MotoGP 2013

[Oscar]

Hey I dig Ducati's...but having worked in two diff Ducati dealerships over the years...I'd never own one unless I had way too much money. And that'll never happen.

I got a poster kicking around somewhere that says "Ducati - Making riders into mechanics since 1958."

[Mental Trousers]

Lol, and some people still buy Ducati street bikes thinking they are superior to the plastic stuff.Especially the new one...With ALL the failed technology from the early GP bike.

They changed to the same technology as everyone else and still haven't gotten anywhere. It's only been recently, after Audi took over that they're making the right choices. So it's not the technology.

[merv]

But the motor is still tilted at a funny angle.

[Crasherfromwayback]

But the motor is still tilted at a funny angle.

Honda's engine is a 90 deg v. No wonder Stoner was laughing when everyone was pointing the finger at that once he'd left.

[Drew]

They changed to the same technology as everyone else and still haven't gotten anywhere. It's only been recently, after Audi took over that they're making the right choices. So it's not the technology.

No one uses the engine as a stressed member of the frame though. Road or track.

[merv]

Honda's engine is a 90 deg v. No wonder Stoner was laughing when everyone was pointing the finger at that once he'd left.

Yeah but Honda is a V brother not a flipping L.

[BMWST?]

Yeah but Honda is a V brother not a flipping L.

a 90 degree V is an L

[Mental Trousers]

No one uses the engine as a stressed member of the frame though. Road or track.

The twin beam frames they've been using since the start of 2012 season (I think it was) don't use the engine as a stressed member, same as everyone else. This season (under Audi) they're actually making headway in MotoGP. It's the management that's making things work now.

When it was first introduced the monocoque chassis kicked everyones arse. But because of management decisions on engine/chassis characteristics and behaviour Ducati lost any advantage the technology gave them.

So nobody is any clearer about whether the technology worked or not.

Btw, Preziosi has resigned from Ducati - http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/News/newsresults/General-news/2013/February/feb2813-preziosi-resigns-from-ducati/

[codgyoleracer]

Honda's engine is a 90 deg v. No wonder Stoner was laughing when everyone was pointing the finger at that once he'd left.

Honda proved they could out ducati a ducati way back when with the Tornado, the question with dukes is " what is the price of passion" ?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Honda proved they could out ducati a ducati

So did Suzuki when they first released the TL1000. Pity some docile saki soaked Nip got his way regarding the rear rotary damper unit.

[codgyoleracer]

So did Suzuki when they first released the TL1000. Pity some docile saki soaked Nip got his way regarding the rear rotary damper unit.

That P Head Gobert made it go Ok in one of those funny italian units aye (was wet tho). God that guy could ride......

[Crasherfromwayback]

That P Head Gobert made it go Ok in one of those funny italian units aye (was wet tho). God that guy could ride......

Yeah he was a fucking weapon eh! Stoner and MM rolled into one. Pity he was such a fucking tossbag. And he was from a very young age.

[Drew]

That P Head Gobert made it go Ok in one of those funny italian units aye (was wet tho). God that guy could ride......


Yeah he was a fucking weapon eh! Stoner and MM rolled into one. Pity he was such a fucking tossbag. And he was from a very young age.Who was the dude that worked the Kawassaki for them? Muzzy?

His words about Gobert were boss. That kid has got more talent and feel for a bike than anyone I've ever seen. Pity he won't listen to anybody.

Not verbatum, I have a shit memory, but that was the gist.

[merv]

a 90 degree V is an L

Why don't you visten lery much and did no one teach you the avphbet. V and L are not the same letter. Ducati laid the v on its side and it itself refers to L engines and caused the problem of the long engine with the drive point too far back. We all know the 90 degrees wasn't a problem.

[denill]

Yeah he was a fucking weapon eh! Stoner and MM rolled into one. Pity he was such a fucking tossbag. And he was from a very young age.

Gobert: Yeah, there are not many who wouldn't agree that if he wasn't such a dope head his name would have been linked with the Doohans and Raineys et al.

I followed his ups and downs just willing him to get sorted, because he such a talent :facepalm:

[slowpoke]

Especially the new one...With ALL the failed technology from the early GP bike.

Good work Ducati, you are only slightly brighter than your die hard faithful clients.

Good work? It's fuckin' brilliant! Look at all those stoopid japs and jermans making redundant frames and reducing profit margins. Realistically, unless your last name is Checa there's fuck all us mere mortals can do that an 1199 can't.

I guess you've got a point in relation to Honda and Yamaha who have brought so much GP tech to the streets eh? The awesome V4 CBR with all that MotoGP evolved electrickery and that R1, all lithe and lovely making mega horsepower......except the CBR is the lowest tech IL4 on the market today, and the R1 is similarly low tech with the added "bonus" of being a porky heap of shit that doesn't actually make enough horsepower to need the big bang donk.

[codgyoleracer]

Especially the new one...With ALL the failed technology from the early GP bike.

Good work Ducati, you are only slightly brighter than your die hard faithful clients.


The latest one is the bravest step i have seen by a mass producer of road going motorcycles for a long long time, and after cutting 100+ laps on one or two of em at a race track I can confirm that they are a very very capable motorcycle.

[DidJit]

Test pics: RdP on the Suzuki (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/May/may2413-Exclusive-Pics-Randy-de-Puniet-tests-Suzuk--MotoGP-bike/_/R-EPI-140490)...

[denill]

The latest one is the bravest step i have seen by a mass producer of road going motorcycles for a long long time, and after cutting 100+ laps on one or two of em at a race track I can confirm that they are a very very capable motorcycle.

And if Glen Williams says that, I believe it. :yes:

[BMWST?]

Why don't you visten lery much and did no one teach you the avphbet. V and L are not the same letter. Ducati laid the v on its side and it itself refers to L engines and caused the problem of the long engine with the drive point too far back. We all know the 90 degrees wasn't a problem.

so why does eLeryone keep referring to the 90 deg as being the probVem?As you say its the consequence of having the gearbox in the same plane as the conrod of the "front" cylinder

[Drew]

Good work? It's fuckin' brilliant! Look at all those stoopid japs and jermans making redundant frames and reducing profit margins. Realistically, unless your last name is Checa there's fuck all us mere mortals can do that an 1199 can't.

I guess you've got a point in relation to Honda and Yamaha who have brought so much GP tech to the streets eh? The awesome V4 CBR with all that MotoGP evolved electrickery and that R1, all lithe and lovely making mega horsepower......except the CBR is the lowest tech IL4 on the market today, and the R1 is similarly low tech with the added "bonus" of being a porky heap of shit that doesn't actually make enough horsepower to need the big bang donk.This thread hardly portains to mere mortals such as us though does it? Mounting the head stock to the front of the motor, and the rear half to the back was tried at GP level. It didn't work very well for whatever reason, so why would they take their superbike in that direction? Seems like a shit load of R&D they could do without.

GP is prototype racing. It takes a long time I'll grant you, but the tech filters down to our bikes. Be nice if it was just the best bits instead of the failures. Ride a BMW S1000R some time.

Ducati are boutique motorcycles I have always thought.


The latest one is the bravest step i have seen by a mass producer of road going motorcycles for a long long time, and after cutting 100+ laps on one or two of em at a race track I can confirm that they are a very very capable motorcycle.It's bold alright. And nearly everyone I know loves the thing. Except for one guy that owns one, and leaves it in the shed and takes his CBR out for spirited road rides, while commuting on the Duc.

Please don't think I'm being nasty Glen, but if Craig/Strouud/Choppa/Cole said they were great I'd believe it, since our superbike rules are very restrictive compared to WSB. So it's an indication how a road bike goes. But your success on a big block was a tad limited.

I would likely find the bike as you have, maybe better, you're a shit load faster than I am after all. But from the evidence of what the bike is doing at world level, I think as the speeds climb, it comes unstuck.

Back on topic...

I firmly believe, the only reason the Ducati ever got a top spot was Stoner. The other bike from the team got it's arse handed to it more often than not, and everyone else on it the same since. In those early years the bike was often 10+kph faster than everything else, and unrideable. Has anyone but Stoner ever one a race on a Ducati GP?

The more I think about it, the more I see what Pete has been getting at all this time. The guy really was several classes above the rest...Rossi included. Pity he's a dick.

[codgyoleracer]

This thread hardly portains to mere mortals such as us though does it? Mounting the head stock to the front of the motor, and the rear half to the back was tried at GP level. It didn't work very well for whatever reason, so why would they take their superbike in that direction? Seems like a shit load of R&D they could do without.

GP is prototype racing. It takes a long time I'll grant you, but the tech filters down to our bikes. Be nice if it was just the best bits instead of the failures. Ride a BMW S1000R some time.

Ducati are boutique motorcycles I have always thought.

It's bold alright. And nearly everyone I know loves the thing. Except for one guy that owns one, and leaves it in the shed and takes his CBR out for spirited road rides, while commuting on the Duc.

Please don't think I'm being nasty Glen, but if Craig/Strouud/Choppa/Cole said they were great I'd believe it, since our superbike rules are very restrictive compared to WSB. So it's an indication how a road bike goes. But your success on a big block was a tad limited.

I would likely find the bike as you have, maybe better, you're a shit load faster than I am after all. But from the evidence of what the bike is doing at world level, I think as the speeds climb, it comes unstuck.

Back on topic...

I firmly believe, the only reason the Ducati ever got a top spot was Stoner. The other bike from the team got it's arse handed to it more often than not, and everyone else on it the same since. In those early years the bike was often 10+kph faster than everything else, and unrideable. Has anyone but Stoner ever one a race on a Ducati GP?

The more I think about it, the more I see what Pete has been getting at all this time. The guy really was several classes above the rest...Rossi included. Pity he's a dick.


So, Because Checca cant win (in his injured state and with restictors fitted) the bike is crap. And because a bunch of slow kiwis arent racing them the bike is crap ?................
Everyone knows the Pani aint got the hp, remembering that it needs 20hp more in stock trim just to be near a stock Beemer......
The reason for my post was the bike is the ONLY machine that the manufacturer has had the balls to redesign and take to the world market using its in-house GP development work.
It is a huge leap forward for Ducati (and a dangerous one too),,,,,,,,, On the plus side though its selling in a massive scale worldwide, so i guess they got something right aye?

I agree on your mates CBR1000 antics, the problem though is a that the only part his street CBR1000 has on it that came from HRC race dept, is the sticker saying "HRC" on the side.

[sugilite]

Has anyone but Stoner ever one a race on a Ducati GP?


Bayliss and Caparossi did. Bayliss did it on a one off wild card ride on the last race of the year when all the regulars were well in the groove!

[codgyoleracer]

Bayliss and Caparossi did. Bayliss did it on a one off wild card ride on the last race of the year when all the regulars were well in the groove!

Yeah thats true, that Bayliss agressivness also suited the bike it seemed aye.

[denill]

The more I think about it, the more I see what Pete has been getting at all this time. The guy really was several classes above the rest...Rossi included. Pity he's a dick.

So Rossi's a dick?

[Mental Trousers]

This thread hardly portains to mere mortals such as us though does it? Mounting the head stock to the front of the motor, and the rear half to the back was tried at GP level. It didn't work very well for whatever reason, so why would they take their superbike in that direction? Seems like a shit load of R&D they could do without.

GP is prototype racing. It takes a long time I'll grant you, but the tech filters down to our bikes. Be nice if it was just the best bits instead of the failures. Ride a BMW S1000R some time.

Ducati are boutique motorcycles I have always thought.

It's bold alright. And nearly everyone I know loves the thing. Except for one guy that owns one, and leaves it in the shed and takes his CBR out for spirited road rides, while commuting on the Duc.

Please don't think I'm being nasty Glen, but if Craig/Strouud/Choppa/Cole said they were great I'd believe it, since our superbike rules are very restrictive compared to WSB. So it's an indication how a road bike goes. But your success on a big block was a tad limited.

I would likely find the bike as you have, maybe better, you're a shit load faster than I am after all. But from the evidence of what the bike is doing at world level, I think as the speeds climb, it comes unstuck.

