Famous Formula One racer Juan Pablo Montoya has officially turned in his keys and has embarked on a new career in NASCAR. As of Tuesday July 11, Montoya announced that he will be driving on Chip Ganassi’s Nextel Cup team. Being that there are 4 Nextel Cup races left it is a sure thing that Montoya will make his debut some time this year before the season ends. Rumor has it that this was purely a financial move as the potential growth and current earnings of NASCAR Nextel Cup drivers have far outweighed that of their Formula One counterparts.
As announced in his latest press release, "Juan Pablo is an exciting driver and immensely likeable character who will undoubtedly make a successful transition to the NASCAR scene," said Ron Dennis, CEO and Chairman of the McLaren Group. "We have agreed that with so many things happening in Juan Pablo's life right now, he should take some time out of the car and prepare professionally and personally for the future." His decision to join NASCAR has been well taken to by both NASCAR and Formula One. "We believe that Juan Pablo's decision to move to NASCAR is very important for him professionally and we will give him every support to ensure that it is a successful transition," said Norbert Haug, Vice-President, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport.
Formula One will miss a very talented and adored driver, and NASCAR will gain a great driver with a hugely diverse and international following. NASCAR officials have been looking to add diversity to their Nextel Cup races as announced earlier in the year and Juan Pablo will be a very welcome addition. This will be a boon to NASCAR as it tries to maintain the remarkable growth it has seen in the past decade. By adding diversity they are looking to add to their fan base and change the misconception that it is a southern or redneck sport. With racetracks being built in Chicago, Las Vegas and California and races being held in new countries like Canada this will only help to further diversify the sport.
Yes, NASCAR still has a huge southern following and should be very thankful for it as this is the most intensely loyal fan base of any sport. Montoya will definitely add character, charm, and ability to the NASCAR crowd. He will also, undoubtedly, keep the other NASCAR drivers on their toes with his immense experience and superior open road skills. Montoya’s debut will definitely be a much anticipated and welcome event for NASCAR fans everywhere.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleStreet.com/
Friday, April 24, 2009
Monday, March 9, 2009
Supercross Motorcycle Racing: What It Is and How It Works
Supercross motorcycle racing is often summed up as dirt-bike racing; however, most fans and drivers prefer if you call it supercross motorcycle racing. This is mainly due in part to the fact that dirt-bike racing has a number of different variations. In a way, dirt-bike racing sounds so backyard-ish, but the reality is that supercross racing is actually a professional sport. In fact, it is professional sport that has rapidly increased in popularity, especially over the past few years.
If you are a fan of supercross racing, you likely already know how the racing works. However, if you are a new fan or if you are unfamiliar with the ins and outs of supercross racing, you may want to learn more. Learning the ins and out of supercross racing would take some time, especially when you figure in the racing, itself, as well as the equipment needed and the track surfaces. However, if you are just looking to know what is happening on your television or during a live supercross motorcycle race, you are in luck. To do so, you just need to have a general overview of how supercross motorcycle racing works. You can easily learn this important information in a matter of minutes.
Supercross motorcycle racing, as you likely already know, is racing that occurs on a man-made track or surface, with off-road motorcycles. In a way, that track is compared to an obstacle course. This is due to the fact that it is traditionally decked out with amazing jumps, smalls hills, and numerous corners. With supercross motorcycle racing, the goal of the race is to not only make it through the tough course, but to finish first. This goal typically takes place in the final feature, often known as the main event; however, the main event is not all that supercross motorcycle racing has.
As with many other forms of racing, including professional stockcar racing, supercross motorcycle racing using qualifying races and heat races. Qualifying races are often used to determine which supercross racers can participate in the main event. This is important because supercross motorcycle racing is not just popular with fans. There are many men and women out there who wish to become a professional supercross racer; therefore, many supercross racing events tend to have a fairly large driver turn out. While it is not always the case, most of the time, only a certain number of drivers qualify for each race.
