2 wheelin': October 2015

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

Thursday, October 22, 2015

FIM World Superbike Round 13: Qatar (season finale) & 2015 series champions

Some surprise winners, in the final round of the 2015 FIM World Superbike Championship. Aprilia, dominates.G The last race of the year, took place, last weekend at the Losail circuit in Doha, Qatar. Superbike race one, saw a first time victory for Spanish rider, Jordi Torres, finishing ahead of the Kawasaki duo of Johnny Rea and Tom Sykes. In race two, Leon Haslam was the winner, with Chaz Davies second, and Tom Sykes, third.

World Superbike Race 1: #81 Jordi Torres     ESP.     Aprilia Racing Team - Red Devils Aprilia RSV4 RF

World Superbike Race 2: #91 Leon Haslam   GBR.   Aprilia Racing Team - Red Devils Aprilia RSV4 RF

World Supersport Race: #111 Kyle Smith      GBR.    PATA Honda World Supersport Team Honda CBR600RR

The seasons for the Superstock classes (Superstock 1000 and Superstock 600), concluded, in France, a few weeks ago. Champions in each class are:

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

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

FIM Superstock 1000: #23 Luca Savadori        ITA.    Althea Racing Ducati 1199 Panigale R

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

That's a wrap on 2015. See you, next year, in 2016, for more action from the FIM World Superbike Championship.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

more MotoGP news

More news from MotoGP, headed to Malaysia, this weekend.

Marc Marquez talks about his 50th career MotoGP win.

Marquez Blog: The 50th victory!
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/20/marquez-blog-the-50th-victory/187805

#StatAttack: When was the first Malaysian GP held?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/20/statattack-when-was-the-first-malaysian-gp-held/187770

Smith: "The track is usually quite greasy"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/smith-the-track-is-usually-quite-greasy/187829

Pedrosa: "This track has a bit of everything"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/pedrosa-this-track-has-a-bit-of-everything/187832

Rossi: "We have to get the best result in each session"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/rossi-we-have-to-get-the-best-result-in-each-session/187847

Dovizioso: "We will be quicker than in Australia"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/dovizioso-we-will-be-quicker-than-in-australia/187854

Espargaro: "It really tests us as MotoGP riders"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/espargaro-it-really-tests-us-as-motogp-riders/187857

Marquez: "Hoping to continue this good run for Honda"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/marquez-hoping-to-continue-this-good-run-for-honda/187861

Lorenzo: "The key to victory will be the tyres"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/lorenzo-the-key-to-victory-will-be-the-tyres/187866

Ianonne: "Interesting to see how much we have improved"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/21/iannone-interesting-to-see-how-much-we-have-improved/187868

Moto2 ready for Malaysian melee
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/20/moto2-ready-for-malaysian-melee/187701

#StatAttack: What is champion Zarco's best result at Sepang?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/20/statattack-what-is-champion-zarco-s-best-result-at-sepang/187790

#StatAttack: Who won last year's Malaysian GP Moto3 race?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/20/statattack-who-won-last-year-s-malaysian-gp-moto3-race/187793

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Post Phillip Island MotoGP news

News stories, and reaction, after the racing has concluded at Phillip Island, and as we look ahead to this weekend's action, at the Sepang circuit in Sepang, Malaysia.

Yamaha secures 2015 MotoGP Manufacturers Title

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/yamaha-secures-2015-motogp-manufacturers-title/187603

Marquez: "I overheated the front tyre"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/marquez-i-overheated-the-front-tyre/187558

Rossi: "The results could have been better"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/rossi-the-results-could-have-been-better/187600

A new level
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/a-new-level/187573

Pedrosa: "I could not accelerate hard"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/pedrosa-i-could-not-accelerate-hard/187722

Espargaro: "I also have a bittersweet taste in my mouth"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/espargaro-i-also-have-a-bittersweet-taste-in-my-mouth/187732

Vinales: "I could feel that I am very competitive"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/vinales-i-could-feel-that-i-am-very-competitive/187736

Crutchlow: "We had a real torrid time with the rear tyre"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/crutchlow-we-had-a-real-torrid-time-with-the-rear-tyre/187739

Espargaro: "I had many struggles"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/espargaro-i-had-many-struggles/187740

Miller: "To be back as the top Open rider is great"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/miller-to-be-back-as-the-top-open-rider-is-great/187743

Remarkable Rins takes Moto2 victory at Phillip Island

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/remarkable-rins-takes-moto2-victory-at-phillip-island/187510

Baldassari: "I found a great pace"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/baldassarri-i-found-a-great-pace/187599

Lowes: "I thought this was gonna be a disaster"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/lowes-i-thought-this-was-gonna-be-a-disaster/187612

Rins: "I was a little bit nervous"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/rins-i-was-a-little-bit-nervous/187616

Oliveira victory in Moto3 keeps title hopes alive

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/oliveira-victory-in-moto3-keeps-title-hopes-alive/187495

Binder: "Someone touched my front brake"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/binder-someone-touched-my-front-brake/187581

Vazquez: "It wasn't just luck"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/vazquez-it-wasn-t-just-luck/187582

Oliveira: "Anything is possible"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/18/oliveira-anything-is-possible/187596

Bastianini: "Kent was in too much hurry to get back"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/bastianini-kent-was-in-too-much-hurry-to-get-back/187711

Kent: "I was hit by another rider"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/19/kent-i-was-hit-by-another-rider/187718

Monday, October 19, 2015

Moto 2 & Moto 3: Australia

In Moto2 action at Phillip Island, Alex Rins is the winning rider, ahead of fellow podium finishers Sam Lowes and Lorenzo Baldassarri. Takaaki Nakagami, and Xavier Simeon, rounded out the top five finishers. In places sixth through tenth, the order was Luis Salom, 2015 champion Johann Zarco, Mika Kallio, Alex Marquez, and a surprise, in the form of Randy Krummenacher. Astonishingly, there was low attrition in this event. 25 riders and bikes, finished the race. The four retirements included some major names. Jonas Folger, Sandro Cortese, Florian Alt, and Robin Mulhauser. Australian wildcard rider, Josh Hook, finished, and came home 20th.

