MotoGP round 6: Italy

Tuscany in Italy... specifically, the city of Mugello, and the Autodromo del Mugello, hosts round six of the 2015 MotoGP World Championship.  After this event, one third of the 2015 season for MotoGP, will be complete. 

In the peaceful Italian countryside, a chant can be heard, shouted by millions of fans.  Valentino Rossi.  Will Rossi win?  Will one of his competitors steal the glory?  We're about to find out.  Food, wine, and great scenery, are a part of this region of Italy.  But, it is also well known for great racing.  Valentino Rossi has won at Mugello, seven times.  2006 MotoGP World Champion, Nicky Hayden, says that he's doing better with the performance of his 2015 Honda bike.

The bike is more powerful, and the electronics package is also better on the bike.  Nicky Hayden wants to win the Open class, but also, fight the factory riders, such as those from Suzuki and Aprilia.  Back in 2006, he had a bad qualifying session.  But, Hayden came back and won, at that time, on a Ducati, making the Italian fans happy.  The crowd should be excited with the Ducati's competitive, and also, Valentino Rossi.  Italy, Great Britain, and The Netherlands, are the only nations to hold a MotoGP race, since the World Championship began, back in 1949.

The first time Mugello hosted a Grand Prix was in 1976.  Barry Sheene won.  The Espargaro brothers, both went through surgery after Le Mans.  Valentino Rossi has won at Mugello seven times, with his last win in 2008.  Marc Marquez is struggling.  He crashed in Free Practice 4.  He'll start thirteenth.  How have MotoGP bike evolved lately?  Well, Yamaha have won four out of five.  Marc Marquez has won one.  Ducati is also up there.  On the tech side, Yamaha hasn't upgraded.  But they haven't needed to.  They are not the fastest bikes.  But, they have good power and acceleration.

Ducati tested at Mugello before the Le Mans race.  Ducati has two liters extra fuel in the tank, and can use more horsepower.  The handling issues are resolved.  Honda, won last year, with Marc Marquez.  But, the chassis and the motor, have not met the results they've wanted this year, so far.  Honda is having a tough time.  Suzuki is slightly down on power.  But Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales need more power, better electronics, and the soon-to-be introduced seamless gearbox.  Aprilia has a seamless gearbox.

They are hoping to step up, before rules changes, for next year.  Yamaha is on fire right now.  The fans are going to go crazy today.  Actor Keanu Reeves is here, and is a huge MotoGP fan.  We are northeast of Florence, Italy.  The track has been permanently on the MotoGP schedule since 1991.  The straights top 200 miles an hour, with fast corners.  We race the BMW S1000RR MotoGP safety bike through San Donato and Lucco.  The esses are a key part of the track.  Through San Lorenzo into Casanova, and downhill in third gear.

Momentum carries you through Sevelli and Arrabiata I & II.  Arrabiata, in Italian, means anger.  Don't get angry, when you race.  Keep a cool head.  Through Scarperia, and Pologgio.  The track is second and third geasr, through Correntaio, with a wide but tight entry, into the Biondetti esses, and hammer the gas for the final corner.  Lead into the finalc orner, which is the longest corner on the road.  Fly down the fastest straight in MotoGP.    

In qualifying, after Marquez's crash in final practice, he had to pass through Q2.  He set a competitive time.  But, he saved a tire, and was bumped by Yonny Hernandez.  He'll be 13th.  Andrea Ianonne is on pole on the Ducati.  The home team is in front.  Ianonne still has a shoulder problem.  Jorge Lorenzo and Andrea Dovizioso will be the riders to beat.  Andrea Ianonne becomes the first Italian on an Italian bike to be on pole for his home race, since Giacomo Agostini at Imola, in 1972.

Get a good start.  Stay with the lead pack.  Stay focused.  It's a fast, flowing circuit.  Concentrate.  Pick the right tires.  The high speed turns, and the hot track, will be critical.  We're ready to race in Italy, next!

The bikes are on their warmup lap.  23 laps are scheduled for this race.  Who will come out on top today?  The excitement is amazing.  91,000 fans are here to cheer on their hero, Valentino Rossi, and the two Ducati's.  Ducati has only their third MotoGP pole, as Andrea Ianonne is following Casey Stoner and Sete Gibernau.  Problems for Marc Marquez?  No.  Let's go, now.  Go!  We're off!  Did Andrea Ianonne jump the start?

Marc Marquez is pushing through the field as Andrea Dovizioso leads Jorge Lorenzo.  Did Andrea Ianonne jump the start?  That's the question.  Was his start legal?  Pol Espargaro, Bradley Smith, and others, got a good start.  Jorge Lorenzo is into the lead.  Andrea Dovizioso is coming, and so is Marc Marquez, who has passed nine riders already.  Jorge Lorenzo stays in the lead.  Marc Marquez is up to fourth.  Valentino Rossi has sunk to 11th spot.  Lorenzo leads lap one with the Ducati's second and third, and here comes Marquez into the top three.

Ianonne wants to pass.  He's not taking anything sitting down.  Recall Le Mans, France, two weeks ago.  Valentino Rossi is moving up, wanting to pass the Honda of Cal Crutchlow.  Lorenzo still leads through both of the Arrabiata corners.  Jorge Lorenzo is right where he wants to be, and can start reeling off fast, consistent laps.  It's catch me if you can.  They fly at 215 miles an hour down the front straight.  Marquez passes Andrea Dovizios into San Donato.  Now, Marquez is second.  But, Aleix Espargaro has crashed!  Not good for him.  Game over for the Suzuki rider.  His leathers may have ripped, and he's got to be careful with his injured hand.

Lorenzo leads.  Karel Abraham has a penalty for a jumped start.  Marquez sets fast lap in the 1:32 range.  Down towards San Donato again.  Jorge Lorenzo wants his third straight win, and he's won a few races here.  Game over for Jack Miller.  He's crashed.  Marquez sets fast lap at 1:47.654.  Michele Pirro has also been passed, and he is standing in for .  Stefan Bradl and Nicky Hayden, have both crashed.  Alex de Angelis has pitted. 

The stewards investigate the Aleix Espargaro and Danilo Petrucci incident.  Andrea Dovizioso has passed Marc Marquez.  Danillo Petrucci and Aleix Espargaro, have crashed of course, and Espargaro had a big crash, and is in a lot of pain.  Now, Jorge Lorenzo is checking out on everyone else.  Jorge Lorenzo is 9/10ths quicker than Andrea Dovizioso and 1.1 seconds faster than Marc Marquez on lap six.  Arriva derci, baby.  Marc Marquez is sandwiched between the two factory Ducati's as Dovizioso is second.

Aleix Espargaro is groggy, but he's not hurt too badly.  The two Ducati's are battling with Marc Marquez.  Dani Pedrosa is closing up as Valentino Rossi closes on Cal Crutchlow, too.  Marquez runs wide, and holds onto third spot.  FYI.  Michele Pirro is a third Ducati.., a wildcard, for this race.  Marquez runs wide, and Dovizioso cannot pass.  Marquez runs wide into San Donato, and is still going for it.  Lorenzo is 1.1 seconds clear, in the lead.  Valentino Rossi moves past Cal Crutchlow, who runs wide.  He's still got a damaged right hand.

Rossi is up to sixth, passing Crutchlow.  It's a real battle between Lorenzo and Rossi.  Marc Marquez is now second.  Andrea Ianonne has been going for it.  But, he's now running on adrenaline.  The gap now between Dani Pedrosa and Valentino Rossi, is 1.8 seconds.  Bradley Smith passes Cal Crutchlow.  Crutchlow has pain in his thumb, after hurting it in a wreck in the warmup this morning.  Valentino Rossi pushes into Correntaio.  Andrea Ianonne leads Marc Marquez.  Rossi is going for it as ihis foot slides off the foot peg, and slides the rear of the motorcycle.

Valentino Rossi sets his personal best lap at 1:48.528.  It is a four or five rider battle for second place. Ianonne is running well, despite his fractured shoulder.  Dani Pedrosa tries passing Andrea Dovizioso, but no.  Rossi is looking for second as trhrough Bucine, Pedrosa passes.  Jorge Lorenzo is six seconds clear of everyone else.  Dovizioso is starting to fade.  Can Valentino Rossi move up to second?  We've got just over ten laps to go in this race, folks.  We're going to be coming down to the wire, soon.

