MotoGP 2018

[george formby]

Some people might consider that standard Triumph speedo unit a hint too?:innocent:

The sale of sports bikes has gone through the floor in most of the world so Triumph said they aren't going to do one. Still, I can't believe they won't introduce a 765 Daytona to capitalise on the Moto2 deal.

IIRC there are clips around of KTM or Kalex tests, they are likely to be the real deal.

I just hope Triumph have done the same deal with those guys at Aragon that Honda used. It'd be a shame if the engines started blowing, or if the riders were whinging about widely varying power output from individual engines.

Pretty sure their is a Triumph video discussing exactly that, their engines going through the same testing and performance standards as the current Honda motors. Be dumb to do this half arsed.

[Drew]

Some people might consider that standard Triumph speedo unit a hint too?:innocent:
.

Only those who have seen one, I should imagine.

[pritch]

Pretty sure their is a Triumph video discussing exactly that, their engines going through the same testing and performance standards as the current Honda motors. Be dumb to do this half arsed.

Been looking and am happy to find that is the case.
https://newatlas.com/triumph-moto2-765-engine-2019/49876/

But since I seem to have to be concerned about something, I'll move on to worrying about the size of the step up from Moto3 to the new Moto2. :whistle:

[Autech]

Been looking and am happy to find that is the case.
https://newatlas.com/triumph-moto2-765-engine-2019/49876/

But since I seem to have to be concerned about something, I'll move on to worrying about the size of the step up from Moto3 to the new Moto2. :whistle:I would be more concerned for the likes of Simeon being slower than a Moto2 rider on a GP bike.
Wonder how close this will bring their lap times...

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[pritch]

I would be more concerned for the likes of Simeon being slower than a Moto2 rider on a GP bike.
Wonder how close this will bring their lap times...


That's OK, there's enough concerns to go around.

[Autech]

That's OK, there's enough concerns to go around.

Would actually be an interesting task to find/design a circuit that a moto3 bike would be faster than a motogp bike around (excluding a go kart track of course).

Interesting data: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMHOyLQ6_Lk

[pritch]

From Mat Oxley on the topic of Moto2 engine preparation: "the Triumph Moto2 engines are already are being prepared by ExternPro in the MotorLand TechnoPark (next to the DrumAndBasePark). Man in charge is Trevor Morris, who's spannered for everyone: Jon Ekerold, Niall Mackenzie, Nicky Hayden, Mika Kallio etc"

[pritch]

Poor George. Another high side, another trip to hospital, but he has been declared fit to ride.

[Autech]

Bike seized apparently. They have got to the the worst as you wouldn't be expecting it at all then flick.

Ouch

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[roogazza]

339134 and they didn't worry their tyres were "going off "!!!

[pritch]

and they didn't worry their tyres were "going off "!!!

Their tyres were never really "on" to begin with. My guess L to R: Ago, Read, Hailwood, but who is the dude with the funny goggles on the right?

Don't forget the GPs have come closer to our time zone. Kickoff tonight is 6.00PM.

Oh, and second hand Ducati, one owner, low miles, needs some parts, going cheap.

[Grumph]

Their tyres were never really "on" to begin with. My guess L to R: Ago, Read, Hailwood, but who is the dude with the funny goggles on the right?

Pasolini, I think. Looks like one of the Adriatic seaside street circuits too.

[pritch]

Pasolini, I think. Looks like one of the Adriatic seaside street circuits too.

I do believe you are right. And I see why the funny goggles.

[roogazza]

Their tyres were never really "on" to begin with. My guess L to R: Ago, Read, Hailwood, but who is the dude with the funny goggles on the right?

Don't forget the GPs have come closer to our time zone. Kickoff tonight is 6.00PM.

Oh, and second hand Ducati, one owner, low miles, needs some parts, going cheap.

Renzo mate, Renzo Pasolini ! together with Saarinen, both died in the same race at Monza I think ?

[Autech]

Marquez in Q1? Whoops! He'll find a way to progress but doubt that was on the cards.

Been a while since I've been able to say this but... GO DANI! Hot weather seems to be his niche zone so fingers crossed to see him back where he belongs tomorrow.

[malcy25]

Renzo mate, Renzo Pasolini ! together with Saarinen, both died in the same race at Monza I think ?

Yes, 250 GP Monza 1973. A lot of words have been written and discussed about that event, a lot of it incorrect. Carnage was a good way to describe it I hear. . Walter Villa got caned as everyone reckoned they fell off on the oil his bike left in the previous race......and a very common view unfortunately.

I have a copy of Saarinen's biography and it has pictures of the pistons from Paso's bike, showing it seized....think first lap, hard on the gas, front / back of piston pin.

[Reckless]

Poor George. Another high side, another trip to hospital, but he has been declared fit to ride.

Give it time He'll blame Mark Marquez. :yes::no::wings:

[onearmedbandit]

Another stonkin' end to a race. Love the battles between MM and Dovi, and it was on for MV to potentially end Yamaha's drought. Guessing they've found a lttle something something.

[george formby]

I am entertained! :headbang:

[mulletman]

I am entertained! :headbang:


And all at a decent hour ;)

[pritch]

And all at a decent hour ;)

Yeah I love this part of the season. Had a really slack day to the point of feeling guilty. Speedway world final in the morning, then Bathurst in the afternoon - until the serious stuff started.

[Autech]

Yeah I spent all day drinking and watching the taxis race, glad I did as it was a good race. Unfortunately the drinking part of Bathurst has ruined my recollection of the Motogp, did seem like a good race until Dani chucked it away, fucking Miller running him off track turn 1!

Could have been anyones race out of Dovi, VR, MM or MV by the looks, interesting track for racing not sure if I like it yet will wait and see what future years bring!

Didn't catch the Moto2/3 races, were they any good?

[mulletman]

Unfortunately the drinking part of has ruined my recollection of the Motogp, did seem like a good race until Dani chucked it away, fucking Miller running him off track turn 1!



What race were you watchn :drinkup::laugh:

[roogazza]

Recorded the highlights which I hope to see soon.I had 27 grandkids staying over (well 2 grand daughters but it seemed like 27 !!!! lol). So not a chance of getting the remote, Nana wasn't very supportive either.
Hope the yamaha improvement isn't temporary.. :yes:

[pritch]

Hope the yamaha improvement isn't temporary.. :yes:

We can but hope. Rossi didn't give anything away in his comments about track layout and temperatures etc allowing the tyres to work. Most everybody else just said how they couldn't understand it. Roll on Motegi, here's hoping but...

[george formby]

Didn't catch the Moto2/3 races, were they any good?

Yup, moto 2 even raised my heartbeat considerably.

Speaking of which, I reckon that moto 2 has huge potential for next year. I keep watching the reviews and tests and wow keeps popping up.

[Reckless]

Never much time to post lately but I always read the thread and articles you guys link.
Great work guys cheers for that :)

It was a great battle, Dovi vs MM clean as too - and they both seem to be enjoying it :)

I'm starting to like MM and the way he carries himself - Especially with him offering his hand and Rossi refusing it (twat).
See the stoney faced Rossi when they sit together a press thingys :)
MM seems to have matured a little and is well earning the accolades he is achieving.
He even crashes with skill the little shit :)

Those two put on a great show last couple of races thats for sure :)

Not so sure if Rossi does deserve 10 atm. Not so sure if he could anyway with Vinales beating him fare and square last outing.

Damn what a day!! Oyster and wine festival, Bathurst and Moto GP - I was in flipping heaven.

P.S. good result for Lowndes to :)

If MM stays healthy he will beat every damn record out there I reckon.

[BMWST?]

well he is already sitting just behind the legends of the sport.His conversion rate is amazing. Just this weekend he is the first rider to come through q1 and q2 to take pole.He almost seems to be able to overtake anywhere.!

[speights_bud]

Nana wasn't very supportive either.
Hope the yamaha improvement isn't temporary.. :yes:


My mother in law complained the Moto3 droning made her fall asleep on the couch.

I skipped Moto2, but gave her fair warning she was about to have a 45 minute sleep as the gp started.

Then she started asking questions about how many people die in the GPs. I said I dunno, usually about one a year. Bad idea, apparently it's somehow all my fault from the reaction I got??


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[Grumph]

My mother in law complained the Moto3 droning made her fall asleep on the couch.

I skipped Moto2, but gave her fair warning she was about to have a 45 minute sleep as the gp started.

Then she started asking questions about how many people die in the GPs. I said I dunno, usually about one a year. Bad idea, apparently it's somehow all my fault from the reaction I got??


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Tell her that quite a lot of elderly - and I'm qualified - are found dead having fallen asleep on a couch.

[mulletman]

Tell her that quite a lot of elderly - and I'm qualified - are found dead having fallen asleep on a couch.

And at the Bridge table ive been told.

[pritch]

Overnight JLs dad posted on social media that Italian riders are gaining prominence and the Spanish riders are in danger of losing their superiority. That's my words, his words were Spanish. Still, that was exactly Rossi's intention in founding his academy and the plan seems to be working.

[WALRUS]

Bring it on! I look forward to an era of GP's with a new "MotoGP Theme Song"... I'm so bored of the current one..


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ue4p3CoNjv0

I remember one year at our equivalent of the Cold Kiwi Rally (Tas Rally, a great weekend) after every race, game, and event we would play the spanish national anthem (a.k.a MotoGP Theme Song), as is tradition in modern motorcycle sport

[roogazza]

339160xxxx

[jim.cox]

Tell her that quite a lot of elderly - and I'm qualified - are found dead having fallen asleep on a couch.

A young friend of mine did exactly that - while watching MotoGP - RIP Karl

[onearmedbandit]

Still, that was exactly Rossi's intention in founding his academy and the plan seems to be working.