#40 Alex Rins ESP. Kalex

In Moto3 action on the island, Miguel Oliveira won it, ahead of Efren Vazquez, and another rapidly improving rider, South Africa's Brad Binder. Jorge Navarro and Jakub Kornfeil completed the top five places. In spots six through ten came Romano Fenati, Philipp Oettl, Isaac Vinales, Alexis Masbou, and hometown favorite, Aussie, Remy Gardner (son of 500cc Grand Prix champion, Wayne Gardner).

Aussie wildcard Ollie Simpson, was the final classified finisher in 19th place, out of a field of 35 motorcycles. Attrition, was high, in this one, with four bikes not even finishing lap one, and an additional dozen retirements. That dozen included Lorenzo Dalla Porta, Danny Kent (Moto3 champ), Enea Bastianini, Andrea Locatelli, second Aussie wildcard Matt Barton, Francesco Bagnaia, Jules Danilo, John McPhee, Joan Mir, Juanfran Guevara, Andrea Migno, and Livio Loi.

The four riders who didn't even complete a solitary lap in competition, included Stefano Manzi, Gabriel Rodrigo, Darryn Binder (brother of Brad Binder), and Tatsuki Suzuki.

#44 Miguel Oliveira POR. KTM

Next up for Moto2 and Moto3, is the penultimate race of the season, along with their big brothers in MotoGP, at the Sepang circuit in Sepang, Malaysia, this coming weekend.

Sunday, October 18, 2015

MotoGP Round 16: Australia

Cheers, mate, from "Down Under" in Victoria, Australia, at the great Phillip Island circuit. Marc Marquez has pole for the race. Your time is running out. Your chances of claiming the world title, are slipping away. Your only hope is to beat your team mate, Valentino Rossi. Ride the fine line between glory and disaster, and hope luck is on your side. It is time, for the Grand Prix of Australia!

The fight between Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo, is as intense as ever. Alex de Angelis has been cleared by doctors to recover. Damien Cudlin from Australia, will ride in this race, in his place. There have been some tire alterations, too depending on if you ride a factory bike or a satellite team bike, and what compounds are allowed in those cases. You can feel the tension crackling on the grid, as we ready for this race. This track has 12 turns and is 2.76 miles. It is the fastest track on the schedule, and is getting a little bumpy. It's the fastest, and one of the most beautiful tracks in MotoGP.

In qualifying, Marc Marquez set pole at 1:28.364. It looked like Jorge Lorenzo would get second., but Andrea Ianonne, narrowly beat him. Dani Pedrosa and Cal Crutchlow did well. Valentino Rossi starts seventh. Anthony West and Damien Cudlin are the two Aussie stand in riders. Manage your tires, avoid traffic, and stay tucked in. Using the draft on the 3,000 foot front straight, will give you a better lap time. We are ready to line 'em up, and turn 'em loose, on the island.

The bikes are on the grid. Jorge Lorenzo has to finish ahead of Valentino Rossi today. Here we go. 27 laps ready to roll. Go! Iannone and Marquez have good starts. Andrea Ianonne is in the lead. Dani Pedrosa is fourth. Ianonne leads right now coming to the Casey Stoner corner, into the hairpin. Dani Pedrosa wants inside Marc Marquez. No way through for Rossi on Crutchlow through Siberia. They roll over the top of Lukey Heights. Marquez and Pedrosa trade paint and Jorge Lorenzo leads onto Gardner straight.

Lorenzo still leads the way. Andrea Ianonne is coming. Ianonne passes through the Southern Loop. Through the Doohan and Stoner corners. Dani Pedrosa and Marc Marquez want by Jorge Lorenzo. This is intense! Ianonne leads the way. They plunge down to MG corner. Ianonne runs over a seagull! This causes him the lead! Lorenzo takes the lead. But, Ianonne isn't phased by a bird. He's going for it again. Cal Crutchlow is hounding Dani Pedrosa. Marc Marquez takes the lead and here comes Jorge Lorenzo! Andrea Ianonne is still in this thing, too.

Ianonne is back in front. Rossi and Pedrosa are up there, and so is Crutchlow. Yamaha vs. Honda vs. LCR Honda. Lorenzo now takes the lead and flies down Gardner straight into Doohan corner, where Ianonne takes the lead! This is hot stuff! Valentino Rossi takes fifth spot away from Dani Pedrosa. Lorenzo leads, and Marquz tries to pass Ianonne. Rossi passes Crutchlow. We've got a heck of a race here, blokes! Rossi is up to fourth. Lorenzo makes a pass stick for the lead. Ianonne is ling up a pass in the Southern Loop and can't get there.

Valentino Rossi runs a 1:29.655. Ianonne goes wide at turn four, and through Siberia, Rossi wants to pass Ianonne. He is all over the Ducati, and passes for third into Lukey Heights. Ianonne is losing ground. We complete lap five. Lorenzo, Marquez, Rossi. Marquez runs wide and cuts across the road. Marquez is pushing, and wants Rossi. He gets him. Rossi sandwiched between Marquez and Cal Crutchlow. They race through Siberia. Rossi passes Marquez again! This is hot! Rossi has the line and here comes Ianonne! Marquez loses spots!

Into Doohan corner again, here's Cal Crutchlow, trying to go for it. The Ducati is a rocket down the straight. Ianonne tries Marquez. Marquez defends his place. Will these boys last 20 more laps? This is a Saturday night dirt track feature race! Dani Pedrosa moves past Cal Crutchlow. Maverick Vinales and Aleix Espargaro are coming, on the factory Suzuki's. Rossi's finishing place will be pivotal for the championship. Jorge Lorenzo is checking out.

Cal Crutchlow moves ahead into fifth, past Dani Pedrosa. There will be no worries about tires. Jorge Lorenzo wants his seventh race win of 2015. This is war. Valentino Rossi has run a 1:29.369, the fastest race lap so far. 19 laps to go. Rossi closes on the brakes. Cal Crutchlow is keeping Dani Pedrosa at bay, winner, last time out in Japan. Valentino Rossi on the Yamaha has the power, compared to Marc Marquez's Honda. Marquez runs wide through Doohan corner, and into Stoner corner, Rossi isn't close enough!