"The Doctor" is in the house.  Valentino Rossi, passes Andrea Dovizioso, for fifth.  Maverick Vinales is moving up, on the sole remaining factory Suzuki.  Andrea Dovizioso has dropped way down.  He's got an issue.  Ducati won't win this one.  Dovizioso is in the pits.  Game over for Dovizioso.  He crashed in the morning warmup.  The rear tire is a problem.  They need a new rear tire.  No new rear tire.  We'll see what happens.  Meanwhile, we watch Jorge Lorenzo putting on another clinic.  This is MotoGP at it's finest.  He's ahead of Andrea Ianonne, by 7.2 seconds.

Now, with the Ducati, there's an issue with the chain, not the tire.  Game over for Andrea Dovizioso.  Valentino Rossi is moving up.  He's leading the world championship, but only, by a single point right now.  Cal Crutchlow and Bradley Smith scrap for seventh.  Now, we see Valentino Rossi wanting to move by Dani Pedrosa.  Andrea Ianonne still holds second, with Jorge Lorenzo who leads, and wants to win.  Into Bucine, Rossi cannot pass Pedrosa.  San Donato will be the only chance.  Marc Marquez wants by Ianonne, and he can't stick the pass on Ianonne!

Valentino Rossi is still pushing to pass Pedrosa.  Cal Crutchlow holds off Bradley Smith.  Marquez takes secopnd as Ianonne wants a pass in Arrabiata I. and II.  Through Scarperia, and into Correntaio.  Ianonne has the drive, but can he pass Marquez?  The Ducati has the horsepower and is the fastest bike in MotoGP.  The Ducati eats up the Honda, and Marquez can't do anything.  He runs wide.  Here comes Dani Pedrosa!  Oh no!  Marc Marquez has crashed out!  Game over!  His season is going from bad to worse.  He will not be champion this year.

A scrap now happening between Rossi and Pedrosa, and Rossi goes to third!  The crowd goes berserk!  Pedrosa has been relegated to fourth.  Honda's race, is a nightmare.  Marc Marquez had the front end of his Honda wash away, and that caused the wreck.  Andrea Ianonne remains second.  Rossi and Pedrosa are still fighting.  Can Andrea Ianonne stay at it with his badly injured shoulder?  Through Poggio Secco.  Ducati confirms that Dovizioso's problem, was rear tire chatter.  Through Biondetti, Lorenzo is mastering everyone.

Cal Crutchlow is fifth.  Lorenzo has an 8.3 second lead over Ianonne.  Rossi is up to third, and Dani Pedrosa is pushing him.  Jorge Lorenzo is crashing everyone else's party.  Andrea Dovizioso is philosophical, but disappointed.  Nil points for Marc Marquez as well.  A wretched weekend for Marc Marquez.  Bradley Smith is coming under pressure from Pol Espargaro.  Cal Crutchlow will ride to a fifth place finish, with a damaged thumb.  Pol Espargaro sets his personal best lap at 1:48.698.  Michele Pirro is ninth, as the third Ducati. 

Jorge Lorenzo is on his way to his third straight MotoGP race win.  Oh no.  Cal Crutchlow has crashed, and hard.  He had a big wreck in the warmup.  He's had a huge wreck at Arrabiata I.  Oh!  The front end washed away, and the bike slammed, riderless, into the tires.  Loris Baz is 12th and has had a good race.  There's a lap and a half to go.  Jorge Lorenzo is going to win this event.  No one can run Lorenzo's pace.  But, can Rossi close on Andrea Ianonne?  Ianonne is losing strength in his shoulder.  It may not be pain.  But, it's a lack of strength.

Now, the final lap.  Lorenzo is in control.  The gap is 6.10ths of a second between Ianonne and Rossi.  Bradley Smith is fifth.  Maverick Vinales also turns in a great race for Suzuki and will get his career best MotoGP finish in seventh spot.  The gap is 8/10ths of a second.  Ianonne holds off the charge of Valentino Rossi.  Lorenzo is at the pinnacle of his form right now.  A two-time MotoGP champion.  A two-time 250cc champion.  Lorenzo crosseds the line,a dn has won three in a row!

#99 Jorge Lorenzo    ESP.   Yamaha

The next MotoGP race, marks a return to Spain.  It's going to be at the Circuit de Catalunya, in Barcelona, in two weeks.   

Ducati aiming for win at home with solid pace in Mugello

More from Mugello, as Ducati, is on pace, in their home race, with the two Andrea's.  Dovizioso, and Ianonne.  Can they win on Sunday?  We'll see.

http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/motogp-italian-gp-ducati-mugello-preview-052915?adbsc=social_20150529_46681516&adbid=10153362905616052&adbpl=fb&adbpr=36796456051

High-speed drama expected as MotoGP title fight heads to Mugello

A preview of the sixth round of the 2015 MotoGP championship, in Italy, in the Tuscan hills, at Mugello.

http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/motogp-mugello-preview-italian-gp-valentino-rossi-jorge-lorenzo-marc-marquez-ducati-052815

Moto 2 & Moto 3 news + additional MotoGP stories

News from Moto 2 and Moto 3, headed into this weekend at Mugello in Italy.

Which Moto 2 rider will start his 150th GP in Mugello?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/25/which-moto2-rider-will-start-his-150th-gp-in-mugello/176248

Moto 2 hard front tyre to make race debut at Mugello

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/moto2-hard-front-tyre-to-make-race-debut-at-mugello/176326

Simeon: "We are ready to fight"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/simeon-we-are-ready-to-fight/176341

Rabat: "We are not where we expected to be right now"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/rabat-we-are-not-where-we-expected-to-be-right-now/176342

Pasini: "We will try our best to do well"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/pasini-we-will-try-our-best-to-do-well/176344

Kalex the bike to beat in Moto 2 this year
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/kalex-the-bike-to-beat-in-moto2-this-year/176343

Zarco: "I want to fight for victory again"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/zarco-i-want-to-fight-for-victory-again/176358

Italian hopes soar as Moto 3 championship heads to Mugello

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/25/italian-hopes-soar-as-moto3-championship-heads-to-mugello/176255

Who won the Moto 3 race at Mugello last year?
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/25/who-won-the-moto3-race-at-mugello-last-year/176249

McPhee: "We have some issues that need to be fixed!"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/mcphee-we-have-some-issues-that-need-to-be-fixed/176338

Bagnaia: "We go into my home race on a high"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/bagnaia-we-go-into-my-home-race-on-a-high/176339

Bastianini: "We'll try to entertain the fans"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/bastianini-we-ll-try-to-entertain-the-fans/176340

Oliveira: "I go to Italy excited and with the aim of winning"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/oliveira-i-go-to-italy-excited-with-the-aim-of-winning/176395

Binder: "We have to try to get back on the podium"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/binder-we-have-to-try-to-get-back-on-the-podium/176396

Jorge Martinez "Aspar" reveals secrets of success at Mugello

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/jorge-martinez-aspar-reveals-secrets-of-success-at-mugello/176412

Kent: "It's a track I really enjoy"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/kent-it-s-a-track-i-really-enjoy/176437

Plus, more breaking stories from MotoGP.

Espargaro ready to race at #ItalianGP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/espargaro-ready-to-race-at-italiangp/176409

Vinales: "I need to improve my tyre management"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/vinales-i-need-to-improve-my-tyre-management/176411

Smith: "The flowing nature of the circuit suits us"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/smith-the-flowing-nature-of-the-circuit-suits-us/176426

Espargaro: "My operation was successful last week"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/espargaro-my-operation-was-successful-last-week/176427

Redding Q&A: The season so far
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/redding-q-a-the-season-so-far/176435

Crutchlow: "It's a race that I love to be involved in"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/crutchlow-it-s-a-race-that-i-love-to-be-involved-in/176470

Miller: "We are making steps forward"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/miller-we-are-making-steps-forward/176471

Valentino Rossi's love affair with Mugello
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/28/valentino-rossi-s-love-affair-with-mugello/176416

Yamaha RD350 wins the Isle of Man (Throwback Thursday)

MotoGP news stories

The latest news from MotoGP, headed into this weekend's Italian Grand Prix at Mugello.

