Iker Lecuona ruled out of the Indonesian WorldSBK round
Iker Lecuona has been declared unfit to compete in the remainder of the Indonesian WorldSBK round after a violent highside during the second practice at the Mandalika International Street Circuit in Indonesia saw him hit the ground hard at turn 4.
With the track offering more grip than it had in FP1, times immediately begun to tumble in FP2, Iker up into third when the unfortunate incident occurred. Lecuona was taken to the circuit medical center for an initial medical assessment and was later airlifted to the RSUD Provinsi NTB Hospital in Mataram for further tests. Following CT and MRI scans, doctors have diagnosed a stable fracture of the T12 vertebra (with no neurological damage) as well as a fracture to the left side of the sacrum. With no need for stabilization surgery, Lecuona has already been discharged from the hospital and will now rest and begin conservative treatment.
Earlier in the day, Team HRC had in fact enjoyed one of its strongest first outings of the season. Despite high temperatures and the fact that the track offered very little grip after recent resurfacing, Lecuona and Xavi Vierge were able to soon build confidence with what is a new track for them both. Quickly improving on their times on what was a dirty and slippery track, Lecuona had finished the first practice session in second place, followed by team-mate Vierge in fifth.
Vierge spent session two making a few small setup changes that clearly worked and allowed him to pick up the pace and lap almost three seconds quicker than he had during FP1. Setting an impressive best of 1’35.022 in the final minutes, Xavi projected himself into eighth position overall by the end of day one.
Xavi Vierge (97). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Xavi Vierge 97
P8
“A positive day, albeit a rather challenging one due to the track conditions and the fact it’s a brand-new track for us. I simply love the layout but with the tarmac resurfaced just recently, the grip is terrible right now. As the day progressed, a line formed and there was more grip there, but the outer line is still so dirty. It was so easy to crash at the slightest “mistake” and it was hard to go fast without making mistakes. Having said that, we made good progress throughout the day while also collating useful information so that we can try to make a step tomorrow and get closer to the top guys. I wish Iker all the best and hope he will soon be fit and ready to return.”
Bautista leads Friday running in Indonesia ahead of his first match point in Race 1
The Spanish rider finished ahead of reigning Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu in Friday’s combined classification
Friday highlights – WorldSBK
P1 – Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
The Championship leader was fastest on Friday at Mandalika, setting a best time of 1’33.626s.
He was 0.462s faster than 2nd-placed Razgatlioglu and was the only rider in the 1’33s.
Bautista will be able to clinch the title in Race 1 if he outscores Razgatlioglu by 17 points and Rea by one point as he needs to have a 99-point margin to both Rea and Razgatlioglu (only full length race wins are used in the event of a tie, which currently stands at 12 for Bautista and five for Razgatlioglu with four remaining).
Alvaro Bautista (19). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“Today, basically, we tried to understand the track to have some reference with a Ducati and also, in FP1, our goal today was just to put rubber on the track. In the afternoon, the track improved a little bit. I was a bit inconsistent during practice because, when I didn’t see very clearly when I could be safe in the corner, I just rolled off and didn’t take any risks. It’s better to have more Ducatis in front because it means that maybe it’s a track that fits not so bad for our bike but, at the same time, it depends a lot. Tomorrow we will see improvement from the track and then we see the performance of each rider. This kind of weekend is difficult to understand from the first day because everything is changing a lot. You have to be focused and try to get the maximum every time you go out to the track. My feeling with the bike has been positive.”
P2 – Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK)
Razgatlioglu was second with a best lap clocked in 1’34.088s in FP2.
He was one of the busiest riders on track over the two sessions, completing 38 laps with only Bautista and Baz recording more.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“This morning, we started with a dirty track and in the afternoon, it felt much better. I’m feeling good and ready to race. We tried some different setups for the race and I’m very happy with the long run and the race simulation. I’m looking now to tomorrow because it will be an important day for me. Now, there is just one clean line but it’s not completely clean. In the races, it won’t be easy to pass because outside the line is very dirty. I hope it doesn’t start to rain because, otherwise, I think tomorrow will start like today.”
P3 – Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
Rinaldi posted his best time in 1’34.590s, finishing third in the combined standings.
He was 0.964s behind his teammate.
“Friday has been pretty good because, last year, here I struggled a lot. The track is different, and the asphalt is new, so it was difficult this morning to get a rhythm. This afternoon was much better, so everyone pushed for lap times. We tried the tyre because it looks like the SCX is damaging too much after a few laps. So, we go for the hardest compound, and I really like it. My lap was quite good. I think that at the moment we don’t have the pace to be on the podium, we need to improve a little bit. I think it will important to be in front and follow the slipstream of the top guys for a podium or a top four.”
P4 – Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)
Rea was fourth with a personal best time of 1’34.595s, 0.969s slower than Bautista.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“It was a difficult day honestly. I’ve felt that this morning it was very difficult the track. It was more a case of just understanding the layout, warming up. And then in FP2 the line was very narrow. I didn’t feel great with my bike. We guessed a bit balance change in the bike to try to generate some grip on the tyre. It’s just not really my base setup. I wasn’t feeling good. I think it’s more a case of back to basics tomorrow. Trying to get a bike that is more natural turning and then start to work step by step. We need to pay attention to the weather because the forecast and being in this microclimate here, we can have rain or we can have sun. The track temperature today was very high. We just don’t know what we’ll face tomorrow.”
Gerloff was the fastest Independent rider in the top six finishing in fifth.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“Today was difficult. This morning the track was so dirty. It’s awesome that the track put the new asphalt and everything, the commitment they have to racing and to have the best possible asphalt and circuit is really good. Really difficult this morning, especially for me. We just stayed on one set of tyres, just trying to get laps in and basically not waste any stickers with the track conditions not the best. FP2 went a lot better, as long as you stay on that line, you’re fine, but if you go off line a little bit you have a big time.”
P6 – Xavi Fores (BARNI Spark Racing Team)
Fores was sixth overall, as he completed his best time in 1’34.871s.
Xavi Fores (12). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“This morning was a little bit crazy because the track was so dirty, and it was like riding on ice. I took my time to learn the layout and I was taking care of the bike because I was a little bit lost, especially in the first laps of FP1. This afternoon, in FP2, I’ve felt more comfortable with the bike. We changed some things compared to this morning. I put some new tyres on and the pace was ok. I was inside the top eight and top five during all the session. I’ve felt comfortable, and especially I didn’t feel like I was pushing too much to do a lap. This is something that makes me happy. This morning I was a bit frustrated because the level is so high and coming in this time of the season, it’s not easy to be on the level. But anyway, I’m feeling confident and comfortable with the bike.”
To note:
Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) finished in eighth as the best Honda rider. FP2 was red flagged after a huge highside for Iker Lecuona (Team HRC). He was diagnosed with a low back contusion and has been transported to RSUD NTB Mataram Hospital for further assessments. Hafizh Syahrin (MIE Racing Honda Team) also had a crash in FP2 which brought out the red flags, but after being evaluated at the medical centre was declared fit.
WorldSBK action resumes on Saturday from 08:30 (Local Time) with the FP3 session, followed by Tissot Superpole at 10:40 and Race 1 at 13:30.
WorldSBK Combined Results after FP2
1. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’33.626s
2. Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) +0.462s
3. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.964s
4. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +0.969s
For his first appearance in Mandalika, the Italian rookie topped Friday’s timesheets while Championship leader Aegerter was 9th
Friday highlights – WorldSSP
P1 – Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team)
On his first outing on the Mandalika circuit, Bulega led Friday’s practices with a best time of 1’38.004s set in FP2.
He was 0.223s fastest than second-placed Raffaele De Rosa.
