MotoGP 2015

[Autech]

The people have spoken, Dovi it is. Always liked Dovi as a rider in the sense that he was dependable, him and Crutchlow had a few good battles a few years back on the satellite Yami`s.

Heard a statistic that Dani Pedrosa has the most wins out of any rider NOT to have won a motogp title. He did have all the youngest ones till Marquez came along. I think Fabio is about to knock all of Marquez`s `youngest rider ever to` titles for six though.

[pritch]

Pedrosa has had "invasive micro surgery". Hard to tell exactly what's going on other than maybe somebody has discovered new buzzwords. The op is stated to be a success. I'da thunk that would only become clear when he could ride without arm pump. Then again I'm not a surgeon - or a journalist.

From MotoMatters:

The operation to fix Dani Pedrosa's arm pump has been judged a success. Dr. Angel Villamor performed a fasciectomy via microsurgery today, removing the membrane that encloses the forearm muscles to allow them to expand. The procedure is a radical one, but having had two prior fasciotomy operations - where the membrane is merely opened, but not removed - which failed to alleviate the symptoms, it was one of the very few courses of action left open to the Spaniard.

[pritch]

Some reading material for a wet(ish) Saturday.

https://motomatters.com/news/2015/04/03/2016_motogp_rules_clarified_7_engines_22.html

[pritch]

Somewhat startling to read that Honda had discussions with Stoner about subbing for Pedrosa and that he was apparently interested. Supio says though that the public would expect Stoner to be competitive but he has not seen either of the tracks that he would have to ride. Also his testing programme has only been light so the idea went into the "too hard" basket.

David Emmett writes that he is surprised Stoner didn't reject it outright as he has previously said he hates everything about MotoGP except the actual racing.

Maybe next time? He should be race fit once he recovers from the Suzuka 8 Hour.

[denill]

Somewhat startling to read that Honda had discussions with Stoner about subbing for Pedrosa and that he was apparently interested. Supio says though that the public would expect Stoner to be competitive but he has not seen either of the tracks that he would have to ride. Also his testing programme has only been light so the idea went into the "too hard" basket.

David Emmett writes that he is surprised Stoner didn't reject it outright as he has previously said he hates everything about MotoGP except the actual racing.

Maybe next time? He should be race fit once he recovers from the Suzuka 8 Hour.

Yes, it is JUST possible we could get another layer of icing on the cake. :shifty:

David Emmett @motomatters
To clarify: Casey Stoner is NOT coming back. But if the circumstances were right, he might ride as a substitute or wildcard

[denill]

And Gaz, If you really think, "All the racers are happy and getting on with each other", you'll believe in the tooth fairy too :yes:

[roogazza]

And Gaz, If you really think, "All the racers are happy and getting on with each other", you'll believe in the tooth fairy too :yes:
Tho they do seem more harmonious without the one with the cuddlyrug ?? :love:
The three Italians looked very happy at Rd,1. it seemed genuine.

[Brett]

I was really hoping to see Dani showing some serious competition this year. i really like the guy and believe that he has some excellent talent, he just seems to be alternating between fast and competitive but unlucky, or physically injured/incapable of riding at 10/10ths. The guy has at times show the ability to be a champion.

I would love to see Stoner return for few races, pity he couldn't handle the politics etc. because he was a sharp, cut, cat.

[ducatilover]

I doubt Stoner would be up and running with MM, if the dream ever came true. He's been out of the GP race scene too long, at that level you cannot afford to do so. Plus, MM has been far more dominant than he ever could have been. But, it would be choice to see him leaving sweet black lines again.

I hope Dani can ride without pump, if he can pull his usual pace consistently, we will have an interesting tittle battle on our hands

I expect George will be pushing hard as fuck at the start of the next race
MM will go hammer and tongs for the win against the Dukes.
Rossi will ride smart, as always and fuck fullas up towards the end.
Crazy Joe will just be as entertaining and impressive as always.
Dovi will continue to surprise the shit out of us.

I hate waiting for the GP races :doh:

[pritch]

I hate waiting for the GP races :doh:

You shouldn't have to wait long. The GP world is en route to Austin or arriving there already.

When we are setting our SKY boxes to record it might pay to remember:

a) The Austin races will be at a slightly unusual time

b) the WSBK circus is also performing this weekend.

[roogazza]

You shouldn't have to wait long. The GP world is en route to Austin or arriving there already.

When we are setting our SKY boxes to record it might pay to remember:

a) The Austin races will be at a slightly unusual time

b) the WSBK circus is also performing this weekend.

Feast or famine, I'm working my way thru 5 hours of BSB .
(I see that Jenny sheila went upside down from the rear of the grid.)

No rug rat grandkids this weekend either,I'll have the remote !! :bleh:

[Reckless]

I doubt Stoner would be up and running with MM:

Aside from the fact he didn't have enough passion to override the politics or life style?
I agree, not sure he'd leave this crew we got up front now behind, might get his arse kicked.

That said, we may see how he compares with the latest styles and Stoner might have company at the 8 hour if Yamaha gets its way??

http://www.sportrider.com/yamaha-wants-rossi-and-or-lorenzo-to-race-suzuka-8-hours

[Mental Trousers]

(I see that Jenny sheila went upside down from the rear of the grid.)

Somebody hit her from behind on the first lap but she stayed upright. Went into the pits where they bashed the exhaust into some sort of useful shape, she went out again and then crashed trying to make it up. Tough day at the office.

[roogazza]

310614

And one for Crasher pete on this wet Wednesday.
310615

[Oscar]

And one for Crasher pete on this wet Wednesday.
310615

Dave Aldana?

[Reckless]

DP
Must be said respect to Honda for sticking with him through thick and thin for the last couple of years :)
Operation a success from the looks of it.
Cant find the article I read, but from memory I think he had the whole thingy (very tech med term that) encasing the muscle removed as the last two times they cut it to relieve the pressure and that wasn't enough?

Dani Pedrosa talks about the outcome of his recent arm-pump surgery in the latest blog for his Repsol Honda Team.
Hey everybody.

I’d like to begin this week’s post by thanking all of you who have supported me all the way. I feel overwhelmed by all the affection that I’ve received. I’ve been rereading all your comments on the blog lately and I want you to know that I’m thankful from the bottom of my heart for all the encouragement.

Last week I told you how we had to make a decision and, in the end, we thought it was best for me to have the operation. Luckily, the operation went well and now it’s time to rest and attend the check ups. I’ll hope to have a smooth recovery and I’ll let you know how it goes.

Again, my thanks to all of you.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Dave Aldana?

Yep. That's why I had my own set made because of that cat.

[Oscar]

Yep. That's why I had my own set made because of that cat.

A legend...

http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz260/WildWill_photo/DA_2303Aldana.jpg

Dave, not you...

[Autech]

GO DANI!

That is all.

[Oscar]

GO DANI!

That is all.

Dani's not here, man...

[Crasherfromwayback]

A legend...
Dave, not you...

He certainly is! I'd never claim to be.

[Oscar]

He certainly is! I'd never claim to be.

I dunno, the older I get, the better I was...

[denill]

I dunno, the older I get, the better I was...

Really like that saying as it's so true. Those reading the postings on Facebook by a local guy whose background I know very well (He was fkn hopeless!) fits that saying like a glove. :rolleyes:

[Oscar]

Really like that saying as it's so true. Those reading the postings on Facebook by a local guy whose background I know very well (He was fkn hopeless!) fits that saying like a glove. :rolleyes:

I think it's your duty to out the guy.
If you don't, I'll be forced to tell you the story of how I was in the top 10 in the National Enduro Champs and would have got a gold medal but for the fact my XR exploded like a rusty hand grenade and maybe I was too slow....

[denill]

I think it's your duty to out the guy.
If you don't, I'll be forced to tell you the story of how I was in the top 10 in the National Enduro Champs and would have got a gold medal but for the fact my XR exploded like a rusty hand grenade and maybe I was too slow....

Off subject - but I really have to tell you: I won the National Enduro Champs, well I would have but for the fact my KDX and I were never quite as compatible as we should have been and I was tooooo slow

[Autech]

Dani's not here, man...

Fuck, I best stop shouting at the TV too when they are all racing!

[pritch]

DP

Cant find the article I read, but from memory I think he had the whole thingy (very tech med term that) encasing the muscle removed as the last two times they cut it to relieve the pressure and that wasn't enough?



That's it. When they do the normal op they seem to leave a scar six or eight inches long up the inside of the forearm. Other riders have posted pics on Twitter etc. This time they used micro surgery so maybe a smaller scar even though it's a bigger operation.

The pic might show his first attempt?

[roogazza]

I dunno, the older I get, the better I was...
:lol: I have that "T" but it ends, the faster I was !
My smart arse boys got it for me. "No Fear" I think it is ?

Of course they got me the "FigJam" hat too, later on.(arseholes).

[DidJit]

Any takers?
http://www.worldmotorsrearacing.com/#!moto2-race-bikes-for-sale/co7i

[pritch]

Any takers?


Nah. I was going to buy of Aleix Espagero's Forward Racing MotoGP bike. (In my dreams:whistle:) That team sells them every year it seems.

[McWild]

Say someone in NZ were to purchase either one of the above Moto2 bikes or even a Forward Yamaha. Would they be eligible to race in any of the NZ classes? Could you run a Moto2 bike in F2?

[sil3nt]

Quick read of supersport and superbike regs say the machines must be based on something sold in NZ.

Could run them as 450s in F3.

Could grab a Moto 3 and bore it out to get above 251cc and run it in F3. Or just run it in 125GP as it is.

That is if I understand the rules correctly....