Marquez: "We will have to be focused all weekend"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/marquez-we-will-have-to-be-focused-all-weekend/176327

Pirro to wild card at Mugello for Ducati Team

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/pirro-to-wild-card-at-mugello-for-ducati-team/176346

Iannone: "They found a fracture at the tip of my funny bone"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/iannone-they-found-a-fracture-at-the-tip-of-my-funny-bone/176347

Dovizioso: "I believe that we can be competitive"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/dovizioso-i-believe-that-we-can-be-competitive/176349

Lorenzo: "I'm feeling stronger and I'm in a great shape"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/lorenzo-i-m-feeling-stronger-and-i-m-in-a-great-shape/176352

Rossi: "We must not make mistakes"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/rossi-we-must-not-make-mistakes/176351

Pedrosa: "The arm was better than I expected"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/pedrosa-the-arm-was-better-than-i-expected/176329

Espargaro ready to race at #ItalianGP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/27/espargaro-ready-to-race-at-italiangp/176409

Suzuka Sounds - A very special celebration

With Japanese commentary, here's a video, reuniting for an exhibition run, with their legendary 500cc Grand Prix motorcycles... three legends of the sport.  Kenny Roberts, Eddie Lawson, and Kevin Schwantz, at the Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Japan.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/26/suzuka-sounds-a-very-special-celebration/176325

Smith & Espargaro to compete in Suzuka 8 Hours Race

Monster Energy Tech 3 MotoGP riders Bradley Smith, and Pol Espargaro, will represent Yamaha, as they return, with a factory team, to the legendary Suzuka 8 Hours FIM World Endurance Championship race, in July.  They will ride a factory Yamaha YZF-R1 along with Japanese endurance motorcycle racing standout, Katsuyuki Nakasuga.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/25/smith-espargaro-to-compete-in-suzuka-8-hours-race/176288

Tested: Cagiva V593 500cc Grand Prix Racer

Testing the great 500cc Grand Prix Cagiva V593 500cc racing bike, in the days before MotoGP, with rider, John Kocinski.  Dig it.  The story is from motorcycle.com.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/cagiva/tested-cagiva-v593-500cc-grand-prix-racer.html

FIM World Superbike round 5: Silverstone, England

Today in round five of the FIM World Superbike Championship, at the Silverstone circuit in Silverstone, England, Tom Sykes, and Kawasaki, dominated, again.  Sykes sweeps both races in WSBK, and to add icing to the cake, Kenan Sofuoglu takes victory in the World Supersport race.

World Superbike Race 1: #66 Tom Sykes     GBR.    Kawasaki Racing Team Kawasaki ZX10R

World Superbike Race 2: #66 Tom Sykes     GBR.    Kawasaki Racing Team Kawasaki ZX10R

World Supersport Race: #54 Kenan Sofuoglu  TUR.  Kawasaki Puccetti Racing Kawasaki ZX6R

Superstock 1000 Race: #32 Lorenzo Savadori  ITA.   Nuova M2 Racing Aprilia RSV4 RF

The next race on the calendar for World Superbike is in Portugal at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Algarve, Portugal, in two weeks.

Isle of Man TT 2015

Here's the race schedule for the legendary annual Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy), motorcycle road races, in Ireland, taking place next weekend, and, the following weekend.  Races, are actually run, throughout that two week time span.

http://www.iomtt.com/TT-Info/Qualifying-and-Race-Schedule.aspx

MotoGP news stories

MotoGP will resume next weekend in Italy.  But, between now and then, here are some stories being followed, including entries from riders' blogs on motogp.com.

Pedrosa Blog: A Satisfactory test
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/20/pedrosa-blog-a-satisfactory-test/176197

Successful compartment syndrome surgery for Pol Espargaro

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/19/successful-compartment-syndrome-surgery-for-pol-espargaro/176212

Marquez blog: Thirteen golden points
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/20/marquez-blog-thirteen-golden-points/176231

Indonesia could host MotoGP event in 2017
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/22/indonesia-could-host-motogp-event-in-2017/176256

When the going gets tough...
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/22/when-the-going-gets-tough/176242

MotoAmerica round 3: Virginia International Raceway

Here are the video highlights of the races from all classes for MotoAmerica in their third race of the season at Virginia International Raceway in Danville, Virginia.

http://www.motoamerica.com/video-motoamerica-superbike-superstock-1000-race-1-vir-highlights

...and

http://www.motoamerica.com/video-superbike-superstock-1000-race-2-vir-highlights

The next MotoAmerica championship race, will be at the legendary, and very long, (four mile), Road America, in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, in a week's time.

FIM opens talks with potential Moto 2 engine suppliers

Honda will be the official engine supplier for the Moto 2 class, from 2016 to 2018.  But, talks are already beginning, with other manufacturers, about supplying engines for the division, from 2019 onwards.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/20/fim-opens-talks-with-potential-moto2-engine-suppliers/176203

Epic MotoGP battle: 15 place swaps in 2 lap duel

Let's revisit the amazing battle between Andrea Ianonne and Marc Marquez, from Le Mans last Sunday.  15 place swaps, in only two laps!  The article is from Road & Track magazine.

http://www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/videos/a25756/moto-gp-duel-at-2015-french-gp-le-mans-video/

Moto 2 & Moto 3: France

In Moto 2 action at Le Mans, for the intermediate, 600cc class, Tom Luthi emerged the winner at The Bugatti Circuit, over Tito Rabat, and Johann Zarco, who also finished on the podium.  Sam Lowes (who has already won a Moto 2 race this year, back at round two at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas), and Franco Morbidelli, completed the top five.  Rounding out the top ten were Julian Simon, Takaaki Nakagami, Xavier Simeon, Hafizh Syahrin, and Dominique Aegerter.

#12 Tom Luthi     SWI.     Kalex

In all, 26 of the 31 starters, finished, while Luis Salom, Mika Kallio, Jonas Folger, Louis Rossi, and Alex Marquez, were all unclassified finishers.

Moto 3 saw a first-time winner as Italy's Enea Bastianinni, finally won a race!  He was followed on the podium by Isaac Vinales and Miguel Oliveira.  Two more riders who have had competitive seasons to date, (Danny Kent, and Fabio Quartararo), rounded out the top five.  In positions six through ten, were Efren Vazquez, Karel Hanika, Romano Fenati, Livio Loi, and Francesco Bagnaia.

#33 Enea Bastianinni     ITA.     Honda

Moto 2 and Moto 3 will next join their brethren in MotoGP, as they always do, in Italy, at the Autodromo del Mugello, in two weeks, at the very end of this month.

MotoGP Round 5: France

MotoGP riders race many of the great tracks in the world.  But, today, they will be racing Le Mans, which is the most legendary track on the schedule.  This is sacred ground for any racer, and we are ready for a good one.  For the 28th time, MotoGP will race here.  Dani Pedrosa, is back, racing.  The bikes, tires, and electronics, are always changing for the better.  But, the riding styles have changed over the years.  Cal Crutchlow can explain.  The bikes are very demanding.  The different bikes are all set up in a different manner.  A Honda, is harder to ride than a Yamaha.

Casey Stoner and Jorge Lorenzo have put their elbow down.  But not as much as Marc Marquez does.  To each your own.  Each rider has their own way of riding.  Marquez has a very unique technique, but, other riders hav started copying him.  Putting your elbow on the floor, is a big risk.  The bike could feel like it's out of control, but you are in control.  The margins, are really tight.  This track (the Bugatti circuit), is 50 years old, built in 1965.  Now, for the headlines.  Dani Pedrosa is back from arm pump surgery.  Andrea Ianonne dislocated a shoulder in a couple crashes.  Aleix Espargaro had a couple wrecks.

Bridgestone has soft and extra soft compounds, because of the smooth track at Le Mans.  However, we have two compounds of wet tires, too.  If it should rain, there are temperature issues with the wet tires.  If it's damp, the riders will decide what they want to do.  Riders will stick to slicks until it really gets wet.  When the rains are heavier, you switch to wets.  If it's damp sans the satanding water, the slick tire has to maintain temperature, without dispersing water.  If the rain becomes so heavy, they can't keep tire temperature, they'll switch tires.

The Bridgestone wet tires operate at a lower temperature.  160 degrees Fahrenheit for a wet.  220 degrees Fahrenheit for a slick.  But, it's sunny today, so we won't see any rain, as we get ready to race.  Pick a bike... any bike.  The Bugatti circuit is 2.6 miles with 14 turns.  It's a stop and go circuit with 14 corners.  You need handling and grip.  Turn four is a good passing opportunity.  Brake into second gear into turn five and accelerate to turn seven.  Hop the curb, and use a wide exit.

Then, up to fourth gear at 250 kilometers an hour into turn eight.  Let it drift wide, and allow room for passing onto the back straight.  Run light here.  Then, out of ten and into eleven, you have a double apex corner.  Don't run wide.  Turn twelve, and through thirteen and fourteen into first and second gear, the line is difficult.  Turn one, is THE corner on the track.  In qualifying, there was a threat of rain.  Jorge Lorenzo did not have the qualifying 4 he wanted.  Marc Marquez went 1:32.246.