Also read a couple theories that he also did it to mix it up with new younger riders to keep 'up to date' so to speak

[pritch]

Also read a couple theories that he also did it to mix it up with new younger riders to keep 'up to date' so to speak

That would be a bonus, there was recent coverage of a big gathering of academy riders at his ranch. In the last few years though there has been a major surge in Italians in GPs. They were going down like nine pins in Moto3 last weekend but still had all three podium places.

David Emmett's round up: https://motomatters.com/analysis/2018/10/09/2018_buriram_motogp_post_race_round_up.html

[pritch]

The circus is en route to Japan - or already there waiting.

https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/opinion/motogp/yamaha-s-sun-rising-again

[SaferRides]

I watched the last few laps at Buriram again - pretty epic battle. I could not believe what Marquez was doing in the last couple of corners. I'd swear that at one point he had the front at almost full opposite lock with the back wheel in the air.

it will be interesting to see which Yamahas turn up at Motegi. I thought MV might join the party in the last race, but I suppose he was only able to get close because Dovi and Marquez were racing each other.

[Autech]

I thought MV might join the party in the last race, but I suppose he was only able to get close because Dovi and Marquez were racing each other.

He might have had the bike but you got to wonder if they've not been able to push for months if their heads aren't quite there to push them when the bike IS there. Good example is what you said about MM with his bike cutting shapes, he can do that cause he knows the bike inside out, if your bike is good one weekend and shit the next you're not going to find that extra 2% that you need to dice it with the boys that have that 2% already laid out.

[pritch]

He might have had the bike but you got to wonder if they've not been able to push for months if their heads aren't quite there to push them when the bike IS there. Good example is what you said about MM with his bike cutting shapes, he can do that cause he knows the bike inside out, if your bike is good one weekend and shit the next you're not going to find that extra 2% that you need to dice it with the boys that have that 2% already laid out.

You've been reading that Mat Oxley item haven't you? :yes:

[Autech]

You've been reading that Mat Oxley item haven't you? :yes:Yup but also wondered it myself before hand :D Matt confirmed

Especially for Mav who seems to not be able to ride around a shit bike as well as some of the others

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[SaferRides]

Is JLo racing this weekend?

[Autech]

Is JLo racing this weekend?Be surprised if he doesn't but they some tricky injuries he's healing not they usual collarbone jobby

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[SaferRides]

Be surprised if he doesn't but they some tricky injuries he's healing not they usual collarbone jobby

Sent from my SM-A730F using TapatalkHe's been recovering in Thailand and will try P1 and see how everything is. Hopefully no more highsides!

[Autech]

He's been recovering in Thailand and will try P1 and see how everything is. Hopefully no more highsides!

Yeah he's giving DP a run for the most high sides this year I think.

Speaking of DP, I dreamed last night that I missed this weekends race and you lot were all posting about how Dani had won and I was trying to get out of the thread before I saw the result.
Is it a sign? Do I need to not watch this weekend for Dani to win??? Am I the cause of his misfortune???

[pritch]

Yeah he's giving DP a run for the most high sides this year I think.

Speaking of DP, I dreamed last night that I missed this weekends race and you lot were all posting about how Dani had won and I was trying to get out of the thread before I saw the result.
Is it a sign? Do I need to not watch this weekend for Dani to win??? Am I the cause of his misfortune???

Would be good if it was a sign, sharing the wins around a bit would be good and it's not like Pedro isn't due one.

[Reckless]

Yeah he's giving DP a run for the most high sides this year I think.

Speaking of DP, I dreamed last night that I missed this weekends race and you lot were all posting about how Dani had won and I was trying to get out of the thread before I saw the result.
Is it a sign? Do I need to not watch this weekend for Dani to win??? Am I the cause of his misfortune???

Dani winning a Moto Gp race is a dream :)
Being trapped in threads on Kiwibiker has to turn it into a nightmare buddy LMAO.:yes:

[Autech]

Would be good if it was a sign, sharing the wins around a bit would be good and it's not like Pedro isn't due one.

It's been a shit year for him that's for sure. Regulations and injuries have pretty much ruled him out of most races he could have won. He's probably going to be right up there for the next few rounds bar PI so fingers crossed.


Dani winning a Moto Gp race is a dream :)
Being trapped in threads on Kiwibiker has to turn it into a nightmare buddy LMAO.:yes:

Haha yup, was a horrible dream!

As a further sign the TAB just gave me a free $5, Dani is paying $17 for the win.
It's all laid down on him so lets pray its fucking hot in Japan and he can smoke him like in previous years. That ride a few years ago on wet tyres where he came from wayy back and passed em all like they were standing still was awesome.

[Dadpole]

The TAB chucked a fiver at me too. They must want MY money - fat chance. We could kick off the 'TAB Tightarse $5 Challenge'

I am hoping Dani can get to the party too.

[WALRUS]

I feel so sorry for him, he's had such an utterly shit year after so many great ones!

https://image.ibb.co/bzyw5f/Capture.png

[Dadpole]

11th place... :weep: I am hoping he will win at Valencia to finish his career in style.

[pritch]

Freddie Spencer has been appointed head of the FIM Moto GP stewards panel. He replaces Mike Webb who will remain head of Race Direction.

[SaferRides]

Freddie Spencer has been appointed head of the FIM Moto GP stewards panel. He replaces Mike Webb who will remain head of Race Direction.I suppose that means no more vlogs from him after races, which I will miss.

[pritch]

A bit of silliness to promote the Japanese GP?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qK0Iix34Hic&frags=pl%2Cwn

Don't try this at home, expert riders, closed roads, blah blah blah.

[Reckless]

A bit of silliness to promote the Japanese GP?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qK0Iix34Hic&frags=pl%2Cwn

Don't try this at home, expert riders, closed roads, blah blah blah.


Jeepers that wont go down well with the ride safe crowd.
Better download it quick I doubt it'll be there for to long. :Punk:

[WALRUS]

AGV Australia have put up a post and photo about Jack Miller qualifying in 3rd..

https://www.facebook.com/agvhelmetsaustralia/photos/a.304286659977189/486376968434823/?type=3&theater

Watch him bravely fight his way back to 8/9th by the chequered flag

Don't get me wrong, I'm quite taken by the little bogan, he's a brilliant rider... But I'd be surprised if he finished in the top 5

[carbonhed]

Exciting Q2. Marquez 6th and looking untidy.

[Autech]

Wonder if Petrux realises he's just keeping that seat warm next year for when Miller or Bags take it in 2020?


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[EJK]

Wonder if Petrux realises he's just keeping that seat warm next year for when Miller or Bags take it in 2020?


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If Miller can stop crashing during races that is :msn-wink:

[pritch]

The FIM stewards have announced that Quateraro's bike was found to have lower than permitted pressure in the rear tyre at the technical inspection following the race. He has therefore been disqualified.

[Autech]

The FIM stewards have announced that Quateraro's bike was found to have lower than permitted pressure in the rear tyre at the technical inspection following the race. He has therefore been disqualified.Totally fucked imo.

Clearly if he finished n won the race surely it was safe.
Mad world we live in when the riders can't set up the bike to work for them.

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[carbonhed]

7 world championships. Barring injury and boredom how high can he go?

[WALRUS]

If Miller can stop crashing during races that is :msn-wink:

Everyone meet EJK, the Kiwibiker MotoGP far-seer!

[pritch]

Totally fucked imo.


IIRC a while back there was a problem with 'exploding' tyres, the names Redding and Hayden seem to come to mind. The tyre manufacturers requested, and got, rules regarding minimum pressures.

Quateraro was only about 0.02 down (they didn't say 0.02 what). Somebody suggested on social media that much air could have been lost connecting the gauge, but they don't use a gauge. There are sensors in the wheels and the pressures are recorded throughout the race.

Since there is a rule, and it's there for safety reasons, I don't have a problem with it.

[Autech]

7 world championships. Barring injury and boredom how high can he go?He's summant special that's for sure.
With JL not on the Ducati next year he's probably gunna get #8 unless he adapts to the Honda really fast.

2020 the likes of Bags, Rins, Mir, Quatararo will all be in the mix if their bikes can do it as well as all the old hats so that might be the year someone puts a stop to him. Dovi just isn't quite good enough to beat MM I am afraid when the chips are down.

Either that or Mitchie may go and change the tyres around which is always a spanner that can be thrown into the equation.


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[BMWST?]

what i will find most interesting next year is who from the top 3 will continue to improve.My money is on Honda because it seems that crutchlow marquez and JLO will all provide inforo that honda can use.It remains to be seen if Ducati can keep developing the bike with only one proven race winner.The only unknown there is how much feedback did Dani provide.
I think Yamaha is in a difficult situation in that Maverick and VR want two different bikes.I think someone should sit up,look around and hire Alvaro.

[Dadpole]

I think Yamaha is in a difficult situation in that Maverick and VR want two different bikes.

I think most teams are in this situation. The only exception must be Aprillia as they will have two fast-lap headcases on their hands.

[pritch]

Marquez shoulder dislocated after the race but was apparently put back quickly. He says it happens a lot. People who have had shoulder reconstruction surgery think that even if he had it done straight after the Valencia test it's unlikely he'd be ready for the next test. It can take the best part of three months to get back to riding a road bike - let alone a GP bike.

[BMWST?]

he should get it done now then so he is ready for next season

[carbonhed]

Marquez shoulder dislocated after the race but was apparently put back quickly. He says it happens a lot. People who have had shoulder reconstruction surgery think that even if he had it done straight after the Valencia test it's unlikely he'd be ready for the next test. It can take the best part of three months to get back to riding a road bike - let alone a GP bike.

He seemed pretty confident in his recovery and I suppose the care that they get is a little different to the NHS.

Good ride from Bautista again. He's on Jorge's bike next weekend... I hope he kicks arse.