[Autech]

Say someone in NZ were to purchase either one of the above Moto2 bikes or even a Forward Yamaha. Would they be eligible to race in any of the NZ classes? Could you run a Moto2 bike in F2?

I think the only way you could race this bike at national level in NZ (I think) would be to drop a cylinder and run it as a 450cc triple in F3.

[Shaun Harris]

Say someone in NZ were to purchase either one of the above Moto2 bikes or even a Forward Yamaha. Would they be eligible to race in any of the NZ classes? Could you run a Moto2 bike in F2?


F2 in the club scene and the SUZUKI series YES you could, but NOT in the NZ 600 champs

[pritch]

For several days now the weather forecast for Austin has consistently been for rain every day of the weekend.

At the press conference Rossi said that the Honda has an advantage at the CoTA track.

If the race is wet though the advantage Honda has on a stop start track might evaporate?

[Shaun Harris]

Dovi to win wet or dry man

[leenok]

It looks like Sky are only showing the highlights of the Austin GP?

[pritch]

Dovi to win wet or dry man

Well Rossi's comment would be based on his experience from last year. This year is different, Ducati is different and maybe the weather will be different. All of which helps make it interesting.

If SKY aren't showing the whole race live, that'll just make me feel better about my MotoGP subscription, My SKY box though is set to record for something like five hours around the same time the racing is happening in Texas so...

[eelracing]

It looks like Sky are only showing the highlights of the Austin GP?

Qualifying Sunday morning 05:25.NZ Time.
Racing starts Monday morning 03:40.NZ Time.MotoGP first up.
Both on Sky Channel 53.

[Shaun Harris]

Well Rossi's comment would be based on his experience from last year. This year is different, Ducati is different and maybe the weather will be different. All of which helps make it interesting.

If SKY aren't showing the whole race live, that'll just make me feel better about my MotoGP subscription, My SKY box though is set to record for something like five hours around the same time the racing is happening in Texas so...


Dovi made the podium there last year on the old bike, and the 15 is even faster in a streight line that the old one

[Oscar]

Yeah, I was thinking Austin was a "Honda Track", but maybe the GP15's straight line speed makes it a "Duc Track".

[roogazza]

Qualifying Sunday morning 05:25.NZ Time.
Racing starts Monday morning 03:40.NZ Time.MotoGP first up.
Both on Sky Channel 53.

Thanks eel. :woohoo::woohoo:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Yeah, I was thinking Austin was a "Honda Track", but maybe the GP15's straight line speed makes it a "Duc Track".

Dovi was 3rd there last year on the heap of shit. So this year no reason why he won't be there or thereabouts I guess.

[eelracing]

Dovi made the podium there last year on the old bike, and the 15 is even faster in a streight line that the old one


Yeah, I was thinking Austin was a "Honda Track", but maybe the GP15's straight line speed makes it a "Duc Track".

Quit yer dreaming now lads Marquez will slay em.

[leenok]

Qualifying Sunday morning 05:25.NZ Time.
Racing starts Monday morning 03:40.NZ Time.MotoGP first up.
Both on Sky Channel 53.

Thanks Eel

[Crasherfromwayback]

Quit yer dreaming now lads Marquez will slay em.

Pity we never got to see the crazy lad on a 500 smoker.

[Reckless]

Pity we never got to see the crazy lad on a 500 smoker.

Oh yes but now your makin us all feel old LOL

MM for the win in the dry, VR in the wet, Ducati as a surprise to beat everyone.

[DidJit]

Hmmm... (https://twitter.com/Official_CS27/status/586306613910183936) :ride:

[eelracing]

Pity we never got to see the crazy lad on a 500 smoker.

Ha if only.
Remember the 'Honda lane' at Hockenheim,Rainey proved all a good rider needed was a tow.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Ha if only.
Remember the 'Honda lane' at Hockenheim,Rainey proved all a good rider needed was a tow.

Ito after doing 200mph there. "So Ito San...how does it feel to go 200mph?"

"Much like 199!"

Who said the Japanese don't have a sense of humour eh?

[Reckless]

Hmmm... (https://twitter.com/Official_CS27/status/586306613910183936) :ride:

So he would have ridden well that's interesting.

[speights_bud]

A journo asked MM about Stoner and Honda not letting him ride.
Funny Dorna edited the audio to 'blank out' the words Casey Stoner when the journo speaks...

23 minutes into pre-race press conference for those with the online pass

[Reckless]

A journo asked MM about Stoner and Honda not letting him ride.
Funny Dorna edited the audio to 'blank out' the words Casey Stoner when the journo speaks...

23 minutes into pre-race press conference for those with the online pass

Yes heard that, MM basically said he only heard about it yesterday and its Honda's decision.

[pritch]

So in the early hours of this morning FP1 was red flagged, Twitter burst into life with attempts at humour. After a delay there was an official announcement that FP1 had been red flagged for safety reasons. No indication as to why. Here's the reason:

[Shaun Harris]

So in the early hours of this morning FP1 was red flagged, Twitter burst into life with attempts at humour. After a delay there was an official announcement that FP1 had been red flagged for safety reasons. No indication as to why. Here's the reason:


fukin hillbillies taking a dog to a race track and not tying it up

[sil3nt]

Hondas statement about Stoner:

“Casey approached Honda. Casey wanted to help Dani and the team,” Nakamoto confirmed. “To be honest I was a little bit surprised, but I was very happy to get this kind of request from Casey. Then in Japan myself, Kokubu-san [director of technology] and Yokoyama-san [technical director] to discuss about this.

“For HRC Casey is quite important. He is a VIP. For us, if Casey race again in MotoGP at least he has to fight for a podium. This is our target. For Casey himself I have no doubt he is very, very fast! But for the rest Casey needed a good set-up machine. For this we couldn't find confidence.

“Because for a crew chief, Christian is working with Jack Miller, so we cannot ask him to join him again. Ramon [Aurin, Pedrosa's crew chief] is a good engineer but never worked with Casey. Even Christian sometimes struggled to find good, correct set-up for Casey. It means for a newcomer is a big question mark to us, to find a good set-up or not.

“Then our priority is I don't want to see Casey fighting for fifth or sixth positon. Our priority was Casey must fight for at least a podium. I couldn't find confidence [for us] on our side. The technical side.

“To me Casey is like a son. So this was very tough. I understand Casey is disappointed because many, many times I asked Casey 'please come back, please do a wild-card'.

“If we have time, at least one test before he come to the race, we would say yes. But we had no time to do a proper test.”

“Many of the fans including myself want to see Casey fight again but for me the top priority was for Casey to fight for the podium.”

[BMWST?]

Fishy,surely he is the only candidate. The only downside coyld be he might be too fast?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Cut him loose at Phillip Island.

[pritch]

Fishy,surely he is the only candidate. The only downside coyld be he might be too fast?

It was mentioned overnight that Stoner's test times at Sepang were 1 second down on the factory riders. Who said that I can't recall, whether he knew that of which he spoke is anybody's guess. If the bike was not specifically set up for Stoner though, a proper set up could see that second shrink real quick.

[BMWST?]

It was mentioned overnight that Stoner's test times at Sepang were 1 second down on the factory riders. Who said that I can't recall, whether he knew that of which he spoke is anybody's guess. If the bike was not specifically set up for Stoner though, a proper set up could see that second shrink real quick.

i think everybody would agree that regular seat time on a motogp bike is quite important to ride them to the limit.I admit freely that i am second only to CWB as a stoner fanboi but i think he could be very competetive very quickly.
However we wont see that this week anyway.In other news i see MM is fastest by about half a second at least one of the practices was wet

[Crasherfromwayback]

.I admit freely that i am second only to CWB as a stoner fanboi but i think he could be very competetive very quickly.


I saw him first!

[puddytat]

So in the early hours of this morning FP1 was red flagged, Twitter burst into life with attempts at humour. After a delay there was an official announcement that FP1 had been red flagged for safety reasons. No indication as to why. Here's the reason:

Why didn't some cop shoot it, it was running away......
Doh...wrong colour.

[speights_bud]

Why didn't some cop shoot it, it was running away......
Doh...wrong colour.
The Mrs looked at me funny when I suggested that.

Probably because she knew I was serious....

[speights_bud]

What a treat Q2 was...

I think the drop from the wall into pit lane might have been a little higher than MM anticipated....

[Kendog]

What a treat Q2 was...

I think the drop from the wall into pit lane might have been a little higher than MM anticipated....
It was awesome.
Really looking forward to tomorrow. I am hoping JL is feeling better so he can stay in the fight, but I can't see anyone beating MM.

[pritch]

What a treat Q2 was...


Magic. The lap record was broken four times in about minute: Crutchlow, Dovi, and Lorenzo were all briefly record holders before MM claimed it back.

Apparently that dog lives on the premises and this wasn't the first time it has made it onto the track during an event. I'm assuming the owner must hold a fairly senior position otherwise he would have been given the message. It'd be a major disruption if the dog got on the track during a race.

[roogazza]

Go Vale !!!!!!

[Bender]

I wish the "technical experts" would notice the exhaust systems on the Yamahas. There are two, with one using a much wider pipe cut close to the swingarm - the other being the pipe introduced last year. At the moment Lorenzo is using the old pipe, having swapped during Q2. Rossi using the new pipe.

I'd really like to know more about it all but the techos think a bit of blither about tyres is all they need to do to satisfy the audience. Wallies. :weep:

Edit: Half way through FP4 Lorenzo has gone for the new pipe - must be comparing the two back-to-back.

