August 8, 2003
AMA Pro Racing announces 2004 AMA Flat Track rule
changes
The AMA Pro Racing Board of Directors has
approved a preliminary set of rule changes for the 2004 AMA Flat
Track racing season. Designed to reflect the evolving motorcycle
marketplace as well as the objectives of increased
participation, expanded OEM involvement and the reduction of
costs associated with racing, the rule changes are aimed at the
505 class.
Bruce Bober, AMA Pro Racing flat track manager,
confirms the changes are specifically geared toward the
equipment raced on TT and short tracks. "The big twins used
on the mile and half-mile tracks will be relatively
unchanged," said Bober. "Instead, we've focused on the
area of flat track racing that offers the greatest opportunity
for growth."
The new rules are as follows:
Engine Displacement:
-
350cc-450cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder,
multi-valve.
-
400cc-500cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke,
single-cylinder, two valve.
Chassis:
-
Stock frames allowing limited modifications.
Exceptions: Buell Blast models can substitute with
aftermarket frames due to the fact that this model is a true
street bike never intended for off-road or racing use.
-
Swing arms may be changed or modified (all
models).
-
Fuel tanks and bodywork may be replaced with
aftermarket parts providing "stock appearance is
maintained". Exceptions: Buell Blast due to the frame
allowance.
Scott Hollingsworth, CEO of AMA Pro Racing,
believes the implementation of these rules will be advantageous
to the series and encourage increased participation and support
from the major motorcycle manufacturers.
"One of the big obstacles to OEM support of
flat track racing has been the disconnect between bikes on the
track and bikes in the showrooms," said Hollingsworth.
"By consciously taking steps to make race bikes much more
similar to those purchased by customers, we're making it easier
for the manufacturers to market their products as well as
support flat track racing." Hollingsworth points to
motocross and road racing as the standard where the bikes seen
on the track are visibly similar to those purchased by
consumers.
Another added benefit is that racers can more
easily modify their bikes to race and even use the same platform
in different race disciplines. "With relatively minor
modifications, it will not be unreasonable to see the same bike
used for flat track, motocross and even the emerging category of
supermoto," said Hollingsworth.
AMA Pro Racing licensed riders and credential
holders may comment on the proposed rules changes during a
30-day comment period beginning Friday, Aug. 8, through Monday,
Sept. 7. Comments can be made on AMA Pro Racing's RIDERS ONLY
website at www.amaproracing.com/ridersonly.
After the 30-day comment period concludes, AMA Pro Racing will
review any suggested changes before sending the package to the
AMA Pro Racing Board of Directors for final ratification.
"In order for us to see positive growth in
flat track racing, we're going to have to address the various
needs of the community," said Hollingsworth. These rule
changes are a key step toward building a more viable series that
will benefit those who invest in it."
For immediate post-race results, points, in-depth
series and rider information, regular columnists and much more,
log onto www.1800FlatTrack.com, the official website of the AMA
Progressive Insurance U.S. Flat Track Championship.
About AMA Pro Racing
AMA Pro Racing is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle
sport in the United States. Its properties include the AMA
Supercross Championship, the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Motocross
Championship, the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship,
the AMA Progressive Insurance U.S. Flat Track Championship and
the AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship. Nearly 2 million race
fans attended AMA Pro Racing events during the 2002 season. For
more information about AMA Pro Racing, visit: www.amaproracing.com.
AMA Pro Racing press release
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Copyright AMA Pro Racing, 2005.

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