2 wheelin': 2015

Thursday, December 31, 2015

Vinales reflects on 2015

We close out this calendar year, 2015, and look forward to calendar year 2016, and the new MotoGP racing season. Here are reflections on 2015, from Suzuki factory rider, Maverick Vinales. Vinales was 2015 MotoGP Rookie of The Year, and he reflects on who his teachers were, during the season, in terms of his fellow competitors.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/31/vinales-reflects-on-2015/191723

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

On The Record: Tom O'Kane, Suzuki MotoGP Crew Chief

Matthew Miles, for motoamerica.com, interviews Tom O'Kane, crew chief, for the factory Suzuki MotoGP team.

http://www.motoamerica.com/on-record-tom-okane-team-suzuki-ecstar-motogp-crew-chief

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

2016 MotoAmerica schedule

As we approach the 2016 season for MotoAmerica, here is a look at the race schedule. Be warned, however, that the TV coverage, by CBS Sports, is not the most reliable.

Round 1: April 8th-10th     Circuit of The Americas            Austin, Texas
Round 2: April 15th-17th      Road Atlanta                           Braselton, Georgia
Round 3: April 29-May 1st   New Jersey Motorsports Park     Millville, New Jersey
Round 4: May 13th-15th       Virginia International Raceway Danville, Virginia
Round 5: June 3rd-5th           Road America                             Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Round 6: June 10th-12th       Barber Motorsports Park            Birmingham, Alabama
Round 7: June 23rd-25th       Utah Motorsports Campus         Tooele, Utah
Round 8: July 8th-10th          Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca   Monterey, California
Round 9: September 9th-11th New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, New Jersey

Monday, December 28, 2015

Video: MotoAmerica Supersport Race Two from Barber Motorsports Park

Relive a great MotoAmerica Supersport Race Two, from the 2015 race at Barber Motorsport Park. Brian Drebber, and former AMA 250cc Grand Prix champion, Rich Oliver, have the call.

http://www.motoamerica.com/video-motoamerica-supersport-race-two-from-barber-motorsports-park

Sunday, December 27, 2015

Meet The People Behind World Superbike Champion Tom Sykes

A profile, of each of the team members for FIM World Superbike champion, and Kawasaki factory rider, Tom Sykes.

http://www.motoamerica.com/meet-people-behind-2013-world-superbike-champion-tom-sykes

Saturday, December 26, 2015

MotoAmerica news update

More headlines, from the MotoAmerica championship, to peruse, during this off-season.

Motorcycle riders and racers, take note.

Ride Free At Herrin Compound With Superbike Champ Josh Herrin

http://www.motoamerica.com/ride-free-at-herrin-compound-with-ama-superbike-champion-josh-herrin

Carbon vs. Steel Brakes: Nicky Hayden Explains The Differences

http://www.motoamerica.com/carbon-carbon-vs-metal-brake-discs-nicky-hayden-explains-differences

Q&A: George Latus, Owner Latus Motors Racing
http://www.motoamerica.com/qa-george-latus-owner-latus-motors-racing

VIDEO: Houston Superbikes Tests Updated Aprilia in Texas
http://www.motoamerica.com/video-houston-superbikes-tests-aprilia-rsv4-rf-in-texas

American James Rispoli Tests Yamaha Superbike In Spain

http://www.motoamerica.com/american-james-rispoli-tests-bsb-spec-yamaha-superbike-in-spain

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Christmas holidays, MotoGP style

How many MotoGP riders, will be spending their Christmas holiday, as we come closer to it, just in a day or so.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/22/christmas-holidays-motogp-style/191644

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

MOTOGP: Jorge Lorenzo believes Casey Stoner will race in selected grand prix as a wildcard for Ducati

Jorge Lorenzo believes Casey Stoner, will indeed be a wildcard rider for the Ducati MotoGP team, in selected races, next year.

http://www.foxsports.com.au/motor-sport/moto-gp/motogp-jorge-lorenzo-believes-casey-stoner-will-race-in-selected-grand-prix-as-a-wildcard-for-ducati/story-fn2ms4i4-1227684316336

Monday, December 21, 2015

1985 Daytona 200

"Fast" Freddie Spencer, wins the 1985 Daytona 200, which ushered in the Superbike era in U.S. based motorcycle racing competition, after many years of running under "Formula 1" rules, not to be confused with the four wheeled variety of motorsport, that still exists today.

Sunday, December 20, 2015

2015 Suzuka 8 Hours

The race was highlighted, earlier in the year, with MotoGP riders Bradley Smith and Pol Espargaro, as part of the winning team. But, here, is some video, of the 2015 Suzuka 8 Hours, one of the best known endurance motorcycle road races.

Saturday, December 19, 2015

World Superbike Adopts New Two-Day Race Format

To make things more exciting for the fans, the FIM World Superbike championship, and it's managing rights organization DORNA (which also manages MotoGP), have come up with a new, two-day race format. It used to be, that both races of the weekend, were held, on Sunday. But, that all changes, for the 2016 season.

http://www.motoamerica.com/world-superbike-switches-to-new-two-day-race-format

Friday, December 18, 2015

Bulega reflects on FIM CEV Repsol title

Italy's Nicolo Bulega, in his native language, reflects on winning the Moto3 title in the FIM CEV Repsol championship.

http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/2015/12/17/bulega-reflects-on-fim-cev-repsol-title/191354

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Lorenzo: "It may be that more riders get into the fight"

An interview, with Jorge Lorenzo. He discusses that it's possible for more riders, to be in the battle for the championship, next year, as he tries to defend his crown as MotoGP World Champion.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/16/lorenzo-it-may-be-that-more-riders-get-into-the-fight/191343

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Grand Prix Commission announces regulations update

Updated regulations for all three classes in MotoGP competition have been announced. These regulations, are effective, immediately.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/14/grand-prix-commission-announce-update-regulations/191169

Monday, December 14, 2015

Baker crowned Superprestigio champ

It was a thrilling battle, in the Superprestigio dirt track races in Spain at the Palau St. Jordi, with Brad Baker, narrowly beating Marc Marquez, for the title.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/13/baker-crowned-superprestigio-champion/191152

Saturday, December 12, 2015

MotoAmerica news update

It has been a good while since updating news from the MotoAmerica championship. But, here are some of the headlines, including interviews about the recent Superprestigio event.

MotoAmerica's McAllister Nominated as AMA's Race of the Year

http://www.motoamerica.com/motoamericas-gage-mcallister-nominated-as-2015-ama-racer-year

Five Questions: Josh Herrin, Meen Motorsports SST1000 Racer

http://www.motoamerica.com/five-questions-josh-herrin-meen-motorsports-superstock-10000-racer

Superprestigio Q&A: Alex Rins, Moto2 Runner Up

http://www.motoamerica.com/superprestigio-qa-alex-rins-2015-moto2-world-championship-runner-up

Josh Herrin Seeks On-Track Guidance from Ken Hill
http://www.motoamerica.com/josh-herrin-seeks-on-track-guidance-from-ken-hill

MotoAmerica Series to Return to Utah in 2016
http://www.motoamerica.com/motoamerica-to-return-to-utah-in-2016

VIDEO: Inaugural KTM RC 390 Cup Texas Tornado Boot Camp

http://www.motoamerica.com/video-inaugural-ktm-rc-390-cup-texas-tornado-boot-camp-success

Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa, riders for the Repsol Honda team in MotoGP, recently got to try out two of Freddie Spencer's Honda NSR500 two-stroke Grand Prix motorcycles.

Marquez And Pedrosa Ride Spencer's Two-Stroke NSR500's
http://www.motoamerica.com/marquez-and-pedrosa-ride-honda-nsr500-two-strokes

Double-Double: Two New Jersey Rounds for MotoAmerica
http://www.motoamerica.com/double-double-two-new-jersey-rounds-for-motoamerica

Wayne Rainey: 2015 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year
http://www.motoamerica.com/wayne-rainey-2015-ama-motorcyclist-year

On The Record: Ben Spies, AMA and World Superbike Champion
http://www.motoamerica.com/on-record-ben-spies-ama-and-world-superbike-champion

Dunlop Hosts Two-Day Tire Test for MotoAmerica Teams
http://www.motoamerica.com/dunlop-hosts-two-day-tire-test-for-motoamerica-teams

Friday, December 11, 2015

Rossi withdraws his appeal

Valentino Rossi has withdrawn his appeal filed in the Court of Arbitration for Sport, (CAS), against his three point penalty incurred at the Malaysian MotoGP round, back in October.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/10/rossi-withdraws-his-appeal/191076

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Superprestigio coverage

All you need to know (however, in Spanish), about the recent Superprestigio motorcycle races at the Palau St. Jordi in Barcelona, Spain.

http://dtxbarcelona.com/

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Loris Baz Q&A

A question and answer interview session, with MotoGP racer, Loris Baz.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/08/loris-baz-q-a/190934

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

SIC Day 2015

A couple stories, about SIC Day, which was held once again, to honor the memory of the late, great MotoGP racer, Marco Simoncelli.

Hollbacher takes first victory of the Sic day

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/07/hollbacher-takes-first-victory-of-the-sic-day/190881

...and

Chareye leads Dovizioso at Sic Day 2015

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/07/chareye-leads-dovizioso-at-sic-day-2015/190899

Monday, December 7, 2015

Gyro cams are best done on motorcycles

Watch the gyroscopic camera, and see how Macau Grand Prix motorcycle Grand Prix competitor, Didier Grams, flies around the Guia circuit, on his Superbike. This is really cool.

http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/video-macau-grand-prix-motorcycle-onboard-gyro-cam-120615

Sunday, December 6, 2015

A weekend for SIC in Misano

This is going on, as the latest 2 Wheelin' blog entry, is being drafted. But, in Misano, Italy, fans and riders, are remembering, the late, great Marco Simoncelli. May he Rest In Peace.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/04/a-weekend-for-sic-in-misano/190836

Saturday, December 5, 2015

MotoGP, Moto2 & Moto3 news

News stories, from the big league, and the junior classes, the steppingstones to MotoGP... Moto2, and Moto3.