[roogazza]

I wish the "technical experts" would notice the exhaust systems on the Yamahas. There are two, with one using a much wider pipe cut close to the swingarm - the other being the pipe introduced last year.
I'd really like to know more about it all but the techos think a bit of blither about tyres is all they need to do to satisfy the audience. Wallies. :weep:

Cheers Bender, I think we'll be waiting a while to get Tech info out of Nick Harris ??
It would be a plus tho. You probably get that stuff with Subscription ?
At GPs I spend the whole of the first day mooching around the pits.Very interesting for me.
Quite enjoyed the F1 coverage of qualifying yesterday from China.
(tho I never follow F1 usually) But Damon Hill ,Herbert and Lauda gave up interesting info and questions.
Maybe thats what Motogp needs ?
Hey,maybe they could employ that Aussie,second thoughts,NAH !

[Bender]

Cheers Bender, I think we'll be waiting a while to get Tech info out of Nick Harris ??
It would be a plus tho. You probably get that stuff with Subscription ?
At GPs I spend the whole of the first day mooching around the pits.Very interesting for me.
Quite enjoyed the F1 coverage of qualifying yesterday from China.
(tho I never follow F1 usually) But Damon Hill ,Herbert and Lauda gave up interesting info and questions.
Maybe thats what Motogp needs ?
Hey,maybe they could employ that Aussie,second thoughts,NAH !


Formula 1 has a guy called Craig Scarborough who does analysis of the cars, often quite detailed, into the new aerodynamics and the latest engine packages. He has brought F1 alive for me. He broadcasts on The Racers Edge channel on youtube.

I seriously wish that Motogp had a similar analyst because we get nothing at all, yet we deserve better.

[roogazza]

Formula 1 has a guy called Craig Scarborough who does analysis of the cars, often quite detailed, into the new aerodynamics and the latest engine packages. He has brought F1 alive for me. He broadcasts on The Racers Edge channel on youtube.

I seriously wish that Motogp had a similar analyst because we get nothing at all, yet we deserve better.

I always enjoyed Sheene doing commentary and for his experience.
He bought 125s alive for me in the late eighties.

Anyway big night tonight ! Aragon WSB and the Motogp after 3am ??
Thank you Sky. :clap:

[p.dath]

I discovered an interesting documentary on Netflix called "Fastest". All about MotoGP and Rossi. Well worth a watch.

[Brett]

Q2 was magic. MM is a brilliant rider. I suspect that MM is going to continue being a dominant force this season. I love watching that guy race.

[Brett]

I discovered an interesting documentary on Netflix called "Fastest". All about MotoGP and Rossi. Well worth a watch.

There is also "Faster" and "THE DOCTOR, THE TORNADO & THE KENTUCKY KID "

[george formby]

Just watched MM doing his thing in Q2. I have no doubts over his fitness or focus. Or his braking.

[Autech]

I discovered an interesting documentary on Netflix called "Fastest". All about MotoGP and Rossi. Well worth a watch.

There is another too, Faster I think. "Charge" is worth a watch too. Looking forward to watching the racing, hoping that the lads have a good rumble without Dani there to get amongst it.

Really looking forward to Moto3 and seeing how the Quatanaro does, the next Marquez?

[BMWST?]

he is having a steady start but i wanna see vinales mixing it up with cruthlow,pol,redding and bradl.be interested to see how miller goes too.good racing right down the feild!

[Erelyes]

Q2!!! :eek:

Picks for tonight...
Marquez to win @ $1.45
Pol 'spa to podium @ $17.00 (long shot but fair at that money considering the melee that is MotoGP at the mo)
Alx 'spa to podium @ $21.00 (see above)

[jasonu]

Q2 was magic. MM is a brilliant rider. I suspect that MM is going to continue being a dominant force this season. I love watching that guy race.

Yes they are all brilliant riders but IMO the MotoGP qualifying format is a real yawn fest. So much so that I started watching it and woke up just in time to see MM being interviewed as pole winner.
The F1 format could easily be implemented to suit MotoGP and is a better more exciting watch.

[Shaun Harris]

Lucky there are no fines for running out of fuel in MotoGP eh

[pritch]

So far so good, I've been trying to mine some of the humour that appeared on Twitter following Marquez" run through pit lane and get here without seeing any of the results. Have seen the result of Moto3 but two out of three ain't bad.

[Shaun Harris]

So far so good, I've been trying to mine some of the humour that appeared on Twitter following Marquez" run through pit lane and get here without seeing any of the results. Have seen the result of Moto3 but two out of three ain't bad.


I have never cared about getting the results before I see the race, as the riding talent is still the same to watch

[Mental Trousers]

I seriously wish that Motogp had a similar analyst because we get nothing at all, yet we deserve better.

Eurosport used to with Neil Spalding.

Dorna really should've just hiring those 3 guys, Toby Moody, Julian Ryder and Neil Spalding. Best motorbike commentary team ever.

[roogazza]

Lucky there are no fines for running out of fuel in MotoGP eh

They have fines for that ??? fuck I must be old .
Wouldn't surprise tho .

nah 22 litres won't effect us ! (said Ducati ) !!!!!!!

Stop the handicapping,fucken things are rocket ships.
My poor Vale is having a hard time !!!!!!!!!

[Shaun Harris]

They have fines for that ??? fuck I must be old .
Wouldn't surprise tho .

nah 22 litres won't effect us ! (said Ducati ) !!!!!!!

Stop the handicapping,fucken things are rocket ships.
My poor Vale is having a hard time !!!!!!!!!



Haha WE do in New Zealand ( Introduced as a safety idea and a good one for here I think) Fukin a re the Ducati, dam stupid rules really

[McWild]

Kiwisaver be damned, think I'll just put in a 5 year deposit with the TAB on MM getting results .


He could have lapped the rest of them at COTA if he was really trying.

[misterO]

Circuit of The Americas- what a good show! If you ever get the chance to visit then Do. Motorcycle parking right in front of the main entrance is tops: in-and-out easy peasy, even on race day. After the main event ended we were long gone before the first cagers made it to their cars. I don't care what the Texas bankers may tell you, MM93 OWNS this track. This year I took a long lens and camera to all three days, for those that may like a peek photos are found here:

http://joelogden.photoshelter.com/gallery/MotoGP-2015-Austin-Texas/G00005zC4W4hy_Z4

[sugilite]

For the less well heeled - like me lol
Moto GP torrent
http://kickass.to/motogp-2015-round-02-motogp-race-austin-720p-t10495988.html
and
Moto2 Torrent
http://kickass.to/motogp-2015-round-02-moto2-race-austin-720p-t10495531.html

[Crasherfromwayback]

C, MM93 OWNS this track. This year I took a long lens and camera to all three days, for those that may like a peek photos are found here:

[l]

I have a friend over there that's kindly offered my a place to stay should I get over there for it. I fully intend to take her up on it. Fantastic pics too mate!

[speights_bud]

310755310756

Dopey Asian passed...

[Crasherfromwayback]

310755310756

Dopey Asian passed...

Hardly like he's that well known yet mate.

[speights_bud]

Yea its a 'strayan program though...

[Crasherfromwayback]

Yea its a 'strayan program though...

Fully aware of that. Jack's ego would hate seeing that I'd bet.

[pritch]

Eurosport used to with Neil Spalding.

Dorna really should've just hiring those 3 guys, Toby Moody, Julian Ryder and Neil Spalding. Best motorbike commentary team ever.

Amen. Julian Ryder is there working for someone else, BTSport? Don't know what Spalding is doing, but Moody seems to be getting around various car events mostly, I'm not sure if he's there to work, compete (IIRC he owns a hill climb car), or just to watch.

[Dutch Fisher]

Moody is the biggest cockarse commentator ever, just ask Dennis Noyes (now working for TVE in Spain)
Ryder is good and well informed, (now with BTSport).

Best duo are jack burnicle and jamie whitham (Eurosport WSBK and UK BSB),
funny, engaging, knowledgeable and they don't talk out of the back of their heads with BS and rumour

[pritch]

I have never cared about getting the results before I see the race, as the riding talent is still the same to watch

Yeah that is interesting, but if you don't already know the result it can also be exciting. I haven't seen the SS race or SBK2 yet but my vote for the most exciting part of the weekend is the last four minutes or so of Q2. Brilliant.

[McWild]

310755310756

Dopey Asian passed...

That says as much about how much Aus and NZ news stations that racing is worthwhile as anything.

Surely Jack Miller was a "rising star" in Moto3? Or maybe just to us. And when was the last time you heard Jake Lewis or Avalon Biddle's name on TV3, or read it on Stuff? Funny that when I'm trying not to spoil a race result for myself, I'm still not concerned by visiting Stuff because I know they won't report on it even in the Sports or Motoring sections. The last time I saw an article on any motorbike racing on that site was when a couple of the Moto3 guys had a wee scrap after a crash.

To you older guys on here, how widely was racing covered here in NZ (or Aus, for that matter) when Simon Crafar was racing? Was the Britten a big deal at the time in NZ media?

[Oscar]

That says as much about how much Aus and NZ news stations that racing is worthwhile as anything.

Surely Jack Miller was a "rising star" in Moto3? Or maybe just to us. And when was the last time you heard Jake Lewis or Avalon Biddle's name on TV3, or read it on Stuff? Funny that when I'm trying not to spoil a race result for myself, I'm still not concerned by visiting Stuff because I know they won't report on it even in the Sports or Motoring sections. The last time I saw an article on any motorbike racing on that site was when a couple of the Moto3 guys had a wee scrap after a crash.

To you older guys on here, how widely was racing covered here in NZ (or Aus, for that matter) when Simon Crafar was racing? Was the Britten a big deal at the time in NZ media?

Avalon Biddle was on CGW last night.

[McWild]

Avalon Biddle was on CGW last night.