Back on topic...

I firmly believe, the only reason the Ducati ever got a top spot was Stoner. The other bike from the team got it's arse handed to it more often than not, and everyone else on it the same since. In those early years the bike was often 10+kph faster than everything else, and unrideable. Has anyone but Stoner ever one a race on a Ducati GP?

The more I think about it, the more I see what Pete has been getting at all this time. The guy really was several classes above the rest...Rossi included. Pity he's a dick.

The failure at GP level was mostly down to supplying riders with a bike that was way too aggressive in the engine department and had a low and rearward centre of gravity. Both of those were management decisions.

As for why they'd put the failed technology in their superbike the sales figures tell quite a story. Despite the down turn in the world wide motorcycle market the Panigale is one of Ducati's best selling bikes ever and is a key component of their best ever sales year.

[codgyoleracer]

Test pics: RdP on the Suzuki (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/May/may2413-Exclusive-Pics-Randy-de-Puniet-tests-Suzuk--MotoGP-bike/_/R-EPI-140490)...

Good to see theve binned the fugly styling, any word on a primary sponsor ? - or is it a sole factory effort ?

[steveyb]

Man, I REALLY hope that bike works.
It looks nice.
The front air intake makes it look like it means business. Hope that extends to how it goes.

[DidJit]

... any word on a primary sponsor? — or is it a sole factory effort?

The <del>new</del> <del>current</del>... At the moment, MotoGP’s rules say that any incoming manufacturer has to partner up with an existing team — i.e. one of the privateer teams (satellite or CRT). Speculation is that Suzuki will team up with Aspar (hence RdP testing).

[ecko_nzed]

It's bold alright. And nearly everyone I know loves the thing. Except for one guy that owns one, and leaves it in the shed and takes his CBR out for spirited road rides, while commuting on the Duc.

pretty sure he still loves it, he just finds the CBR easier to ride for his skill level.

[Maido]

There is a pani sitting in the E hays shop at the moment. Quite nice indeed. Along with some great RS's TZ750s, RG500's i would suggest you check it out when you come down for NZSBK. oh wait...

[DidJit]

... Speculation ...

More (http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/racing/randy-de-puniet-suzuki-motogp-test-lap-times/) on all of that.

[Reckless]

More (http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/racing/randy-de-puniet-suzuki-motogp-test-lap-times/) on all of that.

Thanks mate good read :)

Here's a bit on the Honda of the shelf model for next year http://superbike-news.co.uk/index.php/Motorcycle-News/honda-completes-successful-test-of-new-production-model-for-motogp-at-motegi-circuit

And some interesting stats on Pedro ( copy and pasted in case you don't have Moto GP membership). Quite interesting how his record is very up there.

Pedrosa: Racking up the numbers
Pedrosa career numbers
Thursday, 23 May 2013

Victory in France saw Dani Pedrosa hit the top of the Riders’ Championship for the first time in almost five years. Now in his eighth season of MotoGP™, the Repsol Honda Team rider is looking more threatening than ever as he strives to collect the coveted premier class title for a first time.

It was on 13th July 2008 that Pedrosa lost the championship lead, falling in the German rain and bouncing over the gravel trap. The accident lost him the race, resulted in all sorts of injuries and ruined the championship. It is perhaps ironic that the re-taking of the overall lead finally came in similarly wet conditions at Le Mans.

Sunday’s success marked the Spaniard’s first premier class win in France, having been affected more often than not by injury over the past handful of seasons; at least he can now boast that he is yet to be operated on since June 2011. In fact, only three venues remain on the calendar at which Pedrosa is yet to claim a win in any of the three categories: Losail, Circuit of the Americas and Silverstone.

Also at Le Mans, Pedrosa claimed his second consecutive race victory and his eighth from the last 12 MotoGP™ events. He has passed the 3,000-point mark; an amount bettered only in the famed careers of Loris Capirossi and Valentino Rossi.

Win number 24 in the top class puts Pedrosa equal with both current title holder Jorge Lorenzo and three-time champion Wayne Rainey, while that trio are just one behind Rainey’s great rival and 1993 world champion Kevin Schwantz, who recently questioned the abilities of Pedrosa and his lack of a MotoGP™ title.

Qualifying speed is certainly not in doubt; until Saturday, perhaps, when Pedrosa’s result of sixth marked the first time in 16 races that he had failed to start from the front row of the grid. Instead, he came from sixth – the lowest grid position he has ever converted into victory since joining the premier class. En route to his 47th MotoGP™ victory, he picked up his maiden fastest lap of 2013 (and his 36th since climbing to the top class seven years ago), his 115th career podium and his 74th in the uppermost tier, which takes him to five ahead of ex teammate Casey Stoner.

These facts appear to suggest that the only thing Pedrosa is yet to claim is the MotoGP™ world title. With 14 Grands Prix to go, the 2012 runner-up leads the way by six points. Will this be the year?

[codgyoleracer]

Good luck to the little mexican on securing a title, - i wonder if he will be like criville and be gone if /when No1 is under the belt ?

[DidJit]

Thanks mate good read :) Here's a bit on the Honda off-the-shelf model for next year...

No worries. Here (http://motomatters.com/news/2013/05/27/honda_releases_first_image_of_production.html)’s a little more on the Honda production racer. Man, those bikes look horn with bare carbon fibre.


Good luck to the little mexican on securing a title, - i wonder if he will be like criville and be gone if/when No1 is under the belt?

Interesting question you pose. I would’ve thought he’d want to stick around as long as he was competitively fast, able to attract a competitive package and still had the hunger.

Found this (http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/191455/1/michael_laverty_-_qampa.html) this morning: a very good interview with Michael Laverty on, of all places, Crash.net — some very good insights.

[codgyoleracer]

Found this (http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/191455/1/michael_laverty_-_qampa.html) this morning: a very good interview with Michael Laverty on, of all places, Crash.net — some very good insights.[/QUOTE]


That is a good read, bit of talent swilling around in those genes aye.

[merv]

Regarding Dani Pedrosa, straight from the MotoGP site you can find all sorts of stats. Here is the list of those that have scored more than or equal to Dani in race wins in the 500/MotoGP class. Some big names ahead of him and he is equal with Jorge and Wayne Rainey so it says.

Results for:
1st place finishes in MotoGP at All tracks in All years, for riders from All countries



<tbody>
Times
Rider
Nation


79
Valentino Rossi
ITALY


68
Giacomo Agostini
ITALY


54
Mick Doohan
AUSTRALIA


38
Casey Stoner
AUSTRALIA


37
Mike Hailwood
GREAT BRITAIN


31
Eddie Lawson
UNITED STATES


25
Kevin Schwantz
UNITED STATES


24
Jorge Lorenzo
SPAIN


24
Wayne Rainey
UNITED STATES


24
Dani Pedrosa
SPAIN

</tbody>

Then if you look at all classes raced it looks like this. I've taken the list down to Biaggi for interest. This puts Dani above Jorge and Casey. Who will ever beat Ago? Won't be Rossi at the rate he's been going recently:

1st place finishes in All classes at All tracks in All years, for riders from All countries


<tbody>
Times
Rider
Nation


122
Giacomo Agostini
ITALY


105
Valentino Rossi
ITALY


90
Angel Nieto
SPAIN


76
Mike Hailwood
GREAT BRITAIN


54
Mick Doohan
AUSTRALIA


52
Phil Read
GREAT BRITAIN


47
Dani Pedrosa
SPAIN


45
Casey Stoner
AUSTRALIA


45
Jim Redman
RHODESIA


45
Jorge Lorenzo
SPAIN


42
Max Biaggi
ITALY

</tbody>

[merv]

Preview on Soup - the boys thinking about Mugello http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/May/130528a18.htm

[Cleve]

Found this (http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/191455/1/michael_laverty_-_qampa.html) this morning: a very good interview with Michael Laverty on, of all places, Crash.net — some very good insights.


That is a good read, bit of talent swilling around in those genes aye.[/QUOTE]

cheers - good find and a good read

[DidJit]

Had to chuckle at this line:

To win at Mugello is simple (http://motomatters.com/analysis/2013/05/29/2013_mugello_motogp_preview_of_yamaha_s_.html): it is merely a matter of being one of the very best riders in the world.
Simple. :blink:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Had to chuckle at this line:

Simple. :blink:

Yeah it's afuggin cool track for sure. Not sure I agree with this though

"Lorenzo's sweeping 250-style lines have brought him two world titles and a bevvy of wins, but it has also led Yamaha down an increasingly narrow performance envelope. As the bike has been made to work better and better for Lorenzo - braking early, then letting off the brakes early and carrying as much lean angle and speed as possible to fire out of the corner and onto the next straight without losing momentum - it has worked less and less well for other riders. Lorenzo's ability is unquestionable, but similar to Casey Stoner's time at Ducati, Lorenzo could be leading Yamaha down a blind alley, where one single rider becomes the crucial component to success. Once that rider is gone - through injury, retirement, or tempted away for whatever reason - that could leave Yamaha with a bike that is basically unrideable for anyone with a more conventional style."

Crtutchless seems be able to ride it easily enough...and he's not and ex 250 rider nor does he ride like that now...

[GD66]

That's crap. Any potential front-runner would give their left one to get their arse onto the works Yamaha, over the course of a season it's been the best thing out there for three years. :mad:

[Crasherfromwayback]

That's crap. Any potential front-runner would give their left one to get their arse onto the works Yamaha, over the course of a season it's been the best thing out there for three years. :mad:

Exactly. Making excuses for Rossi already.

[codgyoleracer]

Exactly. Making excuses for Rossi already.

Yeah but if Rossi cant win, at least he hangs around for a bit ................

[Crasherfromwayback]

Yeah but if Rossi cant win, at least he hangs around for a bit ................

lol. Not sure that's a good thing. But seriously...Yamaha goes 1-2 at round one...didn't see the Honda crowd boohooing too much.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I'm liking the look of the Suzuki so far...

http://www.cycleworld.com/2013/05/01/2014-suzuki-motogp-prototypes-spied-again/

[steveyb]

Note the differences in the swinging arms between the #2 and the #7 bikes.
Probably many others that I can't see.

[slowpoke]

Yeah it's afuggin cool track for sure. Not sure I agree with this though

"Lorenzo's sweeping 250-style lines have brought him two world titles and a bevvy of wins, but it has also led Yamaha down an increasingly narrow performance envelope. As the bike has been made to work better and better for Lorenzo - braking early, then letting off the brakes early and carrying as much lean angle and speed as possible to fire out of the corner and onto the next straight without losing momentum - it has worked less and less well for other riders. Lorenzo's ability is unquestionable, but similar to Casey Stoner's time at Ducati, Lorenzo could be leading Yamaha down a blind alley, where one single rider becomes the crucial component to success. Once that rider is gone - through injury, retirement, or tempted away for whatever reason - that could leave Yamaha with a bike that is basically unrideable for anyone with a more conventional style."

Crtutchless seems be able to ride it easily enough...and he's not and ex 250 rider nor does he ride like that now...

But neither Crutchless or any other Yamaha rider are winning on the thing. Rossi is a lot of things, but like him or loathe him there's no questioning a gazillion world titles or his motivation this year, but so far he's battling to keep the Honda's in sight let alone win and no-one else on the grid is gonna do any better.


That's crap. Any potential front-runner would give their left one to get their arse onto the works Yamaha, over the course of a season it's been the best thing out there for three years. :mad:

Eh? How'd you figure that? Stoner cleaned up in 2011 on the Honda, and Pedrosa dominated the second half of 2012 after Honda were nobbled by late tyre and weight changes causing massive chatter problems...which they were still able to win with. Not to mention a certain pesky Aussie couldn't have torn his ankle up at a better time if Yamaha had planned it themselves. Lorenzo rode brilliantly and managed his lead but Yamaha had quite a few stars align last year for Lorenzo to win that championship. Sorry, but no way has the Factory M1 been the "best thing out there for three years".