Off season testing schedule
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/03/off-season-testing-schedule/190662

Luca Marini in Moto2 for 2016 with Forward Racing

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/02/luca-marini-in-moto2-for-2016-with-forward-racing/190635

Quartararo: "My goal? Winning the title in 2016"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/03/quartararo-my-goal-winning-the-title-in-2016/190712

Friday, December 4, 2015

2016 Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Calendar Announced

The 2016 race schedule, for the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup, a feeder series, for rising star riders from Asia, and the Pacific Rim, has been announced. Some of the races, will be support races, for events held in Asia coinciding with three MotoGP World Championship rounds, two MotoGP World Championship rounds, and a standalone event in China, in September, for the Pan Delta championship.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/02/2016-shell-advance-asia-talent-cup-calendar-announced/190675

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Pedrosa Blog: See you next year!

Dani Pedrosa's last 2015 blog entry, on motogp.com.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/02/pedrosa-blog-see-you-next-year/190629

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

a couple MotoGP stories

Marc Marquez thanks his fans, and answers their questions, in his last regular blog entry for 2015.

Marquez Blog: Another year gone by, thanks!

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/01/marquez-blog-another-year-gone-by-thanks/190628

...And, Jorge Lorenzo, races with some lucky Yamaha sport bike owners, in India, at the Buddh International Circuit.

Lorenzo on track in India
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/12/01/lorenzo-on-track-in-india/190644

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Zarco interview: "I want to take this challenge"

After becoming Moto2 World Champion this year, Johann Zarco, is determined to defend his title, in 2016.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/26/zarco-interview-i-want-to-take-this-challenge/190438

Monday, November 30, 2015

Jorge Martinez 'Aspar' Q&A

An interview with Aspar MotoGP team principal Jorge Martinez, reflecting on the team's 2015 season.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/30/jorge-martinez-aspar-q-a/190524

Sunday, November 29, 2015

Rossi wins 2015 Monza Rally

More two wheel racers, trying their hand at four wheels. Valentino Rossi, has experience, with car racing, and in this story, he has won the 2015 Monza Rally Show. Rossi's pal, Moto3 rider, Romano Fenati, also ran in the rally exhibition.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/29/rossi-wins-2015-monza-rally/190593

Saturday, November 28, 2015

MotoGP testing & other news

More news from MotoGP testing, and, a video game, based on Valentino Rossi's career. The latest, from the world of MotoGP.

Relive Rossi's career in Valentino Rossi The Game

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/relive-rossi-s-career-in-valentino-rossi-the-game/190523

Bautista: "After the crash I was feeling pain in my neck"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/bautista-after-the-crash-i-was-feeling-pain-in-my-neck/190549

Petrucci: "The race pace is very good"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/petrucci-the-race-pace-is-very-good/190552

Hernandez: "I am liking it more and more"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/hernandez-i-am-liking-it-more-and-more/190555

Dovizioso: "Ducati have done a lot of work"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/dovizioso-ducati-have-done-a-lot-of-work/190559

Pedrosa: "It's still not clear about the engine"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/pedrosa-it-s-still-not-clear-about-the-engine/190561

Redding: "We were able to lower the lap time"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/redding-we-were-able-to-lower-the-lap-time/190562

Marquez: "Today I had two crashes"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/28/marquez-today-i-had-two-crashes/190564

Iannone: "I like the way the Michelin tyres behave"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/28/iannone-i-like-the-way-the-michelin-tyres-behave/190565

Friday, November 27, 2015

more MotoGP news (general news + testing news)

Continuing to highlight news from test sessions, and other general stories, from MotoGP.

Marquez: "It's clear that we need a different mapping"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/26/marquez-it-s-clear-that-we-need-a-different-mapping/190507

Bautista: "We tried some new solutions on the front"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/26/bautista-we-tried-some-new-solutions-on-the-front/190509

Bradl: "I tried the new electronics without any problems"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/26/bradl-i-tried-the-new-electronics-without-any-problems/190512

Laverty: "It would always be nice to do another day"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/26/laverty-it-would-always-be-nice-to-do-another-day/190515

Hernandez: "We were able to spend almost all day on track"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/27/hernandez-we-were-able-to-spend-almost-all-day-on-track/190517

Thursday, November 26, 2015

MotoGP news flash

More news, from MotoGP, including the story, about Casey Stoner becoming a test rider for Ducati, that has been posted once, from another source. All this news, is (as usual), from the MotoGP official website. The off season is on. But that does not stop the headlines, from rolling in.

Daniele Romagnoli: "Petrux surprised everyone"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/23/daniele-romagnoli-petrux-surprised-everyone/190360

Honda bid a fond farewell to Casey Stoner

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/23/honda-bid-a-fond-farewell-to-casey-stoner/190375

Stoner to return to Ducati as ambassador and test rider

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/23/stoner-to-return-to-ducati-as-ambassador-and-test-rider/190381

A question and answer session/interview, with Michelin tires Technical Director, Nicolas Goubert.

Nicolas Goubert Q&A
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/24/nicolas-goubert-q-a/190398

Vinales: "We tested many, many things"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/24/vinales-we-tested-many-many-things/190407

Marc Marquez, is ready for upcoming test sessions for 2016.

Marquez Blog: Ready for the test sessions in Jerez

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/25/marquez-blog-ready-for-the-test-sessions-in-jerez/190424

Marquez: "We tried the new engine"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/25/marquez-we-tried-the-new-engine/190450

Pedrosa: "I took my time to adjust to the Michelin tyres"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/25/pedrosa-i-took-my-time-to-adjust-to-the-michelin-tyres/190451

Laverty: "We have a good bike with a strong engine"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/25/laverty-we-have-a-good-bike-with-a-strong-engine/190455

Hernandez: "I like the new electronics"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/25/hernandez-i-like-the-new-electronics/190456

...And, another entry from Dani Pedrosa's blog.

Pedrosa Blog: A great week ahead
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/26/pedrosa-blog-a-great-week-ahead/190425

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Macau motorcycle Grand Prix 2015

Highlights of the 2015 Macau motorcycle Grand Prix, that took place, last weekend, with commentary, by Richard Nichols. Peter Hickman, won the race. Hickman is a star in British Superbike Championship competition, and in the Tourist Trophy on the Isle of Man.

http://www.cyclenews.com/2015/11/article/peter-hickman-wins-2015-macau-grand-prix/

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Casey Stoner: Australian to test ride for Ducati in 2016

BBC Sport Motorsport reports that Casey Stoner, will test ride for the factory Ducati MotoGP team, next year.

http://www.bbc.com/sport/motogp/34905846?ns_mchannel=social&ns_campaign=bbc_sport&ns_source=facebook&ns_linkname=sport

Monday, November 23, 2015

MotoAmerica Releases 2016 Technical Regulations

The technical regulations for the 2016 MotoAmerica season.

http://www.motoamerica.com/motoamerica-releases-2016-technical-regulations

Sunday, November 22, 2015

Jack Miller trades two wheels for four

Can a MotoGP rider also drive a race car? Jack Miller, traded his MotoGP racing motorcycle, at a Honda event in the United Kingdom, for one of their factory British Touring Car Championship race cars, just to try it out.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/20/jack-miller-trades-two-wheels-for-four/190326

Saturday, November 21, 2015

Espargaro fractures vertebrae in back

In training, for testing with the Suzuki factory MotoGP team, Aleix Espargaro, fractured part of his back, while riding an off-road bike, landing off of a jump, wrong, and in doing so, causing back pain. Therefore, he won't be able to ride the motorcycle as part of an upcoming test session, with the Suzuki Ecstar team at the Sepang International Circuit, on Monday and Tuesday, of this coming week.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/20/espargaro-fractures-vertebrae-in-back/190328

Friday, November 20, 2015

Moto2 and Moto3 testing news (continued)

More news and information on the Moto2 and Moto3 testing, at Valencia.

Lowes: "I've been working a lot with race tyres"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/lowes-i-ve-been-working-a-lot-with-race-tyres/190249

Zarco: "This has made me more relaxed mentally"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/zarco-this-has-made-me-more-relaxed-mentally/190254

Vierge: "I aim to go one step further next year"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/vierge-i-aim-to-go-one-step-further-next-year/190275

Vinales: "I must work hard during the winter months"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/vinales-i-must-work-hard-during-the-winter-months/190284

Navarro: "The 2016 Honda is very competitive"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/navarro-the-2016-honda-is-very-competitive/190257

Bastianini: "I'm already looking forward to February"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/bastianini-i-m-already-looking-forward-to-february/190268

Binder: "The lap times were very good"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/binder-the-lap-times-were-very-good/190274

Canet: "My foot is getting better"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/canet-my-foot-is-getting-better/190276

Antonelli: "The feeling with the bike is good"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/antonelli-the-feeling-with-the-bike-is-good/190281

Binder: "I have learned more in one year than in my career"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/19/binder-i-have-learned-more-in-one-year-than-in-my-career/190313

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Moto2 & Moto3 testing news

Testing and other news, from Moto2, and Moto3.

Lowes sets the pace on last day of Jerez test

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/lowes-sets-the-pace-on-last-day-of-jerez-test/190154

Danny Kent, makes his return, to Moto2, after winning this year's Moto3 world championship.

