Etc.

etc.

RIP KEITH DUCKWORTH

Keith Duckworth, the creator of the modern flat, oversquare, four-valve combustion chamber (and much, much else) has died, aged 72. He was co-founder, with Mike Costin, of Cosworth, Ltd., today one of the world’s leading engine design centers. Duckworth’s 1967 Cosworth-Ford DFV F1 V-Eight won in its first outing and for years afterward. His narrowincluded-angle four-valve chamber with tumble charge motion combined high-rpm capability with fast, efficient combustion. His concept has become the basis of most modern high-performance four-stroke engines-automotive and motorcycle. Clear fundamental thinking rather than trial-and-error lay behind his success, illuminating his remark that only the ignorance of designers makes development necessary. He is survived by his wife Jill and their children.

APRILIA EVOLVES

Aprilia CEO Leo Mercanti has confirmed that his company will return to World Superbike in 2007 with an allnew model “based on previous racing experience.” Could this mean conversion of the three-cylinder MotoGP engine into a production unit? Mercanti says no. The “highly sophisticated” bike will be powered by a 90-degree, lOOOcc V-Four currently in development. A new generation of 90-degree V-Twins is also under consideration, with displacements ranging from 850 to 1200cc, to replace the current 60degree V-Twin. Further news indicates chances are good that the 77-degree V-Twin that powers the SXV and RXV might give life to an ultra-lightweight sportbike. The Ampelio Macchi-conceived engine could also serve as the starting point for the aforementioned 10OOcc V-Four.

DECLARE YOUR MPG

In these troubled times of massive, gas-guzzling SUVs bearing down on you and your fuel-efficient motorcycle, wouldn't you like to declare your allegiance to fun and economy? You can with Aerostich license-plate backers that say 40, 50 or 60 mpg and "One Less Car" in bright green. Get yours for $5 at wwwaerosticli.com.

ALASKA TO JAPAN

Alaska Rider Tours is introduc ing two new motorcycle tours-in Japan! Slated for April 2-8 and catering especially to couples, the Three Island Tour will focus on the islands of Honshu, Kyushu and Shikoku and feature traditional hot-springs resorts and paved coastal and mountain roads. Cost is $4400 for riders and $3500 for passengers, and includes rental of a 450-750cc motor cycle. The Hokkaido uRider House" Tour, scheduled for June 1-11, is a "bare bones" trip-accommoda tions, food and motorcycle rental are the responsibility of the rider. Japanese guide fee is $500. "We read the signs and you turn the throttle," says Phil Freeman, ART owner and tour leader. For more information, call 800/756-1990 or log on to wwwakrider corn.

DUCATI STOCK EXCHANGE

Approximately 30 percent of Ducati shares will change hands-from the San Francisco-based Texas Pacific Group to Investindustrial Holdings, an Italian equity fund owned by the powerful Bonomi family. In the works for more than a year, the deal appears to be purely financial. Ducati will continue to be led by Federico Minoli.