Andrea Dovizioso wants a podium.  But, Jorge Lorenzo is in really good form.  Cal Crutchlow, Andrea Ianonne, and Bradley Smith, are on row two.  Aleix Espargaro had a good run despite a big crash.  Can Dani Pedrosa do well on his return after arm pump?  We'll find out.  Marc Marquez has his 25th pole in 41 starts.  Effective braking is key.  Carry speed in slow corners.  Hard acceleration off the corner needs to get you up to speed.  Also, traction.  Balance between braking and acceleration.

You are up to speed.  28 laps coming up, and we're ready for the lights to go out, and the race to begin.

The bikes are on their way around this track.  We have 93,000 fans here for the race.  Valentino Rossi is points leader right now.  How will points shake out at the end of this Grand Prix?  We'll see.  We're ready for a start in round five of MotoGP.  28 laps scheduled.  Go!  Great start from Andrea Dovizioso and Marc Marquez.  Valentino Rossi is coming, and here comes Jorge Lorenzo.  Marquez fourth, Rossi fifth.  It's like a Moto 3 race into La Chapelle.  Dani Pedrosa moves past Cal Crutchlow.

Bradley Smith is sxith right now.  Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Ianonne are going for it.  We are ready to complete the first lap.  Cal Crutchlow has sunk to eighth.  Lorenzo leads Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Ianonne on the Ducati's.  Dani Pedrosa has crashed!  Oh no!  Game over for Pedrosa.  Pedrosa was worried about his right arm.  Now, he's back on track.  Stefan Bradl has also crashed out.  Both are OK.  Bradl's crash was in Museum corner, (turn six).  Jorge Lorenzo leads.  Aleix Espargaro is having issues with his Suzuki, and the pain, from his crash.

The clutch could be a problem.  Mike Di Meglio has also wrecked.  Rossi slides up inside Marc Marquez.  Marquez can't fight it.  Rossi up to fourth.  He's going for it into the Chemain aux Boeuf esses.  Bradl and Pedrosa are OK.  With Aleix Espargaro, the clutch is out on his factory Suzuki GSXRR.  Marc Marquez is slipping back.  It's Valentino Rossi going forward, looking to race his team mate.  Game over for Scott Redding.  Suzuki is still investigating a mechanical issue on Aleix Espargaro's motorcycle.

Rossi sets fastest lap.  Not sure of the time.  Poor old Scott Redding, is out.  He's OK.  But, the wreck in La Chapelle, has destroyed the bike.  Marc Marquez is sinking like a stone, running a 1:34 flat.  He slides wide at Garage Vert, (green garage corner).  Dani Pedrosa is back on the bike.  He has to test his arm to see if it's working as he wants it to.  Marc Marquez has passed Cal Crutchlow.  Jorge Lorenzo is leading over Andra Dovizioso.  Andrea Ianonne is going for it, on adrenaline.  Keep in mind, he has pain, with a dislocated shoulder.

We're just five and a half laps into this race, folks.  Cal Crutchlow has wrecked in La Chapelle, too.  Jorge Lorenzo is dominating.  It is Crutchlow, who crashed.  Marc Marquez may have a braking issue.  Can Ducati challenge Yamaha and Honda?  It could happen now.  The gap is 4/10ths of a second.  1:33.3 for three of four riders at the top.  Andrea Dovizioso is quicker at 1:33.2.  Marc Marquez is chasing Bradley Smith.  He can't get close enough to the Monster Energy Tech 3 Yamaha.  Back into the Chemain aux Boeuf esses.

Dani Pedrosa is back in the race with minimal damage to his bike.  The riders sweep into La Chapelle.  Through Museum corner, and back into Garage Vert.  Can Andrea Ianonne get by Jorge Lorenzo through the Blue Esses?  Ianonne is having a hard time between turns five and six.  Lorenzo and Dovizioso are pulling away while Valentino Rossi is trying to pass the injured Andrea Ianonne.  Rossi is lining him up, and he tries to go into the Blue Esses.  Rossi goes for it, and the crowd goes crazy!

Jorge Lorenzo opens a one second lead over Andrea Dovizioso.  Marc Marquez might be having issues with brake temperature.  Normally, Honda has him use a carbon cover on the brake disc.  He is not using it today.  He's chasing after Bradley Smith right now, and he is not making inroads on Smith at all yet.  Pol Espargaro, Yonny Hernandez, Jack Miller, Loris Baz, and others, are having good rides.  Andrea Ianonne is fading.  The shoulder has to be bugging him.  Valentino Rossi needs to pass Andrea Dovizioso ASAP so he can get to Jorge Lorenzo.

Rossi is trying Dovizioso, but, no dice.  The stop and go nature of Le Mans, is better for the Dcuati.  But, Rossi is now into second, halfway through this race.  It's a Yamaha 1-2.  Rossi has passed both Andrea's.  Jorge Lorenzo has a 1.8 second lead on Valentino Rossi.  Can Rossi catch his team mate.  Marc Marquez is slipping back.  It's a Yamaha and Ducati battle.  But, it could well be a scrap between both factory Yamaha's before this one is over, chaps.

Jack Miller is now out.  He's fallen down, too.  He is team mates to Cal Crutchlow.  Not a good weekend for LCR Honda.  Marc Marquez is also losing time to Bradley Smith.  Bradley Smith has a two second advantage over Marc Marquez.  Pol Espargaro is also back there.  Nicky Hayden, Maverick Vinales, and Loris Baz, are all running well.  Eugene Laverty looks like he'll pick up his first points of 2015.  Marc Marquez just rides in sixth spot.  Bradley Smith could be the top non-factory rider.

Andrea Ianonne is having huge issues, as Bradley Smith will now catch the Ducati.  Ianonne runs a 1:36.6.  He's having a hard time, due to his dislocated shoulder.  Jorge Lorenzo is putting on another clinic today.  Bradley Smith takes another second out of Andrea Ianonne.  Smith is now being hounded by Marc Marquez.  Marquez can gain with Ianonne fading.  Yonny Hernandez is also up into the top ten, with Danilo Petrucci and Maverick Vinales, also up there.  VInales takes tenth from Nicky Hayden.

Karel Abraham has retired his bike, and the riders who crashed, are OK.  The gap between Lorenzo and Rossi is just over two seconds with nine laps left.  It's Lorenzo's race to lose.  Bradley Smith will pass Andrea Ianonne into Chemaine aux Boeuf's, through Garage Vert.  Marc Marquez is still there.  Poor old Andrea Ianonne.  It hasn't been his race today.  Marquez pushes.  Smith has to pass, as Marquez is coming, and fast.  Andrea Ianonne is not giving up, as they come back to the Chemaine aux Boeuf esses again.

Smith has to pass Ianonne.  Ianonne won't surrender fourth without a fight.  Seven laps left.  Marqueiz is right on top of Bradley Smith.  Marquez loses grip on the foot rest for his left foot, briefly through turn six.  Lorenzo, Rossi, and Dovizioso, are still the top three.  Jorge Lorenzo completes lap 22.  Smith cannot pass Ianonne.  Marquez can't get past either of his rivals.  They are at the Dunlop esses.  Marquez now goes past both, and Ianonne attacks Marquez.  Holy smokes!  He runs wide, and Marquez has passed into Museum corner.

Ianonne back to fourth, and here comes Marquez.  These two have a hsitory.  Moto 2, and last year in MotoGp, too.  They're still pushing.  What a battle with five laps left.  Marquez slides through on the brakes into the Dunlop chicane,a nd AIanonne comes back.  Wow!  This is a m,onster battle indeed!  Ianonne is fighting a two-time champion, and also, has his shoulder to contend with.  These three blokes ran competitively in Moto 2, too.  Marquez was all out of shape, and still holds on!  Holy cow!

This is awesome!  Into turn one, the Ducati is quicker than the Honda.  Marquez is a demon into the corners.  Bradley Smith will just watch, running his own race.  Into Museum, with three laps to go.  Into Garage Vert, Ianonne fends off Marquez.  Jorge Lorenzo is on rails right now.  Marquez stays in fourth, while we see Ianonne try to pass.  Has Marquez broken Ianonne's resolve?  Not yet.  Into the Blue Esses, no dice.  Has Marc Marquez had braking trouble through this race?  Maverick Vinales moves into ninth ahead of Danilo Petrucci.  Pol Espargaro has had a tough race, after fighting for the podium in this race a year ago.

Andrea Dovizioso will finish on the podium, in third.  Lorenzo has now moved into second in the championship, as he looks to win this race.  One lap to go now.  Lorenzo is going to win two races in a row as we still see a battle steaming between Ianonne and Marquez.  Ianonne can't make the move on Marquez.  Ducati vs. Honda through La Chapelle.  Bradley Smith is waiting this out.  Jorge Lorenzo is going to get his second straight win.