[Autech]

I recall him dislocating it once before on track after a spill and apparently it happens at home quite often.
Redding is a big unit so not surprised he did it lol. Good on him for congratulating MM they had some great battles over the years.

Looking forward to seeing if Bautista can smoke Rea next year

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[pritch]

Looking forward to seeing if Bautista can smoke Rea next year


Prolly the wrong thread but Tom Sykes has got Eugene Laverty's BMW ride, although there is talk that the team will get better support next year.

As of this point Laverty is unemployed. He deserves better than that.

[Dadpole]

The team is changing from Aprilia to BMW so I imagine the support will be light years ahead. You are right about Laverty though.

[Drew]

Looking forward to seeing if Bautista can smoke Rea next year

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Not a snowball's chance in hell.
Won't get close, won't get a contract renewal.

[pritch]

Not a snowball's chance in hell.
Won't get close, won't get a contract renewal.

Bautista was a world champion and those don't come easy. On good equipment he could be a threat.

[Drew]

Bautista was a world champion and those don't come easy. On good equipment he could be a threat.

No doubt he is awesome. I just dont think he will be a championship contender.

Sykes might be what the BMW needs to run at the front though. His point and squirt technique possibly suits that bike.

[Autech]

No doubt he is awesome. I just dont think he will be a championship contender.

Sykes might be what the BMW needs to run at the front though. His point and squirt technique possibly suits that bike.Rea is just a step above.
Bautista is a midget though so perhaps if he gets the bike dialled in it will work well for him? Might have to start watching WSBK again next year been a few years since I watched it.

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[HenryDorsetCase]

I'll only be watching Moto2 next year

https://www.crash.net/motogp/news/890273/1/moto2-kalex-triumph-13s-lap-record

LOOK at that thing! its gorgeous.

[Autech]

I'll only be watching Moto2 next year

https://www.crash.net/motogp/news/890273/1/moto2-kalex-triumph-13s-lap-record

LOOK at that thing! its gorgeous.Moto2 is going to be fapalichious next year.
Thats bloody close to the lap record with no fiddling too, once the extra ponies and electronics are added I would think we will be seeing em a good 1-2 seconds faster than the humble Honda's, won't sound like shit too.

Sign me up.

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[george formby]

I've been quite titillated with the thought of triumph in moto2 for awhile. What really sold me on it was not the noise, the British flag or the torques. It was Simon Crafar's eyebrows hitting his hair line after a ride on it.

After a stumbly start I'm really enjoying his insightful questions and close contacts in pit lane. Very perceptive commentary.

[WALRUS]

I'll only be watching Moto2 next year

https://www.crash.net/motogp/news/890273/1/moto2-kalex-triumph-13s-lap-record

LOOK at that thing! its gorgeous.

Not being funny, but I can't see the difference (aesthetically) between that one and the current one.. And the current one isn't something I'd call gorgeous, personally.

[HenryDorsetCase]

Not being funny, but I can't see the difference (aesthetically) between that one and the current one.. And the current one isn't something I'd call gorgeous, personally.

Well, its got an Ohlins sticker.

[AllanB]

Well, its got an Ohlins sticker.


Must be good then.

Hmmm - I have some genuine ones in the shed somewhere left over from the Hornet. Instant HP stickers.

[pritch]

Well, its got an Ohlins sticker.

Ah yes. There was a second hand Ducati sprotbike in one of the local shops, it was advertised as an SP model. I could see the back shock was wrong so I lost interest right there.

Sensei that used to be on KB told the salesman it was a wrong 'un. Scott had Ohlins both ends of his bike and knew that of which he spoke. He told the salesman that the rear shock wasn't an Ohlins.
"But it's got a yellow spring"
Scott then pointed out that the forks weren't Ohlins either.
"It's got an Ohlins sticker."

Perhaps, but the sticker was the only bit of Ohlins on the bike.

[SaferRides]

he should get it done now then so he is ready for next seasonLooks like it's being seriously considered this time. Only problem is testing, but Crutchlow can do that.

[WALRUS]

Looks like "Mad" Mike Jones has scored himself another substitute/wildcard ride, filling in for Alvaro (who is, in turn, filling in for Dear George) at PI

https://www.angelnietoteam.com/en/moto-gp/news/mike-jones-to-ride-for-angel-nieto-team-in-australia?fbclid=IwAR3zBHYSJj0y9VOd-BFubKYNymV21Mk7jg__qZG2X-89n5SZ7CRgdPqa2uU

Having just wrapped up 4th overall in the Spanish STK1000 championship on a ZX-10, I suspect any success/luck at the GP will come down to general rider skill and track knowledge as the "culture shock" between the two bikes and tyre manufacturers, I suspect, will be pretty significant so most of FP and Qualifying will probs be spent learning how to make the thing go..

[SaferRides]

Looks like "Mad" Mike Jones has scored himself another substitute/wildcard ride, filling in for Alvaro (who is, in turn, filling in for Dear George) at PI

https://www.angelnietoteam.com/en/moto-gp/news/mike-jones-to-ride-for-angel-nieto-team-in-australia?fbclid=IwAR3zBHYSJj0y9VOd-BFubKYNymV21Mk7jg__qZG2X-89n5SZ7CRgdPqa2uU

Having just wrapped up 4th overall in the Spanish STK1000 championship on a ZX-10, I suspect any success/luck at the GP will come down to general rider skill and track knowledge as the "culture shock" between the two bikes and tyre manufacturers, I suspect, will be pretty significant so most of FP and Qualifying will probs be spent learning how to make the thing go..

I expect it will be a big ask for all concerned. Might be better if the teams had the option to park the bike for one race before having to find a substitute if their test rider is unavailable.

[WALRUS]

Well, he did race for Avintia in Motegi and PI last year (or maybe the year before) so who knows, he might remember a little. I reckon he'll finish it in the points but outside the top 10

[pritch]

I expect it will be a big ask for all concerned. Might be better if the teams had the option to park the bike for one race before having to find a substitute if their test rider is unavailable.

Mike Jones is no mug. In 2016 in similar circumstances he rode the Japanese and Australian GPs on a Ducati, even scoring a world championship point at Phillip Island. Which was more than Marc Marquez could do on the day. :whistle:

[BMWST?]

Jorde Torres should get a promotion and Jones go onto his bike

[SaferRides]

I'd forgotten that Mike Jones had done those 2 races in 2016.

I was thinking of Bautista as well. The GP18 is a different bike to what he's used to, and he'll be lucky if there are 3 dry practice sessions.

Should be an entertaining weekend. Marquez won't be as focused as usual, so who knows what could happen.

[pritch]

The weather in Phillip Island is apparently cold and very wet. Here's some reading material while we wait:

https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/opinion/motogp/m-rquez-his-winning-secret

https://www.crash.net/motogp/feature/908464/1/race-direction-explains-spencer-appointment

http://ontrackoffroad.com/2018/10/25/barely-breaking-sweat/

[WALRUS]

Yeah, typical PI. It's like Tassie though, the weather will either stick for the whole week/fortnight, OR it'll be a completely different season in 20 minutes

[pritch]

Yeah, typical PI. It's like Tassie though, the weather will either stick for the whole week/fortnight, OR it'll be a completely different season in 20 minutes

We understand. I'm on the coast here and if you followed the line around we'd be in the middle of Bass Straight.

So why aren't you at the track, you're nearly there?

[WALRUS]

I wish. A heap of my mates are all riding over for it.. I'm sitting in the office.. Insuring shite :P

I haven't been to the Island since 2007! Too long!

[Autech]

Go Miller.

Big crashes for the Repsol boys. Dani Crashed at turn 1! Fuck that!

[pritch]

Go Miller.

Big crashes for the Repsol boys. Dani Crashed at turn 1! Fuck that!

Marquez said he had trouble there too, but Crutchlow went down big time, multiple fractures in leg and foot requiring immediate surgery and probably a couple of plates.

[Autech]

Marquez said he had trouble there too, but Crutchlow went down big time, multiple fractures in leg and foot requiring immediate surgery and probably a couple of plates.I am struggling to think of a worse corner to crash at one the whole calendar (excluding those with close walls that is).

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[pritch]

For the "My bike hasn't got one of those" list. Rossi's bike has a little gadget fitted to the clutch lever, thought to be a sensor?

[WALRUS]

It's undoubtedly a doo-hicky.. It connects the ooja-whatsit to the thingamajig

[roogazza]

Marquez said he had trouble there too, but Crutchlow went down big time, multiple fractures in leg and foot requiring immediate surgery and probably a couple of plates.

Not a surprise for him ? maybe his front over heated pffft ! or was it the lack of a carbon arm ?

[SaferRides]

Maybe another Honda front tyre drama - too cold for the medium? Remember Turn 1 is the first right since MG.

[pritch]

Not a surprise for him ? maybe his front over heated pffft ! or was it the lack of a carbon arm ?

Now now Gazza. The temperature was too low for the tyres to operate as designed, they were behaving erratically and most of the riders were unhappy.

Phillip Island is usually rated as one of the few remaining circuits that requires the riders to be brave. Arriving at turn 1 braking from warp speed wondering what the tyres will do this time must be something else.

This could affect race day if the weather doesn't warm up. The programme has been moved back two hours to a 4.00PM start for MotoGP to make live viewing more accessible to viewers in Europe. Previously when run at this time the temperature has dropped dramatically at about 4.00 giving everybody problems. There are probably safer places to have tyre probems?.

[speights_bud]

During the Moto2 fp3 that's just finished the commentary team talked about a rider who's engine exploded in the last lap of the Japanese GP. I went back to the video of Moto2 Japan but couldn't find anything.

Anyone seen any info?

Apparently it's smashed his shin and the boot looked like it had a shotgun wound...

