There are plans for all three sponsoring manufacturers to provide trailer space for riders planning to compete at the Race City round in an effort to reduce individual expenses and encourage a strong entry for the Calgary race.

The Parts Canada Superbike Championship conducted its first formal Pirelli tire test at Shannonville Motorsport Park last month and the Canadian Thunder class was represented by 2005 champion Darren James on a Buell and Derek Vammus riding a Ducati. Running together and despite cool temperatures, the pair approached the Long Track course record.
Going to the Pirelli spec tire is significant because it further raises the level of the Canadian Thunder series in relation to the other national classes, said Chris Duff, events/promotions co-ordinator for BMW Motorrad Canada. It will be very interesting to see how the different brands of motorcycle handle running the same tires.

Ducati Canada is stepping up its efforts to unseat Buell in the Thunder series in 2006. Vammus, who placed third in points last season, will ride a Paul Smart 1000 Replica next year. The bike is based on the legendary motorcycle Smart rode to victory in the world renowned Imola 200 Formula 750 race in 1972. That model was the first Desmo-equipped v-twin Ducati.