Kent: "After a couple laps I felt like being back home"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/kent-after-a-couple-of-laps-i-felt-like-being-back-home/190158

Lowes: "I'm really impressed by the team and the bike!"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/lowes-i-m-really-impressed-by-the-team-and-the-bike/190161

Oliveira: "I'm happy with the way I'm making progress"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/oliveira-i-m-happy-with-the-way-i-m-making-progress/190168

Zarco quickest in Valencia Moto2 test
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/16/zarco-quickest-in-valencia-moto2-test/190200

Phillip Oettl wins first ever Dunlop #ForeverForward Award

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/phillip-oettl-wins-first-ever-dunlop-foreverforward-award/189860

Fausto Gresini: "In this season we learned a lot"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/fausto-gresini-in-this-season-we-learned-a-lot/189979

Binder: "We couldn't have started the 2016 preseason better"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/binder-we-couldn-t-have-started-the-2016-preseason-better/190160

Navarro on top after first day of Moto3 test in Valencia

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/16/navarro-on-top-after-first-day-of-moto3-test-in-valencia/190201

Brad Binder sets the pace in the Moto3 test in Valencia

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/17/brad-binder-sets-the-pace-in-the-moto3-test-in-valencia/190242

Bendsneyder: "I feel more comfortable and faster"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/18/bendsneyder-i-feel-more-comfortable-and-faster/190250

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Changes to Technical Regulations for 2016

A list of changes for the technical changes on the motorcycles, for 2016, primarily affecting MotoGP and Moto3.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/changes-to-technical-regulations-for-2016/189512

Monday, November 16, 2015

Webber, Brundle, McGuinness 'frustrated' after MotoGP finale

Formula One and sports car racing legends Mark Webber and Martin Brundle, as well as motorcycle racing legend, John McGuinness, are clearly not happy about how the MotoGP finale in Valencia, Spain, last weekend, went down. They were there, to watch the race, as reported by Fox Sports' Colin Young.

http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/motogp-finale-valencia-mark-webber-martin-brundle-john-mcguinness-recap-111015

Sunday, November 15, 2015

What really happened in MotoGP's 2015 finale

An Op. Ed. piece by blogger Mat Oxley, about the recent MotoGP finale in Valencia, Spain, on the website, motorsportmagazine.com.

http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/motogp-race/what-really-happened-in-valencia/

Saturday, November 14, 2015

more MotoGP testing, & championship celebration news

Looking into more news and insights, in post-season testing, for MotoGP, as well as highlights of Jorge Lorenzo's championship celebration.

A blog entry, from Bradley Smith.

#Bradley38Blog: It's been an amazing season

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/bradley38blog-it-s-been-an-amazing-season/189961

Ciabatti: "It would be an honour for us to work with Stoner"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/ciabatti-it-would-be-an-honour-for-us-to-work-with-stoner/190077

A Tweet, from Scott Redding.

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/11/12/well-first-test-done-with-pramacracing-i-have-to-say/190079

Another Tweet, from Aleix Espargaro. He is never without his motorcycle. Fans... whatever you do... don't leave home, without your motorcycle.

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/11/12/never-without-my-bike/190078

Smith: "It was a big day where I completed 71 laps"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/smith-it-was-a-big-day-where-i-completed-71-laps/190080

Bautista: "The rear end performance is already quite good"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/bautista-the-rear-end-performance-is-already-quite-good/190083

Baz: "I didn't expect to be so close"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/baz-i-didn-t-expect-to-be-so-close/190085

Ianonne: "I am quite satisfied, but not with the result"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/iannone-i-am-quite-satisfied-but-not-with-the-result/190089

Laverty: "On just my second outing, I matched my best lap"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/laverty-on-just-my-second-outing-i-matched-my-best-lap/190092

Petrucci: "For me everything is new"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/petrucci-for-me-everything-is-new/190093

Espargaro: "I am quite satisfied with what we achieved"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/espargaro-i-am-quite-satisfied-with-what-we-achieved/190096

Now, here's a cool photo. Jorge Lorenzo, receives the Spanish Medal of Sports' Merit.

#LorenzoChamp gets the Spanish Medal of Sports' Merit in Madrid

http://www.motogp.com/en/twitter_update/2015/11/12/lorenzochamp-gets-the-spanish-medal-of-sports-merit-in-madrid/190095

Vinales: "We have only tested the new tyres"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/vinales-we-have-only-tested-the-new-tyres/190094

Hernandez: "We finished just 1.5 seconds off the best lap"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/12/hernandez-we-finished-just-1-5-seconds-off-the-best-lap/190109

Bradl: "These were definitely two demanding days"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/bradl-these-were-definitely-two-demanding-days/190097

Dovizioso: "All things considered I felt OK"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/dovizioso-all-things-considered-i-felt-ok/190100

Espargaro: "We decided to change the bike a lot"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/espargaro-we-decided-to-change-the-bike-a-lot/190113

Neat photo, of Jorge Lorenzo, at his championship homecoming in Mallorca, Spain.

#LorenzoChamp's Mallorca homecoming

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/11/13/lorenzochamp-s-mallorca-homecoming/190129

Lorenzo may have been thrilled to win another title. But, he was less so, about his new bike's performance, at least at the outset.

Lorenzo: "We are half a second slower than the last GP"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/13/lorenzo-we-are-half-a-second-slower-than-the-last-gp/190130

Friday, November 13, 2015

Momentum grows for Stoner returning to Ducati

Could Casey Stoner come out of retirement, and return to race in MotoGP for Ducati? It's a possibility, according to this article on motorcyclenews.com.

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/sport/motogp/2015/november/momentum-grows-for-stoner-returning-to-ducati/

Thursday, November 12, 2015

MotoGP testing news from Valencia

News on the test at Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain, that took place, the day after the final race of the 2015 season. Remember now, for next season, the bikes are running on Michelin tires, and, there is a new electronics package for riders to get used to, as well.

#2016StartsNow with Valencia test
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/2016startsnow-with-valencia-test/189874

Lorenzo: "We need to work a bit more on the front"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/lorenzo-we-need-to-work-a-bit-more-on-the-front/189915

Marquez: "On the opening laps I lost the front"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/marquez-on-the-opening-laps-i-lost-the-front/189934

Pedrosa: "We have done a lot of work"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/pedrosa-we-have-done-a-lot-of-work/189930

Smith: "I sampled my 2016 bike"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/smith-i-sampled-my-2016-bike/189937

Iannone: "I expect to be up there fighting at the top"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/iannone-i-expect-to-be-up-there-fighting-at-the-top/189941

Laverty: "It was something special"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/laverty-it-was-something-special/189946

Rossi: "It's a big change"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/rossi-it-s-a-big-change/189917

Vinales: "I feel comfortable with them"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/vinales-i-feel-comfortable-with-them/189944

Marquez Debrief: "It was a situation I wanted to avoid"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/10/marquez-debrief-it-was-a-situation-i-wanted-to-avoid/189936

Marquez ends Valencia test on top
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/marquez-ends-valencia-test-on-top/189983

Miller: "The seamless gearbox makes a big difference"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/miller-the-seamless-gearbox-makes-a-big-difference/190010

Rabat: "Riding the MotoGP bike is more physically demanding"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/rabat-riding-the-motogp-bike-is-more-physically-demanding/190014

Crutchlow: "We've done a good job overall"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/crutchlow-we-ve-done-a-good-job-overall/190025

Redding: "I've begun a new adventure"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/redding-i-ve-begun-a-new-adventure/190028

Lorenzo: "Today we focused on the electronics"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/lorenzo-today-we-focused-on-the-electronics/190031

Pedrosa: "We need more time"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/pedrosa-we-need-more-time/190033

Marquez: "There is plenty of room for improvement"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/marquez-there-is-plenty-of-room-for-improvement/190035

Rossi: "We improved the bike a lot"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/11/rossi-we-improved-the-bike-a-lot/190036

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

2016 provisional entry lists

The provisional entry lists for all three MotoGP classes, going into the 2016 season.

MotoGP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/2016-motogp-provisional-entry-list/189239

Moto2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/2016-moto2-provisional-entry-list/189244

Moto3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/2016-moto3-provisional-entry-list/189241

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Post race news, from Valencia, after the final checkered flags of the season

We examine, post race headlines, after the final checkered flag of the 2015 season, in all three MotoGP classes.

A Spartan comeback for Lorenzo's fifth crown

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/a-spartan-comeback-for-lorenzo-s-fifth-crown/188653

The journey to Lorenzo's fifth title
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/the-journey-to-lorenzo-s-fifth-title/188654

Lorenzo's 2015 season in pictures
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/lorenzo-s-2015-season-in-pictures/189444

Rossi: "It was unbelievable"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/rossi-it-was-unbelievable/189611

Celebrate the 2015 champions on the Red Carpet

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/celebrate-the-2015-champions-on-the-red-carpet/189616

Marquez: "With four laps to go I tried to pass"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/marquez-with-four-laps-to-go-i-tried-to-pass/189645

Pedrosa: "I'm proud of my performance"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/pedrosa-i-m-proud-of-my-performance/189649

Lorenzo: "Now we can say we are five-time world champions"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/lorenzo-now-we-can-say-we-are-five-time-world-champions/189652

Nakamoto: "This is not the atmosphere we wanted"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/nakamoto-this-is-not-the-atmosphere-we-wanted/189712

FIM Awards Ceremony completes 2015 MotoGP season

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/fim-awards-ceremony-completes-2015-motogp-season/189650

Bautista: "Throughout the year we improved a lot"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/bautista-throughout-the-year-we-improved-a-lot/189750

Barbera: "Winning the Open Championship at home is great"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/barbera-winning-the-open-championship-at-home-is-great/189765

Preview 2016 with #PitLaneTalk
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/preview-2016-with-pitlanetalk/189775

Iannone: "I had nothing to lose"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/iannone-i-had-nothing-to-lose/189720

Bradl: "I didn't feel comfortable braking"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/bradl-i-didn-t-feel-comfortable-braking/189754

Espargaro: "The team has always been behind me"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/espargaro-the-team-has-always-been-behind-me/189745

Miller: "I'm looking forward to coming back next year"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/miller-i-m-looking-forward-to-coming-back-next-year/189748

An interview, with Maverick Vinales.