“New track for me… this morning, I understood the track and I felt much better from the first lap. This morning, the track conditions were not so good, there was zero grip. It was like riding in the wet with slick tyres. But this afternoon, the track was much better. I have a very good feeling with my bike again, like during the first part of the season, because in the last three or four rounds, I was a bit slower. But now, my good feeling came back and I’m happy. For the moment, I really like this circuit, I think it’s very good for our bike and for my riding style, so I hope to continue like this and be faster all the weekend and I’ll try to bring good results.”
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Raffaele De Rosa (Orelac Racing VerdNatura WorldSSP) was second despite a crash in FP2. He set a best time of 1’43.685s. Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing) finished the day in third place in the combined results, 0.245s behind Bulega. This means that the top three was filled with Ducati riders.
Yari Montella (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was fifth, followed by Niki Tuuli (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) and Stefano Manzi (Dynavolt Triumph).
Championship leader Dominique Aegerter (Ten Kate Racing Team) was ninth on the combined schedule with a best time of 1’38.912s. Championship challenger Lorenzo Baldassarri (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) was eighth. The pair separated by just one tenth at the end of Friday’s action.
To note:
FP2 was red flagged with just over 20 minutes left after a crash for Adrian Huertas (MTM Kawasaki) at Turn 8. The rookie was taken to the medical centre for a check-up following the crash where he was declared fit.
Aegerter has the chance to wrap up his second title in Race 1 if he outscores title rival Lorenzo Baldassarri (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) by three points or loses less than 22 to him across both Race 1 and Race 2.
WorldSSP action resumes on Saturday with the Tissot Superpole at 09:55 and Race 1 at 12:00.
WorldSSP Combined Results after FP2
1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 1’38.004s
2. Raffaele De Rosa (Orelac Racing VerdNatura WorldSSP) +0.223s
3. Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing) +0.245s
4. Yari Montella (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) +0.291s
5. Niki Tuuli (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) +0.341s
6. Stefano Manzi (Dynavolt Triumph) +0.564s
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
Rea Fourth After Early Mandalika Action
The Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit played host to two Free Practice sessions at the start of the FIM Superbike World Championship round on Friday 11 November. KRT riders Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes finished up fourth and 11th fastest overall.
The recently resurfaced Mandalika track surface was in dirty and dusty condition at the beginning of FP1. The new asphalt is very smooth but the lack of recent track action to help clean the surface meant that FP1 was a particular challenge to all.
In very hot but dry conditions the grip available on the emerging narrow racing line improved to a degree in time for Free Practice Two, allowing Rea to move up to fourth place overall.
Rea had not been riding with his usual level of confidence at times, simply due to the track conditions, but in finishing with the fourth best time he demonstrated his pace and experience once more.
Lowes was concentrating hard on machine set-up in both sessions and set the 11th best lap time, despite not managing to go for one final fast lap at the end of FP2. He also worked on the SC0 tyre option he expects to use in the races, if the weather at Mandalika remains dry for the races.
Saturday 12 November will host FP3, Tissot-Superpole Qualifying and then Race One, which features 21 laps of the 4.310km circuit.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “This morning the track was so dirty. And even in the afternoon I felt OK on the racing line, in most areas, but some areas are critical. Off the racing line was a nightmare. The set-up we arrived with, considering the grip level that we would face in FP1, was quite far from our base set-up, from a balance and position point of view. I just didn’t feel comfortable all day, even in the afternoon when the grip level came up. When you are not comfortable and nervous, when the racing line is so, so narrow, it is like walking a tightrope just looking at the rope. You need to be confident, looking forward. We can see quite clearly what I am lacking and we can see where to start on Saturday.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes, stated: “Free Practice Two wasn’t too bad. I worked on the SC0 tyre because it looks like, in the current conditions, the SCX won’t last for us. I didn’t get a faster lap time in at the end just to see our outright speed but we did plenty of laps during the second session and have some good ideas about how to improve for tomorrow. It’s tricky out there, with a small clean line, so little mistakes can be costly. The track surface and grip are going to keep evolving. I’m pretty happy with the day’s work and excited for the first raceday tomorrow.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was just one place behind Lowes on Friday, in 12th on the timesheets.
Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) qualified 22nd, with Kyle Smith (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) 20th in his first ever full WorldSBK sessions.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Top Five on Scorching Opening Day in Mandalika for GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team returned to action today at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, Indonesia, with Garrett Gerloff going fifth fastest on combined times, while Kohta Nozane was 17th.
In the opening FIM Superbike World Championship session, both riders were building confidence on the recently resurfaced Indonesian track, gaining grip throughout the 45-minute session, with Gerloff and Nozane finishing 16th (1’39.147) and 21st (1’40.704) respectively.
The heat climbed throughout the day, and by the time the #31 and #3 riders got going again for FP2, the track temperature had risen well above 60 degrees C. Gerloff improve his pace drastically in the afternoon, putting himself fifth fastest (1’34.843) on his last run.
On the other side of the garage, Nozane kept improving his lap times, also setting his fastest flier in the latter stages of the session to go 17th on a 1’37.088.
Both will be back in action tomorrow, firstly with FP3 at 08:30 local time (GMT +8), then with the Tissot Superpole at 10:40 and Race 1 at 13:30.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Garrett Gerloff: P5 – 1’34.843
“It’s awesome that there’s new asphalt on the track, but today we had to make sure we stayed on the racing line to avoid crashing. In FP2, things went a lot better but it was still tough to ride. Making a pass will be hard in the race, as you need to go on the dirty part of the track and once you’re there it’s so easy to fall. Tyre choice is really difficult, even the hardest compound is getting torn apart, and I think after Race 1 it will be more clear as to who made the right or the wrong choice.”
Kohta Nozane (3). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Kohta Nozane: P17 – 1’37.088
“Not the easiest day for us, we need improvements. Anyway, I’m sure about the possibility of being faster tomorrow and I’m looking forward to it. We know the areas where we’re struggling the most, so we’ll work on that to build a good Superpole session and Race 1. The track was very slippery and it was difficult to find grip, but hopefully things will improve tomorrow.”
More, from another press release issued by Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK Beat the Heat in Tropical Indonesian Free Practice
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK rider Toprak Razgatlıoğlu topped Free Practice 1 and finished second in the overall standings, with teammate Andrea Locatelli in P7 on the opening day of the penultimate round of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship in Indonesia today.
With a brand new surface at Mandalika International Street Circuit, the riders had a tough day on track to assess tyre life and race set-up during just two 45-minute sessions. A lack of grip and work to scrub or “clean” the optimum race line on the new asphalt meant early lap times were a far cry from the lap record set during WorldSBK’s first visit to the island of Lombok last November.
But, as always, Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK got to work to complete as many laps as possible to give both riders the best chance of success during the weekend. Free Practice 2 was the hottest session of the day with track temperatures of more than 61 degrees Celsius – making it hard work for both rider and machine alike – while a series of red flags also interrupted the flow of many of the field’s “race simulations” during this afternoon’s representative conditions.
Indonesia’s special condensed race schedule will continue tomorrow with Free Practice 3 starting at the earlier time of 8:30 (UTC+8) followed by Superpole qualifying from 10:40-10:55 and lights out for Race 1 at 13:30.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (1). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P2 – 1’34.088
“This morning, we started with a dirty track but in the afternoon feeling much better. The feeling with the bike is very good and I am ready to race. We tried some different setups for the race and also did some good work – I’m very happy with the race simulation. I’m looking now to tomorrow because it will be an important day for me. Now, there is just one clean line but not completely clean. But in the race, not easy to pass because outside the line very dirty. I hope it doesn’t start to rain tonight because like this I think tomorrow will start like today. Not easy for all riders, also for the tyre life is difficult to manage now, but we will see. Now my plan is good qualifying and a good race, I hope to fight for the win. My goal this weekend is three wins, but the weather is always changing so we try our best.”
Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Andrea Locatelli: P7 – 1’34.941
“The feeling on the bike was not so bad this morning and also in the afternoon. The track condition for sure has not helped us to take a good rhythm. I think the track will improve more tomorrow, we worked a lot today to understand what we need to improve for the races. In general, I’m not super happy but I think we are ready to fight this weekend to try to get good results. We try to get the best possible position, this is the objective, and we hope to close the gap to the front as much as possible in FP3, Superpole and Race 1 tomorrow.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Super Friday for Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team: Bautista dominates free practice with Rinaldi third. Bulega tops the timesheets in Supersport
The Pirelli Indonesian Round started in the right way for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team. Friday’s free practice, in fact, finished with Alvaro Bautista and Michael Rinaldi in first and third position respectively.
After using FP1 mainly to get to grips with the new asphalt at the Mandalika circuit, Alvaro Bautista’s feeling with the Ducati Panigale V4R grew lap by lap in the second session, allowing him to close in on the lead with a 462 thousandths of a second advantage over Toprak Razgatlioglu (Yamaha).
Michael Rinaldi also had a very positive day, working well with his team despite the fact that track conditions, especially in FP1, were not the best. The Italian rider ended free practice in third place, nine tenths down on his team-mate.
Alvaro Bautista (19). Photo courtesy Ducati.
P1 (1’33.626) Alvaro Bautista
“It was a very strange day. In FP1 we literally tried to put rubber on the track because with the new asphalt the grip was non-existent. In the afternoon things improved even though I have to say that the conditions are still not optimal: we only have a tight line with grip because the circuit is not yet perfectly rubberized. In any case we have collected a lot of data to try and improve further tomorrow.”
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Ducati.
P3 (1’34.590) Michael Rinaldi
“All in all I can consider this Friday quite positive. In fact we finished in third place on a track where I encountered several difficulties last year. I did a good lap, that’s true, but we still need to improve on the pace. In FP2 we managed to make an important step compared to the morning, but we will certainly need another one tomorrow to be able to fight for the podium”.
WorldSSP
Extremely positive feelings for Nicolò Bulega and the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP team.
P1 (1’38.004) Nicolò Bulega
“I didn’t know the track and that’s why I struggled a bit in FP1 also because of the almost total lack of grip. In the afternoon the track improved a lot and I finally got my feeling back from the first part of the season. I’m back to riding the way I like to ride and that gives me a lot of confidence. I hope to have a good weekend.
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Iker Lecuona ruled out of the Indonesian WorldSBK round
Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Iker Lecuona has been declared unfit to compete in the remainder of the Indonesian WorldSBK round after a violent highside during the second practice at the Mandalika International Street Circuit in Indonesia saw him hit the ground hard at turn 4.
With the track offering more grip than it had in FP1, times immediately begun to tumble in FP2, Iker up into third when the unfortunate incident occurred. Lecuona was taken to the circuit medical center for an initial medical assessment and was later airlifted to the RSUD Provinsi NTB Hospital in Mataram for further tests. Following CT and MRI scans, doctors have diagnosed a stable fracture of the T12 vertebra (with no neurological damage) as well as a fracture to the left side of the sacrum. With no need for stabilization surgery, Lecuona has already been discharged from the hospital and will now rest and begin conservative treatment.
Earlier in the day, Team HRC had in fact enjoyed one of its strongest first outings of the season. Despite high temperatures and the fact that the track offered very little grip after recent resurfacing, Lecuona and Xavi Vierge were able to soon build confidence with what is a new track for them both. Quickly improving on their times on what was a dirty and slippery track, Lecuona had finished the first practice session in second place, followed by team-mate Vierge in fifth.
Vierge spent session two making a few small setup changes that clearly worked and allowed him to pick up the pace and lap almost three seconds quicker than he had during FP1. Setting an impressive best of 1’35.022 in the final minutes, Xavi projected himself into eighth position overall by the end of day one.
Xavi Vierge (97). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Xavi Vierge 97
P8
“A positive day, albeit a rather challenging one due to the track conditions and the fact it’s a brand-new track for us. I simply love the layout but with the tarmac resurfaced just recently, the grip is terrible right now. As the day progressed, a line formed and there was more grip there, but the outer line is still so dirty. It was so easy to crash at the slightest “mistake” and it was hard to go fast without making mistakes. Having said that, we made good progress throughout the day while also collating useful information so that we can try to make a step tomorrow and get closer to the top guys. I wish Iker all the best and hope he will soon be fit and ready to return.”
More, from a press release issued by Team GoEleven:
NEW (and SLIPPERY) ASPHALT, GOOD STEP IN FP2, BUT THE RIGHT FEELING IS STILL MISSING!
Philipp Oettl (5). Photo courtesy Team GoEleven.
Friday saw the riders hit to the track for the first time on the new asphalt of the Mandalika circuit; as often happens when the tarmac is recently redone, in the first sessions the track shows slippery, and with very slow and insignificant times. As the laps went by, conditions improved, with riders and teams able to work ahead of the races, even if the day wasn’t really smooth.
In FP 1 the WorldSBK riders took to the track in rather difficult conditions, almost at the limit of the “wet” times, trying more than anything else to regain the feeling with the track, understand lines and trajectories for those who, like Philipp, had their debut with the Superbike, and just leaving tyre on the asphalt. Team Go Eleven has opted to use only one set of tyres, due to the limited usefulness of the laptimes. Oettl completed 10 chrono laps, getting his best on the last chance before returning to the pits. A good 38.8 that earned him a momentary Top Ten position, before some opponents took advantage of a new softer tyre. In any case, the times were more than 4 seconds from the record, far too far to understand anything of the values on the field.
Free Practice 1:
P 1 T. Razgatlioglu 1.36.938
P 2 I. Lecuona + 0.189
P 3 A. Bautista + 0.571
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.911
In FP 2 the asphalt immediately showed itself to be in better conditions, so much so that several riders entered with fresh tyres; in the first laps Philipp is at ease, improving the time of the morning and entering third position. Just when he was starting the long run to evaluate the durability of the rear SCX, and the front, also very stressed in Mandalika, two red flags caused by some crashes interrupt the session. In fact, new unused tyre; so the technicians decide to try a new solution by extending bike length, with the aim of reducing the nervousness of the bike. Upon returning to the track Philipp immediately drops to 35, scoring a formidable second sector, but in the following laps he makes several mistakes due to a clear difficulty in stopping the bike. As a result, he just can’t take out the most from the new tyre, which surely could have given him a few tenths less. Today the Italian team was unable to carry out a real long run, and the choice of compounds will also be evaluated tomorrow. However, it remains a good thirteenth position, not far from the Top Ten.
Free Practice 2:
P 1 A. Bautista 1.33.626
P 2 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.462
P 3 M. Rinaldi + 0.964
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.984
For tomorrow it will be essential to work with the aim of finding greater consistency in the laps, so that the bike is not too difficult for the race distance, which here will be very physical due to the high heat; today at 1.30pm, Race 1 time, the asphalt was over 60 degrees, with air temperatures around 40!
Saturday Schedule (local time / Italian Time)
FP 3: 08.30 – 09.00 / 01.30 – 02.00
Superpole: 10.40 – 10.55 / 03.40 – 03.55
Race 1: 13.30 / 06.40
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Today it was a difficult day from the beginning due to the track conditions; first time on this track with the new tarmac, it was really slippery. The first session it was good, we didn’t use the new tyre, so the lap time was quite ok. The second session it was a little bit confusing because the practice had been stopped two times by red flag, when I had the new tyre. It didn’t allow me to understand the bike well, and the change on the bike length we did in the second outing, I didn’t realize it completely. Now we have a bit of time to analyse the datas, so we can understand where we are good and where we need to improve. I am quite optimistic for tomorrow, if we work in the correct way we can fight for a good result. The positive thing is that my left arm is completely ok, so I shouldn’t have the same problems of last weekend!”