Ha really? Bad timing for my post. I think the point still stands though that your average person who gets their sports news from the 6pm news or online, would be hard pressed to know that motorcycle racing even exists.

[roogazza]

Ha really? Bad timing for my post. I think the point still stands though that your average person who gets their sports news from the 6pm news or online, would be hard pressed to know that motorcycle racing even exists.

Pretty much correct McWild. Always been that way,we're just used to it.
Except maybe in the boom years where it was a little better ?
We had fellas right up there then, in both GPs and WSB.

The "Boomers" may be dying off,but we're a lucky bunch in my eyes.

[Reckless]

Avalon Biddle was on CGW last night.

Yeh she just won the Opening race at Aragon, good show aye :)

Congratulations to all the European Junior Cup competitors on a cracking opening race here at Aragon. Well done to Avalon Biddle on winning the women's @eurojuniorcup race


Highlight of the last GP was MM running down the pit lane then what a lap, back wheel in the air into corners, bike snaking and trying to do a 180 under braking then pole position. The boy is very very good there's no doubt about that.

Good to See Rossi have another good one too :)

[pritch]

It's not just here and Oz. The Poms are complaining that after the weekend Danny Kent and Sam Lowes had they received no coverage in the newspapers, yet Sir Bradley Wiggins apparently got considerable coverage for finishing 18th in the Paris-Roubaix cycle classic. That's not to mention, Johnnie Rea, Chaz Davies and Tom Sykes, all of whom hadn't exactly wasted their weekend.

I'm not sure what the problem is in Britain but the problem here is that we don't have sports journalists, we have rugby and cricket commentators and a couple of retired netball players. If it doesn't come under one of those headings you probably won't read much about it.

[denill]

It has been a topic that had got me off-side with MNZ some years past as, rightly or wrongly, I considered MNZ should take some responsibility for the promotion of the sport they govern. They consider their role is to administer, not promote. But if MNZ can not assume some responsibility to correct the pathetic state that has dogged our sport forever, who will?

[Gadget1]

It has been a topic that had got me off-side with MNZ some years past as, rightly or wrongly, I considered MNZ should take some responsibility for the promotion of the sport they govern. They consider their role is to administer, not promote. But if MNZ can not assume some responsibility to correct the pathetic state that has dogged our sport forever, who will?


Their position is interesting given MotorSportNZ, as a comparison, has promotion listed as one of the key goals of their current mission statement.

[Reckless]

These excuses are gettin a bit same ole same ole

Jorge Lorenzo:
“It was a very tough race, because physically I wasn‘t feeling good due to the bronchitis and the antibiotics. We finished the race in the best way possible given the circumstances. I wasn‘t fit and the bike also needed some extra performance on some areas of the track, especially on the straight I lost a lot. Here and in Qatar two problems occurred that were difficult to overcome but we saved the situations the best we could. I will probably be fit in Argentina. Last year I rode a good race there while I wasn‘t in the best condition. Now that the bike is working better, I hope I will be ready physically. I have high hopes for the race in Argentina and the track is fun to race at.”

Blaming fitness again? He needs to harden up and pull something extra out of the bag if he's not 100%.
Bloody sure MM wasn't 100% physically and stressed mentally after that sprint down pit lane :rolleyes:

[george formby]

Blaming fitness again? He needs to harden up and pull something extra out of the bag if he's not 100%.
Bloody sure MM wasn't 100% physically and stressed mentally after that sprint down pit lane :rolleyes:

Worlds longest Le Mans start. I was blown away by his fitness and focus.

[Crasherfromwayback]

These excuses are gettin a bit same ole same ole

Blaming fitness again? He needs to harden up and pull something extra out of the bag if he's not 100%.
Bloody sure MM wasn't 100% physically and stressed mentally after that sprint down pit lane :rolleyes:

Dude...I don't think you could ever question Whoregay's commitment and toughness. Racing two days after smashing your collarbone anyone?

[Shaun Harris]

Dude...I don't think you could ever question Whoregay's commitment and toughness. Racing two days after smashing your collarbone anyone?


Agreed. I did the same with a colorbone years ago, and it is not easy to do

[pritch]

These excuses are gettin a bit same ole same ole


Ummm I'd agree if he only came out with that after the race, but we had been told that he was struggling with his health when coverage started on the Friday.
The gym in his house could be bigger than the house most of us live in? It is seriously impressive. He lost a lot of weight prior to the start of the season so you'd normally say he was super fit. A lung infection though can lay anyone low, most of us would have just stayed in bed.

[Erelyes]

Dude...I don't think you could ever question Whoregay's commitment and toughness. Racing two days after smashing your collarbone anyone?

Considering he had Bronchitis I think he actually did pretty well.

Aoyama's performance on the other hand was woeful. Really wish they had given the ride to Stoner instead...

[pritch]

Aoyama's performance on the other hand was woeful. Really wish they had given the ride to Stoner instead...

The factory won't be worried, it was thought that the only instruction Aoyama had was to bring the bike home without damaging an engine. He did that.

[McWild]

Aoyama's performance on the other hand was woeful. Really wish they had given the ride to Stoner instead...

So many people have been ripping on Aoyama after COTA, and it's completely unwarranted.

Woeful? There's less than a handful of people who have been able to achieve anything of note on the RC213V within the last 7 years. People keep saying they want Stoner to have ridden at COTA and to ride at Argentina, but I really doubt they're ready to be so thoroughly disappointed when Stoner:

- Comes out of 2.5 years of retirement from road racing, with the associated drop in fitness (look at how hard JL or CC work to stay in the game). And I'm not saying I could beat Stoner in a jog around the local 250m track, but I do think that fishing and rc car racing perhaps aren't the ideal cardio for Gp racing
- Races on tracks that he's never raced on
- Faces new competitors and completely redesigned bikes

I like Stoner a lot and I would love to seem him do a wild-card, but people are living in fantasy land if they think he would out-and-out show a wheel to Aoyama.

I'm a firm believer that HRC (and all the rest) do what they do in a considered and calculated way. It's their multi-million dollar GP program they're running after all, so you'll forgive me if I take their decisions on such matters considerably more seriously than commentators on the internet.

Just give Aoyama some damn credit.

[GD66]

It must be tougher than is generally thought, I rate Johnny Rea and he produced seemingly only journeyman-like results in his few wildcard rides for Honda, while staying aboard and not grenading the motor.

Can't imagine why Stoner would want to step in for the weekend, considering the media scrum and the pommy slag artists and their forum buddies haven't disappeared from GP land. None of that has changed at all, so all the reasons he gave for pulling the pin still stand. Odd.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I like Stoner a lot and I would love to seem him do a wild-card, but people are living in fantasy land if they think he would out-and-out show a wheel to Aoyama.



Just give Aoyama some damn credit.

I'm willing to bet Stoner is still plenty fit. Not race fit, cause only one thing gives you that, but fitter than most peeps. And whilst Stoner wouldn't be able to come back and kick arse, I'd bet all of my bikes on the fact he'd finish in front of Aoyama. And that's not to slag Aoyama off...but an alien he ain't.

[Erelyes]

The factory won't be worried, it was thought that the only instruction Aoyama had was to bring the bike home without damaging an engine. He did that.

Odd then that he set the top speed of 213.8 mph... seems a little at odds with engine preservation. Perhaps he just got a good slipstream on that lap and the Hondas have a power/drive advantage over anything else (MM didn't get much of a chance to slipstream anyone).

5 pts is 5 pts, I suppose.


Woeful? There's less than a handful of people who have been able to achieve anything of note on the RC213V within the last 7 years. People keep saying they want Stoner to have ridden at COTA and to ride at Argentina, but I really doubt they're ready to be so thoroughly disappointed when Stoner:

Fair comment, 'woeful' was harsh on my part. Still, I'd rather be disappointed by Stoner, than bored by Aoyama. If Stoner doesn't do a wild-card in this sort of situation, when would he ever?


I like Stoner a lot and I would love to seem him do a wild-card, but people are living in fantasy land if they think he would out-and-out show a wheel to Aoyama.

Aoyama finished 12th at the same circuit last year. He knows the bike, he knows the circuit, and was quick down the straights (presumably) yet still finished a fair bit behind not only all the front runners (I'll include Cal in those), but also both Suzukis and a Pramac Ducati. Even riding safely, that seems overly safe.


Just give Aoyama some damn credit.

Fair enough, he gets a participation credit :bleh:

[Reckless]

If Stoner doesn't do a wild-card in this sort of situation, when would he ever?:

Word earlier on in the thread was the factory chose Aoyama, Stoner would have done it.

[McWild]

I'm willing to bet Stoner is still plenty fit. Not race fit, cause only one thing gives you that, but fitter than most peeps. And whilst Stoner wouldn't be able to come back and kick arse, I'd bet all of my bikes on the fact he'd finish in front of Aoyama. And that's not to slag Aoyama off...but an alien he ain't.

Only one way to settle this: Drag race.

[Shaun Harris]

So many people have been ripping on Aoyama after COTA, and it's completely unwarranted.

Woeful? There's less than a handful of people who have been able to achieve anything of note on the RC213V within the last 7 years. People keep saying they want Stoner to have ridden at COTA and to ride at Argentina, but I really doubt they're ready to be so thoroughly disappointed when Stoner:

- Comes out of 2.5 years of retirement from road racing, with the associated drop in fitness (look at how hard JL or CC work to stay in the game). And I'm not saying I could beat Stoner in a jog around the local 250m track, but I do think that fishing and rc car racing perhaps aren't the ideal cardio for Gp racing
- Races on tracks that he's never raced on
- Faces new competitors and completely redesigned bikes

I like Stoner a lot and I would love to seem him do a wild-card, but people are living in fantasy land if they think he would out-and-out show a wheel to Aoyama.