Maverick Vinales interview: "I learnt a lot"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/maverick-vinales-interview-i-learnt-a-lot/189809

Hayden: "Thanks for the memories!"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/hayden-thanks-for-the-memories/189780

Espargaro: "I couldn't fight to keep the sixth place"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/espargaro-i-couldn-t-fight-to-keep-the-sixth-place/189818

Recapping a story printed in the race debrief.

Rabat bows out of Moto2 with victory
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/rabat-bows-out-of-moto2-with-victory/189520

Rabat: "I'm fit enough to ride fast"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/rabat-i-m-fit-enough-to-ride-fast/189716

Dominant Danny Kent takes Moto3 title
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/dominant-danny-kent-takes-moto3-title/186133

Danny Kent's racing story
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/danny-kent-s-racing-story/186131

Recapping another story, from the race debrief.

Oliveira wins race, but Kent takes Moto3 title

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/oliveira-wins-race-but-kent-takes-moto3-title/189486

Navarro: "I tried to attack"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/navarro-i-tried-to-attack/189573

Oliveira: "We came very close"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/oliveira-we-came-very-close/189587

Kent: "We've finally done it"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/kent-we-ve-finally-done-it/189591

Mahindra welcomes the Peugeot brand to Moto3

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/09/mahindra-welcomes-the-peugeot-brand-to-moto3/189764

Monday, November 9, 2015

Moto 2 & Moto 3: Valencia (season finale), & 2015 World Champions

Championships were also clinched in the junior leagues, the steppingstone series' on the ladder to MotoGP, this weekend, in the Valencia season finale at Circuit Ricardo Tormo. Tito Rabat, was the winner, in his final appearance, on a Moto2 bike.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/rabat-bows-out-of-moto2-with-victory/189520

Rabat was followed home, on the podium, by Alex Rins, and Tom Luthi. Completing the top five it was Lorenzo Baldassari, and Sam Lowes. Positions six through ten, went to Luis Salom, 2015 Moto2 champion, Johann Zarco (who returns to the class, next year to defend his title), Axel Pons, Simone Corsi, and Mika Kallio, completed the top ten.

26 riders were classified at the end of the race. The last classified finisher was Aussie rider, Josh Hook. Lucas Mahias, Edgar Pons, Franco Morbidelli, and Hafizh Syahrin, were the retirements, from the season finale. But, for Tito Rabat, the celebrations begin, and so does his transition, to being a MotoGP rider, next year.

#1 Tito Rabat    ESP.    Kalex

Congratulations, on the 2015 Moto2 World Championship, Tito Rabat!

In Moto3, Miguel Oliveira was indeed victorious once again. But, he was not close enough, to snatch the 2015 Moto3 crown away from Danny Kent.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/08/oliveira-wins-race-but-kent-takes-moto3-title/189486

#44 Miguel Oliveira    ESP. KTM

2015 Champion:

#52 Danny Kent    GBR.    Honda

Danny Kent, you are the 2015 Moto3 world champion! Congratulations! So, 2015 is now in the history books. We look forward, to another fantastic season of racing, in the junior classes, (Moto2 and Moto3), again, in 2016, and we'll see you, for the beginning of the season, in late March, at the traditional location, in Qatar. So long, for now, everyone.

Sunday, November 8, 2015

MotoGP Round 18: Valencia (season finale) & 2015 MotoGP World Champion

...And then, there was one. The finale of the 2015 MotoGP World Championship, is today, at Circuit Ricardo Tormo, in Valenica, Spain. Valentino Rossi will start from the back of the grid. Rossi will have to start, from the last position, on the grid. The FIM has moved beyond the incident, and we now focus, on the finale. Lorenzo is on pole, and Rossi, starts last. The margin is small. We will look at qualifying, set the grid, and then, go racing.

Valencia is the scene of the season finale for the 14th straight year. Ricardo Tormo is a two-time MotoGP champion who won in 1979 and 1981. This is the final race for Bridgestone tires, in MotoGP, before Michelin becomes the tire supplier next year. The corner apexes on this track are very late, and also, the rider's spend a lot of time, in the corners, on lean angle. The track is busy, and narrow. Passing will be difficult.

In qualifying, Jorge Lorenzo set the fastest lap ever on this track at a 1:30 flat. Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa were behind Lorenzo. They could struggle. Valentino Rossi used the qualifying session to try setups. High temperatures and grip, are going to be concerns, for today's finale. Jorge Lorenzo believes he ran the lap of his life, and that it was the most important qualifying effort for him, all year. Lorenzo scores his fifth pole, and he hopes to sweep all four races in Spain, this year. Nicky Hayden makes his last MotoGP start today, and Yonny Hernandez, makes his 100th start.

Keep your tires under you. Be careful in traffic. Handle the contenders. Will riders move aside for the championship contenders? We'll see. The past 17 races are prologue, for what will happen today. Stay tuned, for the start, and a great race. The time has come. The last race of the season. One man will stand above the rest as 2015 champion. Who will it be? Rossi? Or, Lorenzo? 30 laps will decide the world title. We are ready, to race.

It's a cauldron atmosphere at the Ricardo Tormo track. It is all to play for within the next 43 minutes or so. The conditions are amazing. Cal Crutchlowhad an engine issue, and has to start caboose on the field on his backup bike. This is the sporting event worldwide, this weekend. Seven points, Valentino Rossi has, over Jorge Lorenzo. Can Lorenzo become only the third rider in history, to overturn a points deficit? We'll see.

The riders are ready. 30 laps. It's all come down to this. Go! At the start, Jorge Lorenzo gets a good start. Jorge Lorenzo leads from Dani Pedrosa. Rossi tries Loris Baz and is scything his way through the field. Pedrosa inside Marc Marquez. Lorenzo has the dream start, as Rossi has picked up ten places. He is going after the Pramac Ducati of Yonny Hernandez. Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Ianonne both got good starts on the factory Ducati's. #99 leads right now. But, things might change. One lap, done and dusted. Rossi needs help from the Honda's. He's up to 15th, moving inside Nicky Hayden in his last race.

It's hectic. Rossi is pushing. He lost the championship here, nine years ago, to Nicky Hayden, back in 2006. Rossi is pushing. He's up the inside of Alvaro Bautista. Stefan Bradl is his next target. The championship gap is now 14 points. Lorenzo sets fast lap at 1:31.416. Rossi passes Bradl's Aprilia. He's up to 11th and going for the top ten, trying to pass the Ducati of Michele Pirro. This race is a barn burner already! Rossi passes Pirro. He crashed in qualifying yesterday, but is now in the top ten. He has 12 points between him and Jorge Lorenzo!

Andrea Ianonne has crashed! Now, it's 12. The asymmetrical front tire for Ianonne, didn't work. Lorenzo runs another fast lap at 1:31.367. Rossi now has to catch Bradley Smith on the Tech 3 Yamaha. They go through the Angel Nieto corner, named after the 13-time MotoGP champion. Lorenzo is going for it. Rossi is pushing past Pol Espargaro, Danilo Petrucci, and Bradley Smith. It's a trio of riders. Rossi is right in Smith's face, now. The gap is under 2/10ths of a second, as Rossi runs 1:38.820, his personal best lap, which is still slower than Jorge Lorenzo.

Bradley Smith passes Danilo Petrucci. Petrucci says, "oh no you don't." Rossi is desperate to pass Smith. This is intense! Rossi looks up the inside of Smith. No dice. Smith tries Petrucci again. Not this time. Pol Espargaro ekes out a gap. Jorge Lorenzo is also steaming along at the front. Rossi is stuck behind Smith. Marc Marquez runs his personal best at 1:39 and change. Marc Marquez will not regain the crown. But, he will get into the points today.

Rossi passes Smith and the crowd goes crazy. The gap is now ten points between Lorenzo and Rossi. Will the right hand side of the tire, start overheating? Rossi has to get by Danilo Petrucci, who was second to Rossi at Silverstone back in September. Rossi passes Petrucci, and Petrucci runs wide. Petrucci ran wide into the Mick Doohan corner. Nine points is now the gap. Rossi now has to pass Pol Espargaro, and then, Aleix Espargaro. Working lap seven, starting lap eight. Lorenzo is marginally quicker than Marc Marquez.

Rossi runs wide into turn two. That will cost him time. 21 laps to go. Lorenzo is world champ for now. But, nothing is official yet. We're still running a race here, folks. Rossi is now up to seventh. Lorenzo has to be off the podium. Rossi will need Lorenzo to be outside the top two if he picks up one more spot. Rossi is up the inside of Pol Espargaro. He and Espargaro, touch elbows. Espargaro was on the inside. Cal Crutchlow is now up into the points.

Marc Marquez is 6/10ths behind Jorge Lorenzo. Rossi now closes on Aleix Espargaro, on the Suzuki. Will he do it in Angel Nieto corner? No. He has to track him down into turn eight. It's Suzuki vs. Yamaha. Here comes Rossi. He can't quite get there. Eight points is the gap. Rossi's Yamaha should have the legs on Espargaro's Suzuki, and he does it, but runs wide, and Espargaro takes the spot back. It's still eight points. Marc Marquez is within striking distance of Lorenzo. But, this time, Rossi passes Espargaro for good, on the brakes!