I can see where he's coming from, and he's got a point. Yamaha are in danger of turning the M1 into the equivalent of the last of the GP500's when they did battle with the first of the 990's. The 500's could lap quicker than the 990's at some tracks given a clear lap, but they got beat up in the race because all the 990's had to do was beat 'em to the first corner, park it, and the 500's were fucked. He hasn't called the Yamaha a heap of shit, he's just pointed out that no-one except Lorenzo is winning on the thing and he's not exactly wrong is he?

[trustme]

He hasn't called the Yamaha a heap of shit, he's just pointed out that no-one except Lorenzo is winning on the thing and he's not exactly wrong is he?

Does this make Yamaha the new Ducati .:lol::lol: I hear where you are coming from.

[Crasherfromwayback]

But neither Crutchless or any other Yamaha rider are winning on the thing. Rossi is a lot of things, but like him or loathe him there's no questioning a gazillion world titles or his motivation this year, but so far he's battling to keep the Honda's in sight let alone win and no-one else on the grid is gonna do any better.



Eh? How'd you figure that? Stoner cleaned up in 2011 on the Honda, and Pedrosa dominated the second half of 2012 after Honda were nobbled by late tyre and weight changes causing massive chatter problems...which they were still able to win with. Not to mention a certain pesky Aussie couldn't have torn his ankle up at a better time if Yamaha had planned it themselves. Lorenzo rode brilliantly and managed his lead but Yamaha had quite a few stars align last year for Lorenzo to win that championship. Sorry, but no way has the Factory M1 been the "best thing out there for three years".

I can see where he's coming from, and he's got a point. Yamaha are in danger of turning the M1 into the equivalent of the last of the GP500's when they did battle with the first of the 990's. The 500's could lap quicker than the 990's at some tracks given a clear lap, but they got beat up in the race because all the 990's had to do was beat 'em to the first corner, park it, and the 500's were fucked. He hasn't called the Yamaha a heap of shit, he's just pointed out that no-one except Lorenzo is winning on the thing and he's not exactly wrong is he?

You not see the first round mate? And Lorenzo is winning races on the thing, because he's fucking good. He won a shitload last year on it too...and the title. Sure Pedro won more races second half of the season, but I also think you'll find that was also Lorenzo doing no more than he had to to win the title.

And I have no doubt whatsoever in my mind that should Stoner have stayed this year on gone to Yamaha...he'd win races on the thing too. Honda have always had super powerfull engines in the top class mate. But you of all people know it takes a whole lot more than that. Was Schwantz's Suzuki the quickets bike out there? Roberts Jnr's Suzuki? Wayne Rainey's Yamaha blow the Honda's away? No? The other thing being...how are the Sat Honda riders getting along vs the Sat Yams? Obviously the Honda is a stunning all round package...but I think that's also doing a dis credit to the two guys riding the Repsol bikes. Two freaks...at the top of their game.

[BMWST?]

You not see the first round mate? And Lorenzo is winning races on the thing, because he's fucking good. He won a shitload last year on it too...and the title. Sure Pedro won more races second half of the season, but I also think you'll find that was also Lorenzo doing no more than he had to to win the title.

And I have no doubt whatsoever in my mind that should Stoner have stayed this year on gone to Yamaha...he'd win races on the thing too. Honda have always had super powerfull engines in the top class mate. But you of all people know it takes a whole lot more than that. Was Schwantz's Suzuki the quickets bike out there? Roberts Jnr's Suzuki? Wayne Rainey's Yamaha blow the Honda's away? No? The other thing being...how are the Sat Honda riders getting along vs the Sat Yams? Obviously the Honda is a stunning all round package...but I think that's also doing a dis credit to the two guys riding the Repsol bikes. Two freaks...at the top of their game.

not only that but the honda yamaha cycle seems almost to be year and year about..

[Crasherfromwayback]

not only that but the honda yamaha cycle seems almost to be year and year about..

Aye. Tell ya what though...I wouldn't be against Rossi or Lorenzo at Mugello though...

[BMWST?]

Aye. Tell ya what though...I wouldn't be against Rossi or Lorenzo at Mugello though...

it will be interesting for sure...but the honda and their riders wont be a pushover. Very important weekend for the factory Yamahas.

[Crasherfromwayback]

it will be interesting for sure...but the honda and their riders wont be a pushover. Very important weekend for the factory Yamahas.

Be plenty of elbow dragging action from MM I bet round there. Think he's paying $4.00 at the TAB which isn't soo shabby...



Here ya go...

MM

Lorenzo

Rossi

Bautista

Dovi

Crutchless and Pedro in the kitty litter.

[BMWST?]

Be plenty of elbow dragging action from MM I bet round there. Think he's paying $4.00 at the TAB which isn't soo shabby...



Here ya go...

MM

Lorenzo

Rossi

Bautista

Dovi

Crutchless and Pedro in the kitty litter.

dovi??? apparently the duc is at its worst in those big fast corners...And i hope you wrong re pedro...

[Crasherfromwayback]

dovi??? apparently the duc is at its worst in those big fast corners...And i hope you wrong re pedro...

Yeah so they say. But it's their test track, so I'm hoping it'll good well there. Dovi will be pretty fired up I reckon...and with Pedro and Crutchlow out...who knows?

But actually..I too hope the midget doesn't hit the deck. He breaks too easily for starters. And...I for one would actually like to see the lil guy win a title before it's too late. Having said that...it would also be pretty awesome to see MM win it first year in I reckon!

[DidJit]

Was Casey ever this forthright (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/May/may3013-cal-threatens-to-quit-tech-3-over-espargaro-deal/)?

[Drew]

Was Casey ever this forthright (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/May/may3013-cal-threatens-to-quit-tech-3-over-espargaro-deal/)?

Oooohhhhh. Crutchlow would be good for Suzuki. Dovi on the other bike would make a formidable team should the bike be decent out of the box.

[denill]

Was Casey ever this forthright (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/May/may3013-cal-threatens-to-quit-tech-3-over-espargaro-deal/)?

Hey thanks for the read.

Personally, I appreciate guys like Cal who say what they think but I would not want to be the manager with decision making responsibilities.:(

[slowpoke]

You not see the first round mate? And Lorenzo is winning races on the thing, because he's fucking good. He won a shitload last year on it too...and the title. Sure Pedro won more races second half of the season, but I also think you'll find that was also Lorenzo doing no more than he had to to win the title.

And I have no doubt whatsoever in my mind that should Stoner have stayed this year on gone to Yamaha...he'd win races on the thing too. Honda have always had super powerfull engines in the top class mate. But you of all people know it takes a whole lot more than that. Was Schwantz's Suzuki the quickets bike out there? Roberts Jnr's Suzuki? Wayne Rainey's Yamaha blow the Honda's away? No? The other thing being...how are the Sat Honda riders getting along vs the Sat Yams? Obviously the Honda is a stunning all round package...but I think that's also doing a dis credit to the two guys riding the Repsol bikes. Two freaks...at the top of their game.

Yup, pretty much agree with ya Pete, a good overall package is the most important thing. I was just interested in, and agreed with the author of that article's peek into Yamaha's future: they are banking on a clear track and fast lap times, which could be pitching straight into Honda's hitting zone with a great point and squirt bike, especially with Marquez capable of stuffing it past/under/over anybody and ruining those lovely sweeping lines. I don't think the author was saying Yamaha are in the poo quite yet, but it'll be interesting to see how they they adapt their strategy, they'll be in massive trouble if they don't.


Was Casey ever this forthright (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/May/may3013-cal-threatens-to-quit-tech-3-over-espargaro-deal/)?

Jeezus, he doesn't do himself any favours. How stupid to rubbish Espargaro's efforts against Marquez, considering Marquez is kicking Crutchlow's arse as a rookie. If the numpty had kept his gob shut and let his riding do the talking he'd be a much more attractive prospect for Factory Team manager's.

[DidJit]

“Pol Espargaro is no Marc Márquez. Not in any way, shape or form (http://motomatters.com/analysis/2013/05/30/2013_mugello_thursday_round_up_rossi_s_c.html?utm_ source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+MotoGPMatters+%28MotoMatters% 29).”

[codgyoleracer]

Ummmm.........Over here.....

283476

[steveyb]

Alexis Masbou turns 26 this weekend.
He has been riding 125GP/Moto3 since he was 15 or so.
If anyone has any insight (slight chance I know), I would really love to know how someone like him continues to find the funding to stay in the world champs given that over all that time he as only had one or a couple anyway podiums.
There might be lessons for NZ riders in his story, I don't know.

[codgyoleracer]

Maybe he gives great B Jobs to this guy ?

[Crasherfromwayback]

“Pol Espargaro is no Marc Márquez. Not in any way, shape or form (http://motomatters.com/analysis/2013/05/30/2013_mugello_thursday_round_up_rossi_s_c.html?utm_ source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+MotoGPMatters+%28MotoMatters% 29).”

Won't look too good if the guy turns up and starts beating him then eh...

[Cleve]

No more CRT's

http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/05/30/motogp_s_claiming_rule_to_be_dropped_fro.html

[DidJit]

Won't look too good if the guy turns up and starts beating him then eh...

Depends if he’s on factory machinery... ;)

[pritch]

Just spent a few minutes playing catchup reading the last few pages.

I may have missed it but I didn't see a comment about one of the problems besetting the Yamaha. Apparently there was trouble with Lorenzo's engine #1. To prevent a rash of damage and a consequent shortage of engines Yamaha reduced the power of all the M1 engines.

When they are confident that the motor will last the required number of races I guess the gap between the Honda and the Yamaha will close again?

[steveyb]

Yep, that was certainly mentioned.
Wonder what it is and when it will be fixed?

But of course it could be smoke and mirrors to hide the fact that they are getting pretty well spanked by Honda at the moment.

[Wingnut]

Depends if he’s on factory machinery... ;)

At best he would be at Stefen Bradls level. Marquez is something really special.... Pol although obviously hugely talented, as is every GP regular, will not be competitive to the level that is required to be another "Alien". For example, how many people enter Moto GP and immediately have the ability to inflict fear and concern on the likes of Rossi, Lorenzo, Pedrosa. Post race with Crutchlow... Stated " I knew Marquez was coming and I was scared". Obviously just in fear of loosing his 2nd place but this shows the impact Marquez has had. And he is only going to get stronger!!!

Back to the Yamaha issue ...Besides Pol has been looking pretty average this year in moto 2... Lost his mojo for the moment perhaps? At the end of the day as much as I like Pol.... Is another smiling Spaniard in Factory colthing what Moto Gp really needs.. Crutchlow is far more appealing...

[BIG DOUG]

Gotta agree Carl Crutchlow tells it like it is,not like other people to scared to speak there mind. Pol f**king who?

[carbonhed]

Very narrow escape for Marquez in FP2. Lost the front braking at 300kph, recovered but then ran off track onto the grass into turn 1, possible concussion.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Very narrow escape for Marquez in FP2. Lost the front braking at 300kph, recovered but then ran off track onto the grass into turn 1, possible concussion.

I reckon! Any time you hit the deck whilst doing over 200mph and live is lucky.

[carbonhed]

I reckon! Any time you hit the deck whilst doing over 200mph and live is lucky.

I'd spend a week curled up in a ball hiding under the bed after something like that :laugh:

Wonder if he'll manage to get out again this weekend? They're all so hard though... so I suppose he might.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I'd spend a week curled up in a ball hiding under the bed after something like that :laugh:

Wonder if he'll manage to get out again this weekend? They're all so hard though... so I suppose he might.

lol. Reckon. I've parted company with 'em a couple of times at 200kph. That was bad enough. He had a fucking huge biff in Texas and went on to win it...so you just never know with these freaks. They're not human.

[MIXONE]

If he is concussed they wont let him race surely?

[Crasherfromwayback]

If he is concussed they wont let him race surely?

There seem to be differing reports regarding the injuries sustained.

[MIXONE]

There seem to be differing reports regarding the injuries sustained.

