series etc.....
Let's face it......if you have someone who can bring no money to the table and someone who can infuse a large amount of capital into the program who are you going to choose?
Racing is such a well paying sport.....I've been sitting around eating ice cream during the off season wading through corporate sponsorship proposals trying to decide who's million I want to spend.........hmmm decision, decisions.
QuoteRacing is such a well paying sport.....I've been sitting around eating ice cream during the off season wading through corporate sponsorship proposals trying to decide who's million I want to spend.........hmmm decision, decisions.
LOL. I got a good chuckle from that one 8)
Well, Geoff May could have done worse...
http://venus.13x.com/roadracingworl...sp?insert=11314
QuoteI personally think that Uma Thurman is impressive.
But can you imagine what she'd be like with another 50 horsepower?
:o ;D
I happen to be a Geoff May fan after watching him race at several AMA Nationals this year. So, my question to Mr. 4&6 and his friends is what have you got to say now, considering what you said in reply #46 of this thread. It looks like Henry is clearly a better judge of "raw talent" than a "fool" like you!
Geoffs#1FAN
LMAO ;D
Someone responding by creating a new profile and using the very 1st post to act as an outside uninvolved party. WOW, now isn't that annonymously ingeneous! ::) At least have a backbone and say who you are instead of hiding behind a screen name! ::) ::) ::)
Maybe Dawn could tell us where the person is from and we would be able to figure it out from there? ;)
How cute and clever you are~~ ha ha~ not~
I happen to be me and do not have to tell you a thing about me~
Viewing this forum and seeing the idiotic opinions of some re a racer who I feel is the best-- prompted me to register and post my feelings~ Is this not what forums are for?~
No one has asked who I am and no one would know if I even chose to tell you~I am a race fan-duh
Aren't you just the smartest man to come up with such nonsense~ I stated my opinion~ you stated your opinion~ and so the chat forums go~
Geoffs#1FAN is exactly who I am.....
TAAAAAAAAA DAAAAAAAAAAA
Everyone is entitled to an opinion... but express it in an adult manner.
Just like I told Henry and Jim to take it off line, I will ask you too #1 fan. Instead of stating that we have "idiotic opinions" perhaps you could share the reasons you feel that way about Geoff so we could possibly see and feel the way you do.
Dawn :)
Thank you Dawn~
That's a very good idea~ and being new to the forum and to be treated like I was to give my name rank and serial number kinda threw me off-No where on the internet is anyone encouraged to give exact names and locations-- so I never thought to even do that here.
I've followed Geoff for over a year now. He is a great young man. I've seen him travel and work so hard to get where he is today. He is extremely impressive not to mention a very good person and he has done more than I've seen many riders do in awhile.
I was simply using quotes previously used, in my first post, and whether or not they are idiots is an opinion.
Geoff deserves the factory ride he now has and I am really happy for him. I look forward to him going far....
Thank you for responding and IF I decide to post again I will do it with nothing but respect... I don't imagine I will recieve the same but we'll see.
Thank you again
Geoffs#1FAN
QuoteThank you for responding and IF I decide to post again I will do it with nothing but respect... I don't imagine I will recieve the same but we'll see.
Thank you again
Geoffs#1FAN
#1...
You'll get respect....
The first response you received from Mike was a bit understandable because your first post was a bit aggressive. Calling someone who's out there with us a fool in your very first post can rub some wrong.
I like Geoff too. It will be fun to see what he can do this next year.
Dawn :)
Congrats to Geoff.......I'm glad he got the ride. :)
Now we'll be able to see him focus solely on riding on competitve equipment and not have to worry about wrenching on bikes with Tim.
Geoff...does that mean the van is done making road trips for the 05 season?
the valvoline ride isn't exact the "factory" ride that people were yapping bout? I thought?
a good ride nonetheless, however I would have loved to see him stay in superbike though.
Quote...being new to the forum and to be treated like I was to give my name rank and serial number kinda threw me off-No where on the internet is anyone encouraged to give exact names and locations-- so I never thought to even do that here...
Thank you for responding and IF I decide to post again I will do it with nothing but respect... I don't imagine I will recieve the same but we'll see.
I hope that you can see the suspicousness in the only posts you've made, even with your sceen name which seems to aimed specifically at the only topic you have responded to ever. This topic turned somewhat negative along the way and that was handled by the simple request by Dawn to take it off of here. My response directed at you simply asked you to step up to the podium and identify yourself, what I was mainly looking for was for you to be someone other than those involved in the quarrel. I understand your desire for not being identified for safety concerns, but that makes people even more suspicous. Here on this site alot of us know each other, I would think it would be resonable if someone else here confirmed your identity as being someone other than those involved in the quarell (on an annonymous basis). I would assume your probably going to say you don't know anyone else here, which intrigues me even further as to how you found this specific topic on this specific website and have never responded to anything else? Just curious.
Don't take offense to my inquiry, I was fairly confident that you were someone directly involved, but your saying that your not, so I would be good with letting it go at that. If you could somehow prove that you weren't involved, it would put alot more legitimacy to your opinion as being from a different view point.
And by the way, I think it's great that he got this opportunity, now we'll see what he can do from here. :)
I've never had to go through this in any club I've joined, do you hear how you sound? It's hard to truly know anyone on the net.
I did not see this in thr rules. I've read for months and am friends with Geoff and I decided to register and post~ but I can't believe I'm having to explain this to you~ I simply stated my opinon as everyone does and you didn't like what I had to say~
If all this is required then don't you think new members should be aware~
I simply stated my opinion and the rest is history. I'm for dropping it
Geoffs#1FAN
Quote...am friends with Geoff...
You seemed so defensive and affected by harmless questions and statements that after you said you were just a fan I was thinking you were some psychotic obsessive fan or something with your focus on him, but the fact that your friends with him explains it, I respect that. I've seen too many times people have had multiple screen names on message boards and used 1 of them for saying controversial things or tried to add fuel to the fire anonymously, glad to see your not one of those people.
This board isn't like alot of the other boards that get way out of control, and most everyone here wants to keep it this way. If my wanting to help protect that was offensive to you I apologize.
Welcome to the board. :)
Ok, yeah, I don't think anyone questioned Geoff's ability.
Should we now qualify the A rides? Those are the factory rides, right?
Yosh, Honda America, Graves Yamaha, Kawasaki.
If you know anyone at Team Hammer program, you know that they just have a hard time sourcing the same parts that Yosh has. Sometimes, they get things, but they have to buy them from Europe...and that doesn't always make the guys a Yosh the happiest.
Geoff has had a relationship with Roadracingworld.com going back to, I think, 2001.
The lines were set for the opportunity.
I hope it works well for Team Hammer and Geoff.
We'll never know the details of the contract.
"support rider or not," he looks happy to me. Tim too.
http://www.2wf.com/ImageHosting/image.view.single.asp?ArticleID={50FE4F9A-02BE-4012-98B8-BF9DFD3F3B45}&ImageID={29062B4D-EDCA-4E07-8FF5-EDB72CE1662D}&Height=503&Width=700&ImageType=jpg&Caption=&page=1
Geoff is happy and so is Tim~ He did great in Daytona~ I know there are going to be a few who wished they'd grabbed him while they could~
Really looking forward to Daytona~
Geoffs#1FAN