He's inside the top five, moving in on Andrea Dovizioso on the factory Ducati. Dani Pedrosa ups his pace and sets his personal best lap time. Rossi can't quite pass the Ducati. That bike has power! The gap at the front is a half a second between Lorenzo and Marquez. Rossi passes Dovizioso! He's inside the top four! Seven points... no, five points... is now the gap. This championship is far from over. We're not even halfway home yet. The Honda's are hunting Jorge Lorenzo. Blood is in the water. The sharks, are feeding, right now.

We are now at halfway. Jorge Lorenzo leads, but by less than 4/10ths of a second over Marc Marquez. Remember, Lorenzo will need to be out of the top two, for Rossi, to be champ. Rossi is fourth. He's not close enough to get his 10th title. It's been a long race already. Marc Marquez is as close as we've seen, to Jorge Lorenzo. Rossi is safe in fourth spot right now. Marc Marquez is applying the blowtorch to Jorge Lorenzo. Both Honda's will have to be in the game, to bring Rossi the championship. One Honda, won't be enough.

The 14 longest laps of the season, are now. Lorenzo is called "the hammer" because he's so consistent. Marquez is still behind. Lorenzo still leads. 13 laps left in the 2015 season. Pedrosa has crossed the line. Pol Espargaro runs ahead of Andrea Dovizioso. Cal Crutchlow is tenth. We are past halfway, working lap 18 of 30. Lorenzo has 12 points in his favor, in the lead, with Rossi, in fourth. The 12 point swing, puts Lorenzo five points ahead. If it does not come down to points, it will come down to wins, and Lorenzo would be champion, based on wins.

Dani Pedrosa has dropped behind Jorge Lorenzo. Rossi needs both Honda's to finish ahead of Lorenzo. It will take a massive mistake by Lorenzo to not be champ. Rossi's possible tenth title, could be slipping from his grasp. Whereas, Lorenzo can see the trophy, for his third title. Rossi has to hope that Lorenzo makes a massive error. But, Lorenzo is not known for making massive errors when he's ahead. Pedrosa is losing time to Lorenzo. Rossi is 15-16 seconds behind Lorenzo now. Bradley Smith moves ahead to seventh, ahead of Aleix Espargaro.

Cal Crutchlow sets his personal best lap at 1:32.449. Lorenzo is now also being shown Dani Pedrosa's position. Second place, will be good enough, to be champion. Lorenzo does not want to get into a scrap with Marc Marquez. He won't slow his pace at all. He can run consistent laps, all day long. He can go out on a Sunday ride. If Marquez passes Lorenzo, Rossi would lose the title, but be on equal points, with Lorenzo. Isn't that wild?

Lorenzo has now dropped into the 1:32 bracket... at a 1:32.035. Marquez is close to Lorenzo. Marc Marquez wants to win the race for Honda and himself. Eight laps remain now. The tension is so thick, you can cut it with a knife. Second place is enough for Lorenzo to be champion. But, he won't back off in any way. Dani Pedrosa was quickest of the top three, but that's inconsequential. Lorenzo and Marquez continue their battle, although, Marquez is still behind. Everyone is watching the race, not saying a word.

Seven laps now remain. Where's Rossi? He's run a good race. But he's just not in the right place right now. Will Dani Pedrosa mount a late charge? Lorenzo has led from the start of this race. Will he come under pressure from the Repsol Honda's? If Dani Pedrosa and Marc Marquez finish ahead of Lorenzo, Rossi is champ. Is there a final dramatic twist? We'll see in the final six laps. Dani Pedrosa runs a 1:31.5. He's quicker than Marquez and Lorenzo. He's within 1.6 seconds of Marc Marquez. If the Honda's move past Lorenzo, Rossi will be champ. He's not out of it yet.

Is there a final twist? How will the last page of the 2015 MotoGP season book, be written? Dani Pedrosa is within a second and a half of the lead battle. Five laps left. Five laps left in the race, and the season. It's not over yet. Marquez will likely make a move on Lorenzo. If Marquez passes Lorenzo., then, Lorenzo, will have to push, because Dani Pedrosa, is coming, and fast! Lorenzo is world champ for now. But... we still wonder.

Four laps to go now. Lorenzo would win his fifth Grand Prix title, and his third, in MotoGP. Pedrosa runs a 1:31.898 as he's faster than Lorenzo and Marquez. Does he have time to come back? Bradley Smith moves to sixth. Marc Marquez closes on Jorge Lorenzo. Pedrosa has the speed. Lorenzo is being told that he has to really push, because Dani Pedrosa, is a man on a mission. The gap is now under a second between Marquez and Pedrosa.

This is it! Lorenzo goes through the Mick Doohan corner. The two Honda's are harrying the Yamaha. He's hanging on, just by his fingernails. Two and a half laps left. Dani Pedrosa closes up through turn eight. Pedrosa is getting closer. It's a three way fight. Two laps left now. Marquez has not made a move. Pedrosa is right up there. The world title, is going to be decided in less than two laps. Pedrosas is trying to move in on Marquez. He can't quite do it. Here he comes. He's taken second. Marquezis fighting. Lorenzo can move ahead!

A lap and a half left! Lorenzo is so close to the title. This is it. The final lap of the 2015 MotoGP season is now. Rossi is fourth. He has no say. Marquez and Pedrosa are going for it, trying to pass Lorenzo. Lorenzo won't come under attack. Lorenzo is going to take the title. The Honda's are just not close enough. Jorge Lorenzo will get his third championship. Jorge Lorenzo will be the 2015 MoitoGP World Champion! He wins the race, and the title!

#99 Jorge Lorenzo ESP. Yamaha

A great fight. But, spare a thought for Valentino Rossi. He passed 21 riders in the first 13 laps. But he couldn't do it. Lorenzo wins seven races. Rossi, has won only four races. Well earned, by Jorge Lorenzo, after the onslaught from Honda, and the heroics, of his team mate, Valentino Rossi. Jorge Lorenzo has won all four races in his native Spain. He is only the third rider in MotoGP history, to come from behind, to win the World Championship.

Valentino Rossi, has done his best, to make this a season finale to remember, and the Yamaha garage, will still be packed to the rafters. This race was filled with tension. Lorenzo survived all that the Honda's could throw at him. Nicky Hayden, finishes his 216th and final MotoGP race in 17th. Jorge Lorenzo wins the championship by only five points. One of the lowest points margins in MotoGP history. Phew! The season, has come to an end. It's been one for the ages. Congratulations, Jorge Lorenzo. The 2016 season, begins next March, in Qatar. We'll see you then, fans. So long, for now, everyone.

Saturday, November 7, 2015

championship scenario refresher

A refresher, on the championship scenario, in tomorrow's MotoGP finale in Valencia, Spain.

pre-race news before Valencia

Late breaking news before the final MotoGP race of 2015 (for all three classes).

Smith: "We improved one and a half seconds from yesterday"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/smith-we-improved-one-and-a-half-seconds-from-yesterday/189366

Iannone: "We didn't exactly do the best qualifying"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/iannone-we-didn-t-exactly-do-the-best-qualifying/189377

Crutchlow: "It's going to be a long race"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/crutchlow-it-s-going-to-be-a-long-race/189397

Rossi: "I suffered a bit more with the grip"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/rossi-i-suffered-a-bit-more-with-the-grip/189406

Espargaro: "I went out with the hard tyre"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/espargaro-i-went-out-with-the-hard-tyre/189410

Pedrosa: "We'll see how it tomorrow goes"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/pedrosa-we-ll-see-how-it-tomorrow-goes/189414

Lorenzo: "There was a lot of tension"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/lorenzo-there-was-a-lot-of-tension/189418

Marquez: "There is not much between us"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/marquez-there-is-not-much-between-us/189422

A day of contrasts
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/a-day-of-contrasts/189432

Luthi sets fastest time of weekend in Moto2 FP3

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/luthi-sets-fastest-time-of-weekend-in-moto2-fp3/189235

Remarkable Rabat takes pole ahead of Moto2 farewell

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/remarkable-rabat-takes-pole-ahead-of-moto2-farewell/189293

Rabat: "I hope this chapter in my career ends on a high"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/rabat-i-hope-this-chapter-in-my-career-ends-on-a-high/189385

Zarco: "Everyone is riding very fast"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/zarco-everyone-is-riding-very-fast/189395

Last-gasp Oliveira snatches top spot in Moto3 FP3

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/last-gasp-oliveira-snatches-top-spot-in-moto3-fp3/189217

McPhee to continue with SAXOPRINT RTG in 2016

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/mcphee-to-continue-with-saxoprint-rtg-in-2016/189238

McPhee celebrates new contract with pole in Moto3

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/mcphee-celebrates-new-contract-with-pole-in-moto3/189243

Kent: "We made the job a lot harder"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/kent-we-made-the-job-a-lot-harder/189291

Oliveira: "We have done what we needed to do"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/oliveira-we-have-done-what-we-needed-to-do/189300

McPhee: "I thought everyone was gonna go faster"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/07/mcphee-i-thought-everyone-was-gonna-go-faster/189338

Friday, November 6, 2015

more MotoGP news

More MotoGP news as we head into the season finale, in Valencia, Spain, that will take place, on Sunday.

Suppo: "We don't want to put more fuel on the fire"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/05/suppo-we-don-t-want-to-put-more-fuel-on-the-fire/188897

Permanent Bureau address MotoGP riders

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/permanent-bureau-address-motogp-riders/188903

An interview, with Alex De Angelis.