Ianonne is even faster than Valentino Rossi in second.  But, it's all smiles for JHorge Lorenzo, as he wins his 56th career MotoGP race, and his fifth at Le Mans!  Marquez is going to hold off Ianonne!

#99 Jorge Lorenzo     ESP.     Yamaha

The next race is in Italy, at the Autodromo del Mugello in Mugello, Italy, in two weeks.

pre-race Le Mans news for MotoGP

Some pre-race stories headed into tomorrow's French Grand Prix.  Remember, you see a flag-to-flag live report of the MotoGP race, and then, on Monday, there will be abbreviated highlights of both the Moto 2 and Moto 3 events.  Here are some last minute news stories, before we go racing.

Smith sets surprising pace on the first day of #FrenchGP

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/smith-sets-surprising-pace-on-the-first-day-of-frenchgp/175680

Lorenzo fights back in MotoGP FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/lorenzo-fights-back-in-motogp-fp3/175780

Baz heads up MotoGP FP4
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/baz-heads-up-motogp-fp4/175807

Petrucci & Aleix Espargaro move up to MotoGP Q2

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/petrucci-aleix-espargaro-move-up-to-motogp-q2/175808

Rossi: "I'm ready for tomorrow morning"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/rossi-i-m-ready-for-tomorrow-morning/175877

A Tweet from Andrea Ianonne

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/05/16/non-molliamo-mai-never-give-up-ducati-ducatiteam-dainesecrew/175898

Marquez takes pole, Lorenzo bides his time
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/marquez-takes-pole-lorenzo-bides-his-time/175842

Lorenzo: "It's always important to be on the front row"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/lorenzo-it-s-always-important-to-be-on-the-front-row/175875

Luthi sets the pace in Moto 2 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/luthi-sets-the-pace-in-moto2-fp3/175781

Alex Rins dreams of first Moto 2 victory
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/alex-rins-dreams-of-first-moto2-victory/175876

Bastianini leads Moto 3 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/bastianini-leads-moto3-fp3/175779

Quartararo secures pole for Le Mans Moto 3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/quartararo-secures-pole-for-le-mans-moto3/175806

Quartararo: Local hero in Le Mans
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/16/quartararo-local-hero-in-le-mans/175821

MotoGP news and notes

News and notes from MotoGP headed into the French Grand Prix weekend at Le Mans.  Updates from Moto 2 and Moto 3, too.

HRC Sees all-star Spanish line-up restored
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/hrc-sees-all-star-spanish-line-up-restored/175621

Dovizioso fastest in MotoGP FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/dovizioso-fastest-in-motogp-fp1/175625

Smith Triumphs in MotoGP FP2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/smith-triumphs-in-motogp-fp2/175653

France to host next Moto 2 clash
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/11/france-to-host-next-thrilling-moto2-clash/175422

What is Zarco's best result at his home Grand Prix?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/12/what-is-zarco-s-best-result-at-his-home-grand-prix/175417

Zarco Q&A: "It's a unique feeling"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/12/zarco-q-a-it-s-a-unique-feeling/175473

Simeon: "We have the potential to fight at the top"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/13/simeon-we-have-the-potential-to-fight-at-the-top/175504

Tito Rabat sweeps both practice sessions in Moto 2.

Rabat leads Moto 2 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/rabat-leads-moto2-fp1/175626

Rabat prevails in Moto 2 FP2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/rabat-prevails-in-moto2-fp2/175657

Rabat is probably saying to his competition, (at least right now)... "eat my dust!"

Rabat calls the shots in Le Mans
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/rabat-calls-the-shots-in-le-mans/175718

***

New Dunlop tyres for Moto 3 riders in Le Mans
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/12/new-dunlop-tyres-for-moto3-riders-in-le-mans/175468

Could Kent end the wait for a British world champion?

The Telegraph newspaper, looks at whether Danny Kent can be the first British motorcycle world champion, since Barry Sheene.

http://www.motogp.com/en/in%20the%20media/2015/05/12/could-kent-end-the-wait-for-a-british-world-champion/175477

McPhee: "I am confident after Jerez"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/12/mcphee-i-am-confident-after-jerez/175490

Quartararo: "It is very special to ride in France"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/12/quartararo-it-s-very-special-to-ride-in-france/175489

Bagnaia: "Personally I love the place"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/12/bagnaia-personally-i-love-the-place/175487

Guevara: "I am still not in perfect shape"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/13/guevera-i-am-still-not-in-perfect-shape/175488

Moto 3 riders set to tackle Le Mans
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/moto3-riders-set-to-tackle-le-mans/175586

Much like Tito Rabat in Moto 2, in Moto 3, during practice, Danny Kent is top dog.

Kent tops timesheets in Moto 3 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/kent-tops-timesheets-in-moto3-fp1/175624

Kent quickest in Moto 3 FP2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/kent-quickest-in-moto3-fp2/175652

Kent continues to lay down the law in Moto 3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/15/kent-continues-to-lay-down-the-law-in-moto3/175671

Le Mans: A classic in the MotoGP calendar

A preview of this weekend's French Grand Prix at Le Mans, for MotoGP.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/14/le-mans-a-classic-in-the-motogp-calendar/175469

Marquez: "My finger is definitely improving and healing well"

Marc Marquez is experiencing a speedy recovery, and his broken finger, is surely healing, as MotoGP heads into the French Grand Prix at Le Mans, this weekend.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/13/marquez-my-finger-is-definitely-improving-and-healing-well/175475

More MotoGP news to come.  Stay tuned.

FIM World Superbike Round 5: Imola, Italy

Round five of the FIM World Superbike Championship took place in Imola, Italy, at the Autodromo Enzo E Dino Ferrari.  Kawasaki's Johnny Rea swept both FIM World Superbike rounds at the event.

World Superbike Race 1: #65 Johnny Rea     GBR.     Kawasaki Racing Team Kawasaki ZX10R

World Superbike Race 2: #65 Johnny Rea     GBR.     Kawasaki Racing Team Kawasaki ZX10R

World Supersport Race: #54 Kenan Sofuoglu  TUR.   Kawasaki Puccetti Racing Kawasaki ZX6R

Superstock 1000 Race: #32 Lorenzo Savadori  ITA.    Nuova M2 Racing Aprilia RSV4 RF

Superstock 600 Race: #54 Toprak Razgatlioglu  TUR.  Kawasaki Puccetti Racing Kawasaki ZX6R

Round six of the championship, the next stop on the calendar... takes the teams and riders of the FIM World Superbike Championship to England, and the Donington Park circuit located in Derby, England, in less than two weeks.

Exhilarating MotoGP Championship battle moves on to Le Mans

A preview of this weekend's French Grand Prix for MotoGP, to be run at Le Mans, in northwest France, at the Bugatti circuit, which is the motorcycle layout of the famous French speed palace.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/11/exhilarating-motogp-championship-battle-moves-on-to-le-mans/175413

Hacking Out, Polen In For Dunlop Lap of Honor at VIR

Next week, there will be a lap of honor, sponsored by Dunlop Tires, taken at Virginia International Raceway, by a legendary American motorcycle racer with roots in road racing.  Former champion, Jamie Hacking, was supposed to ride that lap of honor.  But, he cannot, due to scheduling conflicts.  Therefore, the honor will go to Doug Polen, who is standing in.  Polen, is also an American Superbike racing champion, and a great of the sport.

Polen will ride a Yamaha YZF-R6 for Dunlop tires, and present the winner's trophy for the MotoAmerica Superbike races.  Polen is deserving of the honor.  As you will read in the article, during the 1991 and 1992 AMA Superbike seasons, he set some records, that still stand, to this very day.

http://www.motoamerica.com/hacking-out-polen-dunlop-lap-honor-vir

MotoGP: Rossi rewrites the history books once again in Jerez

Another story, written by MotoGP color commentator Matthew Birt, on the significance of Valentino Rossi's 200th podium in the race at Jerez, last weekend, via Fox Sports.

http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/motogp-valentino-rossi-yamaha-rewrites-the-history-books-once-again-in-jerez-050815?adbid=10153307165291052&adbpl=fb&adbpr=36796456051&adbsc=social_20150508_45473116&short_code=2yg9x

MotoAmerica news headlines

A few stories from the MotoAmerica championship, headed into the third round, at Virginia International Raceway, coming up, not this weekend, but next weekend.