Rossi closes up again up to Siberia. This is a wicked race so far! Lorenzo wheelies down Gardner straight. Dani Pedrosa passes Cal Crutchlow, taking away fifth place. Damien Cudlin has had a technical issue, and he's come back on the road after pitting. Nicky Hayden is out of this one. Game over. Valentino Rossi is closing on Marc Marquez. Rossi has been very consistent this year and that's why he has a shot for the championship. This is an epic race, so far. Andrea Ianonne is still in this race, too.

Rossi tries in turn four, and he doesn't get the pass made. Ianonne is right with him. Lorenzo still leads this race as they fly through MG corner. Down the Gardner straight. 15 laps to go. Ducati vs. Yamaha vs. Honda. Andrea Ianonne flies by Valentino Rossi! Rossi defends and goes back to third. Marquez is second. Jorge Lorenzo leads by 1.3 seconds. Lorenzo is booking it right now. Rossi does not want to let Ianonne by into the Doohan corner and the Southern Loop. Marc Marquez is stretching away from Rossi.

Marquez is closing on Lorenzo through Lukey Heights. Just about 13 laps to go in this race. We are just past halfway in this race now. Marc Marquez is pouring on the steam setting fast lap at 1:29.29. Marquez is going for it. He is right behind Jorge Lorenzo now. Marc Marquez wants to win another race at Phillip Island. Marquez is within 3/10ths of a second. We watch Cal Crutchlow., Dani Pedrosa, and Aleix Espargaro, battle for fifth. Marquez is pouring on the steam. He is coming, and fast.

Jorge Lorenzo is under huge pressure. Marquez is going in for the kill. Marquez floors it., and the Honda has the power over the Yamaha. Andrea Ianonne blitzes past Valentino Rossi for third! Don't count those two out yet. But, it's Lorenzo and Marquez, we are watching, now. You don't need a timing screen. You can tell what's going on. We are getting close to the end of this. Will Rossi attack for third? Lorenzo is barely holding on to the lead. Marquez is not close enough. Ten laps to go now.

Andrea Ianonne is faster than Valentino Rossi. Will Marquez make a move? Yes! He leads the Australian Grand Prix. Lorenzo, Ianonne, and Rossi, are second, third, and fourth. This could decide what happens for the championship. Can Rossi pass Ianonne? Jorge Lorenzo has to worry about Andrea Ianonne and Valentino Rossi. Eight laps of pure drama to come, here, at Philip Island. Jorge Lorenzo has gone by Andrea Ianonne. Marc Marquez has a 3/10ths of a second lead. Eleven points separate Lorenzo and Rossi in the points, as they run now.

Lorenzo flies past Marquez! Wow! This is a four rider battle for the victory! This is a classic! Six laps left! If I were calling this race, my voice would not last for the last six laps! Dani Pedrosa is 3.5 seconds behind this monstrous, nail biting battle for victory in Australia! Marquez wants to fend off Andrea Ianonne. Will Rossi make a move? Andrea Ianonne is now second. Marc Marquez is relegated to third. Jorge Lorenzo is into a rhythm. Can Ianonne take the lead from Jorge Lorenzo? Valentino Rossi knows he has to get past Marquez and Ianonne, or he'll be blitzed.

Lorenzo holds the advantage. Rossi has to try his darnedest to stay with the leaders. This race, is bonkers! They race into the Stoner corner. Marc Marquez passes Andrea Ianonne for second, through Siberia, too. Marc Marquez is strong on the brakes into that corner. Rossi is right on Ianonne's rear wheel! Valentino Rossi has passed Ianonne! Lorenzo is trying to push ahead as far as he can. Ianonne slides by Rossi into the Doohan corner. Here comes Rossi back inside Ianonne! Wow!

Rossi defensively blocks Ianonne. Rossi hasn't got the pace to block Ianonne. Ianonne is riding the race of his career... the race of his life! Lorenzo has half a second on Marc Marquez. Three laps to go at Phillip Island. Valentino Rossi is closing on Marc Marquez. He is trying to hold off Andrea Ianonne. No way through on Marquez towards Siberia. Rossi tries marquez into Lukey Heights. He can't quite do it! Ianonne goes up inside Marquez and Rossi! Two laps to go!

Marc Marquez passes Valentino Rossi! Lorenzo could really gain ground on Rossi here, in the points. Marquez tries to pass Ianonne and h does, for second. Ianonne fights back again immediately. He's just barely hanging in there with a lap and a half to go. Back to Lukey Heights. Lorenzo could very well win his seventh race of the season. We've got one lap to go. 2.764 miles. Strap in and hold on. Marquez runs past Ianonne. Rossi closes on Ianonne. Marquez swept back by. Rossi tries to pass Ianonne. Marc Marquez is making a big move.

Half a lap to go! Can Lorenzo hang on? Marquez is going past Lorenzo! He tries. Marquez leads. Ianonne back on Rossi. One turn to go! Marc Marquez will win in Australia! Andrea Ianonne takes third! Marc Marquez takes fast lap on the last lap at 1:29.280! That was a last lap of a champion! Holy cow! Phew! Yours truly has to catch his breath. What a finish, blokes! What... a... finish!

#93 Marc Marquez ESP. Honda

Eleven points separate Rossi and Lorenzo for the championship. Jorge Lorenzo's second place, clinches the 2015 manufacturer's cup, for Yamaha. One of the truly great MotoGP races of the last decade. Six passes among four riders for three spots on the last lap alone! Yikes! Rossi has lost a significant chunk of his points lead. Marc Marquez has only failed to win at one MotoGP track... Twin Ring Motegi, in Japan.

There are now just two races left to run in the 2015 MotoGP World Championship. The penultimate race, is at the Sepang International Circuit in Sepang, Malaysia, next weekend.

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Pre-race news before Australia

Here is the pre-race news before the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island, for all classes.