De Angelis interview: "I am smiling!"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/05/de-angelis-interview-i-am-smiling/188914

#TheGrandFinale: Rossi, Lorenzo, Marquez & Pedrosa talk

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/05/thegrandfinale-rossi-lorenzo-marquez-pedrosa-talk/188926

Ippolito: "We need to remember the values of our sport"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/05/ippolito-we-need-to-remember-the-values-of-our-sport/188945

Marquez starts quickest in FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/marquez-starts-quickest-in-fp1/188978

Nicky Hayden becomes MotoGP Legend
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/nicky-hayden-becomes-motogp-legend/189085

MotoGP Championship Quest: the official MotoGP mobile game

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/motogp-championship-quest-the-official-motogp-mobile-game/189097

Carmelo Ezpeleta: "We must learn from what happened"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/carmelo-ezpeleta-we-must-learn-from-what-happened/189087

Redding: "The most difficult day I've had on the bike"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/redding-the-most-difficult-day-i-ve-had-on-the-bike/189133

Lowes sets the pace in Moto2 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/lowes-sets-the-pace-in-moto2-fp1/189005

Luthi ends Friday on top in Moto2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/luthi-ends-friday-on-top-in-moto2/189107

Kent & Oliveira discuss Moto3 title showdown

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/05/kent-oliveira-discuss-moto3-title-showdown/188896

Kent leads the way in Moto3 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/kent-leads-the-way-in-moto3-fp1/188969

Kent: "I'll sleep well this night"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/kent-i-ll-sleep-well-this-night/189117

Oliveira: "We're just a tenth off first place"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/06/oliveira-we-are-just-a-tenth-off-first-place/189127

Thursday, November 5, 2015

MotoGP news briefing

Continuing to delve into news stories, in all three MotoGP classes, leading up to this weekend's title decider in Valencia, Spain.

Pedrosa: "We've worked hard and won two races"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/pedrosa-we-ve-worked-hard-and-won-two-races/188777

Dovizioso: "The GP15 hasn't been the same"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/dovizioso-the-gp15-hasn-t-been-the-same/188795

A look at each time in MotoGP and Grand Prix motorcycle racing history, dating back to 1949, where the series title, has gone down, to the final race of the season.

To the bitter end
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/to-the-bitter-end/188730

Redding: "It's always proved a difficult track for me"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/redding-it-s-always-proved-a-difficult-track-for-me/188819

Hayden: "This is going to be my last ride in MotoGP"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/hayden-this-is-going-to-be-my-last-ride-in-motogp/188824

Espargaro: "I am nursing the neck injury from Malaysia"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/espargaro-i-am-nursing-the-neck-injury-from-malaysia/188764

Iannone: "It's vitally important to finish fourth"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/iannone-it-s-vitally-important-to-finish-fourth/188785

Valencia numbers of Rossi, Pedrosa, Lorenzo, and Marquez

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/valencia-numbers-of-rossi-pedrosa-lorenzo-and-marquez/188828

If you are subscribed to the MotoGP Video pass, check out a few of these championship deciding races.

Video Playlist: Championship deciders
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/video-playlist-championship-deciders/188786

Vinales: "I'm happy for having taken the Rookie of The Year"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/vinales-i-m-happy-for-having-taken-the-rookie-of-the-year/188863

Rabat: "My only focus has been on recovery"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/rabat-my-only-focus-has-been-on-recovery/188782

Zarco: "We have a good memory coming into this weekend"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/zarco-we-have-a-good-memory-coming-into-this-weekend/188849

Oliveira: "We'll see what happens"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/oliveira-we-ll-see-what-happens/188830

Special Livery for SKY VR46 team
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/04/special-livery-for-sky-vr46-team/188860

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

more MotoGP news

More breaking news from the world of MotoGP. News, and also, statistical analyses for some of the classes, when it comes to racing at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia.

Revisiting an idea posed on this blog, last week. The scenarios in which either Valentino Rossi, or Jorge Lorenzo, can become champion.

How Rossi or Lorenzo can become champion

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/how-rossi-or-lorenzo-can-become-champion/188672

#ValenciaGP in numbers
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/valenciagp-in-numbers/188671

Bridgestone look ahead to Valencia GP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/bridgestone-look-ahead-to-valencia-gp/188756

Another blog entry from Dani Pedrosa.

Pedrosa Blog: We're going to Cheste with all your support

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/pedrosa-blog-we-re-going-to-cheste-with-all-your-support/188760

Movistar Yamaha issue reply to Honda
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/movistar-yamaha-issue-reply-to-honda/188752

Riders for Health launches 25th Anniversary online auction

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/riders-for-health-launches-25th-anniversary-online-auction/188765

Marc Marquez's latest blog entry.

Marquez Blog: Going for the sixth win in Valencia

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/marquez-blog-going-for-the-sixth-win-in-valencia/188766

#ValenciaGP: Motul Superfan revealed
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/valenciagp-motul-superfan-revealed/188791

Lorenzo's intervention in Rossi's appeal denied

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/lorenzo-s-intervention-in-rossi-s-appeal-denied/188806

#StatAttack: How many podiums has Zarco managed this season?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/02/statattack-how-many-podiums-has-zarco-managed-this-season/188668

Moto2 out for final glory in Valencia
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/02/moto2-out-for-final-glory-in-valencia/188673

#StatAttack: When did Danny Kent win at Valencia?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/02/statattack-when-did-danny-kent-win-at-valencia/188669

Moto3 rages on to the end
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/02/moto3-rages-on-to-the-end/188660

A list of the memorable championship deciding races in the lightweight motorcycle category in MotoGP (so, either 125cc or Moto3), from 2002 to the present, ending with last year's battle in 2014.

Championship deciders at Valencia in the lightweight class

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/03/championship-deciders-at-valencia-in-the-lightweight-class/188670

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Revised 2016 MotoGP calendar

Here is a revised version of next year's MotoGP race calendar. Notably, there is a new event added to the schedule at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/02/revised-2016-motogp-calendar/188735

Monday, November 2, 2015

MotoGP riders and teams summoned by the Permanent Bureau

After the events in the recent race at Malaysia, many MotoGP riders and teams, have been summoned by the Permanent Bureau, for a meeting. This meeting, also forces the cancellation of the press conference for the season finale in Valencia, Spain, this coming weekend. Much more news from the world of MotoGP, to follow. Stay tuned.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/11/02/motogp-riders-and-teams-summoned-by-the-permanent-bureau/188745

Sunday, November 1, 2015

Alzamora: Marquez deserves to be respected

Marc Marquez, was ambushed, by reporters in the Italian press, who broke into his home, and invaded him. Former 125cc World Champion, and Marquez's mentor, Emilio Alzamora, had something to say about it.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/31/alzamora-marc-deserves-to-be-respected/188711

Saturday, October 31, 2015

More MotoGP news

More MotoGP news stories, including a major development after the Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi scrum in Malaysia.

Bridgestone review the #MalaysianGP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/28/bridgestone-review-the-malaysiangp/188643

Dani Pedrosa's latest blog entry.

Pedrosa Blog: Three weeks full of excitement

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/29/pedrosa-blog-three-weeks-full-of-excitement/188644

A blog entry, from Bradley Smith

#Bradley38Blog: Turning it around in Sepang

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/29/bradley38blog-turning-it-around-in-sepang/188634

Here's some fun, for fans of Monopoly, and board games. It's MotoGP Monopoly!

Monopoly launches MotoGP edition
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/29/monopoly-launches-motogp-edition/188678

Big development, in the Rossi vs. Marquez incident, from Malaysia.

Valentino Rossi appeals FIM Stewards' decision

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/30/valentino-rossi-appeals-fim-stewards-decision/188688

Some news from Moto3 as well. One team, switches, to, a Peugeot motorcycle engine. Yours truly, was not aware, Peugeot, builds motorcycle engines.

RTG switch to Peugeot in 2016
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/30/rtg-switch-to-peugeot-in-2016/188708

Friday, October 30, 2015

Open letter from FIM President Vito Ippolito

FIM President Vito Ippolito has written a letter expressing his disdain for the bad sportsmanship shown in the most recent MotoGP race, in Malaysia, last weekend.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/29/open-letter-from-fim-president-vito-ippolito/188680

Thursday, October 29, 2015

Valencia championship scenarios (via the Facebook page 2Wheeled Racing News and Views)

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Moto 2 & Moto 3: Malaysia

In Moto2 action in Malaysia, Johann Zarco continued his steamroller of a season, taking the race victory. He led Tom Luthi and Jonas Folger, across the line. Takaaki Nakagami, and Lorenzo Baldassari, completed the top five. In positions six through ten, the finishers were Luis Salom, Sandro Cortese, Hafizh Syahrin (a home crowd favorite, from Malaysia), Simone Corsi, and Xavier Simeon. A good chunk of the field, actually finished the race, and only three riders were unclassified at the end, in this race, that included 30 motorcycles. Some heavy hitters, failed to finish. Alex Rins, Marcel Schrotter, and Alex Marquez.

#5 Johann Zarco FRA. Kalex

The Moto3 race at Sepang, was won by the rapid Miguel Oliveira. He has racked up quite a few wins this season already. Joining him on the Moto3 podium were Brad Binder, and Jorge Navarro. Another impressive finish, for each of those riders. No doubt, they will win races, soon. Another rapid rider, Niccolo Antonelli, came home fourth, with his fellow Italian, Romano Fenati, fifth. Positions six through ten were filled by Jakub Kornfeil, World Champion in Moto3, Danny Kent, Enea Bastianini, Alexis Masbou, and John McPhee.

25 riders were classified at the end of the Moto3 race, and the final one of them, who came home in a classified position, was Gabriel Rodrigo. The retirements list included half a dozen riders. Karel Hanika, Manuel Pagliani, Efren Vazquez, Hiroki Ono, Zulfahmi Khairuddin, and Darryn Binder.

#44 Miguel Oliveira POR. KTM

The finale, beckons, for all three classes (MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3), at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, in Valencia, Spain, in less than two weeks.