Once all of the qualifying racings have taken place, many supercross racers then participate in heat races. Heat races are sometimes substituted for qualifying races, especially during amateur supercross motorcycle races. After the field has been set, whether it be by heat races or qualifying races, the main event will begin. The main event is the most well known portion of all supercross motorcycle racing events. It often draws in the largest crowds, not only in person, but with televised events.
As previously mentioned, some supercross motorcycle racing events are operated in different ways, but all will have main event. The length of that main event will be left up to the promoters of the race. Most supercross motorcycle racing main events are twenty laps. During this time, racers will compete for first place; however, supercross motorcycle racing is not like most other forms of racing. As previously stated, supercross race tracks are man-made tracks with numerous jumps, small hills, and other obstacles. In addition to coming in first place, racers must also successful maneuver the course. Although this may seem easy, it isnt always. This is because the racing is often done in close corridors, making it even harder to maneuver around the track.
If supercross motorcycle racing sounds like an interesting sport, you are advised to watch it. Although reading about it in print may seem interesting enough, there is nothing like seeing a supercross motorcycle race in action. Whether you attend a professional race, a local amateur race, or just watch a race on television, you are sure to become a lifelong fan of the sport.
Author : Arlen
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Supercross-Motorcycle-Racing-What-It-Is-and-How-It-Works/880
If you are a fan of supercross racing, you likely already know how the racing works. However, if you are a new fan or if you are unfamiliar with the ins and outs of supercross racing, you may want to learn more. Learning the ins and out of supercross racing would take some time, especially when you figure in the racing, itself, as well as the equipment needed and the track surfaces. However, if you are just looking to know what is happening on your television or during a live supercross motorcycle race, you are in luck. To do so, you just need to have a general overview of how supercross motorcycle racing works. You can easily learn this important information in a matter of minutes.
Supercross motorcycle racing, as you likely already know, is racing that occurs on a man-made track or surface, with off-road motorcycles. In a way, that track is compared to an obstacle course. This is due to the fact that it is traditionally decked out with amazing jumps, smalls hills, and numerous corners. With supercross motorcycle racing, the goal of the race is to not only make it through the tough course, but to finish first. This goal typically takes place in the final feature, often known as the main event; however, the main event is not all that supercross motorcycle racing has.
As with many other forms of racing, including professional stockcar racing, supercross motorcycle racing using qualifying races and heat races. Qualifying races are often used to determine which supercross racers can participate in the main event. This is important because supercross motorcycle racing is not just popular with fans. There are many men and women out there who wish to become a professional supercross racer; therefore, many supercross racing events tend to have a fairly large driver turn out. While it is not always the case, most of the time, only a certain number of drivers qualify for each race.
Once all of the qualifying racings have taken place, many supercross racers then participate in heat races. Heat races are sometimes substituted for qualifying races, especially during amateur supercross motorcycle races. After the field has been set, whether it be by heat races or qualifying races, the main event will begin. The main event is the most well known portion of all supercross motorcycle racing events. It often draws in the largest crowds, not only in person, but with televised events.
As previously mentioned, some supercross motorcycle racing events are operated in different ways, but all will have main event. The length of that main event will be left up to the promoters of the race. Most supercross motorcycle racing main events are twenty laps. During this time, racers will compete for first place; however, supercross motorcycle racing is not like most other forms of racing. As previously stated, supercross race tracks are man-made tracks with numerous jumps, small hills, and other obstacles. In addition to coming in first place, racers must also successful maneuver the course. Although this may seem easy, it isnt always. This is because the racing is often done in close corridors, making it even harder to maneuver around the track.
If supercross motorcycle racing sounds like an interesting sport, you are advised to watch it. Although reading about it in print may seem interesting enough, there is nothing like seeing a supercross motorcycle race in action. Whether you attend a professional race, a local amateur race, or just watch a race on television, you are sure to become a lifelong fan of the sport.
