GPtechFramecraftersYamaha USA Moto3 project. Earlier this year GP Tech and Framecrafters joined forces to develop a Yamaha-based Moto3 GP bike. With additional support from Yamaha USA, Rising Sun Cycles and Ohlins USA, the project has made a tremendous amount of head way over the past several weeks while stirring a great interest across the board. “We like this approach by GP Tech and are very interested in its success,” says Keith McCarty, Yamaha USA, Motorsports Racing Division Manager. The new bike will be unveiled and raced at USGPRU’s Championship Final Race at Putnam Park on October 7th-9th competing in the Moto3 class. Built on Framecrafters’ second-generation bi-metallic GP frame kit, which is derived from their earlier F450RR project, and coupled with top-shelf components makes for a competitive package. The prototype is built using the YZ250F engine. Production versions will utilize the new WR250 engine. The WR engine is potentially a more competitive power-plant having an EFI system, 6-speed gearbox and an electric start. In addition to a promising stock platform Graves Yamaha has expressed their interest in continued WR250 engine development making more powerful engine options available for the end user. Other bolt-on components include Galespeed wheels, AP Racing brakes, Ohlins rear shock and 125GP bodywork. A compact and small package with a dry weight of under 200 lbs. it still provides enough adjustability in the ergos to allow for larger-sized riders to get comfortable on the bike. The basis for building this GP bike, aside from showing the world Americans can build a competitive and unique GP bike, was to offer the domestic market more choices in the Moto3 class and introduce more American companies to the GP racing industry. Project manager and owner of GP Tech LLC, Geoff Maloney stated, “I want to help grow the domestic GP motorcycle racing industry while providing an easier more affordable way to do it. I also want to focus on providing a clear path for racers to develop their riding skills on competitive and user friendly machinery.” Although formal arrangements have not been made with other parties there have been talks with other racing mentors that coincide with Mr. Maloney’s long-term goals with the project. A tentative base price of just $16,000 USD has been announced and the production version is expected this coming winter. For more information and availability contact: Geoff Maloney GP Tech LLC 269-671-4915 [email protected] www.gptechllc.com