2005 Update

 
Yes, I know it's long overdue, but here at last is an update on my 2005 season and plans for 2006.

The 2005 season consisted of riding for the same Championship winning team GBMoto in the KRC Endurance Series, plus a few one-off outings as and when they came up.  GBMoto had invested heavily in a newly built Yamaha R1, using a lot of ex-Virgin Yamaha engine and chassis parts.  The bike looked great, and had performance to match, but the season was marred by minor problems, each of which cost us any chance of a good finish.  

To see a 2005 race summary and photos click here

 

Cranking it into McLeans during morning qualifying.  Note how cornering forces compress the forks despite being off the brakes.

Two other interesting opportunities came up during 2005 - one to test a 1989 GSXR race bike belonging to long time friend and helper Ray Johnston - to see a summary click here

I also prepared to race at Knockhill in the Superstock/Production class at short notice aboard Dave Shelcock's Yamaha R1.  Unfortunately this was just too short notice, and after testing the bike on the Saturday, I chose not to race it as the suspension was too far from what I needed in order to be able to win, and we didn't have time to change and test it.

I also made an enjoyable return to commentating for Eurosport at the Bol d'Or 24 Hr race in France in September, partnering exprerienced anchorman Clive McNeill.  This is something that I enjoy very much, and plan to do both the Bol and Le Mans next year.  I also helped out with commentary at Knockhill at their August meeting, seeing John McDonald break my 3 year old lap record.  About time!
 
I deliberately chose not to return to Macau for the GP, the first time I have done that since 1988, but I felt that after last year I should call it a day, having had some great races there and finishing second in 1996 and 2001.

For 2006 I will again be riding for GBMoto in the KRC Endurance Championship, with rounds at Donington, Snetterton, Brands Hatch and Pembrey, and once again, keeping an eye open for any testing or one-off race opportunities that might come my way.

In the meantime, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and look forward to seeing some of you around the paddock in 2006.

 

If you'd like to contact me please do so by e-mailing me at:

 

  Roger@RogerBennettRacing.com. 

 

 

Cheers

 

 

Roger on the podium at the 2001 Macau Grand Prix

 

Last Updated: 10/12/05