My sources tell me that both Harley-Davidson team manager Steve Scheibe and AMA roadrace manager Ron Barrik were sighted in Austria at the A-1 Ring WSC race this past weekend. No concrete info on why the Scheibenator would be there, but this won't hurt the 'Russell to Harley' rumors. Smith is signed for the remainder of the 1998 season and Picotte is signed through the end of next season. To answer your question: No, they won't run three bikes in 1998. Picotte's contract stipulates that although it is a two year deal, he can get out of the agreement if he wishes. Picotte is known to be very frustrated with the VR1000, and the team about the same with him.

Barrik is on the FIM's roadrace commission and probably had to attend an FIM meeting there.
--Dean Adams