MotoAmerica Supersport Racer Melissa Paris signs another sponsor
http://www.motoamerica.com/melissa-paris-signs-another-sponsor

American Uribe Races to Double Top 10 Finish In France
http://www.motoamerica.com/america-uribe-races-double-top-10-finish-france

VIDEO: Dunlop/MotoAmerica Tire Test at Circuit of The Americas
http://www.motoamerica.com/video-dunlop-motoamerica-tire-test-circuit-americas

Roadracing World Action Fund Thanked For Soft-Barrier Deployment at MotoAmerica Events

http://www.motoamerica.com/ama-fim-north-america-thank-roadracing-world-action-fund-soft-barrier-deployment-motoamerica-events

VIR Preview: Two Down, Seven To Go
http://www.motoamerica.com/vir-preview-two-down-seven-go

First Class!  Kawasaki's Smart "Home Away From Home"
http://www.motoamerica.com/kawasakis-smart-home-away-home

Yoshimura Suzuki: A Legacy of AMA Superbike Success
http://www.motoamerica.com/yoshimura-suzuki-legacy-ama-superbike-success

Superbikes Return to Virginia International Raceway
http://www.motoamerica.com/superbikes-return-virginia-international-raceway

MotoGP, Moto 2, and Moto 3 riders' thoughts, after the Spanish Grand Prix

Riders from all three MotoGP classes, talk about their races in Spain.

Laverty: "We worked to find a more balanced bike"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/05/laverty-we-worked-to-find-a-more-balanced-bike/175322

Redding: "It's all about loading the front tyre"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/05/redding-it-s-all-about-loading-the-front-tyre/175320

Smith: "We found the answer to solve 75% of our troubles"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/05/smith-we-found-the-answer-to-solve-75-of-our-troubles/175324

Lorenzo: "I hope to keep this momentum going"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/05/lorenzo-i-hope-to-keep-this-momentum-going/175328

Folger: "10 laps before the end I realized I could win"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/03/folger-10-laps-before-the-end-i-realized-i-could-win/175229

Rabat: "I got pushed out wide when Rins crashed into me"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/04/rabat-i-got-pushed-out-wide-when-rins-crashed-into-me/175260

Zarco: "Rins made a mistake - we were all on the limit"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/04/zarco-rins-made-a-mistake-we-were-all-on-the-limit/175263

Mattia Pasini returns for Moto 2 test in Aragon
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/06/mattia-pasini-returns-for-moto2-test-in-aragon/175387

Kent: "It's a dream start to the season"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/03/kent-it-s-a-dream-start-to-the-season/175226

Binder: "I had to fight hard on the last few laps"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/04/binder-i-had-to-fight-hard-on-the-last-few-laps/175276

Oliveira: "I tried to protect my position on the last lap"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/04/oliveira-i-tried-to-protect-my-position-on-the-last-lap/175269

Bagnaia: "These new tyres give you more grip with the rear"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/06/bagnaia-these-new-tyres-give-you-more-grip-with-the-rear/175379

Bastianini: "We found the right direction"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/06/bastianini-we-found-the-right-direction/175378

Quartararo: "Today we found a different option"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/07/quartararo-today-we-found-a-different-option/175380

Oliveira: "It was a very rewarding day for us"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/06/oliveira-it-was-a-very-rewarding-day-for-us/175377

Kent: "We have a very good feeling for the front"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/06/kent-we-have-a-very-good-feeling-for-the-front/175376

Hearse to carry Geoff Duke around final lap of Isle of Man TT

This Sunday, (May 10th), Geoff Duke, will be sent off, as a hearse will carry him on his final lap around the legendary 37.73 mile Snaefell Mountain race track, that is the home of the Isle of Man TT.

http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/isle-of-man-tt-geoff-duke-funeral-lap-050615?adbid=10153303323286052&adbpl=fb&adbpr=36796456051&adbsc=social_20150506_45293406&short_code=2xtb7

In memoriam: Geoff Duke

Motorcycle race legend, Geoff Duke, OBE, has passed away at age 92.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/racing-legend-geoff-duke-obe-passes-away-aged-92/174881

Red Bull Rookies Cup: Jerez

Stories from both races for the Red Bull Rookies Cup from Jerez.

Bendsneyder fought from Pole to Win in Jerez Race 1

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/bendsneyder-fought-from-pole-to-win-in-jerez-race-1/174980

Here are the race highlights.

http://www.motogp.com/en/youtube_update/2015/05/02/2015-red-bull-motogp-rookies-cup-jerez-race-1/174988

...And

http://www.motogp.com/en/youtube_update/2015/05/04/2015-red-bull-motogp-rookies-cup-jerez-race-2/175253

*Rookies Cup riders ride Moto 3 bikes.

Moto 2 & Moto 3: Spain

In Moto 2 action at Jerez, Jonas Folger took his first victory in the class, ahead of Johann Zarco and Tito Rabat, who also finished on the podium.  Completing the top five were Tom Luthi and Xavier Simeon.  Sixth through tenth place went to, in order... Franco Morbidelli, Luis Salom, Simone Corsi, Alex Marquez, and Marcel Schrotter.  26 motorcycles and riders, finished the race, with four unclassified runners, including Mika Kallio, Sandro Cortese, Ricard Cardus, and Axel Pons.

#94 Jonas Folger     GER.     Kalex

Meanwhile, Danny Kent continued his dominance in Moto 3, winning, I believe, his third consecutive event, ahead of Miguel Oliveira and Brad Binder.  Ever improving riders Fabio Quartararo and Efren Vazquez completed the top five in Moto 3, while sixth through tenth places went to Romano Fenati, Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Navarro, Enea Bastianini, and John McPhee.

27 bikes finished the race, and there was a somewhat high attrition rate which included Philip Oettl, Jakub Kornfeil, Hiroki Ono, Alessandro Tonucci, Niccolo Antonelli, Gabriel Rodrigo, and Maria Herrera.

#52 Danny Kent     GBR.     Honda

Moto 2 and Moto 3 pick up the action along with the stars of MotoGP again, in two weeks, in France, at the Bugatti motorcycle circuit at Le Mans.  

MotoGP Round 4: Spain

Marc Marquez knows that the Spanish Grand Prix is a race that he wants to win.  Marquez is 30 points adrift of Valentino Rossi, and he, of course is the defending champion.  Turn 13 is thee wildest corner on this track, named after Jorge Lorenzo.  This is a flowing track, that the riders know.  History repeats itself here.  In 1996, Alex Criville and Mick Doohan battled through turn 13.  A crash, put Criville out.  Valentino Rossi and Sete Gibernau crashed in 2005.  Rossi won.  Gibernau wasn't happy.  In 2013, Marc Marquez beat Jorge Lorenzo through the corner that now bears Lorenzo's name.

In 2010, Lorenzo also was beaten by Dani Pedrosa.  Of course, last time out in Argentina, Rossi benefited, while Marquez, crashed.  Jorge Lorenzo has had an indifferent start to 2015.  But, Lorenzo is returning to form.  After Marc Marquez had an injury to his pinky finger, he is starting to come back, too.  The hand is still giving him some grief.  Four mechanics work on MotoGP bikes.  These people are all part of the big factory teams.  Valentino Rossi is especially appreciative of his mechanics.

The Jerez track in southern Spain, is 2.7 miles and was built in the mid 1980s.  The weather is always great.  Watch out for Dry Sac (turn six) and Jorge Lorenzo corner (turn 13).  These corners are quick and tight.  Most of these corners, depending on your gear ratios are taken in second, third, or fourth gear.  Into Dry Sac, it's a good passing spot.  Lift the throttle, brake slightly.  Feel the front of the bike.  Set the bike up lower.  Take turns nine and ten as one corner.  Turns eleven through thirteen, are going to be medium speed.

No ideal line through the last corner.  Brilliant stuff.  In qualifying, Jorge Lorenzo and Marc Marquez were the two to watch.  Lorenzo stole the show with pole, and a new track record.  Marc Marquez wrecked in free practice four.  He'll be second.  Andrea Dovizioso wasn't able to get to the most from his tires.  Pol Espargaro also had a good run.  So did Aleix Espargaro on the Suzuki.  Valentino Rossi is sandwiched between the Espargaro brothers.

Fifth is Rossi's best qualifying result of 2015 so far.  Further down are other good riders.  Hiroshi Aoyama continues to fill in for Dani Pedrosa.  Tire wear is going to be big.  The Spanish crowd loves their home riders.  Also, be in it to win it in the last turn.  We're ready for MotoGP round four in Spain, folks.  Let's go racing!  27 tough, hard laps are ahead of us.