I'm a firm believer that HRC (and all the rest) do what they do in a considered and calculated way. It's their multi-million dollar GP program they're running after all, so you'll forgive me if I take their decisions on such matters considerably more seriously than commentators on the internet.

Just give Aoyama some damn credit.


Probally the most common sense post I have ever read on here, well done that man

[Doppleganger]

Word earlier on in the thread was the factory chose Aoyama, Stoner would have done it.

I read that Stoner would have liked to have raced but for the fact the time factor didn't allow it and he had never ridden at COTA before.
Now if a circuit he is familiar turns up and the ducks line up who knows....

[Crasherfromwayback]

Only one way to settle this: Drag race.

Look out!!!!!

310789

[Oscar]

Look out!!!!!

310789

Is that from your personal collection?
Which one is you...?

[sugilite]

Dude...I don't think you could ever question Whoregay's commitment and toughness. Racing two days after smashing your collarbone anyone?

I completely agree, and it must be hard to have platoons of reporters asking you "why did you not win"? I know that some racers like Rossi for instance are comfortable with simply saying the other guy was faster. But other racers would see that as a show of weakness.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Is that from your personal collection?
Which one is you...?

The one leading of course!

[Shaun Harris]

The pictures of the Condition of Rossi's front tyre in the last race prove just how dam good he is

[Oscar]

The one leading of course!

So you're black..?

[Reckless]

The pictures of the Condition of Rossi's front tyre in the last race prove just how dam good he is

It was trashed aye. I was actually hoping for a wet race really test the skills :)


So you're black..?

Yeh you got it Oscar hes really the one "cumming up the rear" :bleh:

[denill]

Comebacks just don't work. History gives us Schumaker and recently Troy Baylis. They did good, but not as good as they used too. While I would love to see a competitive CS in the mix, I would not like to see an uncompetive CS. You are remembered for your last race.

[Crasherfromwayback]

So you're black..?

On the inside. Hell yeah Mon!

[Shaun Harris]

Comebacks just don't work. History gives us Schumaker and recently Troy Baylis. They did good, but not as good as they used too. While I would love to see a competitive CS in the mix, I would not like to see an uncompetive CS. You are remembered for your last race.


Agree man, he has moved on now, and that was his own decision. The pashion and commitment to race that hard does not just come back over night. YES he would do a bloody good job but but but but

[Reckless]

YES he would do a bloody good job but but but but

Agree to I think MM is the fastest I've ever seen on a GP bike and he's dragged the others up a notch or two.
I'll give crasher the fact that CS was fastest in his short time but he'd be only on the pace at best??

On the GP site someone had the cheek in the 20 min after race interview, to ask Rossie if he would have liked Ducati to build the new bike in his time there.
Was interesting.

I see they've dropped the after race sit down now for a quick standing chat and gone for a longer 20-30min after race with questions from the floor on the GP site.
A lot more personal, informative and interesting I must say :)

[Crasherfromwayback]

Agree to I think MM is the fastest I've ever seen on a GP bike and he's dragged the others up a notch or two.
I'll give crasher the fact that CS was fastest in his short time but he'd be only on the pace at best??

)

No matter how fast someone is, someone faster always comes along mate. MM is the new Stoner.

[Autech]

It has been a topic that had got me off-side with MNZ some years past as, rightly or wrongly, I considered MNZ should take some responsibility for the promotion of the sport they govern. They consider their role is to administer, not promote. But if MNZ can not assume some responsibility to correct the pathetic state that has dogged our sport forever, who will?

Exactly, I am right out of the politics in MNZ but always wondered why there is so little promotion for the nationals.


No matter how fast someone is, someone faster always comes along mate. MM is the new Stoner.

And Quatararo faster than MM??? Time will tell...

[Crasherfromwayback]

And Quatararo faster than MM??? Time will tell...

Is that a new model Audi?

[Autech]

Is that a new model Audi?

LOL!

Apparently he is French but his name is Fabio Quatararo and he moved to Spain when he was 7 to pursue his racing career, so just another fast Spaniard.
I think we should rename him Javier Archambeault, much more punch and would give Nick Harris another name to fuck up. As it was he called him Qwot-aro a few times in the race.

[pritch]

LOL!

Apparently he is French but his name is Fabio Quatararo and he moved to Spain when he was 7 to pursue his racing career, so just another fast Spaniard.
I think we should rename him Javier Archambeault, much more punch and would give Nick Harris another name to fuck up. As it was he called him Qwot-aro a few times in the race.

Yeah it would seem even Dorna were getting embarrassed about the number of Spanish riders in GPs. The boy has got one French parent, but his website was all in Spanish and when he spoke after the race the accent was Spanish not French, so like you say, another fast Spaniard. And yes too, the commentators continue to murder the competitors names. It strikes me as unprofessional, surely at some point during the early part of the season they could ask the new riders how they pronounce their own names? Last year I had a (polite) go at Harris about "Bastianini" and he remarked on that in the commentary, and changed his ways - for one race. Birt pops up all the time on Twitter, maybe I should send him links to some of the comments on KB?

[speights_bud]

Birt pops up all the time on Twitter maybe I should send him links to some of the comments on KB?

Please do....

[denill]

Yeah it would seem even Dorna were getting embarrassed about the number of Spanish riders in GPs. The boy has got one French parent, but his website was all in Spanish and when he spoke after the race the accent was Spanish not French, so like you say, another fast Spaniard. And yes too, the commentators continue to murder the competitors names. It strikes me as unprofessional, surely at some point during the early part of the season they could ask the new riders how they pronunce their own names? I've already had a go at Harris about "Bastianini" and he remarked on that in the commentary, and changed his ways - for one race. Birt pops up all the time on Twitter maybe I should send him links to some of the comments on KB?

Agree. Ask the rider how 'they' pronounce it............ Easy?

The other side of the coin, in WSBK they apply the 2 versions of Rea.

[pritch]

Agree. Ask the rider how 'they' pronounce it............ Easy?

The other side of the coin, in WSBK they apply the 2 versions of Rea.

I hadn't noticed that, except that the relaitve pronunciations of Rea, as in Gino and Johnnie, have the non-native English speakers in the paddock perplexed.
Will pay more attention in future.

[Erelyes]

How do you make weak cordial?

Quatararo.

[McWild]

LOL!

Apparently he is French but his name is Fabio Quatararo and he moved to Spain when he was 7 to pursue his racing career, so just another fast Spaniard.
I think we should rename him Javier Archambeault, much more punch and would give Nick Harris another name to f**k up. As it was he called him Qwot-aro a few times in the race.

In the CEV I remember he did a lot of his interviews in French, but also some in Spanish. And his Spanish definitely had a slight accent to it (no worse than a Scotsman speaking English mind you). I think French is much less common throughout the paddock, with most of them having Spanish/Italian and English, often all three.

I have to agree though, Dorna make a big thing of nationality in the sport, presumably because it's worth money. With so many young riders from all places going through CEV and associates, and being based in Spain to compete in them, you could accuse just about anyone of being a fast Spaniard at the moment. Have a look at the CEV Moto3 entries this year, there are more non-Spanish than Spanish:

http://www.fimcevrepsol.com/en/riders/riders

At any rate, until we get an NZer in the going I'll try not to get too worried about it.

[pritch]

http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/motogp-race/122-seconds-in-the-life-of-marc-marquez/

[steveyb]

In the CEV I remember he did a lot of his interviews in French, but also some in Spanish. And his Spanish definitely had a slight accent to it (no worse than a Scotsman speaking English mind you). I think French is much less common throughout the paddock, with most of them having Spanish/Italian and English, often all three.

I have to agree though, Dorna make a big thing of nationality in the sport, presumably because it's worth money. With so many young riders from all places going through CEV and associates, and being based in Spain to compete in them, you could accuse just about anyone of being a fast Spaniard at the moment. Have a look at the CEV Moto3 entries this year, there are more non-Spanish than Spanish:

http://www.fimcevrepsol.com/en/riders/riders

At any rate, until we get an NZer in the going I'll try not to get too worried about it.

That is why the CEV Moto3 is now officially branded the Moto 3 Junior World Championship.
Check out the banner at the top of that page.
Moto2 entry list is very similar.

[carbonhed]

122-seconds-in-the-life-of-marc-marquez/

Nice read. It's not often you see him riding so far over the edge... jaw dropping... even for Dovi I suspect.

[manxkiwi]

How do you make weak cordial?

Quatararo.

Ha ha, very good.
On the subject of mispronounced names, the one that always gets me is in WSBK. Chaz Davies is continually pronounced "Davis". This has gone on for years. Steve Martin ended up giving up and mispronouncing it like his co-commentator, he was actually correct for quite some time.
Rant over!

[pritch]

Ha ha, very good.
On the subject of mispronounced names, the one that always gets me is in WSBK. Chaz Davies is continually pronounced "Davis". This has gone on for years. Steve Martin ended up giving up and mispronouncing it like his co-commentator, he was actually correct for quite some time.
Rant over!

I noticed that too and wondered if the Welsh actually pronounce it like that. I used to work with an FOB Welshman, maybe I should give him a ring.

[roogazza]

Ha ha, very good.
On the subject of mispronounced names, the one that always gets me is in WSBK. Chaz Davies is continually pronounced "Davis". This has gone on for years. Steve Martin ended up giving up and mispronouncing it like his co-commentator, he was actually correct for quite some time.
Rant over!
Me too ! I call him Davies !