Alex de Angelis now "fit to fly"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/alex-de-angelis-now-fit-to-fly/186519

Pol & Aleix Espargaro make it through to Q2

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/pol-aleix-espargaro-make-it-through-to-q2/187342

Pedrosa: "Today was a difficult day"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/pedrosa-today-was-a-difficult-day/187405

Aspar announce Ducati partnership
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/aspar-announce-ducati-partnership/187336

Iannone: "Following Jorge gave me a hand in improving"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/iannone-following-jorge-gave-me-a-hand-in-improving/187426

Miller: "I expect it to be an interesting race"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/miller-i-expect-it-to-be-an-interesting-race/187431

Rossi: "We arrived at qualifying not being ready"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/rossi-we-arrived-at-qualifying-not-being-ready/187435

Crutchlow: "I'm a little disappointed"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/crutchlow-i-m-a-little-disappointed/187440

Lorenzo: "I was a little bit angry"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/lorenzo-i-was-a-little-bit-angry/187445

Marquez: "We must wait and see what happens"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/marquez-we-must-wait-and-see-what-happens/187448

Isaac Vinales joins Tech3 Racing for 2016
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/isaac-vinales-joins-tech3-racing-for-2016/187296

Rins goes quickest in Moto2 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/rins-goes-quickest-in-moto2-fp3/187320

Rookie Rins on pole in Moto2
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/rookie-rins-on-pole-in-moto2/187375

Lowes: "I could have done quite a quick lap"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/lowes-i-could-have-done-quite-a-quick-lap/187388

Rins: "I feel strong with the bike"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/rins-i-feel-strong-with-the-bike/187395

Rabat to fly home for further treatment
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/rabat-to-fly-home-for-further-treatment/187441

Binder sets the pace in Moto3 FP3
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/binder-sets-the-pace-in-moto3-fp3/187303

McPhee claims maiden Moto3 pole after Kent penalty

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/mcphee-claims-maiden-moto3-pole-after-kent-penalty/187328

Kent: "On paper we are on pole"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/kent-on-paper-we-are-on-pole/187380

McPhee: "I have nothing to lose"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/mcphee-i-have-nothing-to-lose/187410

Leopard switch to KTM machinery
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/17/leopard-switch-to-ktm-machinery/187428

Friday, October 16, 2015

more MotoGP headlines

More headlines, from MotoGP as we look forward, to this weekend's racing, in Australia, at Phillip Island.

Rider's learn Melbourne's Yarra River with Richmond Rowing

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/14/riders-learn-melbourne-s-yarra-river-with-richmond-rowing/186984

Dovizioso: "This year we can be competitive"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/14/dovizioso-this-year-we-can-be-competitive/187051

Rossi: "It's best to take the championship race by race"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/14/rossi-it-s-best-to-take-the-championship-race-by-race/187015

Smith: "We need to take note about the weather"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/smith-we-need-to-take-note-about-the-weather/187006

Pedrosa: "Phillip Island can be tricky"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/pedrosa-phillip-island-can-be-tricky/187009

Iannone: "Phillip Island should be positive for us"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/iannone-phillip-island-should-be-positive-for-us/187061

Jack Miller joins Marc VDS Racing Team for 2016

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/jack-miller-joins-the-marc-vds-racing-team-for-2016/187078

Alex de Angelis' condition stabilizing
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/alex-de-angelis-condition-stabilizing/186519

Vinales: "I'm struggling to find good confidence"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/vinales-i-m-struggling-to-find-good-confidence/187086

Lorenzo strikes first in FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/lorenzo-strikes-first-in-fp1/187158

Marquez: "Jorge is very fast, but we are working well"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/marquez-jorge-is-very-fast-but-we-are-working-well/187225

Lorenzo: "The track is very slippery"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/lorenzo-the-track-is-very-slippery/187238

Pedrosa: "We tested the asymmetrical front tyre"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/pedrosa-we-tested-the-asymmetrical-front-tyre/187243

Smith: "It takes your breath away!"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/smith-it-takes-your-breath-away/187251

Crutchlow: "We have a lot of spinning at the moment"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/crutchlow-we-have-a-lot-of-spinning-at-the-moment/187254

Iannone: "I could have done a bit better"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/iannone-i-could-have-done-a-bit-better/187227

Rossi: "I was not strong enough"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/rossi-i-was-not-strong-enough/187261

Moto2 riders battle for championship gains in Australia

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/moto2-riders-battle-for-championship-gains-in-australia/186928

Zarco: "We must be focused"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/zarco-we-must-be-focused/187062

Lowes quickest out of the blocks in Moto2 FP1

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/lowes-quickest-out-of-the-blocks-in-moto2-fp1/187164

Last gasp Rins snatches top spot in Moto2

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/last-gasp-rins-snatches-top-spot-in-moto2/187193

Moto3 field chasing Kent in Australia
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/moto3-field-chasing-kent-in-australia/186915

#StatAttack: Where did Kent finish last year in Australia?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/statattack-where-did-kent-finish-last-year-in-australia/186975

How Kent can lift the Moto3 title at Phillip Island

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/14/how-kent-can-lift-the-moto3-title-at-phillip-island/186980

Kent: "Motivation is very high for the entire team"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/kent-motivation-is-very-high-for-the-entire-team/187146

Meet the Wildcards: Phillip Island
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/15/meet-the-wildcards-phillip-island/187011

Oliveira tops Moto3 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/oliveira-tops-moto3-fp1/187151

Oliveira ends tricky Friday on top in Moto3

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/oliveira-ends-tricky-friday-on-top-in-moto3/187168

Kent: "We couldn't do any laps during the second session"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/kent-we-couldn-t-do-any-laps-during-the-second-session/187202

Oliveira: "The track conditions were tricky"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/16/oliveira-the-track-conditions-were-tricky/187222

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Rossi to equal Capirossi's record at Philipp Island

Another stats article. Yours truly, is fascinated by these types of things. If you dig numerology, this is another post to definitely check into. At this weekend's Australian Grand Prix, Valentino Rossi will equal fellow Italian legend Loris Capirossi's number of starts, with 328. If he starts this race, and the next event at Sepang, in Malaysia, he will be the most experienced rider in MotoGP history. The chart in the link, shows the following riders, having the most starts in the premier class in world Grand Prix motorcycle racing.

