Starting with the Aug. 16 Czech Grand Prix, each rider will be restricted to a maximum of only five engines available till the end of the season. In this time, parts may not be changed except for routine maintenance.

The electronically controlled suspension, launch control systems and the ceramic brakes are no longer permitted.

Friday morning free practices have been discarded for all grand prix classes and the two MotoGP practice and qualifying sessions have been considerably reduced to 45 minutes instead of the usual hour.

The 250cc and 125cc  classes will have one single qualifying session on Saturday afternoons. The previous Friday qualifying sessions will now be for free practice.

There will be only  two post-race tests which will be held during the season, one after the Catalunya Grand Prix in June and the other following the Czech Grand Prix. These tests are for development purposes and only test riders are allowed to take part.

The changes were submitted to the FIM with the recommendation of MotoGP manufacturers.

High costs and the current economic climate have already led to Kawasaki announcing its withdrawal from MotoGP racing.

Gloves and boots, one of the most important aspects of Motorcycle safety is safety gear.

The importance of gloves and boots cannot be underestimated. In the event of a crash it is highly likely that hands and feet are going to flap about uncontrollably, which can cause impact with the road surface many times. Many riders have survived a crash with minor injuries except for severe lacerations and skin loss to the hands and feet.

When buying gloves, keep the following tips in mind

- Choose gloves that are going to suit the type of riding you do, for example consider weather conditions, racing versus recreational riding.

- Make sure the gloves fit comfortably to improve your grip on the handlebars.

- Gloves that are to tight may restrict circulation, causing your hands to become cold.

- Gloves that are to bulky may create problems in operating the motorcycle controls.

Motorcycle boots also provide important protection for the ankles, feet and the lower legs, boots are heavily reinforced in specific areas which sustain most stress and injury. Boots are extremely important in the event of a crash as riders often get their feet trapped under the motorcycle as it slides down the road. Motorcycle boots are designed to remain in place, where as other types of footwear can frequently come off in a crash.

Keeping in mind that all Motorcycle safety gear is purpose made, any other gear will not provide the same level of protection as specially designed equipment.

Kawasaki Brighton is conducting a demo ride day on the 21^st of February, with some of the profits going towards the Victorian Bush Fire Appeal.

Bookings are essential, so be sure to get in early or risk missing out.

Kawasaki demo range includes Street, Touring, Cruisers and Sports Models.

For more information please contact Brighton Kawasaki  03 9557 4383