Some of the commentators shit me,but I'm ever so grateful to get BSB,WSB and Motogp on Sky.
Just keep the mute button handy,I do . :angry:

[speights_bud]

Fun in Texas

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/16/1437635c9b20584bf63b8c687c8ef9a6.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/16/d9174a76a6486bcc5e76f0f668cfaf4c.jpg

[GD66]

I noticed that too and wondered if the Welsh actually pronounce it like that. I used to work with an FOB Welshman, maybe I should give him a ring.




I reckon so, in QI Stephen Fry invariably introduces Alan Davies as DAVIS, and he definitely wouldn't be a serial mispronouncer. Also Jonathan Davies the Welsh rugby league player is always pronounced DAVIS in commentary, and has been for years, so I suspect you're onto it, Pritch.

[denill]

I reckon so, in QI Stephen Fry invariably introduces Alan Davies as DAVIS, and he definitely wouldn't be a serial mispronouncer. Also Jonathan Davies the Welsh rugby league player is always pronounced DAVIS in commentary, and has been for years, so I suspect you're onto it, Pritch.

Mmmmm. Interesting as it pissed me off a bit also, as I reckoned it should be Davies, not Davis. :confused:

[Autech]

Ha ha, very good.
On the subject of mispronounced names, the one that always gets me is in WSBK. Chaz Davies is continually pronounced "Davis". This has gone on for years. Steve Martin ended up giving up and mispronouncing it like his co-commentator, he was actually correct for quite some time.
Rant over!

I think they were pronouncing it Davis in Aragon. Would be nice to see some professionalism from these commentators, at least in WSBK they got rid of that git who was worse than Nick Harris (Green?) and replaced him with the chap that was good in Motogp.
Feed me, pay me and fly me around the world to watch motorcycle racing and I will sure as shit get the riders names correct!

Another thing that Nick Harris gets wrong is the race starts "(insert his favourite riders name here) got away well" while on screen he's getting swamped by everyone from the 2nd row. Friday night rants! Who started talking about the commentators again!

Just watching the Moto2 race finally, really good racing!

[GD66]

Friday night rants! Who started talking about the commentators again!:wings:




Actually this year's new bloke Matthew Birt is pretty good, relaxed and knowledgeable : also seems patient enough to cover Zippy's arse while he's making his myriad gaffes...:facepalm:




And if you youtube : Rainbow Naughty Zippy, you'll see what I'm on about...:nya:

[Shaun Harris]

A Suzuki at the front for the first time in years, OK due to track conditions and tyres etc, but it is on the board and recorded in history, Suzuki Japan will be working even harder now over the next few rounds

[Erelyes]

Shit, I completely forgot this GP is a week after the last one. Better get some bets in...

Aleix Asparagus is paying $15 for a top 3 finish. If it was just one pratice session he'd been leading, I'd have held off, but given it's both FP1 and FP2, I reckon that's pretty good odds!

[Crasherfromwayback]

Shit, I completely forgot this GP is a week after the last one. Better get some bets in...

Aleix Asparagus is paying $15 for a top 3 finish. If it was just one pratice session he'd been leading, I'd have held off, but given it's both FP1 and FP2, I reckon that's pretty good odds!

I got him @ $81.00 for the win. He's down to $61.00 now.

[Bender]

The man is superhuman


http://giant.gfycat.com/HardCoolCassowary.gif

[Autech]

:wings:




Actually this year's new bloke Matthew Birt is pretty good, relaxed and knowledgeable : also seems patient enough to cover Zippy's arse while he's making his myriad gaffes...:facepalm:




And if you youtube : Rainbow Naughty Zippy, you'll see what I'm on about...:nya:

Haha I watched that then watched the rest of the Moto2 race from last week. He does sound like Zippy!


A Suzuki at the front for the first time in years, OK due to track conditions and tyres etc, but it is on the board and recorded in history, Suzuki Japan will be working even harder now over the next few rounds


Shit, I completely forgot this GP is a week after the last one. Better get some bets in...

Aleix Asparagus is paying $15 for a top 3 finish. If it was just one pratice session he'd been leading, I'd have held off, but given it's both FP1 and FP2, I reckon that's pretty good odds!

Aleix has to be one of the best riders in the paddock, he's been the top finisher on 2nd rate machinery for years. Go Aleix! Go Suzuki!

Oh and Marco who? Who was it that was going to get the box of beers?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Oh and Marco who? Who was it that was going to get the box of beers?


That will be me.

[Erelyes]

I got him @ $81.00 for the win. He's down to $61.00 now.

Ha! I see that they updated that just around the time of my posting. That's the only rider's odds they changed, too.

His top speeds are interesting - 314 and 316 kph in FP1 and FP2 respectively. Only three people had a lower top speed in FP1, and only one person had a lower top speed in FP2...

[Erelyes]

The man is superhuman

http://asianlance.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/lean.jpg

[Crasherfromwayback]

Ha! I see that they updated that just around the time of my posting. That's the only rider's odds they changed, too.

His top speeds are interesting - 314 and 316 kph in FP1 and FP2 respectively. Only three people had a lower top speed in FP1, and only one person had a lower top speed in FP2...

Yep. He ain't gonna win (MM all the way), but at those odds I don't mind wasting a few $'s.

[Crasherfromwayback]

He's certainly up it here. http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/2015/04/17/argentinagp-espargaro-s-stunning-flying-lap/174025

Best looking bike on the grid too I reckon. 20kph down on the other factory bikes but still the fastest time. Give the boy some more motor asap!

[merv]

I still have a feeling they should have continued developing the GSVR V4 engine but in an up-to-date chassis.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I still have a feeling they should have continued developing the GSVR V4 engine but in an up-to-date chassis.

Think you'll find they want to use the technology in their GSXR range much like Yamaha are doing with their M1/R1

[sil3nt]

He's certainly up it here. http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/2015/04/17/argentinagp-espargaro-s-stunning-flying-lap/174025

Best looking bike on the grid too I reckon. 20kph down on the other factory bikes but still the fastest time. Give the boy some more motor asap!That Suzuki :love:

Love the coverage from MotoGP. $140 well spent.

[carbonhed]

He's certainly up it here.

Best looking bike on the grid too I reckon. 20kph down on the other factory bikes but still the fastest time. Give the boy some more motor asap!

Nice! The tech commentator was talking about how the factory bikes weren't getting enough grip from the rear to make the front tire work properly so maybe the extra soft was helping here.

[Luckylegs]

That will be me.

Lol. It would appear so..... at the rate its goin, youll have em long before season end too!

[Crasherfromwayback]

Lol. It would appear so..... at the rate its goin, youll have em long before season end too!

Aye. Taking candy from a baby!

[Shaun Harris]

Think you'll find they want to use the technology in their GSXR range much like Yamaha are doing with their M1/R1



which we will see with the new GSXR being released for 2016

[Crasherfromwayback]

which we will see with the new GSXR being released for 2016

Around August I believe...

[Shaun Harris]

Around August I believe...


Cool. I was not told a date, just the fact is was on it's way

[Crasherfromwayback]

Cool. I was not told a date, just the fact is was on it's way

Lol. I need a new job.

[Shaun Harris]

2nd and 9th on the grid for Suzuki, awsome result so far

[Shaun Harris]

Lol. I need a new job.

Haha I just need one, thinking about bike sales again

[Shaun Harris]

my guess MM CC VR

[Erelyes]

MM (cringe) AI AE

[pritch]

my guess MM CC VR

These things are getting harder to pick, it's no longer only a matter of guessing which three of the four aliens will feature. Iannone being so near the front at the off could well bring additional excitement, for him, for the other riders and for us.

Marquez Rossi Dovi - if the Ducati doesn't run outa gas :whistle:

[Bender]

Coupla things - if anyone has the innerwebs feed, take a look at Marquez at 18:20 on FP1 as he casually slings the thing sideways at over 300kph to slow down. Poetry I say, ****ing poetry.

Also, are the winglets on the Ducati's bigger this weekend? Or are our "technical" experts too busy banging on about the colour of the stripes on the tyres to notice? Yes, yes I know what the answer is. :doh:

[Autech]

Which MM? Hahahahahaaaaa :first:

[Luckylegs]

my guess MM CC VR


MM (cringe) AI AE

You missed the other certainty.... so maybe something like

MM, VR, AD................................................ .................................................. .............MM

[BMWST?]

not sure the yammies will work for the whole race distance.Ui think they are the best hadling bike overall but they seem to punish the tyres.Maybe they are paying for their balance and mid corner speed with acellerated tyre wear??The extra hard rear may even make the front tyre wear worse i they keep pushing?ALL of the yamahas seem to be struggling a bit.I thought JL was very very precise.Seemed to hit every single apex.CC.well i dont know he always seems upset over something!
Di JL lose an engine at the end with his two failed starts?

[eelracing]

Break out the bolly boys where in for a gusher.

[pritch]

Magic !!!!

[Crasherfromwayback]

Lol. Hard out. Lorenzo seems like a broken man.

[sil3nt]

Fenati in Moto 3 proved himself a right wanker. He got let off rather lightly as well.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7fep8y0X2w

[Shaun Harris]

Jack Millar the " KIWI" is coming team

[Oscar]

Did Vale look/move right?
Bit of a block maybes?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Did Vale look/move right?
Bit of a block maybes?

Lol. The Old Dog caught the young student out eh!

[Shaun Harris]

Lol. The Old Dog caught the young student out eh!


Sure Did! Hope there healthy relationship is not destroyed by the incident though, Im sure MM will see who was really in era with his crashing.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Im sure MM will see who was really in era with his crashing.

I have no doubt he will once he gets over it.

[sil3nt]

Exactly the same as Zarco and Simeon last week in Moto 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NO0lMI5sWas

[Oscar]

Lol. The Old Dog caught the young student out eh!