The statistics account for each rider's number of starts, in all classes of racing, including their total number. Classes are MotoGP/500cc, 350cc, Moto2/250cc, 125cc, and 80/50cc.

Here are the riders, who have the most starts in what is now, MotoGP, and the number of races, each rider started, which are also listed in the article. The total number, will be listed here. Go into the article, to find the numbers of individual starts that the riders had in each class they competed in.

Loris Capirossi: 328
Valentino Rossi: 327
Jack Findlay: 282
Alex Barros: 276
Angel Nieto: 265
Brno Kneubuhler: 264
Alex de Angelis: 262
Randy de Puniet: 253

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/14/rossi-to-equal-capirossi-s-record-at-phillip-island/186978

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Notable MotoAmerica headlines

Some of these stories are a bit out of date. But, here are the latest MotoAmerica headlines.

Sheridan Morais Finds A New Home With Aprilia HSBK in America
http://www.motoamerica.com/sheridan-morais-finds-new-home-in-america

Yamaha Superbike Experience at New Jersey Motorsports Park
http://www.motoamerica.com/yamaha-superbike-experience-at-new-jersey-motorsports-park

World Champion Colin Edwards Tests Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike
http://www.motoamerica.com/world-champion-colin-edwards-tests-yamaha-yzf-r1-superbike

Here is part two of the video series on the Suzuki GSX-R.

Video: Suzuki GSX-R: 30 Years of Performance, Part 2
http://www.motoamerica.com/video-suzuki-gsx-r-30-years-performance-part-2

Top Amateurs Shine at AMA Road Race Grand Championship
http://www.motoamerica.com/top-amateurs-shine-at-ama-road-race-grand-championship

This event will take place, this Friday.

MotoAmerica Announces 2015 Night of Champions
http://www.motoamerica.com/motoamerica-announces-2015-night-champions

VIDEO: Dainese D| Air Racing is Coming to North America
http://www.motoamerica.com/video-dainese-dair-racing-leathers-are-now-available-in-united-states

Building An Even Better Yamaha Superbike
http://www.motoamerica.com/building-an-even-better-yamaha-superbike

VIDEO: YamaLube Westby Racing Season Recap
http://www.motoamerica.com/building-an-even-better-yamaha-superbike

Josh Hayes to Race Superprestigio of The Americas
http://www.motoamerica.com/node/1075

A story already discussed in another post. Both, worth mentioning.

Nicky Hayden Headed to World Superbike with Honda
http://www.motoamerica.com/american-nicky-hayden-will-race-world-superbike-with-honda-in-2016

How Will Nicky Hayden Perform in World Superbike?

http://www.motoamerica.com/how-will-motogp-champion-nicky-hayden-perform-in-world-superbike

What is the right age to begin racing at a national level?
http://www.motoamerica.com/what-is-right-age-to-begin-racing-at-national-level

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Post Motegi MotoGP news

MotoGP news and rider reactions, from all three classes, post Motegi, and headed into Philip Island, this weekend.

Takahashi: "It has been a great experience"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/12/takahashi-it-has-been-a-great-experience/186949

Espargaro: "I didn't have a proper feeling"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/12/espargaro-i-didn-t-have-a-proper-feeling/186950

Hayden: "The rear was spinning"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/hayden-the-rear-was-spinning/186965

Iannone: "I realized that there was a problem"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/iannone-i-realized-that-there-was-a-problem/186967

Espargaro: "I fell whilst braking into turn 11"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/espargaro-i-fell-whilst-braking-into-turn-11/186968

Vinales: "I'm sad with this result"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/vinales-i-m-sad-with-this-result/186977

Pedrosa draws level with Angel Nieto
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/pedrosa-draws-level-with-angel-nieto/186979

Bridgestone review the Japanese GP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/bridgestone-review-the-japanese-gp/186983

Miller: "I tried hard to be a little bit calmer"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/miller-i-tried-hard-to-be-a-little-bit-calmer/186990

StatAttack: Who has had the most GP wins at Phillip Island?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/statattack-who-has-had-the-most-gp-wins-at-phillip-island/186970

Moto2 champion, Zarco takes 7th win of the season

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/moto2-champion-zarco-takes-7th-win-of-the-season/186703

Cortese: "We've had a really tough year"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/cortese-we-ve-had-a-really-tough-year/186756

Morbidelli and Marquez confirmed for 2016

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/morbidelli-and-marquez-confirmed-for-2015/186757

Folger: "I just brought it home"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/folger-i-just-brought-it-home/186763

Zarco: "The last two laps were not easy"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/zarco-the-last-two-laps-were-not-easy/186777

Zarco: "Fighting for the title and race wins is fantastic"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/12/zarco-fighting-for-the-title-and-race-wins-is-fantastic/186921

#StatAttack: What is Zarco's best result at Phillipp Island?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/statattack-what-is-zarco-s-best-result-at-phillip-island/186973

Antonelli puts on a master class in the wet to win

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/antonelli-puts-on-a-master-class-in-the-wet-to-win/186685

Navarro: "I started a little nervously"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/navarro-i-started-a-little-nervously/186706

Antonelli: "A perfect weekend"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/antonelli-a-perfect-weekend/186689

Oliveira: "I knew that we could be up at the front"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/oliveira-i-knew-that-we-could-be-up-at-the-front/186775

Kent: "A lot of pressure is off my shoulders"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/12/kent-a-lot-of-pressure-is-off-my-shoulders/186935

Joan Mir replaces Hiroki Ono for Australian GP

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/joan-mir-replaces-hiroki-ono-for-australian-gp/186992

#StatAttack: Where did Kent finish last year in Australia?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/statattack-where-did-kent-finish-last-year-in-australia/186975

Moto3 field chasing Kent in Australia
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/13/moto3-field-chasing-kent-in-australia/186915

Monday, October 12, 2015

Moto 2 & Moto 3: Japan

In Moto2 action at Motegi, dominant champion, Johann Zarco, wins again, ahead of a couple surprise podium finishers in the form of Jonas Folger and Sandro Cortese. The two Germans each had good races. Azlan Shah and Hafizh Syahrin, (both from Malaysia), completed the top five. In sixth through tenth, came Ricard Cardus, Simone Corsi, Sam Lowes, Marcel Schrotter, and Randy Krummenacher.