Author : Arlen
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Supercross-Motorcycle-Racing-What-It-Is-and-How-It-Works/880
Porsche Turbo 1975
In 1975 Porsche introduced the first Turbo. The engineers
experienced this new engine and Chairman Ernst Fuhrman
decided that they could use a turbo on a production car. The
first prototype was displayed at several European shows in
1973. In 1974, “911 Turbo" went on sale and at the time it had
a 3.0 liter 260 bhp engine.
The new Porsche was full of luxury. The standard Turbo had
air-conditioning, electric windows, tinted glass, headlamp washers,
a leather interior and Bilstein shocks. Originally, it was supposed
to be a limited edition, with only 500 models to be sold. However,
the demand was so high that more than 1000 cars were sold. It was
now clear that Turbo would have a secure future.
What attracted so many customers was its huge rear wing, widened
wheel and big tires. This great look combined with the powerful engine
made the Turbo look faster than any other 911.
In 1978, the model was improved by the increase of the engine
capacity to 3.3 liter and some other modifications. Now the engine
produced 40 bhp more. The rear wing was also revised: the two
separate grilles were replaced by one larger smooth surface, placed
a little higher in order to make room for an intercooler.
In 1979 though, the Turbo was withdrawn from US and Japan, as a
response to the second energy crunch.
In 1986, Turbo became again available in the US. This was the first
year Porsche used flares that were created in the stamping - process
of the fenders. In 1992 Porsche showed the Turbo S at Geneva's
Motorshow. It's engine delivered 381 bhp. The car weighted 120
kg less then the standard Turbo and this helped making Turbo S
really fast. There were built only 80 Turbo S.
In 1993, the engine capacity was increased again, now reaching 3.6
liter. It was easily recognized by the Turbo 3.6 badge. Also, there was
a 93 Turbo 3.6 based 911 Turbo S built.
In 1996 Porsche launched yet another Turbo, based on the 993 series.
Its engine produced 408 bhp, featuring a six-speed gearbox and
four-wheel drive. It looked more elegant thanks to the less evocative
rear-wing. The wheels are 18 inch in diameter. It saves 20% of the
weight because the five spokes are hollow. The front wing has
air-ducts that lead extra cooling air to the brakes, making them more
powerful than before. They can stop the Turbo from 100 hm/h in 2.6
seconds and from 200km/h in just 5 seconds, increasing car's safety.
Porsche has recently introduced the 996 Turbo. The styling is different
from the previous Turbo models. Its aerodynamics are improved, making
it much faster than the 993 Turbo. It gets to 100 km/h in only 4.2
seconds and has a top speed of 305 km/h. The new Turbo has a few
details that make it easy to recognize: bi-xenon headlights, air intakes
behind the doors and a movable rear-spoiler.
Author : Vedia
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Porsche-Turbo-1975/1764
experienced this new engine and Chairman Ernst Fuhrman
decided that they could use a turbo on a production car. The
first prototype was displayed at several European shows in
1973. In 1974, “911 Turbo" went on sale and at the time it had
a 3.0 liter 260 bhp engine.
The new Porsche was full of luxury. The standard Turbo had
air-conditioning, electric windows, tinted glass, headlamp washers,
a leather interior and Bilstein shocks. Originally, it was supposed
to be a limited edition, with only 500 models to be sold. However,
the demand was so high that more than 1000 cars were sold. It was
now clear that Turbo would have a secure future.
What attracted so many customers was its huge rear wing, widened
wheel and big tires. This great look combined with the powerful engine
made the Turbo look faster than any other 911.
In 1978, the model was improved by the increase of the engine
capacity to 3.3 liter and some other modifications. Now the engine
produced 40 bhp more. The rear wing was also revised: the two
separate grilles were replaced by one larger smooth surface, placed
a little higher in order to make room for an intercooler.
In 1979 though, the Turbo was withdrawn from US and Japan, as a
response to the second energy crunch.