Oh yes.
MM has been schooled.

[Shaun Harris]

The Repsol Honda rider opted to run with the hard option rear tyre rather than the extra-hard compound used by Rossi and although his advantage of 4.3 seconds was slashed by the nine-time world champion in the final laps, Marquez says he would have been capable of fighting with the Yamaha rider 'until the end'.

“It's a shame what happened, because we were having a good race. It was interesting, because our tyre choice was different from Valentino's as I felt we were not as competitive the harder compound,” Marquez said.


Very mature response from MM

[Bender]

Just magic, that was - although it would have been a better race if Rossi had been forced to defend from Marquez after he'd passed him. Astonishing performance from the old dog. Crutchlow didn't half go well too!

Poor Horhay - he seems to have fallen off the hay cart, and just as he'd convinced me that he had the right stuff. :brick:

[roogazza]

Lol. The Old Dog caught the young student out eh!

Magic to watch that little MM. He'll be getting the, use ya head speech from dad and the team.

Vale......:cool:

[carbonhed]

Don't think Marquez had to touch Rossi either of those times... OTOH Rossi didn't give him a millimetre either :laugh: And fair enough too... you've got to fight your corner and putting him on his arse a few times may just cool his ardour a touch. Good ride by Crutchlow. Solid by Smith again... Pol not looking quite so chirpy. Honourable mentions for Miller, Baz and Laverty. Lorenzo seems pretty subdued :laugh:

WTF does Danny Kent eat for breakfast? When will the rest of the leading bunch start to realise that beating each other up when he's got a half a second gap is not going to cut it?

The first few laps of Moto2 scare the crap out of me just watching it.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Don't think Marquez had to touch Rossi either of those times..

I think there was nothing dirty in it, just overly keen to get back in front.

[carbonhed]

I think there was nothing dirty in it, just overly keen to get back in front.

Not dirty as such just very aggressive and in your face. Usually ends up with the other rider on his arse. Different calibre of guy this time. Smiley, funny, charming... but a nine times World champ none the less.

[Crasherfromwayback]

.. but a nine times World champ none the less.

And I'll freely admit I'd written off his chances of title # 10. But the way he's going this season? Who fucking knows!!! Gonna be a goodin. Sad to see Lorenzo sifting around where he is. He's better than that.

[Erelyes]

Sad to see Lorenzo sifting around where he is. He's better than that.

Yep. The worst thing is; Bronchitis last week, what was his excuse this week?

Geez, my bet on Ianonne for a top 3 paying $2.75 came a cropper in the last bloody corner!!!! Cal did well though.

Anyone see what happened to Aoyama? :yawn:

[pritch]

Fenati kicking and punching Ajo was very naughty, so too was his leaning over and operating Ajo's kill switch. The latter though was funny.:nya:
The team boss might need to have stern words. Fenati started with a hiss and a roar but has had two quiet years, he needs to make the KTM go 'cause Rossi is unlikely to go to Honda for bikes, always assuming that Honda might supply them, which is by no means a given?

Quateraro who has still not had his 16th birthday, but is about to, can apparently live near the front quite comfortably on tracks he has never seen. Next race though is on home turf, things may be about to change?

Pol Espagero reportedly considers that he is Yamaha's star-in-waiting and that Smith is just filling in time. That might have been Plan A, but Smith keeps beating Pol so as always, Plan A is subject to change to Plan B. Similarly the thing about Lorenzo being the lead Yamaha development rider might be about to take a permenent hit if it hasn't already?

Before the season Rossi was quoted as saying that they let Marquez get away at the start of the last season, by the time Yamaha got going MM had an insurmountable lead. Rossi thought the Yamaha riders needed to stay closer to MM at the start of the season. He probably hadn't even dared think he'd be where he is now.

[carbonhed]

Fenati kicking and punching Ajo was very naughty, so too was his leaning over and operating Ajo's kill switch. The latter though was funny.:nya:


Was funny seeing the stationary Ajo giving Fenati the finger after the dirty wop had switched his bike off.... but yeah what a fucking meltdown. Don't imagine Rossi was too impressed

[BMWST?]

I think there was nothing dirty in it, just overly keen to get back in front.
he gives himself and the other guy almost no room...he might change that MO now

[Crasherfromwayback]

he gives himself and the other guy almost no room...he might change that MO now

Can't see it.

[carbonhed]

he gives himself and the other guy almost no room...he might change that MO now

It's like Senna... and i doubt he'll change... but Rossi took a long hard look, knew exactly where he was and moved a long way over... good on him IMHO.

[Crasherfromwayback]

It's like Senna... and i doubt he'll change... but Rossi took a long hard look, knew exactly where he was and moved a long way over... good on him IMHO.

When you're in front...you can pretty much do as you please!

[carbonhed]

When you're in front...you can pretty much do as you please!

:laugh: He did that! That's going to do something amazing for Rossi's confidence. Could be a great year.

[Reckless]

Wow Just fucken wow!! What A race!

They are going to start questioning the legality of Kents moto3 bike if he keeps winning by 10 secs.

For once MM didnt have luck go his way! Hes taken a few brake lines of others out and got away with it.
So this time he learned you cant knock a guy off with your front wheel and others can be just as hard.

Been some comments about if he had of stayed up it would have been a good fight to the end?
NA he couldnt have kept with Rossi given his pace catchin up? And he knew it, its why he got desperate!

I think there might be a little more tension around from here on :)

[badlieutenant]

Wow Just fucken wow!! What A race!

They are going to start questioning the legality of Kents moto3 bike if he keeps winning by 10 secs.

For once MM didnt have luck go his way! Hes taken a few brake lines of others out and got away with it.
So this time he learned you cant knock a guy off with your front wheel and others can be just as hard.

Been some comments about if he had of stayed up it would have been a good fight to the end?
NA he couldnt have kept with Rossi given his pace catchin up? And he knew it, its why he got desperate!

I think there might be a little more tension around from here on :)

It is good to see MM not get away with his passing trick where he just stuffs it in, which works but looks dodge as sometimes. I wonder if ole pedrosa was laughing when it went badly for MM :)

[pritch]

This morning there are numerous messages wishing Mrs Quateraro's lad happy birthday. He's now officially old enough to play with the big kids.

[trev]

... & let's not forget Mr Consistantly Good - Dovi. If Ducati can improve the bike some more, which is highly likely, he is a serious contender. My wish is for Suzuki to sort out the chatter & find some more HP so Aleix can really show us what he is capable of because that bike can sure get around the turns quick.

[pritch]

Something I almost overlooked? The Jack Miller experiment suddenly appears promising if not actually threatening; top open class rider with several former world champions finishing behind him. And that's after only two previous outings on a big bike.

[Shaun Harris]

Something I almost overlooked? The Jack Miller experiment suddenly appears promising if not actually threatening; top open class rider with several former world champions finishing behind him. And that's after only two previous outings on a big bike.


Yep, he is coming big time mate. And travels on a KIWI passport!

[Oscar]

And travels on a KIWI passport!

So does Russell Crowe...

[Crasherfromwayback]

. And travels on a KIWI passport!


So does Russell Crowe...

Both assholes.

[Shaun Harris]

Both assholes.


haha but one is feckin fast though dude

[Crasherfromwayback]

haha but one is feckin fast though dude

No doubt about it. More the merrier at the sharp end.

[Oscar]

haha but one is feckin fast though dude

Russell Crowe is fast?
He's got a OCC POS...

[Autech]

Wow Just fucken wow!! What A race!

They are going to start questioning the legality of Kents moto3 bike if he keeps winning by 10 secs.

For once MM didnt have luck go his way! Hes taken a few brake lines of others out and got away with it.
So this time he learned you cant knock a guy off with your front wheel and others can be just as hard.

Been some comments about if he had of stayed up it would have been a good fight to the end?
NA he couldnt have kept with Rossi given his pace catchin up? And he knew it, its why he got desperate!

I think there might be a little more tension around from here on :)

Rossi put him over his knee and spanked him! Never been a fan of MM's riding style I think he is inclined to bash fairings when it isn't necessary (like round 1 when he ran wide then bashed one of the tail end riders causing him to DNF). Never laughed harder in my life. There wasn't a chance in hell of MM staying anywhere near Rossi he was desperate and showed it. This year is going to be awesome!


It is good to see MM not get away with his passing trick where he just stuffs it in, which works but looks dodge as sometimes. I wonder if ole pedrosa was laughing when it went badly for MM :)

I did wonder the same, hope Dani comes back fit as a fiddle and gets on the podium.

Jackass did very well! And most importantly Marco Melandri was not in last place! Pretty sure he is still lapping slower than a Moto2 bike though.

[Shaun Harris]

wonder what the odds are now for Rossi to be the Champion this season with a booky?

[Erelyes]

wonder what the odds are now for Rossi to be the Champion this season with a booky?

paying $3.50 at the TAB. MM $1.40. JL $9.00, Dovi $11.00, everyone else is pretty high

[Reckless]

paying $3.50 at the TAB. MM $1.40. JL $9.00, Dovi $11.00, everyone else is pretty high

I'm not a gambler but Dovi might be worth a bet :) That bloody Duc looks solid as wherever it goes so far!
If he gets second every meeting that might just be all thats required. Be a good return at $11 bucks :)

[Shaun Harris]

paying $3.50 at the TAB. MM $1.40. JL $9.00, Dovi $11.00, everyone else is pretty high


cheers, there is only 3 worth gambling on for the big one now I reckon, and JL is not one of them

[Crasherfromwayback]

I'm not a gambler but Dovi might be worth a bet :) That bloody Duc looks solid as wherever it goes so far!
If he gets second every meeting that might just be all thats required. Be a good return at $11 bucks :)

I got him @ $31.00. Fingers are crossed.