You would think from hitting the ground that hard his kidneys would have swapped places with his lungs!
Seriously I hope the guy's alright.Racing needs wild men like him to remind us mere mortals that those aliens are freaks for sure.:niceone:

[Crasherfromwayback]

You would think from hitting the ground that hard his kidneys would have swapped places with his lungs!
Seriously I hope the guy's alright.Racing needs wild men like him to remind us mere mortals that those aliens are freaks for sure.:niceone:

lol. Yeah was probably pretty lucky where he went down it was wet slippery grass. And yep. They're all animals for sure. Should be paid way more than they are.

[carbonhed]

lol. Reckon. I've parted company with 'em a couple of times at 200kph. That was bad enough. He had a fucking huge biff in Texas and went on to win it...so you just never know with these freaks. They're not human.

200 kph crash at Manfeild would be the last time I'd ever ride on track :lol: Getting up and doing it again wouldn't be an option. 330 kph is just unbelievable.

Wonder if he'll go through the same kind of reflection period that Lorenzo had in his debut season?

[Crasherfromwayback]

.

Wonder if he'll go through the same kind of reflection period that Lorenzo had in his debut season?

I think unless you're not well...when the big bikes keep chewing your nuts off..be hard not to.

[carbonhed]

Well he's out there... respect.

[codgyoleracer]

Qualifying
1 26 Dani PEDROSA SPA Repsol Honda Team Honda 340.5 1'47.157
2 99 Jorge LORENZO SPA Yamaha Factory Racing Yamaha 338.7 1'47.226 0.069 / 0.069
3 4 Andrea DOVIZIOSO ITA Ducati Team Ducati 341.0 1'47.628 0.471 / 0.402
4 35 Cal CRUTCHLOW GBR Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Yamaha 340.0 1'47.632 0.475 / 0.004
5 6 Stefan BRADL GER LCR Honda MotoGP Honda 340.8 1'47.737 0.580 / 0.105
6 93 Marc MARQUEZ SPA Repsol Honda Team Honda 338.4 1'47.763 0.606 / 0.026
7 46 Valentino ROSSI ITA Yamaha Factory Racing Yamaha 340.6 1'47.872 0.715 / 0.109
8 69 Nicky HAYDEN USA Ducati Team Ducati 339.8 1'48.006 0.849 / 0.134
9 19 Alvaro BAUTISTA SPA GO&FUN Honda Gresini Honda 342.9 1'48.355 1.198 / 0.349
10 51 Michele PIRRO ITA Ducati Test Team Ducati 341.8 1'48.564 1.407 / 0.209
11 38 Bradley SMITH GBR Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Yamaha 333.9 1'48.706 1.549 / 0.142
12 41 Aleix ESPARGARO SPA Power Electronics Aspar ART 330.5 1'48.765 1.608 / 0.059

[carbonhed]

Brilliant Qualifying 2. Could be a great race.

[slowpoke]

I tell ya, I'm a lil' disappointed how technology is gradually eroding the importance of rider ability.....but there's some farkin' cool technology here: Alpinestars have released telemtery of the Marquez crash. Mind boggling stuff. The lil' bugger mightn't have pubes but he certainly has balls: http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/marquez+crash+telemetry

[Crasherfromwayback]

I tell ya, I'm a lil' disappointed how technology is gradually eroding the importance of rider ability.....but there's some farkin' cool technology here: Alpinestars have released telemtery of the Marquez crash. Mind boggling stuff. The lil' bugger mightn't have pubes but he certainly has balls: http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/marquez+crash+telemetry

Yeah tough wee cookie for sure.

[BMWST?]

I tell ya, I'm a lil' disappointed how technology is gradually eroding the importance of rider ability.....but there's some farkin' cool technology here: Alpinestars have released telemtery of the Marquez crash. Mind boggling stuff. The lil' bugger mightn't have pubes but he certainly has balls: http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/marquez+crash+telemetry

i dont beleive the technology is making much difference in the speed of the riders,i think it gives a wider knife edge.I think that faster riders will always be faster,electronic aids or not.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Is this the end for this guy in Moto GP or what?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/spies+out+mugello

[ecko_nzed]

Is this the end for this guy in Moto GP or what?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/spies+out+mugello

Bet it's crossed his and Ducati's mind. Been a pretty lack lustre motoGP career to date. Which is a shame, cos he's got talent.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Bet it's crossed his and Ducati's mind. Been a pretty lack lustre motoGP career to date. Which is a shame, cos he's got talent.

Wonder if part of it is the horror that is the Ducati. Maybe he's realised he's totally out of his depth with that thing as well as having a gammy shoulder.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Simply too good round there...

283605

[BMWST?]

Simply too good round there...

283605

woulda been interesting to see what would have happened if dani had managed to get past into turn 1,but apart from a couple of slightly wide negotiations of said turn he didnt put a foot wrong.They turned the engine up i reckon

[Crasherfromwayback]

.They turned the engine up i reckon

I don't really think the thing's been that down on HP compared to the Honda's regardless. But I see down the chute this weekend Lorenzo's bike did 339kph compared to MM's Honda @ 340kph. But Mugello ain't about HP anyway. There'll be plenty of other tracks where the Yamaha/Lorenzo will be tough to beat. Assen, Bruno, PI and Sepang spring to mind. So all the moaning 'bout the Hondas was a bit prem I think.

[BMWST?]

I don't really think the thing's been that down on HP compared to the Honda's regardless. But I see doen the chute this weekend Lorenzo's bike did 339kph compared to MM's Honda @ 340kph. But Mugello ain't about HP anyway. There'll be plenty of other tracks where the Yamaha/Lorenzo will be tough to beat. Assen, Bruno, PI and Sepang spring to mind. So all the moaning 'bout the Hondas was a bit prem I think.
agree,but VR def has an uphill battle now

[Crasherfromwayback]

agree,but VR def has an uphill battle now

Considering he's behind Dovi on points now...yeah!

[carbonhed]

Considering he's behind Dovi on points now...yeah!

Roogazza's gonna be pissed.

Masterclass by Lorenzo. Controlling from the front and then when there's a sniff of a gap the hammer comes down and he breaks them.

Shame for Marquez... even so he just looks more and more special. Cal's right there isn't he? He felt that he could've hunted the repsols down anyway... meh.

Rossi can't catch a break at all.

Redding's looking like the dogs bollocks in Moto2. First victory last race and another at Mugello. Confidence and self belief will lend you wings. He's only 20 too.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Roogazza's gonna be pissed.

Masterclass by Lorenzo. Controlling from the front and then when there's a sniff of a gap the hammer comes down and he breaks them.

Shame for Marquez... even so he just looks more and more special. Cal's right there isn't he? He felt that he could've hunted the repsols down anyway... meh.

Rossi can't catch a break at all.

Redding's looking like the dogs bollocks in Moto2. First victory last race and another at Mugello. Confidence and self belief will lend you wings. He's only 20 too.

Reckon. Shame MM ploughed it really. Points wise would've been well interesting if he'd got the 2nd step. Still, all the top boys will have one dnf I would think...their fault or not.

And yeah..Redding is going super well. And...I must say, after being pretty hard on him...kudos to Bradley Smith for doing bloody well with a well fucked up wrist/finger. Those injuries hurt like fuck. Good effort.

[slowpoke]

Good ride from Lorenzo for sure, but the experience of Pedrosa shone through too. He'll take a cagey 2nd place and walk away with a 12point championship lead rather than push and do a Marquez. Marquez is super fast but I'm disappointed in the way he didn't really learn all weekend: 4 crashes in one weekend does not a champion make. His chance to make a lil' more history may have just slipped away.

Crutchlow? Rossi and Marquez helped him out there. A Factory ride for Crutchlow? Someone pointed out to me that last year he was fairly soundly beaten in the championship by the guy who was previously the 3rd best Repsol Honda rider (4th 218pts vs 7th 151pts) on exactly the same bike, which makes you question what Crutchlow could actually achieve on a Factory ride. I suspect not much more than he's doing now......but I'm admittedly biased.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Good ride from Lorenzo for sure, but the experience of Pedrosa shone through too. He'll take a cagey 2nd place and walk away with a 12point championship lead rather than push and do a Marquez. Marquez is super fast but I'm disappointed in the way he didn't really learn all weekend: 4 crashes in one weekend does not a champion make. His chance to make a lil' more history may have just slipped away.

.

Dude...it's his first year with the big boys! You may remember guys with names like Valentino Rossi, Jorge Lorenzo and Casey Stoner all crashing their brains out in their first season in the top class. He's already made history...he'll keep learning.

[BMWST?]

Good ride from Lorenzo for sure, but the experience of Pedrosa shone through too. He'll take a cagey 2nd place and walk away with a 12point championship lead rather than push and do a Marquez. Marquez is super fast but I'm disappointed in the way he didn't really learn all weekend: 4 crashes in one weekend does not a champion make. His chance to make a lil' more history may have just slipped away.

Crutchlow? Rossi and Marquez helped him out there. A Factory ride for Crutchlow? Someone pointed out to me that last year he was fairly soundly beaten in the championship by the guy who was previously the 3rd best Repsol Honda rider (4th 218pts vs 7th 151pts) on exactly the same bike, which makes you question what Crutchlow could actually achieve on a Factory ride. I suspect not much more than he's doing now......but I'm admittedly biased.

gee you harsh....MM 4th motogp race and you are expecting him to pull his head in already....It took lorenzo a whole season to start to learn that,and i reckon its taken dani virtually his whole motogp career till now to get that fast consistency.

[Wingnut]

Good ride from Lorenzo for sure, but the experience of Pedrosa shone through too. He'll take a cagey 2nd place and walk away with a 12point championship lead rather than push and do a Marquez. Marquez is super fast but I'm disappointed in the way he didn't really learn all weekend: 4 crashes in one weekend does not a champion make. His chance to make a lil' more history may have just slipped away.


Your comments are somewhat delusional as he already has multiple world championships to his name. For him to be so competitive at such an early stage is nothing short of brilliant. The kid mounted a fantastic charge against his well seasoned team mate and although he binned it, his talents are obviously outstanding. Lorenzo binned it sooooo much in his rooky season and hang on.... he has two gp crowns to his credit thus far. It would be a brave man to bet that Marquez will not be Moto GP champ at some stage.

[trustme]

There has been too much hyperbole & beat up around MM. I don't think Slowpoke is saying he won't be champion , just that it will not be this year.
He is an exceptional talent, he will be outright champion soon , moto2 , 250 etc champs are not the same, lots of those guys do not make the step up to the big boys.
I'll be the first to praise him if he wins the title this year, I think it is a step too far even for the likes of MM.

[slowpoke]

There has been too much hyperbole & beat up around MM. I don't think Slowpoke is saying he won't be champion , just that it will not be this year.
He is an exceptional talent, he will be outright champion soon , moto2 , 250 etc champs are not the same, lots of those guys do not make the step up to the big boys.
I'll be the first to praise him if he wins the title this year, I think it is a step too far even for the likes of MM.

Exactly, it's pretty bloody obvious he's got the talent to be MotoGP World Champion.

Haha, who knew you guys were such sensitive new age parents who prefer their kids to have "Not Yet Competent" on their report card rather than "Fail"? Some Team Manager's you would make, giving him a cup of hot milk, tucking him in while stroking his forehead and telling him "There there Chiquita, there's always next year".

Everyone knows Lorenzo, Rossi, Stoner etc all had "learning years", it's totally expected. But IMHO none of them had such a real prospect of becoming a ROOKIE world champion, as Marquez did. No matter what way you look at it 3 crashes in practice and then crashing out of the race is not smart riding. So tell it like it is for fucks sake. If Smith had done what Marquez did you'd be like rabid dogs tearing him to bits and you know it.

I'm standing by for later in the year when one of those crashed engines lets go and you lot say "Ohhhh, how unlucky!".

[Oscar]

The young fella is long way from done.

I love the way some people write riders off after five races.
There have been any number of riders in past years who have looked a shoo in for a title and blown it, just as there have been guys who were behind mid season and went on to win.