In 1986, Turbo became again available in the US. This was the first
year Porsche used flares that were created in the stamping - process
of the fenders. In 1992 Porsche showed the Turbo S at Geneva's
Motorshow. It's engine delivered 381 bhp. The car weighted 120
kg less then the standard Turbo and this helped making Turbo S
really fast. There were built only 80 Turbo S.
In 1993, the engine capacity was increased again, now reaching 3.6
liter. It was easily recognized by the Turbo 3.6 badge. Also, there was
a 93 Turbo 3.6 based 911 Turbo S built.
In 1996 Porsche launched yet another Turbo, based on the 993 series.
Its engine produced 408 bhp, featuring a six-speed gearbox and
four-wheel drive. It looked more elegant thanks to the less evocative
rear-wing. The wheels are 18 inch in diameter. It saves 20% of the
weight because the five spokes are hollow. The front wing has
air-ducts that lead extra cooling air to the brakes, making them more
powerful than before. They can stop the Turbo from 100 hm/h in 2.6
seconds and from 200km/h in just 5 seconds, increasing car's safety.
Porsche has recently introduced the 996 Turbo. The styling is different
from the previous Turbo models. Its aerodynamics are improved, making
it much faster than the 993 Turbo. It gets to 100 km/h in only 4.2
seconds and has a top speed of 305 km/h. The new Turbo has a few
details that make it easy to recognize: bi-xenon headlights, air intakes
behind the doors and a movable rear-spoiler.
Author : Vedia
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Porsche-Turbo-1975/1764
The High Cost of Formula One Racing
Formula One racing is among the most expensive of competitive sports. As a result corporate sponsorship is vital to keep a team competitive. Formula One racing team annual budgets are estimated to range from $66 million to $400 million. When the costs necessary to design and support a winning team are considered these estimates appear accurate.
Successful Formula One racing requires specially designed vehicles. A Formula One racing team includes engineers and designers who create innovative ways to improve racecar design, safety and speed. These engineers and designers require computers and testing equipment. In addition, new design ideas must be custom created prior to vehicle testing. Vehicles must be track tested to determine whether a new design feature will work. Aerodynamic design features require wind tunnel testing which adds an additional expense to the design-testing program.
Safety concerns and FIA regulations require specially formulated fabrics to be used in the making of Formula One racing overalls, helmets and portions of the racecar.
The maintenance and repair of the two Formula One racing vehicles is also an expensive part of racing. Racecar engines are required to last for an entire race weekend but are replaced before each weekend. Each racecar will require multiple tire replacements during a race. Specially formulated fuel is required to operate the racecars. Multiple replacement parts for every portion of the Formula One racing vehicle need to be on hand at each circuit to prepare the car for the race.
Because Formula One World Championship races are held at circuits around the world travel and transportation budgets are high for Formula One racing teams. At European races allow the team to transport their cars, equipment, motor homes and kitchen equipment by truck convoy. Circuits outside of Europe require that most of the same items be transported by jumbo jet with fees charged for excess weight. Formula One racing teams must also pay transportation, food and lodging expenses for all the necessary teams members who participate in the race.
A Formula One racing team also consists of many behind the scenes employees who coordinate travel, handle publicity and perform other vital tasks. The number of team members required to operate a winning Formula One racing team results in an expensive payroll budget.
A new team considering joining Formula One racing has another expense to consider. A $47 million up-front payment to FIA is required from any new team that wishes to enter the Formula One World Championship. This deposit is repaid to the team throughout the race season.
During the 1990s technological advances caused a sharp increase in the cost of Formula One racing competition. Teams funded by large auto manufacturers had the advantage of deeper pockets as well as corporately supplied parts. As a result most independent teams were unable to maintain a competitive edge. Twenty-eight teams have left Formula One racing since 1990 as a result of the inability to match the financial resources for corporately funded teams.