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[HenryDorsetCase]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwjyVw3jEFY&fbclid=IwAR1uXAX2EpAYzmg_EMYS5--IU4ikRjgKiWD3R_fsFjSmHTq2SqCIsoVuLjg

here's an onboard lap with Simon Crafar which I enjoyed watching.

takehomes for me: S1000RR is FAAAAAAAST - I saw 275 indicated on the clock, and
Simon can ride a bit.

[pritch]

https://www.asphaltandrubber.com/motogp/friday-motogp-summary-phillip-island-australian-gp-2018/

[roogazza]

Now now Gazza. The temperature was too low for the tyres to operate as designed, they were behaving erratically and most of the riders were unhappy.

Phillip Island is usually rated as one of the few remaining circuits that requires the riders to be brave. Arriving at turn 1 braking from warp speed wondering what the tyres will do this time must be something else.

This could affect race day if the weather doesn't warm up. The programme has been moved back two hours to a 4.00PM start for MotoGP to make live viewing more accessible to viewers in Europe. Previously when run at this time the temperature has dropped dramatically at about 4.00 giving everybody problems. There are probably safer places to have tyre probems?.

yeah pritch haha , jumping off at turn one would make the eyes water I guess. But I haven't been back to P.I. for years mainly because of the weather there.
Brilliant track tho huh ?
Fingers crossed for the Yams, for me at least? :yes::shifty:

[BMWST?]

Not a surprise for him ? maybe his front over heated pffft ! or was it the lack of a carbon arm ?


Maybe another Honda front tyre drama - too cold for the medium? Remember Turn 1 is the first right since MG.
correct MM fastest n FP3

[pritch]

I haven't been back to P.I. for years mainly because of the weather there.

Brilliant track tho huh ?


Yeah the weather there is like the weather here; four seasons in a day.

Having read that David Emmett item a few posts back, and seen the comments from Rossi and others about requesting a change in the calendar, it seems something does need to be done.

Dorna claim it's the F1 round being held in March that prevents this round moving to that part of the year. Never mind that the WSBK round is early too.

If there is to be a Korean round, as has been suggested, it might be an idea to do the four Asian GPs before Phillip Island which could move the event back to early/mid November. If they moved Valencia forward and finished the season in Australia that could move it back even further. That wouldn't guarantee warm weather but it would definitely increase the chances.

It is a great track, as someone else said it was designed with a pencil rather than a mouse.

[speights_bud]

Yeah the weather there is like the weather here; four seasons in a day.

Having read that David Emmett item a few posts back, and seen the comments from Rossi and others about requesting a change in the calendar, it seems something does need to be done.

Dorna claim it's the F1 round being held in March that prevents this round moving to that part of the year. Never mind that the WSBK round is early too.

If there is to be a Korean round, as has been suggested, it might be an idea to do the three Asian GPs before Phillip Island which could move the event back to early/mid November. If they moved Valencia forward and finished the season in Australia that could move it back even further. That wouldn't guarantee warm weather but it would definitely increase the chances.

It is a great track, as someone else said it was designed with a pencil rather than a mouse.It would be great to see PI as the final round but it will never happen. Dorna would never give up a Spanish final round for a poorly timezoned Aussie final

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[BMWST?]

i have decided that MM has a very well developed sense of timing.He seems to be able to know when to take a risk,and then does so.Today was a good example,6th fastest and didnt really look like he could go any faster.Q1 there was a sprinling of rain and all on slicks Miller decides to go for it,and so does MM bam fastest lap. Because consitions were a bit dicey and then another little squall comes through so he has his 5th pole in a row.Lucky huh

[Dadpole]

Lucky huh

Lucky in that he seems to make his own luck. That was a very tense Q2. The front runners were right on a knife edge with a potentially very painful crash a heartbeat away. I think the wiser/older heads (Ross, Dovi) were content to stay upright and take a top 10 position.

[SaferRides]

Good quote from Rossi: Threatening rain required "big balls"

[BMWST?]

Lucky in that he seems to make his own luck. That was a very tense Q2. The front runners were right on a knife edge with a potentially very painful crash a heartbeat away. I think the wiser/older heads (Ross, Dovi) were content to stay upright and take a top 10 position.
the problem with that philosophy is that MM WILL risk it.A good illustration of what i mean is that wet race where he risked it all to beat Petrucci.Bang.....9 points there instead of 4 points to the third placed Rossi or Dovi

[Dadpole]

the problem with that philosophy is that MM WILL risk it

Therein lies the problem. How can you cope with a combination of skill, luck and willingness to put it over the edge and (mostly) get it back?

[pritch]

As the coverge begins and the field readies for the Moto3 romp, most people wearing jackets and many wearing beanies. Even the brolly dollies are well covered. Gonna be lovely at 4.00PM.

Hoping we get through the day without any more broken bones. :doctor:

[speights_bud]

As the coverge begins and the field readies for the Moto3 romp, most people wearing jackets and many wearing beanies. Even the brolly dollies are well covered. Gonna be lovely at 4.00PM.

Hoping we get through the day without any more broken bones. :doctor:Surely it's going to end in a shit fight with riders refusing to compete on safety grounds at some point.

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[george formby]

How many moto3 bikes can you get on the head of a pin?:eek5:

[Autech]

That new VR46 guy sure can pedal a bike.

Fucking awesome race bar the horrible crashes, had to look away in one of them

[AllanB]

Just caught up on the Japanese GP.

You'd be well fucked off throwing your Ducati down the road while in second on the second to last lap.

MM. I should love him - epic skills and ability I can only dream off after too many craft beers. But, I don't.

And I've been thinking about it. I think it's just timing. I spend years watching Rossi be amazing and just really want to see him finish on a final world championship.

Plus that stupid arcade game stunt MM performed fucked me off. May he get a twisted testicle half way through the next race.

[carbonhed]

Zarco's throwing some punches... and getting one back from Miller.

What a fucking French cock.

[carbonhed]

Iannone... off to Aprilia.

Go Bautista.

[carbonhed]

Rins stalking Flossi.

[roogazza]

Iannone... off to Aprilia.

Go Bautista.

well done both of them and of course #25 for pulling one off. :yes:

[speights_bud]

Jolly good show across the whole afternoon.

[carbonhed]

well done both of them and of course #25 for pulling one off. :yes:

Iannone looked absolutely pissed off in Parc ferme... WTF was that all about? If he hadn't screwed up multiple times maybe victory would have been possible.

Zarco/Marquez... how nobody had multiple fractures possibly life threatening injuries :eek5:

[speights_bud]

Iannone looked absolutely pissed off in Parc ferme... WTF was that all about? If he hadn't screwed up multiple times maybe victory would have been possible.

Zarco/Marquez... how nobody had multiple fractures possibly life threatening injuries :eek5:As Zarco said during the interview with Simon. If he'd been over on the asphalt and gravel instead of staying on the grass he would be in all kinds of hurt.



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[Autech]

Iannone looked absolutely pissed off in Parc ferme... WTF was that all about? If he hadn't screwed up multiple times maybe victory would have been possible.


Must be farking frustrating to have such a slow bike compared to the Ducati's when you want to get away and try and fight with Vinales. Iannone made too many mistakes when the time was right though so has himself in part to blame. Especially as he's moving on to a bike that may never win next year this was possibly one of his last chances ever to get another GP win.

[carbonhed]

Must be farking frustrating to have such a slow bike compared to the Ducati's when you want to get away and try and fight with Vinales. Iannone made too many mistakes when the time was right though so has himself in part to blame. Especially as he's moving on to a bike that may never win next year this was possibly one of his last chances ever to get another GP win.

He had a brilliant view of Zarco's bike at head height milliseconds in front of his face... I imagine those kinds of images may haunt you :laugh:

[george formby]

Yeah, nah. I just watched moto 3 again.:sweatdrop 14 riders across the line in a second.

Today has cemented the Aussie GP as my favourite circuit of the calendar. Shit, it's fierce.

:crazy: It also fits with civilised beer consumption.

[EJK]

Today I learnt what Zarco's helmet design truly meant.

[SaferRides]

Well, haven't Ducati done well with their riders for next year. I bet Bautista got a Mapping 8 message after passing Dovi the 2nd time. At least he'll be on a Ducati in WSBK.

Good to see the Yamaha #2 rider win.

[roogazza]

Well, haven't Ducati done well with their riders for next year. I bet Bautista got a Mapping 8 message after passing Dovi the 2nd time. At least he'll be on a Ducati in WSBK.

Good to see the Yamaha #2 rider win.

Maybe you are right, Bautista looked like he was giving it a go, for a while there.

[Autech]

Maybe you are right, Bautista looked like he was giving it a go, for a while there.

He seemed to be able to carry a bit more corner speed than Dovi due to his riding style, certainly put on a good show. The fact he was so close to AD is a bit concerning though (for Dovi).
Petrux isn't looking like he will be keeping that factory seat very long with the likes of Miller and Bautista lining up to take it. Good ride by Miller I reckon, was interesting to see how MM's bike was quicker than his, shows how much more competitive the 18 Honda engine is on last years Ducati donk. Bautista said the engine was very impressive on the GP18 so shows how well the GP17 boys are doing.

Interesting to see Zarco has apologised to MM for the incident even though they both put it down to racing. From my view it looked like MM moved across his nose while he was braking, no way near as bad as what he did a few times in Moto2 but it definitely is a dangerous corner to change your line under braking in. They all seem to do it though so I guess it's all fair until it goes horribly wrong.

MM, just staying on that bike shows how fuck off talented he is. Not many riders could take a hit like that at 300+ kph then still make it round the next corner with a fucked bike.

[pritch]

Petrux isn't looking like he will be keeping that factory seat very long with the likes of Miller and Bautista lining up to take it.