[slowpoke]

The young fella is long way from done.

I love the way some people write riders off after five races.
There have been any number of riders in past years who have looked a shoo in for a title and blown it, just as there have been guys who were behind mid season and went on to win.

True, he's not a done duck just yet, but Lorenzo and Pedrosa have been metronomic in the speed and consistency the last coupla years so he's made it bloody hard for himself.

Early days as you say, so hopefully we can see some stirring performances turn things around.

[Oscar]

True, he's not a done duck just yet, but Lorenzo and Pedrosa have been metronomic in the speed and consistency the last coupla years so he's made it bloody hard for himself.

Early days as you say, so hopefully we can see some stirring performances turn things around.

No doubt that he's gonna be a wild card making things very tricky for the big boys.
Dani must be having nightmares about him...

[trustme]

Nobody has written him off, nor should we anoint him the new messiah.
Pedro might have finally learned to stick to his knitting , be consistent, accumulate points, he has always imploded, maybe this will be his year.
Still a long way to go, anything can happen

[slowpoke]

Nobody has written him off, nor should we anoint him the new messiah.


To paraphrase Monty Python: "He's not the messiah, he's just a very naughty boy....who trowled $2million dollars worth of gear last weekend"

[Crasherfromwayback]

....who trowled $2million dollars worth of gear last weekend"

And them some I'd say!

[slowpoke]

And them some I'd say!

Haha, yep, I was allowing for a bit of "salvage" value.

[trustme]

This bloke has no idea, not a clue :niceone:

http://eurosport.yahoo.com/news/motorcycling-stoner-urges-marquez-caution-102757558.html

[Crasherfromwayback]

That won't buff out...

283686

[DidJit]

Biaggi on a Duc (http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/pirro+for+spies+at+montmelo)!

Edit: More (http://motomatters.com/news/2013/06/04/max_biaggi_to_test_ben_spies_ducati_at_m.html).

[ecko_nzed]

That won't buff out...

283686

Muuuuutha fcuker that looks nasty! Full credit to him for racing with a finger like that

[Crasherfromwayback]

Muuuuutha fcuker that looks nasty! Full credit to him for racing with a finger like that

Reckon. I'd be asking for me Mum!

[Drew]

Who was it that chopped the end of their finger off some years ago, and still raced? Similar thing I guess, hard bastard.

[Badjelly]

Who was it that chopped the end of their finger off some years ago, and still raced? Similar thing I guess, hard bastard.

Troy Bayliss. Actually, I think he had the whole finger removed, having scraped a fairly large fraction off on the tarmac. :eek5:

Probably a few other bike racers have done something like this over the years. Stupid buggers. ;)

[pritch]

Lorenzo lost the last joint of a finger last year or the year before at Phillip Island. The mechanics were searching the gravel trap but spectators told them they thought a seagull had scored a meal.

[Drew]

Lorenzo lost the last joint of a finger last year or the year before at Phillip Island. The mechanics were searching the gravel trap but spectators told them they thought a seagull had scored a meal.

His finger was still on after the crash, just not in a very good condition. The mechanics were looking for something else I think.

Also, Jorge didn't ride that race and handed Stoner the championship.

[codgyoleracer]

His finger was still on after the crash, just not in a very good condition. The mechanics were looking for something else I think.

Also, Jorge didn't ride that race and handed Stoner the championship.

Yeah, we were standing there at the fence watchin the whole thing. Turned out a marshall " pocketed" one of Horrhays gloves, and that was what they were looking for. (it had bits of finga in it that they wanted for possibly sewing back on, but turned out that it was too squished to use anyway)

[codgyoleracer]

Troy Bayliss. Actually, I think he had the whole finger removed, having scraped a fairly large fraction off on the tarmac. :eek5:

Probably a few other bike racers have done something like this over the years. Stupid buggers. ;)

Bayliss is/was one of the HARDEST i reckon

[Crasherfromwayback]

Bayliss is/was one of the HARDEST i reckon

Mick Doohan/Barry Sheen/Kenny Roberts get my vote. But yeah...Bayliss was/is a tough cunt. They all are really...

[Drew]

Oh fuck yeah, Doohan gotta be toughest!

[Kiwi Graham]

Didn't Àlex Crivillé grind part of his hand down at Assen a few years back? That would have smarted a bit and he was soon back in the saddle.

Doing some fencing last weekend turned my pinkies into a bloody mess (soft cock hands) making it painful/uncomfortable to do the simplist tasks, would have hated to ride my race bike like it.

[roogazza]

Roogazza's gonna be pissed.
Masterclass by Lorenzo. Controlling from the front and then when there's a sniff of a gap the hammer comes down and he breaks them.
I missed KB so much, NOT !! Just got back last night, the thought was for a possible 1,2 for Yamaha but the 2/3 corner ruined that. Rossi hates the new Qual rules apparently and although 7th, was possible finish 2nd (like my accent ?)
Horhay was inch perfect huh ?
Another perfect Holiday, pit pass , the works, magic.

[DidJit]

Back so soon? I would’ve thought you might backpack your way over to Catalunya — just down the road really and a leisurely 2 weeks to get there... Oh no, wait, that’s my lil’ fantasy jaunt. ;)

[roogazza]

Back so soon? I would’ve thought you might backpack your way over to Catalunya — just down the road really and a leisurely 2 weeks to get there... Oh no, wait, that’s my lil’ fantasy jaunt. ;)

Lol, used to do it that way when they were a week apart but it's too long away from home so the wife says? Just 8/9 days at a time now. Good GP at Montmello, easier and cheaper to get to as well.

[DidJit]

Fair enough. You could always take your wife along next time under the pretext of a romantic Mediterranean getaway... :D

[jasonu]

Mick Doohan/Barry Sheen/Kenny Roberts get my vote. But yeah...Bayliss was/is a tough cunt. They all are really...

Naa pussies the lot of them. Mal Maninga played the better part of a State of Origin match with a broken arm.

[Berries]

Naa pussies the lot of them. Mal Maninga played the better part of a State of Origin match with a broken arm.
You only need one arm to mince around carrying a rugby ball.






And he's named after a girl.

[jasonu]

You only need one arm to mince around carrying a rugby ball.


And he's named after a girl.

Then how are you going to punch someone in the face???

[McWild]

You only need one arm to mince around carrying a rugby ball.

If you're the madman that is OneArmedBandit you can haul ass on a thou too though.

[slowpoke]

You only need one arm to mince around carrying a rugby ball.


And he's named after a girl.

Helps when your one good arm is the size of most people's leg too, lol.

[roogazza]

Fair enough. You could always take your wife along next time under the pretext of a romantic Mediterranean getaway... :D
Hey Didjit, This is as close as I got, Rossi's latest squeeze !
283768
She was delivering his extra lid.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Hey Didjit, This is as close as I got, Rossi's latest squeeze !
283768
She was delivering his extra lid.

lol. His kid must be getting big by now too...hope it's not still inside the 'woman'...

[GD66]

Hey Didjit, This is as close as I got, Rossi's latest squeeze !
283768
She was delivering his extra lid.


I said during Mugello we hardly ever see that Uccio tool anymore, thank fuck....:spanking:

[codgyoleracer]

I missed KB so much !! Just got back last night, the thought was for a possible 1,2 for Yamaha but the 2/3 corner ruined that. Rossi hates the new Qual rules apparently and although 7th, was possible finish 2nd (like my accent ?)
Horhay was inch perfect huh ?
Another perfect Holiday, pit pass , the works, magic.


No one likes a showoff...............

[roogazza]

I said during Mugello we hardly ever see that Uccio tool anymore, thank fuck....:spanking:
I've just been down loading a whole lot of snaps and deleted heaps, Uccio was in the fuckoff pile.

No one likes a showoff...............
She is a little honey but by the time I got the camera out she'd turned her ass on me. Looked about 20 yrs old,ripe G !

[DidJit]

Hey Didjit, This is as close as I got...

“You must spread some Reputation around before giving it to roogazza again.”

[slowpoke]

She is a little honey but by the time I got the camera out she'd turned her ass on me. Looked about 20 yrs old,ripe G !

She's a little honey? I thought you were talking about the very attractive bald bloke...........

[roogazza]

She's a little honey? I thought you were talking about the very attractive bald bloke...........
Nah Spud, not my style lol. The bald guy was was another one in Italian customs who just about had his gun out when he pulled me asside to empty my bag. Bet he's enjoying my 2009 prize Chianti with his pizza tonght ????:angry2::angry2:Bloody Xray machines.

[denill]

Hey Didjit, This is as close as I got, Rossi's latest squeeze !
283768
She was delivering his extra lid.

Ha, well done Gaz, you've joined the papparazi. Now it's off to WSBK to snap Manuela? BTW Did you just take that pic to rain on my theory that Val is gay? :facepalm:

When VR and Bautista came together so early in the race my thoughts went to you and how gutted you would most probably be. I was - and I never left my armchair. :crybaby:

[roogazza]

Ha, well done Gaz, you've joined the papparazi. Now it's off to WSBK to snap Manuela? BTW Did you just take that pic to rain on my theory that Val is gay? :facepalm:

When VR and Bautista came together so early in the race my thoughts went to you and how gutted you would most probably be. I was - and I never left my armchair. :crybaby:

Maybe he's Bi ? does well for himself tho.
The crowd was down to I think 78 thou (I've seen just under 100 there) I was surprised to see a steady line of people filing out once they went down.
There were a lot of gutted people, he had been looking like being in a possible Yamaha 1,2.
I thought of you too , I saw (1 ),ONE,Stoner hat !!!!!! but that's history. hahaha

[pritch]

Did you just take that pic to rain on my theory that Val is gay? :facepalm:


Well the theory that Uccio and Rossi were a couple is looking dodgy. "Mrs Uccio" has recently had a baby and Mr Rossi has talked of starting a family when he's finished what he's doing these days. Unless he can figure out the new qualifying rules, that day may come sooner than he thinks?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Unless he can figure out the new qualifying rules, that day may come sooner than he thinks?

Running out of excuses really. Should go and race V8's! :sunny:

[denill]

Running out of excuses really. Should go and race V8's! :sunny:

Then I will start watching the Taxis race........................

[pritch]

Then I will start watching the Holdens race........................

Fixed it for ya. :whistle:

[sugilite]

Casey Stoner is now officially "A Member"!
http://www.mcnews.com.au/NewsArchives/2013/June/Stoner_Award.htm
Snigger, snigger :lol:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Casey Stoner is now officially "A Member"!
http://www.mcnews.com.au/NewsArchives/2013/June/Stoner_Award.htm
Snigger, snigger :lol:

Top show. Rather see him back going head to head with MM. But never mind...

[merv]

Lol, if it was a Wellington taxi race it would be Prius vs Camry hybrid - not a V8 in sight.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I was really impressed with Marquez 340kph test of the airbag suit

[Crasherfromwayback]

I was really impressed with Marquez 340kph test of the airbag suit

I reckon. Seen some fucking huge biffs down the chute at Megello over the years. This is prob the worst...

http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/season/2008/ITA

[roogazza]

Lol, if it was a Wellington taxi race it would be Prius vs Camry hybrid - not a V8 in sight.That made me laugh !!!!
I have two groups of friends Merv,one lot drive Benzs and Range Rovers. The others, like one who just joined me in retirement bought new Yaris ! a fucking Yaris ! after telling me my new Falcon XR6 rode a bit hard,a month later traded to a larger car a COROLLA ! I refuse to follow the lemmings and own these tiny Hatches just to get 7L per 100. Kapiti is 'next step heaven' and full of them.

[denill]

That made me laugh !!!!
I have two groups of friends Merv,one lot drive Benzs and Range Rovers. The others, like one who just joined me in retirement bought new Yaris ! a fucking Yaris ! after telling me my new Falcon XR6 rode a bit hard,a month later traded to a larger car a COROLLA ! I refuse to follow the lemmings and own these tiny Hatches just to get 7L per 100. Kapiti is 'next step heaven' and full on them.