Some of the Moto2 big names were further down the order. 23 bikes and riders were classified at the end of the race. Unclassified finishers included Luis Salom, Thitipong Warokorn, Tom Luthi, Xavier Simeon, Xavi Vierge, Axel Pons, and Australian wildcard rider, Joshua Hook.

#5 Johann Zarco FRA. Kalex

Niccolo Antonelli scored a surprise win in Moto3. It is another win for him this year. He was followed on the podium by Miguel Oliveira and the rapidly improving Jorge Navarro. Isaac Vinales and Zulfahmi Khairuddin, rounded out the top five finishers. Moto3 champ Danny Kent, could only muster a sixth place, ahead of Enea Bastianini, Karel Hanika, John McPhee, and Efren Vazquez. In this event, 29 riders classified as finishers. Ana Carrasco was the last classified rider.

Retirements from the race included Remy Gardner, Livio Loi, Hiroki Ono, Japanese wildcard entry Ryo Mizuno, Alexis Masbou, and Alessandro Tonucci.

#23 Niccolo Antonelli ITA. Honda

Moto2 and Moto3 join their big brothers in MotoGP, next time out, next weekend, for the race in Australia, and Philip Island in the Victoria region of Australia.

Sunday, October 11, 2015

MotoGP Round 15: Japan (abbreviated highlights)

Yours truly, missed MotoGP action in Motegi, Japan. Ironically, there was an FIA World Endurance Championship sports car race at one of the other major speed palaces in Japan (Fuji Speedway), and that was the focus. We do, have a surprise winner, though. Dani Pedrosa, takes his 50th career MotoGP win at Motegi! Here is the race report from MotoGP.com.

Peerless Pedrosa takes his 50th GP victory at Motegi

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/11/peerless-pedrosa-takes-his-50th-gp-victory-at-motegi/186727

#26 Dani Pedrosa ESP. Honda

Here are the results.

http://www.motogp.com/en/Results+Statistics

Three races now remain on the 2015 MotoGP calendar. The second of the three rounds on the Pacific Rim is the next event. Australia, at the Philip Island Circuit. It takes place, next weekend.

Saturday, October 10, 2015

MotoGP news before Motegi

Notable stories before the red lights go out in Motegi, Japan. A full MotoGP race report, is coming, tomorrow.

Hayden: "I have really enjoyed my time in MotoGP"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/hayden-i-have-really-enjoyed-my-time-in-motogp/186485

Home Heroes: Man and Machine
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/home-heroes-man-and-machine/186108

#MotoGPBuzz Rider Battle: Rossi vs. Lorenzo
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/motogpbuzz-rider-battle-rossi-vs-lorenzo/186568

Exotic liveries for an equally exotic race
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/exotic-liveries-for-an-equally-exotic-race/186520

Fenati: "The race will be a big group"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/fenati-the-race-will-be-a-big-group/186567

Zarco: "The pressure is not the same"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/zarco-the-pressure-is-not-the-same/186582

Redding: "I was surprised to get through to Q2"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/redding-i-was-surprised-to-get-through-to-q2/186599

Dovizioso: "I'm a bit disappointed about my fourth"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/dovizioso-i-m-a-bit-disappointed-about-my-fourth/186602

Smith: "It is a bit disappointing to crash twice in Q2"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/smith-it-is-a-bit-disappointing-to-crash-twice-in-q2/186629

Marquez: "My hand has not got worse"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/marquez-my-hand-has-not-got-worse/186617

Rossi: "We hoped to get the pole"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/rossi-we-hoped-to-get-the-pole/186609

Lorenzo: "I did the maximum"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/lorenzo-i-did-the-maximum/186621

The Pattern of History
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/the-pattern-of-history/186637

Alex de Angelis undergoes treatment after FP4 crash

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/10/alex-de-angelis-undergoing-treatment-after-fp4-crash/186519

Friday, October 9, 2015

more news from MotoGP

The latest headlines from MotoGP, headed into action this weekend at Twin Ring Motegi in Japan.

MOTOGP: Hayden announces move to World Superbikes
http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/motogp-nicky-hayden-wsbk-100815

Title 'still 100 percent open' admits Rossi as MotoGP arrives in Japan
http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/motogp-motegi-valentino-rossi-100815

Rossi & Lorenzo will joust for glory again in Motegi

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/rossi-lorenzo-will-joust-for-glory-again-in-motegi/186195

Video playlist: Classic Japanese GP's from across the years

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/08/video-playlist-classic-japanese-gps-from-across-the-years/186234

Meet the Wildcards: Motegi
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/08/meet-the-wildcards-motegi/186041

Photo gallery: Mini bikes at the Twin Ring Motegi

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/08/photo-gallery-mini-bikes-at-the-twin-ring-motegi/186287

MotoGP arrives in Asia for the Japanese GP

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/motogp-arrives-in-asia-for-the-japanese-gp/186242

As mentioned, Nicky Hayden will move to World Superbikes, next year.