The popularity of Formula One racing creates interest from corporate sponsors looking for a high-profile sport with plenty of merchandising opportunities. Sponsorships work as an income source that Formula One racing teams can use to offset their increasing expenses. Continued popularity of the sport is certain to result in additional sponsorships in the future. As the cost of Formula One racing continues to increase teams will look for new and innovative sources of income.
Author : Elmo
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/The-High-Cost-of-Formula-One-Racing/939236
Successful Formula One racing requires specially designed vehicles. A Formula One racing team includes engineers and designers who create innovative ways to improve racecar design, safety and speed. These engineers and designers require computers and testing equipment. In addition, new design ideas must be custom created prior to vehicle testing. Vehicles must be track tested to determine whether a new design feature will work. Aerodynamic design features require wind tunnel testing which adds an additional expense to the design-testing program.
Safety concerns and FIA regulations require specially formulated fabrics to be used in the making of Formula One racing overalls, helmets and portions of the racecar.
The maintenance and repair of the two Formula One racing vehicles is also an expensive part of racing. Racecar engines are required to last for an entire race weekend but are replaced before each weekend. Each racecar will require multiple tire replacements during a race. Specially formulated fuel is required to operate the racecars. Multiple replacement parts for every portion of the Formula One racing vehicle need to be on hand at each circuit to prepare the car for the race.
Because Formula One World Championship races are held at circuits around the world travel and transportation budgets are high for Formula One racing teams. At European races allow the team to transport their cars, equipment, motor homes and kitchen equipment by truck convoy. Circuits outside of Europe require that most of the same items be transported by jumbo jet with fees charged for excess weight. Formula One racing teams must also pay transportation, food and lodging expenses for all the necessary teams members who participate in the race.
A Formula One racing team also consists of many behind the scenes employees who coordinate travel, handle publicity and perform other vital tasks. The number of team members required to operate a winning Formula One racing team results in an expensive payroll budget.
A new team considering joining Formula One racing has another expense to consider. A $47 million up-front payment to FIA is required from any new team that wishes to enter the Formula One World Championship. This deposit is repaid to the team throughout the race season.
During the 1990s technological advances caused a sharp increase in the cost of Formula One racing competition. Teams funded by large auto manufacturers had the advantage of deeper pockets as well as corporately supplied parts. As a result most independent teams were unable to maintain a competitive edge. Twenty-eight teams have left Formula One racing since 1990 as a result of the inability to match the financial resources for corporately funded teams.
The popularity of Formula One racing creates interest from corporate sponsors looking for a high-profile sport with plenty of merchandising opportunities. Sponsorships work as an income source that Formula One racing teams can use to offset their increasing expenses. Continued popularity of the sport is certain to result in additional sponsorships in the future. As the cost of Formula One racing continues to increase teams will look for new and innovative sources of income.
Author : Elmo
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/The-High-Cost-of-Formula-One-Racing/939236
What is Supercross Motorcycle Racing?
Have you heard of supercross motorcycle racing before? Supercross motorcycle racing is a sport that is popular in America. However, despite that popularity, there are still many individuals who have no idea what supercross is. If you are one of those individuals, you are urged to learn about this sport. It is so fun, exciting, and action packed that there is a good chance that you will be a supercross motorcycle fan, in no time at all.
If you enjoy watching professional racing, especially NASCAR, there is a good chance that you will also enjoy supercross motorcycle racing. This is because, like most other forms of racing, supercross is an action packed, competitive sport. If you are watching a supercross race, whether that race is live or televised, you will likely be on the edge of your seat.
Although supercross was earlier compared to NASCAR, you will find that the two actually have little in common, besides the fact that they are both popular and both are focused on racing. While NASCAR uses traditional race cars, also sometimes referred to as sports cars, supercross uses motorcycles. What is unique about these motorcycles is that they are not the ones that you regularly see on the highway; they are off-road bikes made especially for off-road racing.