Getting off subject, but yeah - It's all about 'mindset' eh Gaz. I drive a turboed Imprezza and because of the fucking HP presence, only rarely get to enjoy it, but it will never be replaced by a Yaris......................

[roogazza]

Getting off subject, but yeah - It's all about 'mindset' eh Gaz. I drive a turboed Imprezza and because of the fucking HP presence, only rarely get to enjoy it, but it will never be replaced by a Yaris......................

Yeah sorry for my little rant there Bill. Back on topic, I think it might have 05 when all the mechanics were giving Nakano the rib about his high speed get off there when I think a rear tyre blew.
The fastest speed at the end of the straight that year was 346 kph. So Nakano must of been up around the 300 mark !!! ?? I remember standing next to him and thinking I could put him in my pocket he was that small.Obviously a tough little dude.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Yeah sorry for my little rant there Bill. Back on topic, I think it might have 05 when all the mechanics were giving Nakano the rib about his high speed get off there when I think a rear tyre blew.
The fastest speed at the end of the straight that year was 346 kph. So Nakano must of been up around the 300 mark !!! ?? I remember standing next to him and thinking I could put him in my pocket he was that small.Obviously a tough little dude.

It delamenated and locked up the back wheel when a huge hunk of it jammed in the swingarm throwing him over the bars. Was well scary to watch.

[merv]

Getting off subject, but yeah - It's all about 'mindset' eh Gaz. I drive a turboed Imprezza and because of the fucking HP presence, only rarely get to enjoy it, but it will never be replaced by a Yaris......................

You always were a bit of a rebel Bill.

[DidJit]

Couple of tid (http://motomatters.com/news/2013/06/10/mugello_meeting_helped_clear_the_air_bet.html)bits (http://motomatters.com/analysis/2013/06/10/how_the_law_of_supply_and_demand_is_grow.html) (if you haven’t already read them) to tide you over to the next race — thankfully just a matter of days away.

[HenryDorsetCase]

Getting off subject, but yeah - It's all about 'mindset' eh Gaz. I drive a turboed Imprezza and because of the fucking HP presence, only rarely get to enjoy it, but it will never be replaced by a Yaris......................

I get my jollies on a motorbike: cars are for carrying groceries, having a heater and a decent stereo....... OT.

[slowpoke]

I get my jollies on a motorbike: cars are for carrying groceries, having a heater and a decent stereo....... OT.

Limit your options if you like but I try and enjoy both, life is too short.

No MotoGP style fuel limits (just to bring me back on topic....vaguely) in my house and I figure the more petrol I'm using the more fun I'm having. 7L/100km's? Shameful! 21L/100km's? Yeah baby!

[Drew]

7L/100km's? Shameful! 21L/100km's? Yeah baby!I've only seen you out in the beast once though!

[Deano]

I've only seen you out in the beast once though!

Pretty scary when he overtakes you at warp 9 and the backfire blast as he changes gear.

That'll learn me for not practicing in my own class I guess LOL

[Drew]

Pretty scary when he overtakes you at warp 9 and the backfire blast as he changes gear.

That'll learn me for not practicing in my own class I guess LOLIf he overtook you in the car I think he's talking about, instead of the bike you're thinking about, you need to retire ol' bean.

[Deano]

If he overtook you in the car I think he's talking about, instead of the bike you're thinking about, you need to retire ol' bean.

Oh were we talking about cars ? I thought this was a biker site LOL

It was his Gixxer at Levels.

[Drew]

Oh were we talking about cars ? I thought this was a biker site LOL

It was his Gixxer at Levels.After a quick re read of his post, I think he's actually talking about a GP bike, and I got the context completely wrong.

[Tony.OK]

After a quick re read of his post, I think he's actually talking about a GP bike, and I got the context completely wrong.

Nah its his Lady car the Cayenne, surprisingly you were right the first time bro.

[slowpoke]

I've only seen you out in the beast once though!


Pretty scary when he overtakes you at warp 9 and the backfire blast as he changes gear.

That'll learn me for not practicing in my own class I guess LOL


If he overtook you in the car I think he's talking about, instead of the bike you're thinking about, you need to retire ol' bean.


Nah its his Lady car the Cayenne, surprisingly you were right the first time bro.

Y'all are talkin' 'bout 3 different veehickles, but funnily enough they all get about the same mileage. Glad to see there's a bike in there somewhere!

[Drew]

Y'all are talkin' 'bout 3 different veehickles, but funnily enough they all get about the same mileage. Glad to see there's a bike in there somewhere!Piss off, you'd be driving like a girl to get 100k's on 21 litres of fuel in the 'merican thingie.

[DidJit]

Nice little interview (http://motomatters.com/interview/2013/06/11/peter_clifford_interview_on_red_bull_roo.html) over on motomatters.com on the Redbull Rookies programme. Jake Lewis and the EJC even get a mention.

[Oscar]

Nice little interview (http://motomatters.com/interview/2013/06/11/peter_clifford_interview_on_red_bull_roo.html) over on motomatters.com on the Redbull Rookies programme. Jake Lewis and the EJC even get a mention.

Pete's a great guy (he threw a R100PD at me once, but that's another story).
I think he's still got his place in Wanganui.

http://oscar.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Mugello-2008/i-tMVkbTm/0/L/IMG_4400-L.jpg

[roogazza]

Pete's a great guy (he threw a R100PD at me once, but that's another story).
I think he's still got his place in Wanganui.
Yes Oscar, and he still looks amazingly young for his age. First time I saw him in the late 70's he was having a go in Prod over here, don't think he made it into the top 10 tho ? LOL.
Wasn't he with RedBull when Crafar rode for them?

[Oscar]

Yes Oscar, and he still looks amazingly young for his age. First time I saw him in the late 70's he was having a go in Prod over here, don't think he made it into the top 10 tho ? LOL.
Wasn't he with RedBull when Crafar rode for them?

Yeah, that pic (with 4skins) was taken at Mugello in 2008, but he is still looking lean...

He had a crack with a TZ250 for a while, but never set the world on fire.
He rode with Mike Webb in the last three Castrol Six Hour races (Team Mens Warehouse! I was the Team Manager, and boy, we looked flash).
They were leading the last one when Pete overcooked it in the infield.
I think we came second.

As far as the team was concerned, I reckoned we won the pit crew comp, we fuelled up and changed a wheel in 19 seconds...

[HenryDorsetCase]

Limit your options if you like but I try and enjoy both, life is too short.

No MotoGP style fuel limits (just to bring me back on topic....vaguely) in my house and I figure the more petrol I'm using the more fun I'm having. 7L/100km's? Shameful! 21L/100km's? Yeah baby!

21 l/100k: blimey.

I know someone with one of those V10 VW Toerags, and it gets that when he has his foot up it. Which is all the time...

[denill]

Wasn't he with RedBull when Crafar rode for them?

Yes and my recollection is that he shit on Crafar. Someone will tell me if my memory is clouded. :facepalm:

[Oscar]

Yes and my recollection is that he shit on Crafar. Someone will tell me if my memory is clouded. :facepalm:

My recollection is that Simon left because he couldn't adjust to dunlops.
It is pretty moot as WCM lost Yamaha and Red Bull shortly thereafter...

[Geeen]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDhp11mKYyk

Seems MM is far from the first to drag his elbow, heaps others doing it.

[Kendog]

Seems MM is far from the first to drag his elbow, heaps others doing it.
Raised ground, doesn't count ;)

[sugilite]

My recollection is that Simon left because he couldn't adjust to dunlops.
It is pretty moot as WCM lost Yamaha and Red Bull shortly thereafter...
I think it was the other way around. Simon was winning on Dunlops, then the next year the team switched to michelin and Simon was not the same on those. I always thought that WCM being a private team, yet had a winning bike/rider/tyre combo were absolutely insane to go and change that, as history came to prove, such a waste!

[Oscar]

I think it was the other way around. Simon was winning on Dunlops, then the next year the team switched to michelin and Simon was not the same on those. I always thought that WCM being a private team, yet had a winning bike/rider/tyre combo were absolutely insane to go and change that, as history came to prove, such a waste!

I stand corrected.
I think there also talk that as Simon had just started a family, he'd lost a bit of his edge.

[sugilite]

I stand corrected.
I think there also talk that as Simon had just started a family, he'd lost a bit of his edge.
I'm not sure bout the family thing, I would be surprised if a rider had just started winning at the pinnacle of his sport would let that effect him much. My smoke hazed dodgy memory recalls that at the time the dunlops had less side grip but were very consistent sliders right to the last lap, which suited Simon. The michelins of the day had more side grip, but let go very suddenly causing massive confidence bursting high sides, esp if one was used to the consistent dunlops. I remember even the production slicks of the day were like that. In 90 (I think) Tony Rees was backed by Yokahama and at Ruapuna on the sweeper leading to the front straight, Tony had it hanging out speedway style. Honestly one of the most awe inspiring sights I've yet seen on the NZ scene. For the TT race, Yokahamas man (Ian Dawson?) told Tony he could fit a michelin in order to have a chance at winning. Tony did so, but on lap 2 on the very same corner met with the infamous michelin high side, was scary to see for sure as it was epic. Lucky he was a tough nuggety bugga!

[Crasherfromwayback]

. Tony did so, but on lap 2 on the very same corner met with the infamous michelin high side, was scary to see for sure as it was epic. Lucky he was a tough nuggety bugga!

I was there to see that too.

[roogazza]

I think it was the other way around. Simon was winning on Dunlops, then the next year the team switched to michelin and Simon was not the same on those. I always thought that WCM being a private team, yet had a winning bike/rider/tyre combo were absolutely insane to go and change that, as history came to prove, such a waste!

I think you may well be correct there sugilite. The first time I met my French friend (Jacques Hutteau of ELF fuel) about 8 yrs ago, he said (knowing I was a kiwi) what about that Crafar guy ? 12 seconds on Doohan at Donington where did that come from ???? His opinion was that it was tyres (Dunlops), but a great ride all the same.

[AllanB]

They must use much grippier paint on the racecourse than NZ roads or that front tyre would slide out!

[McWild]

They must use much grippier paint on the racecourse than NZ roads or that front tyre would slide out!

That's something I've always been curious about actually, the majority of racetracks on the calendar there never seems to be an issue braking hard or accelerating hard on the white lines, even in the wet. Anyone know what sort of paint is being put on the track to allow that?

[Geeen]

That's something I've always been curious about actually, the majority of racetracks on the calendar there never seems to be an issue braking hard or accelerating hard on the white lines, even in the wet. Anyone know what sort of paint is being put on the track to allow that?

When I was watching the IOM coverage the commentators were talking about the paint mix used for the white lines, they do add sand or something to it to make it grippier. I can only assume a similar thing is done on racetracks

[sugilite]

I read somewhere years ago it was recycled crushed glass, and eu countries even use it on their roads, now there is a thought!

[Drew]

I read somewhere years ago it was recycled crushed glass, and eu countries even use it on their roads, now there is a thought!

That's just so everyone feels good about recycling. Crushed up glass...is sand. They use it for sand traps at golf courses too.

Anyhoo, sand in paint is very grippy. It also completely fucks spray units. So we'll never get it here, since road marking is an outsourced service.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Anyhoo, sand in paint is very grippy. It also completely fucks spray units. So we'll never get it here, since road marking is an outsourced service.

So let's just put some paint in their sand blasters then...

[DidJit]

:lol: “You must spread some Reputation around before giving it to Crasherfromwayback again.”

[denill]

The money shot yah missed Gaz!

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/image/archive/vr46gf.jpg

[roogazza]

[QUOTE=denill;1130563234]The money shot yah missed Gaz!

You've been searching haven't ya? Ya dirty old beast !!!! :corn:

[denill]

[QUOTE=denill;1130563234]The money shot yah missed Gaz!

You've been stalking haven't ya? Ya dirty old beast !!!! :corn:

Fixed it for ya. ;)

[roogazza]

http://www.paddockchatter.com/2013/06/lorenzo-very-optimistic-in-run-up-to.html
Can't wait to see what happens here. C'mon Rossi it's time !