Nicky Hayden announces WorldSBK move

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/08/nicky-hayden-announces-worldsbk-move/186299

Crutchlow: "It's a special place for Honda"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/08/crutchlow-it-s-a-special-place-for-honda/186331

Lorenzo shrugs off shoulder injury to top FP1

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/lorenzo-shrugs-off-shoulder-injury-to-top-fp1/186348

Redding: "We didn't quite get there today"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/redding-we-didn-t-quite-get-there-today/186408

Smith: "Things were very positive for us on track"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/smith-things-were-very-positive-for-us-on-track/186416

Dovizioso: "We managed to improve in both sessions"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/dovizioso-we-managed-to-improve-in-both-sessions/186422

Rossi: "We're not good with the setting yet"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/rossi-we-re-not-good-with-the-setting-yet/186429

Marquez: "I was able to ride correctly and brake late"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/marquez-i-was-able-to-ride-correctly-and-brake-late/186435

Iannone: "We were competitive right out of the box"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/iannone-we-were-competitive-right-out-of-the-box/186441

Pedrosa: "We encountered more problems than we had expected"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/pedrosa-we-encountered-more-problems-than-we-had-expected/186443

Lorenzo: "I didn't expect to be so competitive"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/lorenzo-i-didn-t-expect-to-be-so-competitive/186453

Crutchlow: "I'm not too pleased"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/crutchlow-i-m-not-too-pleased/186454

From Sling to King
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/from-sling-to-king/186400

Luthi leads the way in Moto2 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/luthi-leads-the-way-in-moto2-fp1/186358

Zarco's Racing history
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/zarco-s-racing-history/185514

Triumphant Johann Zarco lifts Moto2 world title

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/triumphant-johann-zarco-lifts-moto2-world-title/184959

Rabat withdraws from Japanese GP

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/rabat-withdraws-from-japanese-grand-prix/186360

Zarco celebrates Moto2 title by topping Friday's practice

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/zarco-celebrates-moto2-title-by-topping-friday-s-practice/186395

Zarco: "It's a dream come true to be Moto2 World Champion"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/zarco-it-s-a-dream-come-true-to-be-moto2-world-champion/186457

Kent: "Motegi has been a very good track for me"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/08/kent-motegi-has-been-a-very-good-track-for-me/186288

Antonelli sets early pace in Moto3 FP1
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/antonelli-sets-early-pace-in-moto3-fp1/186342

Antonelli heads Friday's practice in Moto3

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/antonelli-heads-friday-s-practice-in-moto3/186369

Kent: "We struggled to set up the bike well"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/kent-we-struggled-to-set-up-the-bike-well/186399

Antonelli: "I am happy as the feeling is really good"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/09/antonelli-i-am-happy-as-the-feeling-is-really-good/186438

Thursday, October 8, 2015

This weekend's MotoGP action in Japan

Yours truly, has some debating to do, because MotoGP in Japan at Twin Ring Motegi, and two car races (Formula One in Russia, and the FIA World Endurance Championship at the Mount Fuji circuit, also in Japan), all conflict this weekend. So, there could be an abbreviated set of highlights, for the MotoGP race from Twin Ring Motegi, as opposed to a full race report. Stay tuned, for further details. It may be possible to do a full race rundown. This, remains to be seen.

MotoAmerica Announces Tentative 2016 Schedule

Seven of nine possible races for the 2016 MotoAmerica season, have been secured, with two still to be finalized, for the 2016 schedule. Here is what the tentative one looks like.

http://www.motoamerica.com/motoamerica-announces-tentative-2016-schedule

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

MotoGP news (continued)

Lots of stories from MotoGP and a couple each from the junior classes to keep an eye on.

Some former champions and great riders give their views on the Rossi/Lorenzo fight. They include former 500cc Grand Prix world champion Wayne Gardner, and World Superbike champions/standout riders, Troy Bayliss and, Chris Vermeulen. These blokes are as amazed about MotoGP as we are, folks. Trust me. Beyond that little feature, there is plenty more news to talk about.

Gardner: "I've never seen it so close before"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/gardner-i-ve-never-seen-it-so-close-before/186214

Dovizioso: "I'm optimistic about Motegi"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/dovizioso-i-am-optimistic-about-motegi/186167

Laverty: "Riding my bike three weeks in a row excites me!"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/laverty-riding-my-bike-three-weeks-in-a-row-excites-me/186221

Marquez: "I had an operation on Wednesday"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/marquez-i-had-an-operation-on-wednesday/186184

Espargaro: "It's vital to start confidently"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/espargaro-it-s-vital-to-start-confidently/186148

Dani Pedrosa's latest blog entry.

Pedrosa Blog: Ready to roll in Japan
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/pedrosa-blog-ready-to-roll-in-japan/186183

Rossi: "I will have to give my all"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/rossi-i-will-have-to-give-my-all/186181

If you are subscribed to MotoGP's website and can view videos, check this out.

Video Playlist: Rossi & Lorenzo's epic 2010 Motegi showdown

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/video-playlist-rossi-lorenzo-s-epic-2010-motegi-showdown/186233

Hayden: "It's kind of nice to travel to that part of the world"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/hayden-it-s-kind-of-nice-to-travel-to-that-part-of-world/186226

Another video. Johann Zarco reflects on taking his first win, in Japan.

Zarco: "I took my first Grand Prix win there in 2011"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/zarco-i-took-my-first-grand-prix-win-there-in-2011/186228

Oliveira: "We will have to completely change the setup"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/oliveira-we-have-to-completely-change-the-setup/186235

Bastianini: "It's not easy to interpret"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/07/bastianini-it-s-not-easy-to-interpret/186241

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

more MotoGP news

More news from MotoGP to highlight and keep and eye on.

Bridgestone preview the Japanese GP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/bridgestone-preview-the-japanese-gp/186141

Redding: "It's a tough schedule"
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/redding-it-s-a-tough-schedule/186102

Smith: "I will be wearing a special helmet at Motegi"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/smith-i-will-be-wearing-a-special-helmet-at-motegi/186144

Pedrosa: "I stayed in Barcelona for my birthday"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/pedrosa-i-stayed-in-barcelona-for-my-birthday/186178

Iannone: "Last year it was a little bit difficult"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/iannone-last-year-it-was-a-little-bit-difficult/186166

Simoncelli remembered by 3,656 motorcyclists at Brno

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/simoncelli-remembered-by-3-656-motorcyclists-at-brno/186180

Lorenzo: "I just have a little bit of pain in my left shoulder"

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/lorenzo-i-just-have-a-bit-of-pain-in-my-left-shoulder/186164

A blog entry from Marc Marquez.

