Karen Stoffer and Team Geico Optimistic for 2007
After improving four spots in the PowerAde points battle from 2005 to 2006, Stoffer is hoping the trend continues in 2007.

Karen Stoffer, rider of the GEICO-backed NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle, is eagerly anticipating the start to the 2007 season at the Gatornationals from Gainesville, Fla. March 16-18. Stoffer is coming off a career best sixth-place finish in the point series and, because of off-season NHRA rule changes, will have more horsepower than ever.

"Our Suzuki has a lot of power," Stoffer said. "Vance and Hines has given us some great motors. I'm very excited."

"I feel like we have made steady progress," team owner Doug Johnson said. "Team Geico has tested more this off season and we think it will show."

Also new in 2007 will be NHRA's playoff style point system that will eliminate riders who fall behind from championship contention at specific points in the season.

"Consistency will be as important as ever now with the new countdown system," Stoffer said. "It's going to be very important for us to make the most of every single qualifying session and make four quality laps."

All indications from preseason testing and races in other sanctions involving the Pro Stock Motorcycles, have led many to believe that this will be the most competitive season yet.

"With all the new riders in the class, it should be more competitive than ever. Just qualifying for all 16 races will be saying something," Johnson said. "It looks like there could be nine or ten Buells out here this year and the Harleys are always fast so the Geico Suzuki will have to run strong, but we think we're up to the task."

Stoffer echoed that sentiment.

"This class has always been tough, but based on the performance of the Buells early this season, this should be the toughest yet," Stoffer said. "The number of tough competitors seems to multiply each year."

Stoffer is pleased to announce the addition of two sponsors that will support the GEICO team throughout 2007.

"Speed Dawg is back with us and they will be onboard all season. They will even produce a Karen Stoffer signature line that will be out soon," Stoffer said. "Also Suzuki Extended Protection and Genuine Scooters will be with us as well."

Stoffer went on to extend special thanks to all of the 2007 sponsors and supporters. Geico Motorcycle Insurance 1-866-326-2036, Speed Dawg, Mac Tools, Bates Leathers, NGK, Airtech, Wrath Motorsports, Square One Graphics, Vance and Hines Motorsports, Genuine Scooters and Suzuki Extended Protection.