[Reckless]

I got him @ $31.00. Fingers are crossed.

That Duc looks "solid as" doesn't seem to mind which track its on unlike the Honda and Yammy.
You might be ok there although my Heart wants the old dog to teach the young bucks a lesson :)
Dont ya just wish Ducati hadnt been so bloody stubborn not to design this new chassis 3 years ago when we all knew Stoner was the only one that could ride the shit heap.
Rossi Could have been on 10 champs by now and we could have had another manufacturer in the top 3.

Rossi was actually asked thet in one of the conferences in Questions from the floor section: He sotra said yes and laughed it off LOL
Love the new post race format for the conferences, they where able to ask Rossi to explain in detail how he saw it :)

Ah well spilt milk onward and upward :)

[BMWST?]

I reckon mm would have scrapped to the end if he hadnt come off,its one thing going three or 4 tenths.faster,mm will pass anyone anywhere

[sil3nt]

This shows just how good Rossi was (and even Dovi until the last few laps...fuel??)
310932

[Crasherfromwayback]

That Duc looks "solid as" doesn't seem to mind which track its on unlike the Honda and Yammy.
)

Still think MM will win the title. But great to see the Old Dog take it to him.


I reckon mm would have scrapped to the end if he hadnt come off,its one thing going three or 4 tenths.faster,mm will pass anyone anywhere

Agree with ya.

[Reckless]

Jack Millers comments of Moto GP

CWM LCR Honda’s Jack Miller wins the Open class battle in Argentina for the first time in his MotoGP™ career.

Jack Miller finally showed his potential in his debut season as a MotoGP rider, as the CWM LCR Honda man took 12th place in the Grand Prix of Argentina and came home as the top Open class rider across the line.

The Australian had started the race from a lowly 21st position on the grid, but as has now become customary in his fledging MotoGP career, he quickly made up positions, and was battling well within the points scoring spots.

Having dispensed of former world champion Nicky Hayden, Miller also made it past Stefan Bradl, with just the Ducati of Hector Barbera standing in his way of becoming top Open man. Miller conjured up some of his usual magic in the final corner of the race, slotting his Honda RC213V-RS underneath the Spaniard to take four points and the honour of top Open bike for the first time in his rookie year.

Jack Miller:
“It was a great day today, we are always making steps forward and I am so happy to see things progress like this. Step by step we are getting closer to the front. Today it was so hot out on track and the tyre was really destroyed by the end of the race, we were sliding about so much. I can’t thank the CWM LCR Honda Team enough for giving me the bike I needed. We needed to do a lot of work in the warm up to get it where we needed it for the race, so I’m absolutely delighted.”

[badlieutenant]

Im curious how everyone is watching this season. With sommet gone (I even put a 200 pledge towards keeping them on air) Im considering the season pass (not the multipass)>
anyone else using this ? any good ? alternatives ?
Sky is out of the question.

[sil3nt]

Im curious how everyone is watching this season. With sommet gone (I even put a 200 pledge towards keeping them on air) Im considering the season pass (not the multipass)>
anyone else using this ? any good ? alternatives ?
Sky is out of the question.I purchased the season pass. Definitely worth it. Hard to really describe how much content there is! You won't regret getting it.

[badlieutenant]

I purchased the season pass. Definitely worth it. Hard to really describe how much content there is! You won't regret getting it.

done :D I like the idea of watching some of the old race's again :)

[NZsarge]

I reckon mm would have scrapped to the end if he hadnt come off,its one thing going three or 4 tenths.faster,mm will pass anyone anywhere

I don't agree, I think he was toast.

[ellipsis]

if he hadnt come off


...anything conjectured after him riding over Vales wheel is just that...conjecture...he fell off...

[speights_bud]

I don't agree, I think he was toast.
Toast indeed. If you watch the few laps before Rossi caught him he was really struggling to get it turned. The helicopter view showed it well. He lost almost a full second in one sector. Turn 5 just looked unpleasant.

[Jezxa]

Toast indeed. If you watch the few laps before Rossi caught him he was really struggling to get it turned. The helicopter view showed it well. He lost almost a full second in one sector. Turn 5 just looked unpleasant.

Agreed. His rear tyre was pretty much toast going by the amount it was sliding into every turn.

[Autech]

Agreed. His rear tyre was pretty much toast going by the amount it was sliding into every turn.

Thats the one, it sure was slideeee, on that note... Harris, did you hear him proclaim how Marquez is the only rider that can ride a bike on worn tyres? Wanker.

[BMWST?]

...anything conjectured after him riding over Vales wheel is just that...conjecture...he fell off...
of course pure conjecture!
Its in the books doctor ,25 MM 0

[denill]

<a href=http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2015/Apr/150421tb21.htm>Troy Bayliss to compete in 2015 series:</A> A bit off topic.

[Bender]

Im curious how everyone is watching this season. With sommet gone (I even put a 200 pledge towards keeping them on air) Im considering the season pass (not the multipass)>
anyone else using this ? any good ? alternatives ?
Sky is out of the question.

Yep, season pass. Plenty of good content on there especially if you like the sound of a Lawson-ridden Cagiva versus a Schwantz-ridden Suzuki. Well worth it - but their website sucks, pretty much.

[Shaun Harris]

Still think MM will win the title. But great to see the Old Dog take it to him.



Agree with ya.



I will go ya a box of Heineken on that one dude?

[Autech]

I will go ya a box of Heineken on that one dude?

I'm not sure MM has it this year tbh. Just looking at his 2nd half of 2014 as well as his beginning to this year... Still don't know who to pick out of the rest, VR is looking pretty shit hot though!

[Shaun Harris]

I'm not sure MM has it this year tbh. Just looking at his 2nd half of 2014 as well as his beginning to this year... Still don't know who to pick out of the rest, VR is looking pretty shit hot though!



Hence my bet offer dude, I am going with VR all the way this year. He has the extra Mental strength that MM just does not have as yet, and VR is obviously back to 100% believing in himself, that is 90% of the races WON there alone. Not forgetting about Dovi though, but he may finish 3rd at years end

[Erelyes]

What a time to be watching bike racing though! So many top riders, each with their own personality. And the bikes that seem to be taking turns at getting good and have genuine strengths/weaknesses that the teams have to identify and capitalise on... not to mention the riders then doing the same.

I'm waffling. But it sure beats the shit out of F1

[pritch]

The erudite Mr Emmett's latest.
https://motomatters.com/analysis/2015/04/20/2015_argentina_motogp_post_race_round_up.html

[Shaun Harris]

What a time to be watching bike racing though! So many top riders, each with their own personality. And the bikes that seem to be taking turns at getting good and have genuine strengths/weaknesses that the teams have to identify and capitalise on... not to mention the riders then doing the same.

I'm waffling. But it sure beats the shit out of F1


Not waffling dude, it is the very best level I have ever seen since I started watching the 2 stroke scene back in 1981. It is also the HARDEST and HIGHEST of levels ever, as there are so many bikes that are so simillar in power etc, back in the 2 stroke days, there was such a variety of Factory Level Tune, that is just was not even close to a level playing field out there. Back In Graeme Crosby days, it was fuckin terrible with the difference in bikes, look at the piece of old shit he raced to 2nd place in the world champs back then

[pritch]

Back In Graeme Crosby days, it was fuckin terrible with the difference in bikes, look at the piece of old shit he raced to 2nd place in the world champs back then

Anybody'd think you've been reading Croz's book. :devil2:

[Shaun Harris]

Anybody'd think you've been reading Croz's book. :devil2:


Haha Best Race book I have ever read, cheers mate.

[5ive]

Im curious how everyone is watching this season. With sommet gone (I even put a 200 pledge towards keeping them on air) Im considering the season pass (not the multipass)>
anyone else using this ? any good ? alternatives ?
Sky is out of the question.

MotoGP (highlight coverage) is playing on TV3 on Sundays within a week or so of the actual races if you don't mind the delay. Moto3 is usually cut due to duration though.

Round 3 Argentina plays this Sunday at 3pm, Round 4 Spain plays at 4pm on May 10th.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I will go ya a box of Heineken on that one dude?

Make mine Steinlager.

[McWild]

Jack Miller top Open in Argentina, Maverick Vinales doing superbly on the Suzuki.

I think Moto2's relevance is waning, hard, and it's a real shame. It was the class to watch in 2010/2011. I just skip to the end of it now.

- There aren't enough seats in GP to accommodate a lot of the talent that maybe would have made it through a few years ago.
- Moto3 is more expensive and it's where the big, established teams are dumping their money (Marc VDS, Gresini, Aspar)
- Everybody's trying to spot talent so early on these days that you're pretty much out if you're not successful in the former CEV (Moto3 Junior WC)

If they can get rides in GP, this will be the last year in Moto2 for Rins, Lowes, and Rabat. But there aren't enough to go around. Zarco, Luthi, Folger, Kallio, Cortese, Siemon, Nakagami, Salom are all doomed to spend their careers in Moto2. Alex Marquez might get a free pass to GPs on his last name.

How long can we expect Quartararo to stay there, if he doesn't skip it all together? IMO Moto 2 is a class for those who are too big or too old for Moto3 and who lack the skills in riding or promotion or who lack the finances (looking at you Abraham)to get into GP.

Half the riders in Moto2 right now would do well to look at an old man (28 year old) like Efren Vazquez. Better to be a somebody in Moto3 than one of the many nobodies in Moto2 these days, no doubt about it.





Also DoviCati for World Champ 2015