Marquez Blog: Thank you for your encouragement

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/marquez-blog-thank-you-for-your-encouragement/186187

Also, in Moto2, Tito Rabat will be racing hurt this weekend in Japan, at Motegi. But, he'll still try to go for it.

Rabat to attempt to race with broken radius

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/06/rabat-to-attempt-to-race-with-broken-radius/186146

Monday, October 5, 2015

MotoGP news flash

Headed to Japan, this weekend, here are the stories being followed in all three MotoGP classes, including fights for the titles. Johann Zarco, can actually clinch the championship for Moto2, in Japan.

#JapaneseGP in numbers
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/04/japanesegp-in-numbers/186022

Lorenzo looking to hunt down Rossi at Motegi

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/05/lorenzo-looking-to-hunt-down-rossi-at-motegi/186015

#StatAttack: Who has the most GP wins at Motegi?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/05/statattack-who-has-the-most-gp-wins-at-motegi/186023

How Zarco can lift the title at Motegi
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/04/how-zarco-can-lift-the-title-at-motegi/186020

#StatAttack: Who won last year's Moto2 race at Motegi?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/05/statattack-who-won-last-years-moto2-race-at-motegi/186024

Zarco ready to take title in Japan
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/05/zarco-ready-to-take-title-in-japan/186032

If Moto2 is all about Johann Zarco, then, Moto3 stories are definitely about Danny Kent.

Kent's first shot at the title
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/04/kent-s-first-shot-at-the-title/186021

Kent given first chance as Moto3 field tightens

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/05/kent-given-first-chance-as-moto3-field-tightens/186029

#StatAttack: How many times has Kent won at Motegi?

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/05/statattack-how-many-times-has-kent-won-at-motegi/186025

Sunday, October 4, 2015

FIM World Superbike Round 12: France, & 2015 FIM World Supersport Champion

In the French round of the FIM World Superbike Championship at the Circuit de Nevers in Magny Cours, France, today, Johnny Rea did the double, and won both races for Kawasaki Racing Team!

http://www.worldsbk.com/en/news/2015/3+way+race+long+race+2+battle+won+by+Rea

Also, in World Supersport competition, Kenan Sofuoglu wins the world championship! He finished in second place, in the race, behind American rider Patrick Jacobsen, who was the winner. In Superstock 1000 competition, Frenchman Jeremy Guarnoni was victorious in his home race, while in Superstock 600, the honors went the way of Spain's, Augusto Fernandez.

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: #99 Patrick Jacobsen USA CORE" Motorsport Thailand

                                                                                     Honda CBR600RR

Superstock 1000 race: #11 Jeremy Guarnoni   FRA. Team Trasimeno Yamaha YZF R1

Superstock 600 race: #37 Augusto Fernandez ESP. Augusto Fernandez Honda CBR600RR

Congratulations go out, to yet another champion, in World Supersport. As mentioned, Kenan Sofuoglu, is champ! This was the penultimate race of the championship. One remains. It is in Qatar at the Losail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar, in two weeks.

Saturday, October 3, 2015

noteworthy MotoGP records

There is an aphorism in sports... "records were made to be broken". This is certainly true in the world of Grand Prix motorcycle road racing at this point in the season. If you are into numerology and stats, this post, is for you! One record, has already been broken, as Jorge Lorenzo has now surpassed Casey Stoner, for fourth on the all-time premier class wins list. The three riders, with more wins, in order are:

Valentino Rossi: 86 wins (7 premier class championships)
Giacomo Agostini: 68 wins (8 premier class championships)
Mick Doohan: 54 wins (5 premier class championships)
Jorge Lorenzo: 39 wins (2 premier class championships)
Casey Stoner: 38 wins (2 premier class championships)
Mike Hailwood: 37 wins (4 premier class championships)
Eddie Lawson: 31 wins (4 premier class championships)

Lorenzo is also tied with Phil Read on 39 wins as a Yamaha team rider. Look at the stats chart, in the article, and you will find the riders, and their number of wins, while racing for Yamaha. Riders include Valentino Rossi, Phil Read, Jorge Lorenzo, Eddie Lawson, Wayne Rainey, Kenny Roberts, Bill Ivy, Carlos Lovado, Kent Andersson, and Jarno Saarinen.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/03/lorenzo-moves-above-stoner-on-all-time-list/186018

Also, Dani Pedrosa is closing in on a record for podium finishes. He has 138 career podiums, one less than multiple MotoGP world champ Angel Nieto. The top ten riders with the most podium finishes (including wins, second places, and third places), are:

1. Valentino Rossi: 209
2. Giacomo Agostini: 159
3. Angel Nieto: 139
4. Dani Pedrosa: 138
5. Jorge Lorenzo: 131
6. Phil Read: 121
7. Mike Hailwood: 112
8. Max Biaggi: 111
9. Loris Capirossi: 99
10. Jim Redman: 98

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/03/pedrosa-closing-in-on-nieto-s-record/186019

Friday, October 2, 2015

Lorenzo: "Victory was crucial to leave everything behind"

A fascinating story on Jorge Lorenzo's role as producer on a film about the Barcelona football (soccer) club.

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/02/lorenzo-victory-was-crucial-to-leave-everything-behind/186035

Thursday, October 1, 2015

MotoGP news update

Some big news, in this latest update, exclusively focused on MotoGP, especially for Tito Rabat, and Marc VDS.

Bridgestone review the Aragon GP
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/01/bridgestone-review-the-aragon-gp/185994

Rabat moves to MotoGP with Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/01/rabat-moves-to-motogp-with-estrella-galicia-0-0-marc-vds/186012

Predator Pedrosa gives Rossi taste of own medicine

http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/01/predator-pedrosa-gives-rossi-taste-of-own-medicine/185983

A blog entry from Bradley Smith, spending time at Valentino Rossi's ranch.

#Bradley38Blog: Fun at Rossi's Ranch
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/01/bradley38blog-fun-at-rossi-s-ranch/186017

Finally, a relevant, and good, question.

When will the MotoGP title be decided?
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2015/10/01/when-will-the-motogp-title-be-decided/186001