AMA tuner John Reed passed away

AMA PRO RACING SENDS CONDOLENCES TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF JOHN REED

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (January 21, 2006) -- AMA Pro Racing has learned of the passing of longtime motorcycle tuner John Reed at 68. Reed died on Jan. 10 at his home in Fullerton, Calif., after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Reed was a partner with Motorcycle Hall of Famer Shell Thuet in the 1970s. Reed and Thuet built and maintained the factory Yamaha's a young Kenny Roberts rode to victory in the AMA Grand National Championship in 1973 and 1974. He was shown in the movie 'On Any Sunday', picking up Keith Mashburn's bike in a turn after a crash.

"He was truly a staunch supporter of flat track for many years," said Hall of Famer Hank Scott. "He helped so many of the top riders when they were coming up including myself, my brother Gary, Kenny and many others. He really loved motorcycle racing and the people involved in the sport."

In addition to the aforementioned riders Reed also tuned for Keith Mashburn, Gene Romero, Don Castro, Wayne Rainey and Eddie Lawson.

Reed went on to found Gear Engineering, which manufactured many parts for all types of racing. The company lives on under the guidance of Reed's partner David Van Norman. A special celebration of Reed's life is soon to be announced. According to Van Norman it will be by invitation.

AMA Pro Racing wishes to pass along our condolences to Reed's family and all those associated with him in racing.

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