The pairing excelled in the sunny and warm November conditions. Dominating the race after the third lap, they pulled at a rate of almost 3 laps an hour to finish approx. 10 laps up on the opposition at the flag. Linden started poorly but soon made up for it, carving through the field (of mainly 1990s machinery) to take the lead on lap 3. The team had sliced the race into 4 easy sections, each of 45 minutes, in order to give the riders a comfortable time in the moderate 23 deg C conditions. With the tank well stuffed for short stints, it also meant that the motorcycle ‘full’, weight was reduced by some 4 kgs, giving the riders and tyres an easier time. Phil Atkinson, fresh from yet another classic club 350 cc championship series win, circulated like the endurance pro he was becoming, proving himself the perfect partner. Despite both riders suffering from a virus, they pushed on well, dismissing the early competition and back-to-backed themselves to a trouble free podium.
Peter Linden also won the TZ350 support race in style, after qualifying in second position. This was notable as this win was achieved on Conti CR3s, rather than the Avon tyres that most competitors use. The tyre comments were extremely positive, centring around better front end feel with increased positivity and firmness and possibly better grip. The comments on the rear were equally positive, with feedback that there was no longer any squirminess and grip was good.
A great way to go into the winter – thanks to the whole team and all sponsors; and congrats to Conti for their first TZ win ? The season tally – Endurance wins at Mettet and Cartagena, with support class wins at Linkoping and Cartagena; 5 wins from 7 starts, with one 2nd place. More next year…….
Phase One Endurance 