Strong new partnership in WorldSBK: ROKiT is Title Partner of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.
New Title Partner, new name from 2023: ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team, with Scott Redding and Michael van der Mark in the FIM Superbike World Championship.
ROKiT expands its involvement in motorsport into the Superbike World Championship with the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.
Marc Bongers: “ROKiT has established itself as an important player in motorsport internationally”.
Shaun Muir: “It is great to have ROKiT as a strong partner at our side and to head into the future together”.
ROKiT Chairman and CEO Jonathan Kendrick: “We’re very excited to be aligning our ROKiT companies with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and we look forward to great success with this fantastic partnership”.
Munich. As the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) enters the closing stages of the 2022 season, the course has already been set for the future: ROKiT has come on board as new Title Partner of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. The multi-year partnership begins in the 2023 season, in which team principal Shaun Muir’s outfit will line up with riders Scott Redding (GBR) and Michael van der Mark (NED) under the new name ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. This title sponsorship sees ROKiT expand its successful involvement in international motorsport to incorporate WorldSBK. As well as the new team name, the title cooperation also includes many other areas.
ROKiT, co-founded by Jonathan Kendrick and John Paul DeJoria, has a diverse portfolio of innovative businesses products and services including mobile phones, ROKiT Cities (which deploys mass-access out of home wi-fi internationally) , a portfolio of drink brands, a large drinks distribution company, a product licensing division, an apparel and accessories range, eBikes and 3D content production, development and distribution of movies and music. 2023 will also bring a range of electronics and gadgets under their ROKiT Life brand that are complimentary to the spirit of the ROKiT and BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team partnership, including a range of sleek and customisable smart-glasses and digital smartwatches, to fast charging power supply packs.
ROKiT has invested heavily in building brand awareness in recent years in a variety of motorsports internationally including the highly innovative ROKiT Racing Star programme, designed to unearth and develop the next generation of superstar drivers.
“Through its various commitments, ROKiT has established itself as an important player in motorsport internationally, and we are delighted to welcome them into the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family as Title Partner of the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team,” says BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers. “It is fantastic that ROKiT has decided to extend its extensive motorsport activities into WorldSBK through the collaboration with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. Strong partners are an important pillar in the further development and success of our project. Without them, it would not be possible to achieve the project’s goals in such a high-quality world championship as WorldSBK. We are looking forward to a great future together, in which we hope to celebrate a lot of success with the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.”
“I am delighted to secure ROKiT as our new Title Partner for the coming years for the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team,” said Team Principal Shaun Muir. “ROKiT is a fantastic and very inspiring brand that impresses with its many different worldwide activities in several industries. We are proud of our new collaboration and are very much looking forward to it. It will be a comprehensive partnership that will also include associated brands within the ROKiT Group and that will be an important step to further grow our entire project. It is great to have ROKiT as a strong partner at our side and to head into the future together.”
“This is a particularly exciting partnership for ROKiT because it’s very clear that BMW Motorrad share the same passions for innovation, achievement and success that we do, not to mention we both appreciate Bavarian beer as the finest beer in the world!” said Jonathan Kendrick whose ROKiT Drinks company includes ABK Beer, brewed at its 700 year old brewery in Kaufbeuren (GER). “Our move into Superbike racing is a natural extension of our recent motorsport sponsorships, through which I’m looking to involve several of our businesses, as we look forward to huge success together in the coming years.”
SHARK Grand Prix de France wins 2022 Best Grand Prix
Fans packed into the classic Sarthe circuit to celebrate a truly unforgettable French GP
Thursday, 10 November 2022
The SHARK Grand Prix de France has been named the Best Grand Prix of 2022! The award takes into account everything across the weekend to see who did it best each season, with IRTA voting in a number of different categories before the winner is declared. This year? It’s a first for France and the historic Le Mans.
More than 110,000 people flocked to the French venue on race day alone in 2022, proving the perfect crescendo for a weekend packed with on-track thrills and fan activities. The event has long blazed a trail on the MotoGP™ calendar with its full programme of entertainment, from stunt shows to rider appearances and everything in between. Now with not one, but two home heroes fighting at the front in MotoGP™, the roar from the stands is only getting louder.
The 2022 Best Grand Prix award is fitting recognition for a fantastic event and marks the first time Le Mans wins it outright – just in time for the paddock to return to the track in 2023 to celebrate the 1000th Grand Prix in history and the 30th GP organised by PHA Claude Michy.
Claude Michy, PHA Claude Michy: “We are proud of this award, but first of all I must thank Carmelo Ezpeleta for the trust he has placed in me since 1994 and the respect I owe to him. Our fruitful exchanges with IRTA have always helped us in our initiatives.
“We associate to this recognition all the actors of the SHARK Grand Prix de France Moto: the ACO, its collaborators ant its marshals, our private and public partners, our suppliers, the prefecture of SARTHE and the local authorities, without forgetting our fantastic public.
“We are actively preparing our 30th organization of the SHARK Grand Prix de France Moto, which will take place on May 12th – 13th – 14th, 2023.”
Hervé Poncharal, President of IRTA: “As President of IRTA, and being French, I’m very proud to see the French Grand Prix awarded best of 2022. I think Claude Michy and his staff have done an incredible job. For three decades he’s been doing an amazing job, I think they’ve showed the way to quite a few promoters by having a fanzone, bringing the riders to the crowd, the show on Saturday… every single year there is something special, stunt guys… he has showed that the main focus of a Grand Prix is the MotoGP™ race, but you also need to give a full weekend experience to fans. A fan village, concerts, these extra activities… he has showed the way. On top of that, despite a drought of local heroes in the premier class until Johann and Fabio, despite the weather sometimes being more difficult, they’ve also had an incredible crowd and it has always been one of the best attended Grands Prix.
“I think Claude has always listened to IRTA and teams, what we needed, and has been in close contact with Dorna, always willing to improve everything possible and create an incredible weekend for MotoGP. It’s not a shock that the French Grand Prix was voted best of 2022 – I think it’s more of a surprise that they have not won before!”
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports: “We’re very proud to see the French GP voted the best of 2022. It’s a just reward for the three decades in which Le Mans have always brought something special to the table, working closely with us and with IRTA to create a truly spectacular weekend for the hundreds of thousands of fans who come to the French Grand Prix.
“We would like to thank Claude Michy, his team, and all those who make the French Grand Prix such a success, for their hard work, dedication and innovative approach across our seasons working together. Congratulations on winning the Best Grand Prix in 2022, and we very much look forward to returning next season for another history-making event as Le Mans celebrates this 30th event and hosts the 1000th Grand Prix in the history of our sport.”
Four-time British National Champion road racer Keith Farmer died today, according to media reports out of the United Kingdom. He was 35. The cause of his death was not reported.
The following is from MotorSport Vision Racing and the British Superbike Championship:
Everyone connected with the Bennetts British Superbike Championship is saddened to hear of Keith Farmer’s untimely passing at the age of just 35.
The ‘Clogher Bullet’ was a multiple title-winner within the Bennetts BSB support classes and was a respected and deeply popular rider across the paddock. He announced his retirement from the sport only last year.
Keith celebrated title success for the first time in 2011, claiming the National Superstock 600 Championship title as a privateer with a campaign that included seven podiums, six of those being race wins. His performance on track led him to be head-hunted by Paul Bird and he joined the PBM line-up for the next season as he progressed into the Superstock 1000 series.
Keith delivered his second consecutive title victory in 2012, having quickly adapted to more powerful machinery, and five wins and a further three podiums secured him the championship win.