Monday, October 26, 2015

#SepangClash: Race Direction verdict on Rossi & Marquez

After their kerfuffle in the MotoGP race in Malaysia, THIS is how MotoGP Race Director, Mike Webb, has decided to handle the situation.

Valentino Rossi, for his actions of deliberately forcing Marc Marquez, off the road, will receive three penalty points.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/25/sepangclash-race-direction-verdict-on-rossi-marquez/188434

#SepangClash: Jarvis reacts
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/25/sepangclash-jarvis-reacts/188527

#SepangClash: Decision of The Race Direction

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/26/sepangclash-decision-of-the-race-direction/188604

Sunday, October 25, 2015

MotoGP Round 17: Malaysia

It is the penultimate round of the 2015 MotoGP World Championship, at the Sepang Circuit in Sepang, Malaysia.

Lorenzo, is coming. Stalking his prey. Closing in. Waiting, for his time. to strike, with two races left. He is a shark in the water, smelling blood. Cue the "Jaws" theme. It's the penultimate race of the 2015 MotoGP season... the Grand Prix of Malaysia, next!

The tension has ratcheted up, and we are ready to race, in the steam of Sepang, Malaysia. Yamaha, is guaranteed, to win everything. But, Lorenzo and Rossi, they have a real rivalry going. Recall, Australia, last weekend, which was one of the most epic races, in motorcycle racing history. Last weekend's finish, was the closest since MotoGP began in 2002, and also, one of the closest in Grand Prix history. Dani Pedrosa starts on pole. Here are some scenarios for the title.

Valentino Rossi leads Jorge Lorenzo by eleven points. Rossi can mathematically win the championship, today. Lorenzo would have to wait, to clinch, in the finale, in two weeks, in Valencia, Spain. Rossi knows he has to push all the way, and not make any mistakes. Lorenzo feels better about his chances now, than he did, a few races back. Lorenzo feels he is at the top of his game. If he finishes behind Valentino Rossi, it will be impossible for him, to be champion again, this year. He believes he'll finish strong.

Rossi says there's lots of pride on the line. He also knows he has to beat Ducati's Andrea Ianonne, or at least, that's how it was in Australia, last weekend. Sepang is where much MotoGP testing takes place. Valentino Rossi accused Marc Marquez of racing too hard, while he didn't race Jorge Lorenzo too hard. Malaysia is very hot, and humid. It's a slick track, and also, very, very hot. Tracks are physically demanding, based on layout, wrestling the bike, accelerating, and braking.

This track has many corners. But, the high humidity and 90+ degree temperatures, are a tough thing to deal with. In the humidity, it's a challenge. The heat, will affect them, and the humidity. If you get dehydrated, it will affect your concentration, and cramp your muscles, as a rider. Heat stroke is also a big issue. Get hydrated. Cool off in a kid's blowup swimming pool, with ice in it. Stay cool, and stay hydrated.

Sepang is an early track of the generation of Class A tracks, capable of hosting Formula One. Turn one, is a favorite passing spot. Wide apex, and tight. Down through turns two and three, up through the gears, and flow through it. 180 miles an hour on a MotoGP bike. Slightly slower on a 1000cc Superbike. Watch for change of direction in the third gear, turn five, and turn six. Be precise with the bike. Into seven, take it is one corner, onto the short straight, into turn one. First gear corner. Into turn ten, down a gear, into eleven. Shades of Marquez and Lorenzo in 2013.

Eleven and twelve are not passing zones. But, it will be in turns 13 and 14. Onto the back straight. Accelrate. Lorenzo wobbled massively into the final turn that year. It's a favorite passing spot. It's a lot of work. In qualifying, Dani Pedrosa blistered the speedway, for pole. Marc Marquez mustered only second with a wobble. Jorge Lorenzo could have had third. He crashed in FP4 and then, got nipped by Rossi.

Cal Crutchlow and Andrea Ianonne are up there. But, Yamaha's will be the ones to watch in this 20 lap contest. Rossi makes his record 329th GP start. Maverick Vinales is Rookie of The Year, riding for Suzuki. Happy 25th birthday, Danilo Petrucci. Nicky Hayden will be inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame in Valencia next time out. Look out for tires. Don't dehydrate. Watch the weather. Spare bikes may need to be ready, if it rains.

This could be the deciding round of the 2015 MotoGP season, with eleven points, separating Rossi, and Lorenzo, behind the Honda's of Pedrosa, and Marquez. Hector Barbera, has been moved to the rear of the grid. The world waits, with bated breath. The 2015 Malaysian GP is about to start. 20 laps scheduled, as mentioned. We are ready, to race.

Go! At the start, Marc Marquez gets a slow start. Lorenzo gets swamped by the Ducati's. Pedrosa leads Marquez and Jorge Lorenzo fights through the pack. Lorenzo dives inside of both factory Ducati's. Dani Pedrosa leads Marquez and Rossi. They fly through turns seven, eight, and nine. Nine is a favorite passing spot. Up through turn eleven. Rossi and Lorenzo are pushing the Ducati's of Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Ianonne. Rossi closes on Marquez. They fly down the back straight into turn fifteen to complete lap one.

Lorenzo passes Rossi into the turn one braking zone. Lorenzo is up to third. He's pushing really, really hard. They almost touch. Honda, Honda, Yamaha, Yamaha. Pol Espargaro, is next, behind these guys. Rossi's championship lead, might be really cut down. Rossi cannot pass Lorenzo. They are braking away from Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Ianonne on the Ducati's. Problems for Ianonne. He's slowing and has a mechanical issue onn his factory Ducati.

Pedrosa still leads. Lorenzo sets best lap at 2:00.6. Fastest lap, so far, pardon me. They climb the hill to turn four. Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow move up. Jorge Lorenzo passes Marc Marquez who went wide on the brakes into turn four. Rossi closes on Marquez. This is fierce after the word war Thursday night between Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez. Rossi tries to find his way through. Dani Pedrosa still leads. Rossi is going for it. He can't pass Marquez.

Rossi almost passes Marquez. He can't quite make it. We work lap three. Marquez is having front tire issues. Rossi tries inside and makes a pass on Marquez stick, for third! Marquez will fight back coming through turn six. He's close. This is wild. Into turn nine, he's pushing. Dani Pedrosa still leads by 8/10ths of a second. Marquez has front end grip issues. Marquez closes again. These guys are flying. Just flying. Marquez wants to beat Rossi. He tries inside Rossi. Marquez tries using the power and the draft, wiggling the motorcycle. Rossi cuts back inside!

This is the fight. No talk. Only do! Marquez pushes ahead. Rossi fires back. Marquez squeezes Rossi out again! This is wild! Rossi has to get closer to lineup for nine. Marquez fights it. Rossi back inside. This is nuts! Rossi loses the front, and Marquez comes back! The crowd goes berserk! Pedrosa still leads over Lorenzo. This is personal pride between Marquez and Rossi. Dani Pedrosa and Jorge Lorenzo, are breaking away. These two blokes, were leaning on each other. Two of the biggest racing rivals in world motorcycle road racing competition.

Pedrosa continues to lead. Rossi is coming for Marquez. He moves back to third spot! This is bonkers! This race is a classic! Jorge Lorenzo is cruising in second. Marquez passes back. We are working lap six. It makes Rossi and Max Biaggi's fights, years ago, look like a Vicker's tea party. This is war now, Private. Jorge Lorenzo is 2.7 seconds up the road. This fight between Marquez and Rossi won't simmer down. Take a breath. Open your eyes. This is a boxing match... a wrestling cage match, on wheels.

Rossi is back to third! Marquez comes back, and can't get there! Brave indeed! He rides around thound the outside! Marquez has crashed! Rossi is in the clear! There was contact! Wow! Holy s***! That's going to fray some nerves! Rossi was wide, and he ran Marquez out the edge of the road. What will the marshals say about this? Marquez is in the lane. Game over for Marquez! This is absolutely unreal!

Race control will investigate the Marquez/Rossi crash. Dani Pedrosa still leads, chasing Andrea Ianonne for fourth. Ianonne is out with mechanical issues. If Pedrosa wins, he'll demote the Ducati rider in the points. Rossi could clearly see where Marquez was on track. After Rossi's comments in the Thursday press conference, the bitterness boiled over. He attacked Marc Marquez, personally. What will race control say? We are halfway home. Dani Pedrosa, leads this race. That was as fierce a battle as you'd want to see.

That was a bomb waiting to go off. It exploded. Marc Marquez is out. Rossi accused Marquez of helping Lorenzo. If Lorenzo wins, he'll be the champ. Andrea Dovizioso has crashed out of fourth. A pear shaped day for Ducati, here. Game over, sunshine. A bad wreck, too. Cal Crutchlow moves to fourth, and Bradley Smith, to fifth. Nine laps left. 1.1 seconds, the gap, between Pedrosa and Lorenzo. This race, has had the most amazing twists and turns!

The temperatures are hot, and the tempers, are hotter. As things stand, the championship, will go to the finale. Valentino Rossi may be in the clear, as Dani Pedrosa is edging away from Jorge Lorenzo. Dani Pedrosa got the hole shot, and no one has touched him. He's headed for his second win in the last three races. Seven points, is the margin. Jorge Lorenzo should settle for second. Dani Pedrosa smashed the lap record in qualifying. Pedrosa's victory (if he wins), will be a side show. The drama of Rossi and Marquez, will be the headline. Marc Marquez will not talk. Livio Suppo, from Honda, will say something.

They will blame Valentino Rossi, fairly and squarely. Marquez will be livid... enraged. He needs to calm down, and move on. Will Rossi and Marquez mend the fences? Probably not. Danilo Petrucci, the Espargaro brothers, and Stefan Bradl, are battling each other. Livio Suppo still has to talk to race control, after the checkers. What action will race direction take? How will that decide the 2015 MotoGP World Championship? If there is guilt, what will be said? Suppo said Rossi deliberately wrecked Marquez.