The bikes are on their warmup lap.  Jorge Lorenzo starts from pole.  Suzuki are on the softer rear tires.  Rossi, Dovizioso, Ianonne, Lorenzo... the top four in points.  Here we go.  We're back in Europe.  Go!  Lorenzo makes a good start.  Marc Marquez is second with Pol Espargaro third.  Lorenzo had the perfect start.  Valentino Rossi picks up a spot.  Aleix Espargaro gets a good start.  But, Andrea Ianonne got swamped.  He's down in midfield now.  They fly towards the stadium part of the course.

Pol Espargaro holds third.  Iannone is now 11th.  We run from Criville corner, to Ferrari corner, to Lorenzo corner.  Jorge Lorenzo (the namesake of that corner), still leads.  Cal Crutchlow closes on Aleix Espargaro.  It's Honda vs. Suzuki going to Dry Sac.  Crutchlow can't pass.  Andrea Dovizioso wants by.  No dice.  Ducati seems to be having issues.  Lorenzo leads.  But, Dovizioso has dropped down to 25th place.  He's surely out of contention.

Lorenzo sets a new lap record at 1:38.735.  Valentino Rossi wants by Pol Espargaro while Aleix Espargaro is fending off Cal Crutchlow.  Cal Crutchlow wants by.  Into turn nine (Angel Nieto corner), Crutchlow passes for fifth.  Here comes Valentino Rossi.  He's third now, past Pol Espargaro.  Rossi is only 1.9 seconds behind Jorge Lorenzo.  Through turn two (Michelin corner).  Lorenzo can turn laps at this pace, all day.

This is the best Marquez has felt all weekend with his broken pinky finger.  He had no painkillers or injections until just before the start of this race.  122,000 fans are here at Jerez.  Lorenzo is really strong in the last sector of this course.  23 laps to go.  Four have been completed.  Marquez has won this race once.  Lorenzo, has won it, four times.  Andrea Dovizioso has an uphill battle to get by other riders.  Mike DiMeglio and Karel Abraham have crashed, while Dovizioso passes Marco Melandri on the Aprilia.

Valentino Rossi is half a second slower than Lorenzo.  Lorenzo is going for it.  Marquez and Rossi cannot maintain the pace.  Andrea Ianonne is now eighth.  Aleix Espargaro on the soft tire is running well, and so is Danilo Petrucci.  Lorenzo is still trying to pull away from Marquez.  Lorenzo's gap is increasing over Marquez.  Marquez is still pushing hard, giving it a heroic ride.  Marquez and Rossi are 2.8 seconds apart.  Twenty laps still to run as we work lap seven.  Marquez had a spill yesterday and thankfully, protected his bad hand.

Marc Marquez is lapping faster than Valentino Rossi as Cal Crutchlow wants to chase Rossi down, pulling away from Aleix Espargaro.  Andrea Ianonne moves past Bradley Smith for seventh spot.  Lorenzo is 4/10ths of a second quicker than Marquez and Rossi.  Lorenzo has won two 250cc races here, and two MotoGP races, making his debut here in 2002.  He turns 28 years old, tomorrow.  He'll have a good birthday present to himself, if he can hang on and win this one.  Loris Baz on the Forward Racing bike #76, has crashed.  Game over for Baz.

Andrea Ianonne runs a 1:40.3 and Lorenzo runs a 1:39.5.  The gap grows between Lorenzo and Marquez as we finish lap ten.  Three laps to halfway.  This race is going down at a tremendous clip.  The Yamaha runs better in cool conditions, whereas, it's the opposite for Honda.  Honda can run well in the heat.  How are the bikes?  How are the riders?  Will the drop-off be handled well?  Lorenzo runs through one of the left hand corners at 170 kilometers an hour.  That's 106 miles an hour

Marquez moves through Dry Sac and is now three seconds behind Jorge Lorenzo.  Valentino Rossi has taken a tenth out of Marquez on this lap.  Rossi will be on Marquez's rear wheel again, just like Argentina.  15 laps still to run.  Rossi is going for it, trying to close down on Marquez.  Marquez wants to be the hunter, and not, the hunted.  Marquez gains a tenth through sector one.  Andrea Ianonne has sunk like a stone.

Lorenzo continues to lead this event, and of course, he got a new track record... the fastest lap at Jerez on a motorcycle.  Marquez is under pressure.  Valentino Rossi is really applying the blowtorch.  Thirteen laps still to run.  Hiroshi Aoyama is on a harder rear tire.  He is the Honda test rider.  But, it's game over for Aoyama.  He's crashed into the Sito Pons corner.  Eugene Laverty is the final rider in the points paying positions.

Eleven laps now remain.  Andrea Ianonne and Pol Espargaro are fighting for sixth place.  We're now on lap 17.  Ten laps to go.  Can Rossi pressure Marquez for second?  Rossi is 1.9 seconds behind.  It's a small advantage, that won't be enough, to catch Marquez, with ten laps left.  1:39.980 for Marquez and 1:39.893 for Rossi.  Rossi claws back 2/10ths of a second.  How much is Marquez suffering with his broken pinky finger?  Only he knows.  He's still hanging on.  Lorenzo is on a Sunday ride.  Andrea Dovizioso has made it back into the top ten, passing Yonny Hernandez and Scott Redding.  The gap is now 1.6 seconds.

The Yamaha runs really well into the final sector on the track.  Lorenzo and Marquez run into Dry Sac, as Rossi is closing up on Marquez.  We saw Rossi pretty determined two weeks ago in Argentina.  We know the Yamaha runs really well in the final part of this course.  Will it be deja vu for Marc Marquez?  Rossi is now 1.3 seconds behind.  He's gaining.  Seven laps to go as we work lap 20.  Is the adrenaline fading?  Are the painkillers wearing off for Marquez?  Is this a replay of Termas de Rio Hondo two weeks ago?

The gap is 1.1 seconds with Rossi chasing Marquez.  Lorenzo has checked out at the front.  Now, Yamaha wants a 1-2.  Cal Crutchlow is now securely in fourth, stretching away from Pol Espargaro.  Rossi is eking out space over Marquez.  But, Marquez is gaining.  Jorge Lorenzo comes through his own namesake corner.  Marquez takes a tenth out.  Rossi is not close enough.  If this order remains the same, Lorenzo would go to third in points, and Valentino Rossi would remain points leader, while Marquez would drop to fourth.

Marquez can't yield to Rossi again.  Five laps to go in the Spanish motorcycle Grand Prix.  Lorenzo has disappeared.  He's going to win this without doubt.  Andrea Dovizioso is now back into the top ten, in ninth.  He's close behind Bradley Smith, doing damage control.  Jorge Lorenzo continues to dominate.  122,000 fans are watching a clinic.  Danilo Petrucci, Yonny Hernandez, Maverick Vinales, Scott Redding, and Hector Barbera, all battle for the lower places.  This is a battle for tenth.  Redding moves by Vinales.  Alvaro Bautista is 15th.  He will get a good result for the new Aprilia.

Bautista is a former 125cc class winner.  Pramac Ducati team mates Hernandez and Petrucci have had a good battle.  Meanwhile, Marquez has gained and come clear of Rossi.  Jorge Lorenzo is clearly the class of this field, though.  Cal Crutchlow puts his knee down, and gets on with it in fourth spot.  He will equal his best result here, with a fourth place, which he also secored in 2012.  Jorge Lorenzo has hit his form for 2015.  In 2013, he won five of the last seven races, after hurting his collarbone.  Well, he's back to that form again.  Through Dry Sac, Lorenzo has a lap and a half until winning his first race of 2015.

Rossi will get third, and get his record 200th podium finish, while also extending his points lead.  We are now on the last lap of this race, chaps.  It's going to finish this way.  Lorenzo, Marquez, Rossi, on the podium.  Fifteen-time world champion Giacomo Agostini looks on.  Lorenzo has won at Jerez in 2010 and 2011.  He has now won in 2015!  He's a three time winner at Jerez as he goes through the corner bearing his name.  Lorenzo wins his 55th career MotoGP race, here in Jerez!

#99 Jorge Lorenzo     ESP.     Yamaha

Marquez second.  Rossi, is third, for his 200th podium, followed by Crutchlow, Espargaro, and Ianonne.  This race is done and dusted.  Lorenzo has a win today, a birthday tomorrow, and, a new Yamaha contract.  Not bad.

The next race on the 2015 MotoGP calendar, is the French Grand Prix, at the Bugatti circuit in Le Mans, France, coming up in two weeks.    

MotoGP news headed into Jerez

Some of the stories being followed, prior to the MotoGP Spanish Grand Prix at Jerez, in all three classes (MotoGP, Moto 2, and Moto 3).