As reigning champion in the Superstock 1000 class, he was elevated into Bennetts BSB with PBM, but after achieving a best result of fourth he parted ways with the team. He returned to the Superbike class a year later where he claimed his first and only main category podium in tricky conditions at Brands Hatch with the PR Racing team.
Keith then turned his attention back to the support classes, competing in both the British Supersport and National Superstock Championships.
His time with the Appleyard/Macadam team in 2017 proved to be a winning combination as they celebrated title victory after nine wins and a further five podiums, impressively making him a champion across three different classes.
In 2018, Keith joined the Tyco BMW team and he superbly claimed a second National Superstock 1000 Championship title.
A year later Keith was back on the BSB grid with the Tyco BMW team, but a mid-season injury curtailed his campaign. He then switched to Buildbase Suzuki a year later. In the past two years, Keith made occasional appearances in both the Superstock and Superbike classes, before he officially announced his retirement from the sport in 2021.
Keith will be terribly missed by all that had the pleasure of meeting him throughout his career. He was a brilliant and successful rider on track, who will be fondly remembered by his rivals, colleagues and fans following today’s tragic news.
Our thoughts and sympathies are with his friends and family members and in particular his children. Rest in peace Keith.
For MV Agusta, 2023 marks a true turning point in the name of evolution and technology. The R package makes its début on all the three-cylinder bikes: Brutale, Dragster, F3, and Turismo Veloce flaunt new colours and lots of new features. The new range of three and four cylinder bikes, even more complete and exclusive, finalizes an exceptional development path which has produced astonishing results, particularly in terms of riding thrills.
3-CYLINDER RANGE
Ride by Wire
The electronic throttle control has been entirely redesigned to make using it even more intuitive and gradual, without sacrificing the responsive action that is an absolute must for a sport bike throttle control. The new double return spring and especially the 6° negative rotation simplify throttle management and allow the cruise control to be deactivated without braking: simply close the throttle. The negative rotation also reduces the risk of involuntary engagement when the road surface is particularly bumpy, all to the advantage of comfort. At the same time, the operating algorithms have been upgraded for a superior riding feeling.
Improved ergonomics and interface
A new rider’s seat has been introduced on the Brutale R and Brutale RR, whereas the saddle on the Dragster R and Dragster RR has been changed entirely. Thanks to new development and design tools, as well as the use of 3D Mesh materials, comfort has increased drastically. To make any trip, from a city commute to a long trip on the weekend, a pleasant and comfortable adventure.
The instrumentation focused on the 5.5” TFT panel is one of the main interface points between rider and bike. For 2023, the software is updated and evolved to provide greater ease of use, in addition to the advanced connectivity, with navigation Turn-by-Turn, platform that has been further improved. The equipment includes the Mobisat geolocalised anti-theft system (with the exception of Dragster R and Turismo Veloce R).
New braking system
The constant development path – one of MV Agusta’s fundamental values – also focused on the braking system. Brembo M4.32 monobloc front callipers come standard on the Brutale RR and the Dragster RR. The higher level of stiffness of the callipers improves both modular operation and power, also achieving a significant reduction in weight to the tune of 200 grams. On the F3 R, the F3 RR, the Superveloce, and the Superveloce S, the front callipers are Brembo Stylema M4.30 with Brembo PR 16/19 radial master cylinder. Overall, the new equipment increases braking power and reduces the weight by a full 300 grams.
Rear brake modular operation has been improved on the entire 3-cylinder range thanks to upgrades to the hydraulic circuit, increasing the hydrostatic pressure in the system. The result? Improved feeling during use.
Tyres and ABS
Introducing new OEM tyres, respectively Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV and Diablo Rosso Corsa IV. The Continental MK100 ABS has also been upgraded, with refinements made to the cornering feature in order to provide an even more precise and safer response in all conditions.
THE R FAMILY, THE GATEWAY TO THE MV AGUSTA WORLD
The new R family, which replaces the Rosso, was conceived as an entry-level offer to the MV Agusta world. The greater availability of colour schemes, focused on red and black in various combination, is just one of the new features for the Brutale R, Dragster R, F3 R, and Turismo Veloce R model.
A 2023 MV Agusta Brutale R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
The Brutale R makes its début packed with plenty of refinements: fork and mono shock with new adjustment, Continental MK100 ABS with optimised calibration, a new rider saddle, 5.5” TFT instrumentation with updated software, new electronic Ride-By-Wire throttle control featuring negative rotation, and valve tappets with DLC coating that reduces friction and improves efficiency.
A 2023 MV Agusta Dragster R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
For 2023, the Dragster R has new Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, a more modular rear brake, fork and mono shock with new adjustment, Continental MK100 ABS with optimised calibration, a new saddle, 5.5” colour TFT instrumentation with updated software, new electronic Ride-By-Wire throttle control featuring negative rotation, and valve tappets with DLC coating.
A 2023 MV Agusta F3 R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
The sporty F3 R joins the 2023 range with new graphics and the glossy Ago Red colour scheme. A new Full LED front light cluster makes its début, complete with DRL and a pair of futuristic headlamps for low and high beam. The LED turn indicators have been redesigned and inserted in rear view mirrors that are also brand new. The rear turn indicators are now LED. The fork has a TIN coating, whereas the OEM tyres are Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa IV. All the improvements already offered on the other models are confirmed here as well, specifically the redesigned Ride-By-Wire system featuring negative rotation to favour throttle modulation and deactivating cruise control without braking. The braking features new equipment in the form of Brembo M4.30 Stylema front callipers.
A 2023 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
The Turismo Veloce R is available in matt black (Metallic Carbon Black) and in the classic red and black combination (Metallic Madness Red Gloss and Metallic Carbon Black Gloss). The rider saddle has been lowered to make it even easier to reach the ground and comfort has increased thanks in part to the wider windscreen and the longer gear ratios.
RR RANGE
A 2023 MV Agusta Brutale RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
Brutale RR
The new Surreal White/Fire Red colour scheme with glossy finish makes its début, whereas the highly successful Fire Red/Intense Black combination has been reconfirmed. Some of the noteworthy main upgrades include the Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, the Brembo M4.32 front brake callipers, the revamped Ride-By-Wire system, the new rider saddle, the fork with DLC treatment, the Continental ABS with optimised Cornering, the Full LED front light cluster, also with Cornering function, the instrumentation with updated software and improved connectivity.
Three colour schemes are available for the model that mounts the Rekluse clutch, developed in collaboration with MV Agusta and which lets you forget about the left lever: Ago Red/Mica America Blue, Fire Red/Intense Black, and Metallic Pearl Yellow/Intense Black. In addition to the new features on the Brutale RR, there is now a brand new front wheel rim with thicker spokes, an even more popular design piece in terms of finishing and materials, and an aggressive rear wheel cover in Rush style which enhances, although partially covering it, the lightweight wheel rim in forged aluminium.
A 2023 MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
F3 RR
The supersport bike celebrates Bahattin Sofuoglu’s victory in the European WorldSSP Championship with two spectacular colour schemes: one, more classic, combines Matt Fire Red and Matt Metallic Dark Grey. The other breathes life into an uncompromising combination of Metallic Carbon Black and Metallic Dark Grey. The fork benefits from TIN surface treatment for smoother action. The Full LED light cluster is new, as are the rear view mirrors and the turn indicators. The rider footpegs are CNC machined. The racing kit, which guarantees 8 more horsepower, includes a dedicated CNC fuel cap, the passenger seat cover, the ECU with racing map, and the lightweight Akrapović exhaust muffler, approved for street use.