In addition to using off-road motorcycles, supercross varies from a number of other forms of racing, especially when it comes to the racing surface. Like many other forms of racing, including asphalt racing or traditional dirt track racing, you will find that supercross racing events take place on man-made tracks. These man-made tracks are often indoors. The tracks will vary, depending on the type of supercross race, but most tracks have numerous obstacles, which include jumps. The goal of supercross is to maneuver your motorcycle throughout the track to finish first.
As previously mentioned, the type of man-made track will all depend on the type of supercross race being run. Supercross is a professional racing sport, but it is not just limited to professional racing. Men, women, and children from all across the United States have started taking part in this fun and exciting sport. Those riders are often referred to as amateur supercross racers. Amateur supercross racers may race at a local track. In fact, many local individuals and business owners have come together to sponsor local supercross drivers, as well as provide funding for the tracks. Although these events may not be considered professional, they are rapidly increasing in popularity. In fact, they are so popular that you may even have a local supercross or motocross track in or around your neighborhood.
In addition to local supercross tracks, there are many individuals who have made their own. Although most professional supercross racing tracks are indoor tracks, most amateurs have or use ones that are outdoors. A large number of want-to-be professional riders have made the decision to develop a track in their own backyard or in nearby fields. However, the only downside to doing this is that racers are often on their own. In the event that an accident occurs, it may be more difficult to obtain help, when compared to racing at professional tracks and sanctioned events.
Now that you know what supercross motorcycle racing is, you may either want to become a fan or a racer. Whichever you wish to be, there is a good chance that you will be enjoying the sport of supercross motorcycle racing for years to come.
Author : Amos
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/What-is-Supercross-Motorcycle-Racing-/888
If you enjoy watching professional racing, especially NASCAR, there is a good chance that you will also enjoy supercross motorcycle racing. This is because, like most other forms of racing, supercross is an action packed, competitive sport. If you are watching a supercross race, whether that race is live or televised, you will likely be on the edge of your seat.
Although supercross was earlier compared to NASCAR, you will find that the two actually have little in common, besides the fact that they are both popular and both are focused on racing. While NASCAR uses traditional race cars, also sometimes referred to as sports cars, supercross uses motorcycles. What is unique about these motorcycles is that they are not the ones that you regularly see on the highway; they are off-road bikes made especially for off-road racing.
In addition to using off-road motorcycles, supercross varies from a number of other forms of racing, especially when it comes to the racing surface. Like many other forms of racing, including asphalt racing or traditional dirt track racing, you will find that supercross racing events take place on man-made tracks. These man-made tracks are often indoors. The tracks will vary, depending on the type of supercross race, but most tracks have numerous obstacles, which include jumps. The goal of supercross is to maneuver your motorcycle throughout the track to finish first.
As previously mentioned, the type of man-made track will all depend on the type of supercross race being run. Supercross is a professional racing sport, but it is not just limited to professional racing. Men, women, and children from all across the United States have started taking part in this fun and exciting sport. Those riders are often referred to as amateur supercross racers. Amateur supercross racers may race at a local track. In fact, many local individuals and business owners have come together to sponsor local supercross drivers, as well as provide funding for the tracks. Although these events may not be considered professional, they are rapidly increasing in popularity. In fact, they are so popular that you may even have a local supercross or motocross track in or around your neighborhood.
In addition to local supercross tracks, there are many individuals who have made their own. Although most professional supercross racing tracks are indoor tracks, most amateurs have or use ones that are outdoors. A large number of want-to-be professional riders have made the decision to develop a track in their own backyard or in nearby fields. However, the only downside to doing this is that racers are often on their own. In the event that an accident occurs, it may be more difficult to obtain help, when compared to racing at professional tracks and sanctioned events.
Now that you know what supercross motorcycle racing is, you may either want to become a fan or a racer. Whichever you wish to be, there is a good chance that you will be enjoying the sport of supercross motorcycle racing for years to come.
Author : Amos
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/What-is-Supercross-Motorcycle-Racing-/888
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