Bautista is not lining up to take any GP seat, he got the arse card. He'll be punting a Panigale V4 round the SBK tracks next year.
On yesterday's result we could be forgiven for thinking that wasn't the smartest decision Ducati ever made. The boy has talent but since he's been playing with the big kids he hasn't had top machinery. Until yesterday.

OK it was a bit like a lottery, but Celestino Vietti done good in Moto 3. The boss will be pleased. A podium on his second start as a fill in rider for Sky VR46, on a track he'd never seen before. Hard to see him not getting a steady ride soonish.

A surprise of a different sort, Fabio Quarteraro. He was considered such a special talent that they changed the rules specially for him. Considering that background, he is having a very quiet time in Moto 2.

Whoever it was said that flowing tracks provide great racing knew that of which he spoke. It was really good that the sun came out, it would have been sad if the racing was spoiled by cold temperatures.

[Autech]

Bautista is not lining up to take any GP seat, he got the arse card. He'll be punting a Panigale V4 round the SBK tracks next year.
On yesterday's result we could be forgiven for thinking that wasn't the smartest decision Ducati ever made. The boy has talent but since he's been playing with the big kids he hasn't had top machinery. Until yesterday.

OK it was a bit like a lottery, but Celestino Vietti done good in Moto 3. The boss will be pleased. A podium on his second start as a fill in rider for Sky VR46, on a track he'd never seen before. Hard to see him not getting a steady ride soonish.

A surprise of a different sort, Fabio Quarteraro. He was considered such a special talent that they changed the rules specially for him. Considering that background, he is having a very quiet time in Moto 2.

Whoever it was said that flowing tracks provide great racing knew that of which he spoke. It was really good that the sun came out, it would have been sad if the racing was spoiled by cold temperatures.

Shit got my B's mixed up, I mean Bagniaia is lining up for the factory seat LOL. Bautista wont return to motogp. Lets hope he can give Rea a good challenge.

Quatararo is on a speed up which isn't the best bike on the grid, it seems to turn tight tracks really well but I wonder if a place like PI it would be too nervous on the faster stuff?
He still finished ahead of the championship leaders though... Whether he has what it takes we will soon find out as he jumps on the easiest rookie GP bike to ride next year alongside a very talented team mate who's had the joys of riding a shitty Honda for a season.

Vietti is a revalation, to do so well at such a ballsy track is impressive on debut, many motogp riders struggle with the speed there and those moto3 guys are hitting the corners much faster! Big nuts. Apparently old mate Bulega is a really really good rider just wayyy to big for a Moto3 bike to show it, lets see how he does on a big Triumph next year he may just show his talent then, looks like they have a good guy to fill in in the meantime while he heals at least.

[carbonhed]

Bautista is not lining up to take any GP seat, he got the arse card. He'll be punting a Panigale V4 round the SBK tracks next year.
On yesterday's result we could be forgiven for thinking that wasn't the smartest decision Ducati ever made.

Ducati have made some howlers this year.

[SaferRides]

Interesting to see Zarco has apologised to MM for the incident even though they both put it down to racing. From my view it looked like MM moved across his nose while he was braking, no way near as bad as what he did a few times in Moto2 but it definitely is a dangerous corner to change your line under braking in. They all seem to do it though so I guess it's all fair until it goes horribly wrong.

MM, just staying on that bike shows how fuck off talented he is. Not many riders could take a hit like that at 300+ kph then still make it round the next corner with a fucked bike.
There's a video on the MotoGP website of the crash from the various bikes behind Marquez and Zarco. Ianonne did well to miss that - I bet Zarco wasn't the only one who needed new leathers afterwards!

Marquez said he braked late, so I'm not sure why Zarco hadn't started to slow. Maybe he thought he could go round him on the outside? But it looks like the double slipstream sucked him forward just as Marquez braked.

Maybe Marquez shouldn't have moved, or Zarco shouldn't have been there. But they are going so fast into Turn 1 and it all happened in an instant. You can tell Marquez didn't know anyone was there from his reaction after Zarco hit his bike.

So many crashes at Turn 1 over the 3 days. Lucky the injury total was a broken ankle.

[Autech]

There's a video on the MotoGP website of the crash from the various bikes behind Marquez and Zarco. Ianonne did well to miss that - I bet Zarco wasn't the only one who needed new leathers afterwards!

Marquez said he braked late, so I'm not sure why Zarco hadn't started to slow. Maybe he thought he could go round him on the outside? But it looks like the double slipstream sucked him forward just as Marquez braked.

Maybe Marquez shouldn't have moved, or Zarco shouldn't have been there. But they are going so fast into Turn 1 and it all happened in an instant. You can tell Marquez didn't know anyone was there from his reaction after Zarco hit his bike.

So many crashes at Turn 1 over the 3 days. Lucky the injury total was a broken ankle.

Exactly, Zarco too close, MM moved a bit. Carnage.

At least it was 2 riders used to a bit of bargy, Zarco had already served one up on Miller, silly move though as Miller served him back equally not long after.

[BMWST?]

i dont think MM really changed his line as such was just drifting to the outside praps trying to stay in millers draft a bit??

[SaferRides]

i dont think MM really changed his line as such was just drifting to the outside praps trying to stay in millers draft a bit??If you watch the video, it was a definite move. Zarco had been on his outside down the straight, so he probably just wanted a better line through the corner and didn't realise how close he was.

Might have been avoided if Zarco had given Marquez a little more room, but that's easy to say when you're sitting on the couch watching it in slow motion.

[Autech]

If you watch the video, it was a definite move. Zarco had been on his outside down the straight, so he probably just wanted a better line through the corner and didn't realise how close he was.

Might have been avoided if Zarco had given Marquez a little more room, but that's easy to say when you're sitting on the couch watching it in slow motion.

Yeah by MM standards it wasn't much of a movement. What he used to do in Moto2 was just plain dangerous though and he got called out for it by the other riders. That was what annoyed me about him was the guy had sooo much talent but had to resort to tactics like that to win in moto2. Those years are over now though and while he may lose his head from time to time (argentina) he's much better than he used to be. Used to give me the shits watching him braking behind riders in 2013 where he wouldn't adjust his brake marker when they were in front and just about smash into the back of them (or actually smash into the back of em in DP's case).

[Reckless]

MM / Zarco crash was def spectacular
Looking at the Vid I have to agree looked like Zarco was making ground on the outside and MM swept out a bit to get a better line.
Similar to someone sweeping wider last minute to get into their drive. Not good at 300k.
Was MMs fault I reckon. Zarco was 1/2 bike length up the side, lost a little under brakes but still with a front wheel overlap.

Man does Maverick look happy or what - positively fizzing.
From watching the interviews I get that they just stopped chasing their tales and tried to find lines and ride around the negatives.
No really big changes in hardware just approach combined with a gain in electronics - and of coarse a track that he and Yamaha really like.

Iannone was pissed at lack of power and getting blasted off the track every straight.

Damn good to see some different faces on the podium :)

ONLY one race to go :mad:

[EJK]

Have hope, Sepang and Valencia.. That's two races :sunny:

[Reckless]

Have hope, Sepang and Valencia.. That's two races :sunny:

OH DUH nearly did myself out of a racing bourbon and kettle fries night with my son :) Cheers EJK

[Mental Trousers]

MM / Zarco crash was def spectacular
Looking at the Vid I have to agree looked like Zarco was making ground on the outside and MM swept out a bit to get a better line.
Similar to someone sweeping wider last minute to get into their drive. Not good at 300k.
Was MMs fault I reckon. Zarco was 1/2 bike length up the side, lost a little under brakes but still with a front wheel overlap.

Marquez definitely moved across on Zarco, but he didn't know Zarco was that close. They both said Zarco got a bit of a boost from Miller's wake so he was a bit ahead of where he and Marquez expected. It was a racing incident.

[manxkiwi]

Zarco broke MMs tail piece last year at PI too. Pattern?? (just kidding).

[Autech]

Video of DP26 after his crash in PI just flopping onto his back after sitting up doing the rounds on the internet (can't find the link but think it was reddit). Pretty much sums up his season.
He crashed on a cold front tyre in the middle of the race, shows how badly he is struggling this year to get heat into them. Poor bastard, I'm praying for 40+ degree weather in the next 2 rounds so he can finish the season with a win. Bring on the heat!

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[Dadpole]

I am still looking for a virgin to sacrifice to ensure Dani gets his win at Valencia Wish me luck.

[Autech]

I am still looking for a virgin to sacrifice to ensure Dani gets his win at Valencia Wish me luck.I would say Malaysia is his best chance unless Valencia is super hot like last year.
I shall dance naked at the full moon while howling Dani's name

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[Dadpole]

I shall dance naked at the full moon while howling Dani's name

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You have no idea how happy I am that you live so far from me....


PS: No pics - please.

[Autech]

You have no idea how happy I am that you live so far from me....


PS: No pics - please.You ever seen a pale skeleton with 3 legs howl at the moon? Pics not necessary.

:D

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[Dadpole]

You bastard. That is a mental image only alcohol can erase.

[pritch]

Odd things in Sepang:
Rins fastest qualifier.
One of Rins bikes went up in flames in the pits.
MM has been holding the bike up on his elbow again.
And again.

[BMWST?]

Odd things in Sepang:
Rins fastest qualifier.
One of Rins bikes went up in flames in the pits.
MM has been holding the bike up on his elbow again.
And again.
4 times they showed on motogp .com

[Drew]

The bike on fire is weird though. It has no disks or brakes fitted, and the front guard looks different than normal.

[Grumph]

The bike on fire is weird though. It has no disks or brakes fitted, and the front guard looks different than normal.

Wouldn't be the first time a private team needed the insurance money....I've got a koni shock here which allegedly came off a certain F5000 car which went up in flames. No sign of smoke or fire damage....