A 2023 MV Agusta Superveloce. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
Superveloce and Superveloce S
The magical Nardo Grey/Matt Metallic Carbon Black/Ago Red and Ago Red/Ago Silver colour schemes project the Superveloce into the future. The main upgrades include the fork with TIN treatment, updated Ride-By-Wire and Continental ABS with Cornering function, Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa IV tyres and braking system with Brembo M4.30 Stylema front callipers and a Brembo PR 16/19 radial master cylinder. The colour schemes for the Superveloce S are monochromatic on a silver base (Silver Iridium) with gold frame and wheel rims (Matt Gold) and on a black base in two shades (Metallic Carbon Black and Matt Metallic Carbon Black), also with Matt Gold frame and wheel rims. The racing kit includes the fantastic three-muffler Arrow exhaust approved for street use – a true touch of refined classic style – the ECU with dedicated mapping, and the tail cover in fibre carbon.
A 2023 MV Agusta Superveloce S. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
There are upgrades for the Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS as well, breaking into 2023 with two colour combinations: Metallic Carbon Black/Matt Metallic Dark Grey and Fire Red/Matt Metallic Dark Grey. Fitted with semi-active Sachs suspension to the advantage of comfort both in the city and over long distances, it has been updated like the entire range with the introduction of the electronic Ride-By-Wire throttle control and other upgrades on the Turismo Veloce R such as, for example, the wider windscreen and the lowered saddle.
4-CYLINDER RANGE
There are plenty of upgrades for the four-cylinder range comprising Brutale RS, Brutale RR, and Rush.
Engine
The engine has been updated with the arrival of the countershaft unit which allows a 54% reduction of the second order vibrations, all to the advantage of comfort and reliability. The valve tappets, like on the three-cylinder engines, have DLC treatment to reduce internal friction and improve performance. The profile of the cams has been revamped to optimise torque availability. The radial valves are made of titanium.
Ride-By-Wire
On all the four-cylinder bikes, the new electronic Ride-by-Wire throttle control with 6° negative rotation drastically improves the feeling of the throttle, making control of the bike more intuitive and immediate. Credit also goes to the new control algorithms. further refined to provide a response worthy of a supersport bike, but without being too abrupt. In the new configuration, the throttle control, along with the new control management, allows cruise control to be deactivated simply by closing the throttle, whereas braking was previously required.
Electronics
The instrumentation, focused on the 5.5” TFT panel, also benefits from an overall improvement thanks to the software upgrade, also to the advantage of the connectivity features. The Mobisat anti-theft system with geolocalisation lets you sleep more peacefully at night. As do the inertial platform and the Continental Cornering ABS, both upgraded to provide the utmost in safety.
The most versatile of the 4-cylinder Brutale bikes flaunts the elegant Nardo Grey/Matt Metallic Dark Grey colour scheme and the classic version on a red base, Ago Red with contrasting Metallic Dark Grey elements. The most significant upgrade on the engine is undoubtedly the countershaft, which has positive effects on comfort and reliability because fewer vibrations ensure a longer operational lifespan for the components, especially the electronics. The Marzocchi fork with DLC surface coating stands out for its best-in-class smooth action.
The Brutale RR in the Matt Hedonist Red/Matt Metallic Carbon Black colour scheme is the rightful heir, for elegance and aggressiveness, of the first Brutale 1000. The grit of the version in (Matt Metallic Carbon Black/Matt Metallic Dark Grey) with a stroke of Magma Red to seal a unique design is impressive. Armed with 208 HP of power for a kerb weight of just 198 kg, the Brutale RR is the naked bike to beat.
A 2023 MV Agusta Rush. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
Rush
The 2023 colour of the Rush combines Mamba Red 2.0 and Intense Black. One of the many details that make the Rush a truly unique model is the support bracket for the front light cluster, made in aluminium. Thanks to SLM (Selective Laser Melting) technology, it gives this model a truly exclusive touch. Last, but not least, the kit that comes with the Rush is a true treasure trove: Arrow muffler with carbon fibre cover, ECU with dedicated mapping, carbon forged rear wheel cover, 24-spoke front wheel rim, and CNC machined fuel cap. And much more.
Iker Lecuona ruled out of the Indonesian WorldSBK round
Iker Lecuona has been declared unfit to compete in the remainder of the Indonesian WorldSBK round after a violent highside during the second practice at the Mandalika International Street Circuit in Indonesia saw him hit the ground hard at turn 4.
With the track offering more grip than it had in FP1, times immediately begun to tumble in FP2, Iker up into third when the unfortunate incident occurred. Lecuona was taken to the circuit medical center for an initial medical assessment and was later airlifted to the RSUD Provinsi NTB Hospital in Mataram for further tests. Following CT and MRI scans, doctors have diagnosed a stable fracture of the T12 vertebra (with no neurological damage) as well as a fracture to the left side of the sacrum. With no need for stabilization surgery, Lecuona has already been discharged from the hospital and will now rest and begin conservative treatment.
Earlier in the day, Team HRC had in fact enjoyed one of its strongest first outings of the season. Despite high temperatures and the fact that the track offered very little grip after recent resurfacing, Lecuona and Xavi Vierge were able to soon build confidence with what is a new track for them both. Quickly improving on their times on what was a dirty and slippery track, Lecuona had finished the first practice session in second place, followed by team-mate Vierge in fifth.
Vierge spent session two making a few small setup changes that clearly worked and allowed him to pick up the pace and lap almost three seconds quicker than he had during FP1. Setting an impressive best of 1’35.022 in the final minutes, Xavi projected himself into eighth position overall by the end of day one.
Xavi Vierge (97). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Xavi Vierge 97
P8
“A positive day, albeit a rather challenging one due to the track conditions and the fact it’s a brand-new track for us. I simply love the layout but with the tarmac resurfaced just recently, the grip is terrible right now. As the day progressed, a line formed and there was more grip there, but the outer line is still so dirty. It was so easy to crash at the slightest “mistake” and it was hard to go fast without making mistakes. Having said that, we made good progress throughout the day while also collating useful information so that we can try to make a step tomorrow and get closer to the top guys. I wish Iker all the best and hope he will soon be fit and ready to return.”
Bautista leads Friday running in Indonesia ahead of his first match point in Race 1
The Spanish rider finished ahead of reigning Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu in Friday’s combined classification
Friday highlights – WorldSBK
P1 – Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
The Championship leader was fastest on Friday at Mandalika, setting a best time of 1’33.626s.
He was 0.462s faster than 2nd-placed Razgatlioglu and was the only rider in the 1’33s.
Bautista will be able to clinch the title in Race 1 if he outscores Razgatlioglu by 17 points and Rea by one point as he needs to have a 99-point margin to both Rea and Razgatlioglu (only full length race wins are used in the event of a tie, which currently stands at 12 for Bautista and five for Razgatlioglu with four remaining).
Alvaro Bautista (19). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“Today, basically, we tried to understand the track to have some reference with a Ducati and also, in FP1, our goal today was just to put rubber on the track. In the afternoon, the track improved a little bit. I was a bit inconsistent during practice because, when I didn’t see very clearly when I could be safe in the corner, I just rolled off and didn’t take any risks. It’s better to have more Ducatis in front because it means that maybe it’s a track that fits not so bad for our bike but, at the same time, it depends a lot. Tomorrow we will see improvement from the track and then we see the performance of each rider. This kind of weekend is difficult to understand from the first day because everything is changing a lot. You have to be focused and try to get the maximum every time you go out to the track. My feeling with the bike has been positive.”
P2 – Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK)
Razgatlioglu was second with a best lap clocked in 1’34.088s in FP2.
He was one of the busiest riders on track over the two sessions, completing 38 laps with only Bautista and Baz recording more.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“This morning, we started with a dirty track and in the afternoon, it felt much better. I’m feeling good and ready to race. We tried some different setups for the race and I’m very happy with the long run and the race simulation. I’m looking now to tomorrow because it will be an important day for me. Now, there is just one clean line but it’s not completely clean. In the races, it won’t be easy to pass because outside the line is very dirty. I hope it doesn’t start to rain because, otherwise, I think tomorrow will start like today.”