[pritch]

http://www.paddockchatter.com/2013/06/lorenzo-very-optimistic-in-run-up-to.html
Can't wait to see what happens here. C'mon Rossi it's time !

I see that Rossi acknowledges tha importance of qualifying well. As he should. Here's hoping he watched replays of the last outing where Lorenzo was waiting at the pit lane exit, was first away when the green flag came out, and he alone had a clear track.

Coming out of pit lane second after Jorge wouldn't be a disaster, but anywhere further back than that would be risking another result like Mugello.

[Crasherfromwayback]

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jun/130613c.htm


<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JSUIQgEVDM4?feature=player_detailpage" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[DidJit]

He’ll be back.

And for this weekend, “Let’s go, Pedro! Let’s go, Pedro! Let’s go, Pedro!”

[Crasherfromwayback]

He’ll be back.

And for this weekend, “Let’s go, Pedro! Let’s go, Pedro! Let’s go, Pedro!”

I'd like to see MM take the win and close the points race right up!

[Mental Trousers]

Been backing Pedro for the title since the end of last year so hopefully he'll show MM how to do it this weekend.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Been backing Pedro for the title since the end of last year so hopefully he'll show MM how to do it this weekend.

Home race for them both!

[yod]

Nah, Rossi for the win, Marquez to take out the midget in the last corner and Lorenzo to have an engine explosion....just to liven up the points table

edit: and Dovi on the podium!

[roogazza]

Home race for them both!
I know it's Horhays home race , but wasn't sure where the other two come from ?
Any news from First Practice I not hear nuttin ! :sweatdrop

[Crasherfromwayback]

I know it's Horhays home race , but wasn't sure where the other two come from ?
Any news from First Practice I not hear nuttin ! :sweatdrop

No no...Horhay aon't Catalayan. The other two are. First practice at 8.00pm our time. I'll watch it and report back. Sign up for MotoGP.com and watch it live too Old Timer!

[Drew]

C'mon PEDRO!!!

[BMWST?]

<tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">
1
99
Jorge LORENZO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Jorge+Lorenzo)
SPA
Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha
335.9
1'42.422



2
26
Dani PEDROSA (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Dani+Pedrosa)
SPA
Repsol Honda Team
Honda
338.4
1'42.445
0.023 / 0.023


3
35
Cal CRUTCHLOW (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Cal+Crutchlow)
GBR
Monster Yamaha Tech 3
Yamaha
333.6
1'42.492
0.070 / 0.047


4
46
Valentino ROSSI (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Valentino+Rossi)
ITA
Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha
335.9
1'42.861
0.439 / 0.369


5
4
Andrea DOVIZIOSO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Andrea+Dovizioso)
ITA
Ducati Team
Ducati
337.3
1'43.111
0.689 / 0.250


6
19
Alvaro BAUTISTA (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Alvaro+Bautista)
SPA
GO&FUN Honda Gresini
Honda
338.0
1'43.112
0.690 / 0.001


7
6
Stefan BRADL (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Stefan+Bradl)
GER
LCR Honda MotoGP
Honda
338.5
1'43.196
0.774 / 0.084


8
69
Nicky HAYDEN (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Nicky+Hayden)
USA
Ducati Team
Ducati
339.4
1'43.488
1.066 / 0.292


9
93
Marc MARQUEZ (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Marc+Marquez)
SPA
Repsol Honda Team
Honda
336.2
1'43.641
1.219 / 0.153


10
41
Aleix ESPARGARO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Aleix+Espargaro)
SPA
Power Electronics Aspar
ART
322.4
1'43.814
1.392 / 0.173


11
29
Andrea IANNONE (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Andrea+Iannone)
ITA
Energy T.I. Pramac Racing
Ducati
336.9
1'44.069
1.647 / 0.255


12
38
Bradley SMITH (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Bradley+Smith)
GBR
Monster Yamaha Tech 3
Yamaha
324.2
1'44.392
1.970 / 0.323


13
51
Michele PIRRO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Michele+Pirro)
ITA
Ignite Pramac Racing
Ducati
332.6
1'44.519
2.097 / 0.127


14
14
Randy DE PUNIET (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Randy+de+Puniet)
FRA
Power Electronics Aspar
ART
316.0
1'44.558
2.136 / 0.039


15
5
Colin EDWARDS (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Colin+Edwards)
USA
NGM Mobile Forward Racing
FTR Kawasaki
315.9
1'45.167
2.745 / 0.609


16
17
Karel ABRAHAM (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Karel+Abraham)
CZE
Cardion AB Motoracing
ART
317.6
1'45.251
2.829 / 0.084


17
9
Danilo PETRUCCI (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Danilo+Petrucci)
ITA
Came IodaRacing Project
Ioda-Suter
316.7
1'45.371
2.949 / 0.120


18
8
Hector BARBERA (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Hector+Barbera)
SPA
Avintia Blusens
FTR
313.9
1'45.457
3.035 / 0.086


19
68
Yonny HERNANDEZ (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Yonny+Hernandez)
COL
Paul Bird Motorsport
ART
317.7
1'45.824
3.402 / 0.367


20
7
Hiroshi AOYAMA (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Hiroshi+Aoyama)
JPN
Avintia Blusens
FTR
314.5
1'45.925
3.503 / 0.101


21
71
Claudio CORTI (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Claudio+Corti)
ITA
NGM Mobile Forward Racing
FTR Kawasaki
318.4
1'46.263
3.841 / 0.338


22
70
Michael LAVERTY (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Michael+Laverty)
GBR
Paul Bird Motorsport
PBM
318.9
1'46.750
4.328 / 0.487


23
67
Bryan STARING (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Bryan+Staring)
AUS
GO&FUN Honda Gresini
FTR Honda
316.3
1'47.070
4.648 / 0.320


24
52
Lukas PESEK (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Lukas+Pesek)
CZE
Came IodaRacing Project
Ioda-Suter
304.0
1'47.483
5.061 / 0.413

</tbody>
Weather Conditions: | Track Condition: Dry| Air: 25º| Humidity: 50%| Ground: 33ºRecords:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Rossi quickest in 2nd session.

[McWild]

No no...Horhay aon't Catalayan. The other two are. First practice at 8.00pm our time. I'll watch it and report back. Sign up for MotoGP.com and watch it live too Old Timer!

Although not born in Catalunya (but in the Balaeric Islands), culturally speaking islanders are pretty much Catalunyan - Catalan is one of the official languages of the region, and as well as being really close geographically their cultural ties run pretty deep. Add to that, Lorenzo never runs a Catalunya GP without the FC Barcelona design on his helmet.... It's as close to a home GP as he has. Aragon, Jerez and Valencia certainly don't have the same ties to him.

[roogazza]

Rossi quickest in 2nd session.
Ta,
Just needs to Qual better,
keep away from fucken Bautista,
not crash anymore,
have more luck.
He can race, this could be it ? Too hopeful ????? lol.
or at the least, a Yamaha 1,2.
I can't believe that the Tech3 Yam is that far off the 'Works' jobbies ? Give the second one to Redding he's impressive in the flesh.

[Drew]

Ta,
Justs need to Qual better,
I wonder if Rossi isn't now pressuring himself a bit much in qualifying. Back in the day, it was never a problem for him to start from the second row, or even further back sometimes. He'd just muscle through a field, and fuck the fuck off into the distance.

With this new breed of aliens, and Cal Crutchlow manhandling his bike around, he knows he has to start putting the thing up front, and can't seem to do it.

[roogazza]

I wonder if Rossi isn't now pressuring himself a bit much in qualifying. Back in the day, it was never a problem for him to start from the second row, or even further back sometimes. He'd just muscle through a field, and fuck the fuck off into the distance.

With this new breed of aliens, and Cal Crutchlow manhandling his bike around, he knows he has to start putting the thing up front, and can't seem to do it.

I get updates on faceache, he's fastest at the mo !!!!!!

[Drew]

I get updates on faceache, he's fastest at the mo !!!!!!He's done that before though. Come qualify and race time, everyone else picks up the pace and our boy seems not to.

[roogazza]

He's done that before though. Come qualify and race time, everyone else picks up the pace and our boy seems not to.

SHhhhhhhhhsh ! have faith my son !

[DidJit]

Valentino! :sunny: Enjoyed seeing him carve out that hot lap.
He knows it’s only FP2 and that he'll have to pick up the pace (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/June/jun1413-rossi-boosted-by-practice-pace/) in Qualifying.

[White trash]

Lol. Just caught the end of FP3 and was laughing at how Spies replacement "Test" rider is about to overtake B Smith and then I went looking for Nicky Hayden out of interest, couldn't find his name for aaaaaages. WTF:eek5: Hope this form continues all weekend.

Edit: Aaaaaand, as I understand it, recorded the highest ever speed for the class in the speed trap. Some 341kph. Farken 'ell! Gizza go meester!

[speights_bud]

Q2 about to start woo!!:scooter::woohoo:

[denill]

Hey Gaz, I think even you will admit that your guy has not got the pace. :weep:

It's far enough into the season to iron out the bumps but these guys are all that much quicker. Sure, in a race situation his racecraft just might give him a good result but it seems right now that the speed is not there.

In fact Crutchlow can rightly feel aggrieved that he is not on the works Yamaha.

[merv]

In fact Crutchlow can rightly feel aggrieved that he is not on the works Yamaha.

Funny that when you see his qualifying result lol, those bikes are so evenly matched, and within 0.1 on top speed.

35 Cal CRUTCHLOW GBR Monster Yamaha Tech 3 YAMAHA 1'41.501 8 8 0.608 0.608 336.3
99 Jorge LORENZO SPA Yamaha Factory Racing YAMAHA 1'41.566 7 7 0.673 0.065 336.4

[roogazza]

Hey Gaz, I think even you will admit that your guy has not got the pace. :weep:
It's far enough into the season to iron out the bumps but these guys are all that much quicker. Sure, in a race situation his racecraft just might give him a good result but it seems right now that the speed is not there.
In fact Crutchlow can rightly feel aggrieved that he is not on the works Yamaha.
Yep it's tough huh ? Yamahas are all pretty close but I wouldn't back Crutchless. The Tech3 has to be close to the 'Works" no ?
I thought it would be a Honda year anyway.
No, Vales' my fav and if he's up against it, thats ok. 9 Titles is great and that might just be IT ?
But he can race, that's what I like about him.
I mean ya stick by the wife, even if she's old huh ? Mind you some don't! lol.

[merv]

Well, Yamaha is trying to take on "the World's greatest engine maker" http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/06/15/engine_trouble_looming_for_yamaha_rossi_.html

[BMWST?]

<tbody>
1
26
Dani PEDROSA (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Dani+Pedrosa)
SPA
Repsol Honda Team
Honda
339.3
1'40.893



2
35
Cal CRUTCHLOW (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Cal+Crutchlow)
GBR
Monster Yamaha Tech 3
Yamaha
336.3
1'41.501
0.608 / 0.608


3
99
Jorge LORENZO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Jorge+Lorenzo)
SPA
Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha
336.4
1'41.566
0.673 / 0.065


4
19
Alvaro BAUTISTA (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Alvaro+Bautista)
SPA
GO&FUN Honda Gresini
Honda
339.5
1'41.714
0.821 / 0.148


5
69
Nicky HAYDEN (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Nicky+Hayden)
USA
Ducati Team
Ducati
341.5
1'41.800
0.907 / 0.086


6
93
Marc MARQUEZ (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Marc+Marquez)
SPA
Repsol Honda Team
Honda
342.4
1'41.842
0.949 / 0.042


7
46
Valentino ROSSI (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Valentino+Rossi)
ITA
Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha
336.1
1'41.959
1.066 / 0.117


8
29
Andrea IANNONE (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Andrea+Iannone)
ITA
Energy T.I. Pramac Racing
Ducati
338.7
1'41.963
1.070 / 0.004


9
4
Andrea DOVIZIOSO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Andrea+Dovizioso)
ITA
Ducati Team
Ducati
337.6
1'42.053
1.160 / 0.090


10
6
Stefan BRADL (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Stefan+Bradl)
GER
LCR Honda MotoGP
Honda
339.9
1'42.090
1.197 / 0.037


11
38
Bradley SMITH (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Bradley+Smith)
GBR
Monster Yamaha Tech 3
Yamaha
330.2
1'42.548
1.655 / 0.458


12
41
Aleix ESPARGARO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Aleix+Espargaro)
SPA
Power Electronics Aspar
ART
324.4
1'42.878
1.985 / 0.330

</tbody>
Weather Conditions:

| Track Condition: Dry| Air: 30º|Humidity: 27%| Ground: 52º

cuple of surprises there,AB outqualified rossi amd bradl and marquez,and Bradl and Dovi lower than i woulda thought,praps they concentrationg on race setup,look at track temp!