[Autech]

Alright it's rained enough. Now fuck off some of us have qualifying to watch.

[pritch]

It was reported on social media that Rins said he liked the way the "heat treated" frame handled, he felt it was a definite improvement. That idea could catch on, Yamaha might be tempted to have "heat treatment" sessions in the pits?

[Grumph]

It was reported on social media that Rins said he liked the way the "heat treated" frame handled, he felt it was a definite improvement. That idea could catch on, Yamaha might be tempted to have "heat treatment" sessions in the pits?

Certainly be a bit softer. Most are now done in an air/time hardening alloy so it'll be back to normal by the end of the season.

Lotus had an F1 car burn to the ground in the spaceframe days. Mild steel tube, gas welded. Being short of cash, it got reused. It was said to be the only one of that model the engine and box didn't have to be fitted using a crowbar. Nicely stress relieved.

[sidecar bob]

It was reported on social media that Rins said he liked the way the "heat treated" frame handled, he felt it was a definite improvement. That idea could catch on, Yamaha might be tempted to have "heat treatment" sessions in the pits?

It wasn't much of a heat treatment if all the bike allegedly needed afterward to make it run was a wiring loom and no major components.
https://www.autosport.com/motogp/news/139813/rins-set-fastest-practice-time-on-pitlane-fire-bike
Combine that with Drews observations, along with this "heat treatment" bullshit, I smell a rat.
It's hardly like it would have been evenly heated, or even very hot.
I've seen a few engine bay fires, not pretty.

[SaferRides]

They have brought the race start times forward to try and avoid the rain. Moto3 is 3 PM, Moto2 4:20 and MotoGP 6 PM.

Sky hasn't changed their programme times.

[pritch]

It wasn't much of a heat treatment if all the bike allegedly needed afterward to make it run was a wiring loom and no major components..

Guess that depends on what they call major components? Also, note the new model lightweight front brakes. :whistle:

For those who like to ponder unanswered questions, why is nobody grabbing that bloody extinguisher?

[malcy25]

The bike on fire is weird though. It has no disks or brakes fitted, and the front guard looks different than normal.

The bikes regularly travel on "travel" wheels and tyres in their boxes, with no brakes etc. The tyre manufacturers don't like their tyres far from there control....so they just have some "stock" rubber peeled on quite often with some wording cut in into the tread transport only do not use or whatever. The discs are so big, the have to take calipers with the discs and use dry break lines. No point putting all the discs and calipers on when they have to come off again

[Autech]

The bikes regularly travel on "travel" wheels and tyres in their boxes, with no brakes etc. The tyre manufacturers don't like their tyres far from there control....so they just have some "stock" rubber peeled on quite often with some wording cut in into the tread transport only do not use or whatever. The discs are so big, the have to take calipers with the discs and use dry break lines. No point putting all the discs and calipers on when they have to come off againI would guess they use different sized disks at each track too depending on the braking zones and weather to get the temp right so would be swapping em out eventually any ways

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[pritch]

I would guess they use different sized disks at each track too depending on the braking zones and weather to get the temp right so would be swapping em out eventually any ways


And I think they still switch from carbon to steel discs in the wet. I briefly tried to spot that last night but the bike I was watching had big covers over the brake discs.

[Autech]

And I think they still switch from carbon to steel discs in the wet. I briefly tried to spot that last night but the bike I was watching had big covers over the brake discs.They were carbon I think, the covers were there to keep the heat in em.

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[roogazza]

Enjoyed that, moto3 , moto2 and then oops after leading sooooo long . Bugger :(

can't tell ya more !

[SaferRides]

One word for it -
Karma

[pritch]

One word for it -
Karma

There must be at least two words, my word was "Bugger!"

[carbonhed]

Enjoyed that, moto3 , moto2 and then oops after leading sooooo long . Bugger :(

can't tell ya more !

Well at least he didn't break any bones like Crutchlow. So near and yet so far... Assen 2017 wasn't it? Priceless.

[SaferRides]

And I think they still switch from carbon to steel discs in the wet. I briefly tried to spot that last night but the bike I was watching had big covers over the brake discs.Yes, during the FP4 rain delay they showed one of the teams fitting steel discs. Only 3 bolts to attach the discs.

[EJK]

"Your ambition outweighed your talent"

[roogazza]

Dovi wondered why the Ducati was further back, 6th or 7th wasn't it ?
The fact that the Yamahas were working is a good reason.
I hope this is the case for 2019. :yes:

[pritch]

Interesting comments on social media overnight. Marquez said that Rossi's bike was working well in the areas where it had been suffering previously. Dare we hope that Yamaha are on the road to recovery?

Jorge Lorenzo posted praising Rossi's ride,

"Apart from the crash, I’ve never seen @ValeYellow46 so consistent. More than 10 laps in just 1 tenth at the hottest and longest track impressed me today. And some said he started too feel his age after last race..."

So too did Simon Crafar and Mat Oxley, and they know that of which they write. Rossi's lap times were apparently a miracle of metronomic consistency.

One swallow does not a summer make, but...

[Autech]

Interesting comments on social media overnight. Marquez said that Rossi's bike was working well in the areas where it had been suffering previously. Dare we hope that Yamaha are on the road to recovery?

Jorge Lorenzo posted praising Rossi's ride,

"Apart from the crash, I’ve never seen @ValeYellow46 so consistent. More than 10 laps in just 1 tenth at the hottest and longest track impressed me today. And some said he started too feel his age after last race..."

So too did Simon Crafar and Mat Oxley, and they know that of which they write. Rossi's lap times were apparently a miracle of metronomic consistency.

One swallow does not a summer make, but...

Yeah he was scarily consistent.

I have a theory on their change in form, have a look at the practice schedule for PI and Malaysia and tell me what they've changed...

Fuck it I will answer it.

Moto2 are now on track before Motogp in all the practice sessions it, so Yamaha can actually set their bike up for the track conditions they will face in the race. How many times did we see Yamaha right up there this year in Practice and quali only for them to drop like a stone on the Dunlop rubber, then miraculously get faster and faster as the race progressed?
This is the key change IMO, Yamaha needs good grip to be fast and if they can get the bike dialed in look out.

[SaferRides]

I'm not sure that running the same laptimes throughout the race is the best way to manage the Michelins. Marquez especially will go hard for a few laps, then back off to let the tyres recover.

I assume that the soft tyre Michelin bring to Sepang is not the same as the soft at say Assen?

[Brett]

A great performance by Rossi - until the rear let go! So gutted, was hoping it was a break in the trend. Still, shows he still has it, his consistency (as noted) was phenomenal.

Yet, extremely hard not to yet again, be impressed by Marc. He caught Rossi while pushing hard and managed to bring it home. Testament to the talent that the dude has. He is very likeable (and I DO like him) and his talent is unquestionable, yet for some reason I still can't bring myself to support him. I just don't know what it is. I found myself willing Zarco on once Rossi was out.

[merv]

Yet, extremely hard not to yet again, be impressed by Marc. He caught Rossi while pushing hard and managed to bring it home. Testament to the talent that the dude has. He is very likeable (and I DO like him) and his talent is unquestionable, yet for some reason I still can't bring myself to support him. I just don't know what it is. I found myself willing Zarco on once Rossi was out.

Perhaps you are just not a Honda fan.

I'm a Honda supporter and loved when Rossi was on the RC211V, thought he was a bit of an idiot to leave them, but then sort of thought it was okay he was on the Yamaha but didn't appreciate how he treated Stoner and started losing faith in him then, particularly because of his trash talk going to Ducati which just totally backfired on him and ended up with his ambiton outweighing his talent. His return to Yamaha was vaguely okay until he had his brain fart in 2015 over Phillip Island where he was the only one that had the stupid dream that Marquez was helping Lorenzo. The rest is history and he has caused MotoGP a lot of angst by having the yellow crowd so wound up against Marquez, but Marquez just keeps smiling and winning and not losing the mind games against the old guy.

I reckon one of the most interesting things to watch will be to see how Zarco goes on the KTM and whether KTM can step it up a notch.

[denill]

Perhaps you are just not a Honda fan.

I'm a Honda supporter and loved when Rossi was on the RC211V, thought he was a bit of an idiot to leave them, but then sort of thought it was okay he was on the Yamaha but didn't appreciate how he treated Stoner and started losing faith in him then, particularly because of his trash talk going to Ducati which just totally backfired on him and ended up with his ambiton outweighing his talent. His return to Yamaha was vaguely okay until he had his brain fart in 2015 over Phillip Island where he was the only one that had the stupid dream that Marquez was helping Lorenzo. The rest is history and he has caused MotoGP a lot of angst by having the yellow crowd so wound up against Marquez, but Marquez just keeps smiling and winning and not losing the mind games against the old guy.

I reckon one of the most interesting things to watch will be to see how Zarco goes on the KTM and whether KTM can step it up a notch.

I agree with all the aspects you have raised in that summary Merv.........

[merv]

I agree with all the aspects you have raised in that summary Merv.........

Cheers Bill. Still supporting Hondas yourself too I presume and you're to blame for first selling them into our family lol :laugh:

[SaferRides]

It's quite telling that Dovi and Rossi, who hardly ever crash, both succumbed to the pressure from Marquez while leading.

A couple of things - Sepang was the first race he's won from outside the first 6 on the grid, and it must be a few years since he's won a race after winning the championship.

[denill]

Cheers Bill. Still supporting Hondas yourself too I presume and you're to blame for first selling them into our family lol :laugh:

Ha ha, but yeah, good days Merv.

[Reckless]

Yet, extremely hard not to yet again, be impressed by Marc. He caught Rossi while pushing hard and managed to bring it home. Testament to the talent that the dude has. He is very likeable (and I DO like him) and his talent is unquestionable, yet for some reason I still can't bring myself to support him. I just don't know what it is. I found myself willing Zarco on once Rossi was out.