If you are deemed to do that, race direction, won't tolerate it. You will be punished. We watch this incident, again. Rossi looked twice, at Marc Marquez. There will be a long night. We will have some news on this, to come. Don't take anything away from Dani Pedrosa or Jorge Lorenzo. Race Director Mike Webb, is a cool customer. But, he'll surely make a decision. Rossi was pushing Marquez to the outside of the road.

Dani Pedrosa, has dominated. Four laps left. He is chasing his third MotoGP win at Sepang. His fifth win, overall in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, here. Jorge Lorenzo has had a great ride. This blows the championship, wide open. If there's discussions, the discussions between Marquez and Lorenzo, with the stewards, will be separate, because, it could turn into a fisticuffs, and that's not professional. Bradley Smith and Cal Crutchlow, will finish fourth and fifth. Danilo Petrucci is sixth. The two Suzuki's are running together. Aleix Espargaro, and Maverick Vinales. Stefan Bradl is tenth on the factory Aprilia.

Anthony West, is last, filling in for the injured Alex de Angelis. A battle between the Suzuki team mates. Espargaro and Vinales battle. It's a good scrap, but not vicious like the Rossi, Marquez wrestling match from earlier. Two laps to go now. Maverick Vinales tries into turn one and can't make the pass. Bradley Smith has done a number on Cal Crutchlow. Smith gains. The Yamaha brass are discussing this issue. We have seen a classic battle. But, Dani Pedrosa's win, is totally secondary.

Dani Pedrosa comes through, for the final lap, dominating, checking out. He leads by three seconds. Slow down a tad. But, he has not made any mistakes. Valentino Rossi, will finish third. Pedrosa won 125cc in 2003, and 250cc in 2004. This will be Pedrosa's third win in Malaysia. We will then head for the finale. What will happen to Valentino Rossi? We don't know. A great race in Australia. A verbal assault by Rossi on Marquez. Now, this battle, will go on, into the night. Pedrosa has ridden a career race! Dani Pedrosa, wins it!

#26 Dani Pedrosa ESP. Honda

...And then, there was one. The final race of the 2015 MotoGP World Championship, will be at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia, Spain, coming up, in two weeks. Lorenzo has beaten Rossi. He has scored points, on the way, to a possible championship. We'll be talking about the Rossi/Marquez battle, for the next two to three decades. The incident, will be investigated. If we do not get a decision before this blog entry is published, there will be a story, when it breaks, on the blog, perhaps, even before the news of the support races for Moto2 and Moto3, are published.

Pedrosa and Lorenzo, probably have no clue about what happened, to Rossi. Motorcycle racers, can only learn so much, from their pit boards, and no, they do not have bike to pits radio communication. That's only in car racing. Victory, again, for Dani Pedrosa. Did Marc Marquez's dad Julian, want a fight with Valentino Rossi? We don't know. Julian Marquez, Marc's dad, was absolutely enraged. Did Rossi have his leg out to kick the fork of Marquez's bike?

Rossi says he tried to go wider into turn 14, to slow Marquez down. He says it's a shame. Lots of ground to cover between now, and the finale, in two weeks. Dani Pedrosa, has 99 career podiums. One race remains, and only seven points separate Rossi and Lorenzo. We will have more breaking news, after the decision, and see you, in Valencia, Spain, in two weeks.

Saturday, October 24, 2015

pre-race news from Malaysia, (continued)

More news and rider insights, from all three classes, leading up to the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Redding: "We had a good base from the test here"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/redding-we-had-a-good-base-from-the-test-here/188030

Marquez: "Now it's completely different"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/marquez-now-it-s-completely-different/188042

Iannone: "It was a positive day, pity only about my crash"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/iannone-it-was-a-positive-day-pity-only-about-my-crash/188045

Rossi: "We didn't finish our work"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/rossi-we-didn-t-finish-our-work/188038

Pedrosa: "Today we had the first practice sessions"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/pedrosa-today-we-had-the-first-practice-sessions/188049

Smith: "Today was quite a struggle"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/smith-today-was-quite-a-struggle/188054

Lorenzo: "I think the bike can be further improved"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/lorenzo-i-think-the-bike-can-be-further-improved/188062

Crutchlow: "We have a bit of catching up to do"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/crutchlow-we-still-have-a-bit-of-catching-up-to-do/188083

Indonesia aiming for 2017 MotoGP calendar slot

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/indonesia-aiming-for-2017-motogp-calendar-slot/188028

Pedrosa quickest in FP4
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/pedrosa-quickest-in-fp4/188149

Vinales and Smith through to Q2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/vinales-and-smith-through-to-q2/188155

Vinales: "The heat is killing all of us"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/vinales-the-heat-is-killing-all-of-us/188230

Iannone: "It was difficult for me to do anything more"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/iannone-it-was-difficult-for-me-to-do-anything-more/188209

Smith: "Running in QP1 was never part of the plan"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/smith-running-in-qp1-was-never-part-of-the-plan/188236

Lorenzo: "We had big problems with the brakes"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/lorenzo-we-had-big-problems-with-the-brakes/188217

Crutchlow: "I went quicker here during the tests"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/crutchlow-i-went-quicker-here-during-the-tests/188246

Marquez: "I am finding things harder with fresh tyres here"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/marquez-i-am-finding-things-harder-with-fresh-tyres-here/188250

Rossi: "Nothing is done"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/rossi-nothing-is-done/188264

Pedrosa: "The tyres are suffering at this track"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/pedrosa-the-tyres-are-suffering-at-this-track/188280

Surprises and disappointments
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/surprises-and-disappointment/188283

Luthi ends Friday quickest in Moto2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/luthi-ends-friday-quickest-in-moto2/188003

Zarco: "We tried different setups and several tyres"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/zarco-we-tried-different-setups-and-several-tyres/188046

Meet the Wildcards: Malaysia
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/meet-the-wildcards-malaysia/187815

Home Heroes: Rain Masters
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/home-heroes-rain-masters/187821

Zarco sets new record in Moto2 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/zarco-sets-new-record-in-moto2-fp3/188125

Luthi takes first Moto2 pole of 2015
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/luthi-takes-first-moto2-pole-of-2015/188183

Zarco: "I think I could have taken pole position"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/zarco-i-think-i-could-have-taken-pole-position/188204

Rins: "This track is very complicated"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/rins-this-track-is-very-complicated/188207

Kent: "I felt great with the bike out there"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/kent-i-felt-great-with-the-bike-out-there/188007

Oliveira: "We changed a lot on the bike"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/oliveira-we-changed-a-lot-on-the-bike/188025

Kent on form in Moto3 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/kent-on-form-in-moto3-fp3/188116

Antonelli takes second pole of the season in Moto3

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/antonelli-takes-second-pole-of-the-season-in-moto3/188136

Navarro: "I think I made a great lap"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/navarro-i-think-i-made-a-great-lap/188152

Oliveira: "I could play around with things"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/oliveira-i-could-play-around-with-things/188174

Antonelli: "We tried many things to understand the way"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/antonelli-we-tried-many-things-to-understand-the-way/188186

Kent: "We have to deal with a penalty again"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/kent-we-have-to-deal-with-a-penalty-again/188203

Drive M7 SIC Racing confirm Honda switch in 2016

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/24/drive-m7-sic-racing-confirm-honda-switch-in-2016/188282

Friday, October 23, 2015

More MotoGP news headed into Malaysia (including practice reports)

More news from MotoGP, headed into racing action in Malaysia this weekend, leading off, with a bizarre story.

Rossi accuses Marquez of helping Lorenzo
http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/224458/1/rossi-accuses-marquez-of-helping-lorenzo.html

Mika Kallio to be KTM's MotoGP test rider

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/mika-kallio-to-be-ktm-s-motogp-test-rider/187882

Dani Pedrosa's latest blog entry.

Pedrosa Blog: Next stop Sepang
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/pedrosa-blog-next-stop-sepang/187808

This next story, has been highlighted before. Valentino Rossi will break the all-time MotoGP starts record, at Sepang, this weekend. If you dig numerology, click the link for this one.

Rossi set to break all-time GP record in Sepang

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/rossi-set-to-break-all-time-gp-record-in-sepang/187771

Also, a story on how Rossi could clinch the 2015 MotoGP World Championship, this weekend.

How Rossi can win the title in Malaysia
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/how-rossi-can-win-the-title-in-malaysia/187772

#ForzaVale vs. #VamosJorge: The Sepang skirmish is on

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/forzavale-vs-vamosjorge-the-sepang-skirmish-is-on/187902

#MalaysianGP in numbers
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/malaysiangp-in-numbers/187799

Vinales: "The race in Malaysia will not be easy for us"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/vinales-the-race-in-malaysia-will-not-be-easy-for-us/187946

Alex De Angelis Update: "I will be back soon!"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/alex-de-angelis-update-i-will-be-back-soon/187964

Pedrosa sets the early pace
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/pedrosa-sets-the-early-pace/187972

Lorenzo draws first blood in Sepang skirmish

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/lorenzo-draws-first-blood-in-sepang-skirmish/187992

Zarco: "The last GP helped us to learn"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/22/zarco-the-last-gp-helped-us-to-learn/187903

Folger quickest out of the blocks in Moto2 FP1

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/folger-quickest-out-of-the-blocks-in-moto2-fp1/187977

Confident Kent leads way in Moto3 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/confident-kent-leads-way-in-moto3-fp1/187966

Kent ends Friday on top in Moto3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/23/kent-ends-friday-on-top-in-moto3/187988