Q1

<tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">
1
38
Bradley SMITH (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Bradley+Smith)
GBR
Monster Yamaha Tech 3
Yamaha
330.3
1'42.607



2
29
Andrea IANNONE (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Andrea+Iannone)
ITA
Energy T.I. Pramac Racing
Ducati
338.1
1'42.660
0.053 / 0.053


3
14
Randy DE PUNIET (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Randy+de+Puniet)
FRA
Power Electronics Aspar
ART
319.2
1'43.186
0.579 / 0.526


4
51
Michele PIRRO (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Michele+Pirro)
ITA
Ignite Pramac Racing
Ducati
331.8
1'43.330
0.723 / 0.144


5
8
Hector BARBERA (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Hector+Barbera)
SPA
Avintia Blusens
FTR
318.5
1'43.659
1.052 / 0.329


6
5
Colin EDWARDS (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Colin+Edwards)
USA
NGM Mobile Forward Racing
FTR Kawasaki
318.9
1'43.983
1.376 / 0.324


7
17
Karel ABRAHAM (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Karel+Abraham)
CZE
Cardion AB Motoracing
ART
320.9
1'44.362
1.755 / 0.379


8
9
Danilo PETRUCCI (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Danilo+Petrucci)
ITA
Came IodaRacing Project
Ioda-Suter
317.3
1'44.369
1.762 / 0.007


9
71
Claudio CORTI (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Claudio+Corti)
ITA
NGM Mobile Forward Racing
FTR Kawasaki
319.3
1'44.603
1.996 / 0.234


10
70
Michael LAVERTY (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Michael+Laverty)
GBR
Paul Bird Motorsport
PBM
322.0
1'44.630
2.023 / 0.027


11
68
Yonny HERNANDEZ (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Yonny+Hernandez)
COL
Paul Bird Motorsport
ART
318.9
1'44.913
2.306 / 0.283


12
67
Bryan STARING (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Bryan+Staring)
AUS
GO&FUN Honda Gresini
FTR Honda
317.2
1'45.441
2.834 / 0.528


13
52
Lukas PESEK (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Lukas+Pesek)
CZE
Came IodaRacing Project
Ioda-Suter
313.2
1'46.302
3.695 / 0.861


14
77
Javier DEL AMOR (http://www.motogp.com/en/riders/Javier+Del+Amor)
SPA
Avintia Blusens
FTR
309.4
1'48.952
6.345 / 2.650

</tbody>
Weather Conditions: | Track Condition: Dry| Air: 30º| Humidity: 26%| Ground: 52º

[Crasherfromwayback]

Looks to me like Rossi can ad his name to the list of racers that have been finished by racing the Ducati. I mean...over a second off the pole sitter...and also behind Nicky Hayden on the Ducati? Not good no matter how much you try and sugar coat it. And you can go on about the new qualifying rules not suiting him...but that's fucking crap too. They're new to eveyone else as well by the way. THe goal posts have moved. He hasn't.

[roogazza]

Well, Yamaha is trying to take on "the World's greatest engine maker" http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/06/15/engine_trouble_looming_for_yamaha_rossi_.html

Hard to compete with that Merv. I guess you have a fav in Pedrosa ?
That freaky, what was it .6 in front of 2nd place qual must make him favorite. The 2nd to 7th is only covered by about .7, so all are close for a chance, esspecially Rossi barring a slip off or somesuch. Could be a very good race if they can stick to Pedrosa and not let him get away. Not for MM and Crutch so much, but Horhay and Rossi maybe.
I'll put my 46 hat on, that'll help.

[BMWST?]

i think the track temps will make it a save the tyre day..we know that Mr Rossi can ride well on worn out tyres,Jlo is pure class,MM wont be afraid and CC wont give up.I predict the ducs will fade badly if it stays hot,Bradl and AB may be in the mix if they can preserve the tyres.If dani can get away and save his tyres till the end i am gonna pick him

[cmoore]

Well, Yamaha is trying to take on "the World's greatest engine maker" http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/06/15/engine_trouble_looming_for_yamaha_rossi_.html

he said the same in 2012 http://motomatters.com/analysis/2012/10/24/the_engine_situation_will_lorenzo_make_i.html

who won that year?....

[onearmedbandit]

In fact Crutchlow can rightly feel aggrieved that he is not on the works Yamaha.

When CC can bring the exposure and money that Rossi can then he can feel aggrieved. This is business.

[merv]

he said the same in 2012 http://motomatters.com/analysis/2012/10/24/the_engine_situation_will_lorenzo_make_i.html

who won that year?....

Lol, maybe Yamaha are just taking the piss and rotates its engines just to keep everyone guessing.

[denill]

Funny that when you see his qualifying result lol, those bikes are so evenly matched, and within 0.1 on top speed.

35 Cal CRUTCHLOW GBR Monster Yamaha Tech 3 YAMAHA 1'41.501 8 8 0.608 0.608 336.3
99 Jorge LORENZO SPA Yamaha Factory Racing YAMAHA 1'41.566 7 7 0.673 0.065 336.4

Perhaps Merv, that indicates Crutchlow has the ability to ride what they brung? (Rather than - the Tech3 is up to works performance.) I'm thinking so. ;)

[denill]

When CC can bring the exposure and money that Rossi can then he can feel aggrieved. This is business.

And who comes close to Rossi in that respect? ;)

[BMWST?]

MM might be the next Brian

sent from the tag

[Trudes]

Go Nicky Go!!!! :scooter: :heart:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Go Nicky Go!!!! :scooter: :heart:

She wants to root him... (que scene from the film Hercules Returns...)

[merv]

She wants to root him... (que scene from the film Hercules Returns...)

Perhaps its time he changed careers and became a male "escort".

[roogazza]

Perhaps Merv, that indicates Crutchlow has the ability to ride what they brung? (Rather than - the Tech3 is up to works performance.) I'm thinking so. ;)

He's riding well for sure Bill, but it shows the bikes are very much equal, in speed at least.

[denill]

He's riding well for sure Bill, but it shows the bikes are very much equal, in speed at least.

Well it's working that way for one of the Poms. ;)

[Trudes]

Nothing to do with that, he's just a good ol' boy who I reckon deserves some good results on the cruddy bike that nobody seems to have any joy on but he keeps persevering.
If it was about looks then I'd be a huge fan of Jorge or Stefan Bradl. :drool:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Crutchlow quickest in morning warm up...some nasty clouds forming...possability of rain. Hope it doesn't!

[steveyb]

Shit!! Did y'all see the right side of Espargaro's rear tyre in parc ferme!!!!!!!

Falling apart!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[SWERVE]

Shit!! Did y'all see the right side of Espargaro's rear tyre in parc ferme!!!!!!!

Falling apart!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And he still put in quick laps right to the end......... didn't look loose either.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Shit!! Did y'all see the right side of Espargaro's rear tyre in parc ferme!!!!!!!

Falling apart!!!!!!!!!!!!!


And he still put in quick laps right to the end......... didn't look loose either.

Yeah it was wasted eh!

Nearly had to give MT 2 doz for the GP race. Bradley 6th...

Still feeling good about that bet though.

[Mental Trousers]

Yeah it was wasted eh!

Nearly had to give MT 2 doz for the GP race. Bradley 6th...

Still feeling good about that bet though.

.... and there's still plenty of races left. You should be nervous bro!!

[HenryDorsetCase]

And who comes close to Rossi in that respect? ;)


Stoner




.......too soon?

[steveyb]

Not sure how many people caught it, but commentators noted how many engines the Yamaha Factory team have used out of their allocation.
Already both George and Vale are on engine #4 out of 5.
Does not mean that the 4 are toast, and they might actually be cycling them perhaps.
But HRC team are only on engine #2.

Hope it does not affect how they go or if they have to dial back engines or have failures.

[Crasherfromwayback]

.... and there's still plenty of races left. You should be nervous bro!!

Not at all really. It took for Bautista, Crutchlow and Hayden to bin it for him to get that 6th place. Can't see another top 6 finisher doing it anytime soon. And that's what it'll take I reckon. Think OAB can actually just send me my carton of Steinies now though. Unless Lorenzo has a season ending injury...it's over.

[roogazza]

Not at all really. It took for Bautista, Crutchlow and Hayden to bin it for him to get that 6th place. Can't see another top 6 finisher doing it anytime soon. And that's what it'll take I reckon. Think OAB can actually just send me my carton of Steinies now though. Unless Lorenzo has a season ending injury...it's over.

So good race I haven't seen it , Horhay dragged Pedro to the first corner !!!!
4th Rossi , was he close ?
Oh well back to the porn. (clean porn).284055

[Crasherfromwayback]

So good race I haven't seen it , Horhay dragged Pedro to the first corner !!!!
4th Rossi , was he close ?
Oh well back to the porn. (clean porn).284055

Not much passing going on...but a great display by the top three regardless. Lorenzo bullied Pedro into turn one second race in a row. Not sure if Rossi would've beaten Crutchlow if he'd stayed onboard...may've made for a good scrap. MM had a huge moment and an awesome save late in the race. Bring on Assen! Oh...and should we start moaning about how good the Yamaha is yet? I mean...two races in a row? Not fair on the Honda guys right? Pfffft.

[carbonhed]

Not at all really. It took for Bautista, Crutchlow and Hayden to bin it for him to get that 6th place. Can't see another top 6 finisher doing it anytime soon. And that's what it'll take I reckon. Think OAB can actually just send me my carton of Steinies now though. Unless Lorenzo has a season ending injury...it's over.

Marquez came within a whisker of promoting him to 4th!

[Crasherfromwayback]

Marquez came within a whisker of promoting him to 4th!

Reckon. At first I thought he may've clipped Pedro...but he didn't. Just tucked the front. Was an epic save I reckon.

[denill]

Marquez came within a whisker of promoting him to 4th!

MM came within a whisker of promoting Rossi to 2nd........................

[carbonhed]

Reckon. At first I thought he may've clipped Pedro...but he didn't. Just tucked the front. Was an epic save I reckon.

He makes a lot of amazing saves. Looks like he's kind of loose and light on the bike and just goes with it... dunno, beyond my pay scale.

[Crasherfromwayback]

He makes a lot of amazing saves. Looks like he's kind of loose and light on the bike and just goes with it... dunno, beyond my pay scale.

The scary thing for the others is that he appears to be able to learn as he goes...and is only gonna get better/faster. It looked to me like if he'd have got past Pedro...he may've been able to chase down Lorenzo. Looked a lil to me like Pedro was holding him up a lil. Kudos to Pedro for riding defensively enough to keep him at bay though. Something Lorenzo didn't do to MM at Jerez...

[carbonhed]

The scary thing for the others is that he appears to be able to learn as he goes...and is only gonna get better/faster. It looked to me like if he'd have got past Pedro...he may've been able to chase down Lorenzo. Looked a lil to me like Pedro was holding him up a lil. Kudos to Pedro for riding defensively enough to keep him at bay though. Something Lorenzo didn't do to MM at Jerez...

Yep. He's got the pace of JLo and pedro, bike skills like Stoner and racecraft/hunger like Rossi... scarey.