I was the same as you but MM has matured. I'm turning towards MM away from Rossi -
I think the last straw was when MM offered Rossi his hand at that press conference ( was it last year) and Rossi turned his Nose up at it (over not such a big deal if I remember rightly).
If MM keeps carrying himself the way he did before after and during hard battles like the past ones with Dovi he deserves every record he gets.

PS I wonder if MM fell like Rossi did in the last race whether or not he would have saved it??????
The minute I saw it t I thought MM wouldnt have gone down.
Perhaps gone to second after the save and then passed back to win on the last corner - MM style.

PSS Wasn't that moto3 race Phillip Island just the best ever!

[Autech]

PS I wonder if MM fell like Rossi did in the last race whether or not he would have saved it??????
The minute I saw it t I thought MM wouldnt have gone down.
Perhaps gone to second after the save and then passed back to win on the last corner - MM style.


I think as it was a rear end crash even MM might not have saved it, pretty sure he would have kept the clutch in though and still managed a top 10.

[carbonhed]

I think as it was a rear end crash even MM might not have saved it, pretty sure he would have kept the clutch in though and still managed a top 10.

Not saved a rear end slide!!!!!!! MM?????????? Ask Iannone... he had a front row seat before falling off in amazement :lol: Turn 15 lap 1.

Plus of course MM wouldn't have let the pressure of the best rider on the planet entering beastmode right behind him make his arsehole pucker. Because he is the best rider on the planet.

[SaferRides]

This year's Honda is a decent bike also that's basically been developed to suit MM's riding style.

Should be a good season next year if the Yamaha continues to be competitive. Hopefully, KTM should be closer to the top bikes.

[Autech]

Not saved a rear end slide!!!!!!! MM?????????? Ask Iannone... he had a front row seat before falling off in amazement [emoji38] Turn 15 lap 1.

Plus of course MM wouldn't have let the pressure of the best rider on the planet entering beastmode right behind him make his arsehole pucker. Because he is the best rider on the planet.Right now he sure is looking that way.

Till the next fastest comes along and shows him some new tricks. The evolution will continue!

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[carbonhed]

Right now he sure is looking that way.

Till the next fastest comes along and shows him some new tricks. The evolution will continue!

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Absolutely.

[pritch]

And now for something completely different:

Bradders has signed to ride in Moto E.

[speights_bud]

I'm looking forward to seeing how MotoE develops.

Did I hear some riders might be allowed to compete in 2 classes next year? Ie Moto2 and MotoE?

Is there a list of signed riders for MotoE anywhere?
And now for something completely different:

Bradders has signed to ride in Moto E.

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[Reckless]

I'm looking forward to seeing how MotoE develops.

Did I hear some riders might be allowed to compete in 2 classes next year? Ie Moto2 and MotoE?

Is there a list of signed riders for MotoE anywhere?

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

They should dub engine sounds over the telecast :lol::killingme:cool:

[Autech]

They should dub engine sounds over the telecast [emoji38]:killingme:cool:Nah they should hire us to make the sounds for the. Nnneeewweee, brrraaaaaaaaaaap, ring s ding ding ding ding...
I got this.

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[BMWST?]

are the moto e races only 6 laps or so? Not too much tyre managaement will be involved there!

[speights_bud]

That was one aspect of it I thought would be of interest. Sprint races, get in and go hard. The other option is a mandatory bike swap. But that would never happen. Imagine the headache and cost for dorna to fly around double the bikes
are the moto e races only 6 laps or so? Not too much tyre managaement will be involved there!

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[Grumph]

are the moto e races only 6 laps or so? Not too much tyre managaement will be involved there!

I see that on the IOM they're using standard soft superbike slicks. Apparently, while the bikes are heavier, the power delivery as set up, is easier on the rubber than superbikes.

[sidecar bob]

I see that on the IOM they're using standard soft superbike slicks. Apparently, while the bikes are heavier, the power delivery as set up, is easier on the rubber than superbikes.

It's more that the surface isint particularly abrasive or hot & they are rolling through, rather than driving hard off apexes.
The tyres look mint after a night of practice & while they always start off with a new set for obvious reasons, the old ones are still good for testing & practice at circuits.
Not sure about the power delivery, they can dial the torque up & down, chatting with the guys at Mugen, they usually have it dialled a fair way up.
They also only do one lap.

[pritch]

Not sure about the power delivery, they can dial the torque up & down, chatting with the guys at Mugen, they usually have it dialled a fair way up.


I read somebody, it may have been McGuiness, saying that the crew is always fiddling and every time he goes out it's like riding a different bike.

[Grumph]

It's more that the surface isint particularly abrasive or hot & they are rolling through, rather than driving hard off apexes.
The tyres look mint after a night of practice & while they always start off with a new set for obvious reasons, the old ones are still good for testing & practice at circuits.
Not sure about the power delivery, they can dial the torque up & down, chatting with the guys at Mugen, they usually have it dialled a fair way up.
They also only do one lap.

30 odd miles - probably just what the MotoE will do on a normal circuit.
I read that the Mugens have gps and vary the throttle response according to location. Soft at Governors Bridge for example.
Like a MotoGP bike they have enough torque - if set up for that response - to roll over backwards.

[Brett]

I was the same as you but MM has matured. I'm turning towards MM away from Rossi -
I think the last straw was when MM offered Rossi his hand at that press conference ( was it last year) and Rossi turned his Nose up at it (over not such a big deal if I remember rightly).
If MM keeps carrying himself the way he did before after and during hard battles like the past ones with Dovi he deserves every record he gets.

PS I wonder if MM fell like Rossi did in the last race whether or not he would have saved it??????
The minute I saw it t I thought MM wouldnt have gone down.
Perhaps gone to second after the save and then passed back to win on the last corner - MM style.

PSS Wasn't that moto3 race Phillip Island just the best ever!


He has definitely matured, which has helped. I have a different take on the press conference/hand shaking incident. I took that Rossi didn't appreciate the press stirring up the issue. My take was that he wanted to let sleeping dogs lie and didn't want the press manipulating drama where there was none. One thing is for certain, I don't think anyone can claim that a single championship won by Marc has not been well earned. He is certainly earning his place on the team on the merits of his racing.

Funny your comment around MM saving himself from crashing in an incident like the Rossi one. Obviously pure speculation and MM has not saved many crashes like the one Rossi suffered on Sunday, however my immediate thought during that race was "Marc would have saved that one" as soon as Rossi dropped. Still, I am a massive Rossi fan and make no apology about the fact!!

[Grumph]

PSS Wasn't that moto3 race Phillip Island just the best ever!

Yes - and no. Mike's going to have to start knocking some heads together. No need at all for the collisions and so many falls.

[Mental Trousers]

PSS Wasn't that moto3 race Phillip Island just the best ever!

Yes - and no. Mike's going to have to start knocking some heads together. No need at all for the collisions and so many falls.

Up to Freddy Spencer now. Be interesting to see what gets penalised and how much now.

[Grumph]

Up to Freddy Spencer now. Be interesting to see what gets penalised and how much now.

Does he take over immediately or at the start of next season ?

[roogazza]

Yes - and no. Mike's going to have to start knocking some heads together. No need at all for the collisions and so many falls.

I loved that stuff Grumph,brings to mind the old 410 prod class (very hectic !) way tougher than the Open class I always thought?

[Grumph]

I loved that stuff Grumph,brings to mind the old 410 prod class (very hectic !) way tougher than the Open class I always thought?

I agree, Open prod and F1 required a certain delicacy of touch to survive. Junior prod was WWF wrestling by camparison. Then look at the guys who won it...
and how far some of them went. Crafar comes to mind, LOL.
But you never saw the level of agressive idiocy that was on view in Moto3 at PI.

[carbonhed]

Moto3 at Phillip Island was epic, insane and scary in most every corner. You'd think we're going to be nurturing some fearsome talent over the next few years.

How you're supposed to control that in real time... I'm glad I don't have Mike Webb's job.

[pritch]

https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/opinion/motogp/motogp-mutterings-2018-malaysian-grand-prix

[pritch]

The entry list for Moto E is interesting. There are some older riders clocking forty extending their ‘use by’ date. There are some young guns and others who haven’t quite made the grade elsewhere. Then there is Sete Gibernau!

David Emmett is concerned that such an eclectic field might have a negative effect on the closeness of the championship. On the other hand the variety does add a certain interest. Especially if it turns out to be a crash, bang, wallop, sprint series.

[Cosmik de Bris]

Then there is Sete Gibernau!



When Rossi is finished with MotoGP and joins MotoE, poor old Seti will have to deal with all the psychological warfare that Rossi dealt to him in MotoGP again.

Cheers

[george formby]

Moto3 at Phillip Island was epic, insane and scary in most every corner. You'd think we're going to be nurturing some fearsome talent over the next few years.

How you're supposed to control that in real time... I'm glad I don't have Mike Webb's job.

I've watched it at least 5 times. :shit: The camera angle (chopper) makes it look like a berserk video game at times. Dunno how the commentators managed to keep it together for the race, I fall off the couch watching it.

[pritch]

When Rossi is finished with MotoGP and joins MotoE, poor old Seti will have to deal with all the psychological warfare that Rossi dealt to him in MotoGP again.


David Emmett reported overnight that a significant part of the MotoE field will be comprised of riders who have been competing in the endurance racing series. Big switch going from endurance to a twenty minute race, although I can certainly see the appeal.


http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2018/11/13/de-angelis-hook-confirmed-for-alma-pramac-motoe-seats/278289

[Black Knight]

Watching it live from the Siberia stand was just crazy,then to get home and watch the recorded race was much the same minus the noise.