Which Moto 3 rider will turn 19 on race day in Jerez?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/28/which-moto3-rider-will-turn-19-on-race-day-in-jerez/174511

Who won the 2013 Jerez Moto 2 race from pole?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/28/who-won-the-2013-jerez-moto2-race-from-pole/174510

Close Moto 2 title battle heads to Europe
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/27/close-moto2-title-battle-heads-to-europe/174507

Rossi & Marquez set to resume duel in Jerez
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/27/rossi-marquez-set-to-resume-duel-in-jerez/174508

A Tweet for Jorge Lorenzo.

http://www.motogp.com/en/twitter_update/2015/04/27/jl99memoriesjerez-great-and-refreshing-memories/174542

Who is the most successful MotoGP rider at Jerez?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/28/who-is-the-most-successful-motogp-rider-at-jerez/174509

An article on Marc Marquez on his rivalry with Valentino Rossi, in The Guardian newspaper.

Marquez: "He knows this could be his last chance"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/28/marquez-he-knows-this-could-be-his-last-chance/174559

Pedrosa to miss #SpanishGP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/28/pedrosa-to-miss-spanishgp/174569

Jerez: One of the less severe circuits on tyres
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/30/jerez-one-of-the-less-severe-circuits-on-tyres/174578

A "good morning" Tweet from Aleix Espargaro.
http://www.motogp.com/en/twitter_update/2015/04/29/gooooooood-morning-circuitodejerez/174602

Marquez Blog: To Jerez with excitement
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/29/marquez-blog-to-jerez-with-excitement/174601

Smith: "I can't wait to start the fight again"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/29/smith-i-can-t-wait-to-start-the-fight-again/174560

Redding: "We will receive updated chassis parts in Jerez"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/29/redding-we-will-receive-updated-chassis-parts-in-jerez/174583

Dovizioso: "Jerez is one of the toughest tracks for Ducati"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/29/dovizioso-jerez-is-one-of-the-toughest-tracks-for-ducati/174594

Marquez: "The wound is healing well and looking good"

http://www

.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/29/marquez-the-wound-is-healing-well-and-looking-good/174589

Lorenzo: "The season is still long"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/29/lorenzo-the-season-is-still-long/174619

Rossi: "I'm very happy to come back to Europe"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/29/rossi-i-m-very-happy-to-come-back-to-europe/174618

The following video, is in Spanish, about Repsol's racing history.

Jerez hosts an exhibition of historic race bikes

http://www.motogp.com/en/youtube_update/2015/04/29/jerez-hosts-an-exhibition-of-historic-race-bikes/174628

A Tweet from Jorge Lorenzo.

@lorenzo99 gets his star on the Jerez Walk of Fame #SpanishGP

http://www.motogp.com/en/twitter_update/2015/04/30/lorenzo99-gets-his-star-on-the-jerez-walk-of-fame/174635

Pramac Racing Q&A: The season so far
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/30/pramac-racing-q-a-the-season-so-far/174627

A Tweet from Nick Hayden.

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/04/30/what-a-moment-that-was-for-nicky-hayden-in-2006-tbt/174661

Pol Espargaro & MotoGP Chair Racing Instagram pic.  *It's the World Championship office chair races!

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/04/30/has-polespargaro-invented-a-new-sport-motogp-chair-racing-does/174680

Rossi: "I will give Marc less kisses from now on"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/30/rossi-i-will-give-marc-less-kisses-from-now-on/174684

Jerez is hot for the start of the 2015 Rookies Cup season

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/jerez-is-hot-for-the-start-of-the-2015-rookies-cup-season/174711

Rossi and Marquez aren't taking the bait
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/04/30/rossi-and-marquez-aren-t-taking-the-bait/174707

Vazquez puts on show for home fans in Moto 3 FP1

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/vazquez-puts-on-show-for-home-fans-in-moto3-fp1/174713

HRC Tweeted a picture of a modified left handlebar grip to assist Marc Marquez in riding his bike, with a broken finger.

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/05/01/modified-left-grip-to-assist-marcmarquez93-with-his-broken-finger/174724

Lorenzo quickest in MotoGP FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/lorenzo-quickest-in-motogp-fp1/174714

Yamaha's Lynn Jarvis has announced Jorge Lorenzo will stay with the team in 2016.  Go to MotoGP.com and subscribe to Video Pass, for more details.

Quartararo shows potential to top Moto 3 FP2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/quartararo-shows-potential-to-top-moto3-fp2/174719

Folger fastest in Moto 2 FP2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/folger-fastest-in-moto2-fp2/174721

Lorenzo continues dominance ahead of Marquez in FP2

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/lorenzo-continues-dominance-ahead-of-marquez-in-fp2/174720

Vazquez edges Quartararo on opening day
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/vazquez-edges-quartararo-on-opening-day/174752

Lorenzo is back!
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/lorenzo-is-back/174781

Smith: "It will be vital to get into the top ten"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/smith-it-will-be-vital-to-get-into-the-top-ten/174827

Rabat back on top in front of home crowd
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/rabat-back

Crutchlow: "I've not been well for the last few days"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/crutchlow-i-ve-not-been-well-for-the-last-few-days/174830

Another Tweet from Jorge Lorenzo.

http://www.motogp.com/en/twitter_update/2015/05/01/good-feelings-this-first-day-spanishgp-jerez-yamahamotogp/174824

Lorenzo: "My mentality this morning was to go for it"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/lorenzo-my-mentality-from-this-morning-was-to-go-for-it/174813

Bendsneyder claims first pole of 2015 season
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/bendsneyder-claims-first-pole-of-2015-season/174842

Espargaro: "We will aim to be very close to the pole"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/espargaro-we-will-aim-to-be-very-close-to-the-pole/174843

Rossi: "We had a lot of troubles"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/rossi-we-had-a-lot-of-troubles/174818

Marquez: "It hurts a lot but at least I can put in the laps"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/01/marquez-it-hurts-a-lot-but-at-least-i-can-put-in-the-laps/174819

Nakamoto squashes rumours of Stoner's return
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/nakamoto-squashes-rumours-of-stoner-s-return/174841

Lorenzo stamps authority on FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/lorenzo-stamps-authority-on-fp3/174863

Kent shows true pace in Moto 3 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/kent-shows-true-pace-during-moto3-fp3/174857

A view of a crash suffered by Eugene Laverty.  Ouch!

 http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/05/02/close-view-of-eugenelaverty-s-crash-at-spanishgp-motogp/174893

Zarco responds to head Moto 2 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/zarco-responds-to-head-moto2-fp3/174867

Quartararo takes first ever Moto 3 pole
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/quartararo-takes-first-ever-moto3-pole/174895

...and

http://www.motogp.com/en/instagram_update/2015/05/02/first-pole-position-of-fabioquartararo20-in-the-world-championship-congrats/174912

Iannone fastest in FP4 as Marquez crashes
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/iannone-fastest-in-fp4-as-marquez-crashes/174896

Petrucci & Hernandez make it through to Q2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/petrucci-hernandez-make-it-through-to-q2/174898

Watch out, when practicing your race starts.
http://www.motogp.com/en/youtube_update/2015/05/02/manzi-rear-ends-oliveira/174914

Lorenzo sets new lap record to claim pole
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/lorenzo-sets-new-lap-record-to-claim-pole/174899

Rabat takes Moto 2 Pole in front of home fans in Jerez

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/rabat-takes-moto2-pole-in-front-of-home-fans-in-jerez/174902

Quartararo fulfills potential to take maiden Moto 3 pole

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/quartararo-fulfils-potential-to-take-maiden-moto3-pole/174908

Lorenzo: "A lot of people said I had a crisis"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/lorenzo-a-lot-of-people-said-that-i-had-a-crisis/174931

First pole of 2015 for dominant Rabat
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/first-pole-of-2015-for-dominant-rabat/174962

Marquez: "It will be hard to finish the 27 laps"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/marquez-it-will-be-hard-to-finish-the-27-laps/174933

Iannone: "It is never easy to get into this position"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/iannone-it-is-never-easy-to-get-into-this-position/174936

Crutchlow: "We chose the wrong front tyre"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/crutchlow-we-chose-the-wrong-front-tyre/174994

Rossi: "Maybe I made a mistake"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/rossi-maybe-i-made-a-mistake/175002

Three stops or two?
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/05/02/three-stops-or-two/174978

MotoGP: Stats heading into the 2015 Spanish GP

All you need to know about this weekend's MotoGP race, at Jerez, in Spain.

http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/motogp-stats-2015-spanish-gp-jerez-preview-042915

Also, can Valentino Rossi make it three wins in four races in Spain, this weekend?

http://www.motorsport.com/motogp/news/can-rossi-make-it-three-motogp-wins-from-four-at-jerez