[pritch]

https://motomatters.com/analysis/2018/11/15/2018_valencia_motogp_preview_turning.html

[Dadpole]

I am still holding on to a hope that Dani will sign off with a win. He has had a few here.

[BMWST?]

I am still holding on to a hope that Dani will sign off with a win. He has had a few here.

that would be really cool,but i fear he just cant get the tyres to work for him.The weather is not looking too flash either

[pritch]

The weather is not looking too flash either

And the rain in Spain falls mainly on Valencia.

[Dadpole]

At least the safety car kept everyone entertained. :2thumbsup

[pritch]

Interesting comment from Mat Oxley overnight. He said that Lorenzo went out in the wet with steel brakes, came in and changed to "carbon-carbon". I read that to mean carbon front and rear. He then wrote a comment to the effect, times have changed.

Something to do with the brakes must have changed because the carbon brakes run glowing hot and they aren't going to get like that with the amount of water that was lying around in Valencia.

[roogazza]

GO VALENTINO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:innocent:

[BMWST?]

Interesting comment from Mat Oxley overnight. He said that Lorenzo went out in the wet with steel brakes, came in and changed to "carbon-carbon". I read that to mean carbon front and rear. He then wrote a comment to the effect, times have changed.

Something to do with the brakes must have changed because the carbon brakes run glowing hot and they aren't going to get like that with the amount of water that was lying around in Valencia.
i think they run small discs and have them covered?

[pritch]

i think they run small discs and have them covered?

Hard to imagine that covering them would do much in that weather, but something seems to be working.

Simon Crafar posted this, a rather worried looking Zarco. What's French for, what about a fucking red flag?

[BMWST?]

Hard to imagine that covering them would do much in that weather, but something seems to be working.

Simon Crafar posted this, a rather worried looking Zarco. What's French for, what about a fucking red flag?

see the covers are almost all enveloping

[pritch]

see the covers are almost all enveloping

Even so with that much water around... Anyhoo, Alex Briggs has just reported that the weather is much improved this morning. (His time.)

[Autech]

Hard to imagine that covering them would do much in that weather, but something seems to be working.

Simon Crafar posted this, a rather worried looking Zarco. What's French for, what about a fucking red flag?"et alors, pourquoi pas un maudit drapeau rouge"

Asked my wife for ya lol.

Sent from my SM-A730F using Tapatalk

[carbonhed]

GO VALENTINO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:innocent:

Fucking brilliant wasn't it? 16th :rofl:

Vinales pole.

[steveyb]

Hard to imagine that covering them would do much in that weather, but something seems to be working.

Simon Crafar posted this, a rather worried looking Zarco. What's French for, what about a fucking red flag?

Putain! Ou est le drapeau rouge? Vous fils des putes, merde, putain. Ca pleut comme les vaches qui pissent ici. Ils m'ont disent qu'il fait toujours beau en Espagne! Putain!

[speights_bud]

Putain! Ou est le drapeau rouge? Vous fils des putes, merde, putain. Ca pleut comme les vaches qui pissent ici. Ils m'ont disent qu'il fait toujours beau en Espagne! Putain!Hahaha! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181118/59786274874aa9215878d1452a4d83a1.jpg

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[pritch]

Fucking brilliant wasn't it? 16th :rofl:


It ain’t over ‘til the fat lady sings - and it’s wet again. If it’s still wet for the race it could be anybody’s.

I’ll watch it tomorrow.

[roogazza]

It ain’t over ‘til the fat lady sings - and it’s wet again. If it’s still wet for the race it could be anybody’s.

I’ll watch it tomorrow.

I didn't bother pritch,fast forwarded all three classes and switched it off.
Can't be bothered with the wet.
But hey, Rossi looked great for a while. :mellow::confused: Roll on 2019 for me :msn-wink:

[HenryDorsetCase]

I didn't bother pritch,fast forwarded all three classes and switched it off.
Can't be bothered with the wet.
But hey, Rossi looked great for a while. :mellow::confused: Roll on 2019 for me :msn-wink:

Like all of us you just want fisticuffs between Jorge and Marquez, with teams of Honda mechanics lined up holding the handbags. It will be hilarious.

Watch Yamaha get its shit together and smoke 'em all is my prediction. Or the Ducati now gorgeous Jorje has fixed it.....

[carbonhed]

It ain’t over ‘til the fat lady sings - and it’s wet again. If it’s still wet for the race it could be anybody’s.

I’ll watch it tomorrow.

Yeah it was a completely shit race and an utter lottery. Staying upright was a brilliant achievement.

And it wasn't over 'til the fat lady sang :laugh:

MM 9 wins
AD 4
JL 3
CC 1
MV 1

Alex Rins last 7 races 4,4,6,3,5,2,2

[pritch]

Fenati has been naughty again. He's apparently been charged with failing to stop for Police.

[speights_bud]

Fenati has been naughty again. He's apparently been charged with failing to stop for Police.Hahaha I can't believe some people want to give him another crack at racing. He's a fucking nut job.

I wouldn't be surprised if other riders protest his return. Imagine a rider strike.

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[SaferRides]

Just watched the race - at least I could FFwd to the restart. Rossi crashes again???

They could have red flagged the race a couple of laps earlier. By the time Dovi puts his hand up, you know it must be bad.

[BMWST?]

Just watched the race - at least I could FFwd to the restart. Rossi crashes again???

They could have red flagged the race a couple of laps earlier. By the time Dovi puts his hand up, you know it must be bad.

i thought it interesting that he crashed the same way losing the rear,though he wasnt the only one!Had me hopes up for awhile I thought Dani was going to come forward.I thought they left it fatr too late,with so many crashes of the same type.

[Autech]

Interesting race, there was some good battling going on despite the excess water falling from the Sky.

Happy for Dani to go out on a solidish result, I get the feeling he'd given up getting the tyres n bike to work for him so wasn't going to take any risks. Still stayed on board when many didn't.
Now he's got millions in the bank, a good looking Mrs and time on his hands so I hope he enjoys his retirement a bit before getting back into it too hard with the KTM stuff. Be interesting to see if he ends up back in the paddock in some capacity or breaks clean after his KTM test duties are done, Stoner says it's hard to keep in shape just for the occasional test.

Speaking of KTM, good to see Pol back in the fray, he was giving MM a hell of a headache, haven't seen that for many years, bet those KTM guys are still hung over. That bike will eventually make it to the front, they've just got a few years hard yards to put in. They now have 3 excellent riders on the bike next year and one that's still got a bit to prove to show he deserves his seat, that alone should bump em ahead with Dani showing them some Honda secrets.

With Rins showing his potential and the Suzuki getting better n better next year is already shaping up to be a good 'un, now all we need is for Aprilia to make another step and it will be a Moto3 race every GP. CHURRR!

[Cosmik de Bris]

Just watched the race - at least I could FFwd to the restart. Rossi crashes again???

They could have red flagged the race a couple of laps earlier. By the time Dovi puts his hand up, you know it must be bad.

Yeah, I noticed he waited until he was in front then put up his hand.

Cheers

[mulletman]

Yeah, I noticed he waited until he was in front then put up his hand.

Cheers

Rins put his hand up briefly just after Mav went down i guess race direction didnt see it.

[EJK]

Can Oncu... Who the hell is that guy? Will def keep an eye on him next season.

[Oscar]

Can Oncu... Who the hell is that guy? Will def keep an eye on him next season.

2018 Red Bull Rookie Champ.
Met him, his brother (also a Red Bull Rookie Champ)and his Dad at Misano.
A couple of really talented kids, we will be hearing a lot more about them in the future...

[Autech]

2018 Red Bull Rookie Champ.
Met him, his brother (also a Red Bull Rookie Champ)and his Dad at Misano.
A couple of really talented kids, we will be hearing a lot more about them in the future...

Really talented kids who aren't Spanish or Italian too, which the sport needs badly.

[pritch]

Really talented kids who aren't Spanish or Italian too, which the sport needs badly.

Apparently Kenan Sufuoglu is doing some talent development in Turkey.

[AllanB]

Really talented kids who aren't Spanish or Italian too, which the sport needs badly.

Weird comment - who gives a shit where they come from as long as they can ride.

[onearmedbandit]

Weird comment - who gives a shit where they come from as long as they can ride.


It's been an issue raised by many over the years so not an entirely weird comment.

[SaferRides]

Rins put his hand up briefly just after Mav went down i guess race direction didnt see it.Don't think they saw the rivers of water or bikes aquaplaning either. Very disappointing after Silverstone. Plus there were the FP4 crashes at Sepang when it started raining.

Riders have been injured in the rain this year, one badly. I really hope we don't need a Jules Bianchi type incident for Race Control to sort their shit out.

[Autech]

Weird comment - who gives a shit where they come from as long as they can ride.Dorna do.

I agree with you in principle, but if all the good seats are always filled by Spaniards and Italians how can we be sure we are seeing the best riders?

Looking at the 2019 factory motogp seats you have all but 1 with an Italian or Spanish bum resting on it. Having some talent coming though thats from a different part of the world should be good.
That said Scott Redding was once the youngest ever gp winner till he grew, so lets hope these youngsters don't end up too big.

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[Drew]

The only reason that Dorna give a fuck, is that viewer numbers go down when more nationalities aren't represented.

You can be damn sure that we're seeing the best riders in the world, because that's what the teams are trying to find. They look everywhere.

The French government sponsored that tard DePunet for ages.

[pritch]

Weird comment - who gives a shit where they come from as long as they can ride.

The problem was real and even Dorna were concerned about the Spanish dominance. An international series needs to be umm international(?).

[pritch]

That said Scott Redding was once the youngest ever gp winner till he grew, so lets hope these youngsters don't end up too big.


I do get what you are saying, but Scott Redding was actually the youngest ever GP winner until last weekend. Sorta sad that he will be the youngest GP winner in BSB.