P3 – Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
Rinaldi posted his best time in 1’34.590s, finishing third in the combined standings.
He was 0.964s behind his teammate.
“Friday has been pretty good because, last year, here I struggled a lot. The track is different, and the asphalt is new, so it was difficult this morning to get a rhythm. This afternoon was much better, so everyone pushed for lap times. We tried the tyre because it looks like the SCX is damaging too much after a few laps. So, we go for the hardest compound, and I really like it. My lap was quite good. I think that at the moment we don’t have the pace to be on the podium, we need to improve a little bit. I think it will important to be in front and follow the slipstream of the top guys for a podium or a top four.”
P4 – Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)
Rea was fourth with a personal best time of 1’34.595s, 0.969s slower than Bautista.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“It was a difficult day honestly. I’ve felt that this morning it was very difficult the track. It was more a case of just understanding the layout, warming up. And then in FP2 the line was very narrow. I didn’t feel great with my bike. We guessed a bit balance change in the bike to try to generate some grip on the tyre. It’s just not really my base setup. I wasn’t feeling good. I think it’s more a case of back to basics tomorrow. Trying to get a bike that is more natural turning and then start to work step by step. We need to pay attention to the weather because the forecast and being in this microclimate here, we can have rain or we can have sun. The track temperature today was very high. We just don’t know what we’ll face tomorrow.”
Gerloff was the fastest Independent rider in the top six finishing in fifth.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“Today was difficult. This morning the track was so dirty. It’s awesome that the track put the new asphalt and everything, the commitment they have to racing and to have the best possible asphalt and circuit is really good. Really difficult this morning, especially for me. We just stayed on one set of tyres, just trying to get laps in and basically not waste any stickers with the track conditions not the best. FP2 went a lot better, as long as you stay on that line, you’re fine, but if you go off line a little bit you have a big time.”
P6 – Xavi Fores (BARNI Spark Racing Team)
Fores was sixth overall, as he completed his best time in 1’34.871s.
Xavi Fores (12). Photo courtesy Dorna.
“This morning was a little bit crazy because the track was so dirty, and it was like riding on ice. I took my time to learn the layout and I was taking care of the bike because I was a little bit lost, especially in the first laps of FP1. This afternoon, in FP2, I’ve felt more comfortable with the bike. We changed some things compared to this morning. I put some new tyres on and the pace was ok. I was inside the top eight and top five during all the session. I’ve felt comfortable, and especially I didn’t feel like I was pushing too much to do a lap. This is something that makes me happy. This morning I was a bit frustrated because the level is so high and coming in this time of the season, it’s not easy to be on the level. But anyway, I’m feeling confident and comfortable with the bike.”
To note:
Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) finished in eighth as the best Honda rider. FP2 was red flagged after a huge highside for Iker Lecuona (Team HRC). He was diagnosed with a low back contusion and has been transported to RSUD NTB Mataram Hospital for further assessments. Hafizh Syahrin (MIE Racing Honda Team) also had a crash in FP2 which brought out the red flags, but after being evaluated at the medical centre was declared fit.
WorldSBK action resumes on Saturday from 08:30 (Local Time) with the FP3 session, followed by Tissot Superpole at 10:40 and Race 1 at 13:30.
WorldSBK Combined Results after FP2
1. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’33.626s
2. Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) +0.462s
3. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.964s
4. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +0.969s
For his first appearance in Mandalika, the Italian rookie topped Friday’s timesheets while Championship leader Aegerter was 9th
Friday highlights – WorldSSP
P1 – Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team)
On his first outing on the Mandalika circuit, Bulega led Friday’s practices with a best time of 1’38.004s set in FP2.
He was 0.223s fastest than second-placed Raffaele De Rosa.
“New track for me… this morning, I understood the track and I felt much better from the first lap. This morning, the track conditions were not so good, there was zero grip. It was like riding in the wet with slick tyres. But this afternoon, the track was much better. I have a very good feeling with my bike again, like during the first part of the season, because in the last three or four rounds, I was a bit slower. But now, my good feeling came back and I’m happy. For the moment, I really like this circuit, I think it’s very good for our bike and for my riding style, so I hope to continue like this and be faster all the weekend and I’ll try to bring good results.”
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Raffaele De Rosa (Orelac Racing VerdNatura WorldSSP) was second despite a crash in FP2. He set a best time of 1’43.685s. Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing) finished the day in third place in the combined results, 0.245s behind Bulega. This means that the top three was filled with Ducati riders.
Yari Montella (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was fifth, followed by Niki Tuuli (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) and Stefano Manzi (Dynavolt Triumph).
Championship leader Dominique Aegerter (Ten Kate Racing Team) was ninth on the combined schedule with a best time of 1’38.912s. Championship challenger Lorenzo Baldassarri (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) was eighth. The pair separated by just one tenth at the end of Friday’s action.
To note:
FP2 was red flagged with just over 20 minutes left after a crash for Adrian Huertas (MTM Kawasaki) at Turn 8. The rookie was taken to the medical centre for a check-up following the crash where he was declared fit.
Aegerter has the chance to wrap up his second title in Race 1 if he outscores title rival Lorenzo Baldassarri (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) by three points or loses less than 22 to him across both Race 1 and Race 2.
WorldSSP action resumes on Saturday with the Tissot Superpole at 09:55 and Race 1 at 12:00.
WorldSSP Combined Results after FP2
1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 1’38.004s
2. Raffaele De Rosa (Orelac Racing VerdNatura WorldSSP) +0.223s
3. Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing) +0.245s
4. Yari Montella (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) +0.291s
5. Niki Tuuli (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) +0.341s
6. Stefano Manzi (Dynavolt Triumph) +0.564s
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
Rea Fourth After Early Mandalika Action
The Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit played host to two Free Practice sessions at the start of the FIM Superbike World Championship round on Friday 11 November. KRT riders Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes finished up fourth and 11th fastest overall.
The recently resurfaced Mandalika track surface was in dirty and dusty condition at the beginning of FP1. The new asphalt is very smooth but the lack of recent track action to help clean the surface meant that FP1 was a particular challenge to all.
In very hot but dry conditions the grip available on the emerging narrow racing line improved to a degree in time for Free Practice Two, allowing Rea to move up to fourth place overall.
Rea had not been riding with his usual level of confidence at times, simply due to the track conditions, but in finishing with the fourth best time he demonstrated his pace and experience once more.
Lowes was concentrating hard on machine set-up in both sessions and set the 11th best lap time, despite not managing to go for one final fast lap at the end of FP2. He also worked on the SC0 tyre option he expects to use in the races, if the weather at Mandalika remains dry for the races.
Saturday 12 November will host FP3, Tissot-Superpole Qualifying and then Race One, which features 21 laps of the 4.310km circuit.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “This morning the track was so dirty. And even in the afternoon I felt OK on the racing line, in most areas, but some areas are critical. Off the racing line was a nightmare. The set-up we arrived with, considering the grip level that we would face in FP1, was quite far from our base set-up, from a balance and position point of view. I just didn’t feel comfortable all day, even in the afternoon when the grip level came up. When you are not comfortable and nervous, when the racing line is so, so narrow, it is like walking a tightrope just looking at the rope. You need to be confident, looking forward. We can see quite clearly what I am lacking and we can see where to start on Saturday.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes, stated: “Free Practice Two wasn’t too bad. I worked on the SC0 tyre because it looks like, in the current conditions, the SCX won’t last for us. I didn’t get a faster lap time in at the end just to see our outright speed but we did plenty of laps during the second session and have some good ideas about how to improve for tomorrow. It’s tricky out there, with a small clean line, so little mistakes can be costly. The track surface and grip are going to keep evolving. I’m pretty happy with the day’s work and excited for the first raceday tomorrow.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was just one place behind Lowes on Friday, in 12th on the timesheets.
Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) qualified 22nd, with Kyle Smith (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) 20th in his first ever full WorldSBK sessions.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Top Five on Scorching Opening Day in Mandalika for GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team returned to action today at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, Indonesia, with Garrett Gerloff going fifth fastest on combined times, while Kohta Nozane was 17th.
In the opening FIM Superbike World Championship session, both riders were building confidence on the recently resurfaced Indonesian track, gaining grip throughout the 45-minute session, with Gerloff and Nozane finishing 16th (1’39.147) and 21st (1’40.704) respectively.
The heat climbed throughout the day, and by the time the #31 and #3 riders got going again for FP2, the track temperature had risen well above 60 degrees C. Gerloff improve his pace drastically in the afternoon, putting himself fifth fastest (1’34.843) on his last run.
On the other side of the garage, Nozane kept improving his lap times, also setting his fastest flier in the latter stages of the session to go 17th on a 1’37.088.
Both will be back in action tomorrow, firstly with FP3 at 08:30 local time (GMT +8), then with the Tissot Superpole at 10:40 and Race 1 at 13:30.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Garrett Gerloff: P5 – 1’34.843
“It’s awesome that there’s new asphalt on the track, but today we had to make sure we stayed on the racing line to avoid crashing. In FP2, things went a lot better but it was still tough to ride. Making a pass will be hard in the race, as you need to go on the dirty part of the track and once you’re there it’s so easy to fall. Tyre choice is really difficult, even the hardest compound is getting torn apart, and I think after Race 1 it will be more clear as to who made the right or the wrong choice.”
Kohta Nozane (3). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Kohta Nozane: P17 – 1’37.088
“Not the easiest day for us, we need improvements. Anyway, I’m sure about the possibility of being faster tomorrow and I’m looking forward to it. We know the areas where we’re struggling the most, so we’ll work on that to build a good Superpole session and Race 1. The track was very slippery and it was difficult to find grip, but hopefully things will improve tomorrow.”
More, from another press release issued by Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK Beat the Heat in Tropical Indonesian Free Practice
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK rider Toprak Razgatlıoğlu topped Free Practice 1 and finished second in the overall standings, with teammate Andrea Locatelli in P7 on the opening day of the penultimate round of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship in Indonesia today.
With a brand new surface at Mandalika International Street Circuit, the riders had a tough day on track to assess tyre life and race set-up during just two 45-minute sessions. A lack of grip and work to scrub or “clean” the optimum race line on the new asphalt meant early lap times were a far cry from the lap record set during WorldSBK’s first visit to the island of Lombok last November.
But, as always, Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK got to work to complete as many laps as possible to give both riders the best chance of success during the weekend. Free Practice 2 was the hottest session of the day with track temperatures of more than 61 degrees Celsius – making it hard work for both rider and machine alike – while a series of red flags also interrupted the flow of many of the field’s “race simulations” during this afternoon’s representative conditions.
Indonesia’s special condensed race schedule will continue tomorrow with Free Practice 3 starting at the earlier time of 8:30 (UTC+8) followed by Superpole qualifying from 10:40-10:55 and lights out for Race 1 at 13:30.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (1). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P2 – 1’34.088
“This morning, we started with a dirty track but in the afternoon feeling much better. The feeling with the bike is very good and I am ready to race. We tried some different setups for the race and also did some good work – I’m very happy with the race simulation. I’m looking now to tomorrow because it will be an important day for me. Now, there is just one clean line but not completely clean. But in the race, not easy to pass because outside the line very dirty. I hope it doesn’t start to rain tonight because like this I think tomorrow will start like today. Not easy for all riders, also for the tyre life is difficult to manage now, but we will see. Now my plan is good qualifying and a good race, I hope to fight for the win. My goal this weekend is three wins, but the weather is always changing so we try our best.”
Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Andrea Locatelli: P7 – 1’34.941
“The feeling on the bike was not so bad this morning and also in the afternoon. The track condition for sure has not helped us to take a good rhythm. I think the track will improve more tomorrow, we worked a lot today to understand what we need to improve for the races. In general, I’m not super happy but I think we are ready to fight this weekend to try to get good results. We try to get the best possible position, this is the objective, and we hope to close the gap to the front as much as possible in FP3, Superpole and Race 1 tomorrow.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Super Friday for Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team: Bautista dominates free practice with Rinaldi third. Bulega tops the timesheets in Supersport
The Pirelli Indonesian Round started in the right way for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team. Friday’s free practice, in fact, finished with Alvaro Bautista and Michael Rinaldi in first and third position respectively.
After using FP1 mainly to get to grips with the new asphalt at the Mandalika circuit, Alvaro Bautista’s feeling with the Ducati Panigale V4R grew lap by lap in the second session, allowing him to close in on the lead with a 462 thousandths of a second advantage over Toprak Razgatlioglu (Yamaha).
Michael Rinaldi also had a very positive day, working well with his team despite the fact that track conditions, especially in FP1, were not the best. The Italian rider ended free practice in third place, nine tenths down on his team-mate.
Alvaro Bautista (19). Photo courtesy Ducati.
P1 (1’33.626) Alvaro Bautista
“It was a very strange day. In FP1 we literally tried to put rubber on the track because with the new asphalt the grip was non-existent. In the afternoon things improved even though I have to say that the conditions are still not optimal: we only have a tight line with grip because the circuit is not yet perfectly rubberized. In any case we have collected a lot of data to try and improve further tomorrow.”
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Ducati.
P3 (1’34.590) Michael Rinaldi
“All in all I can consider this Friday quite positive. In fact we finished in third place on a track where I encountered several difficulties last year. I did a good lap, that’s true, but we still need to improve on the pace. In FP2 we managed to make an important step compared to the morning, but we will certainly need another one tomorrow to be able to fight for the podium”.
WorldSSP
Extremely positive feelings for Nicolò Bulega and the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP team.
P1 (1’38.004) Nicolò Bulega
“I didn’t know the track and that’s why I struggled a bit in FP1 also because of the almost total lack of grip. In the afternoon the track improved a lot and I finally got my feeling back from the first part of the season. I’m back to riding the way I like to ride and that gives me a lot of confidence. I hope to have a good weekend.
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Iker Lecuona ruled out of the Indonesian WorldSBK round
Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Iker Lecuona has been declared unfit to compete in the remainder of the Indonesian WorldSBK round after a violent highside during the second practice at the Mandalika International Street Circuit in Indonesia saw him hit the ground hard at turn 4.
With the track offering more grip than it had in FP1, times immediately begun to tumble in FP2, Iker up into third when the unfortunate incident occurred. Lecuona was taken to the circuit medical center for an initial medical assessment and was later airlifted to the RSUD Provinsi NTB Hospital in Mataram for further tests. Following CT and MRI scans, doctors have diagnosed a stable fracture of the T12 vertebra (with no neurological damage) as well as a fracture to the left side of the sacrum. With no need for stabilization surgery, Lecuona has already been discharged from the hospital and will now rest and begin conservative treatment.
Earlier in the day, Team HRC had in fact enjoyed one of its strongest first outings of the season. Despite high temperatures and the fact that the track offered very little grip after recent resurfacing, Lecuona and Xavi Vierge were able to soon build confidence with what is a new track for them both. Quickly improving on their times on what was a dirty and slippery track, Lecuona had finished the first practice session in second place, followed by team-mate Vierge in fifth.
Vierge spent session two making a few small setup changes that clearly worked and allowed him to pick up the pace and lap almost three seconds quicker than he had during FP1. Setting an impressive best of 1’35.022 in the final minutes, Xavi projected himself into eighth position overall by the end of day one.
Xavi Vierge (97). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Xavi Vierge 97
P8
“A positive day, albeit a rather challenging one due to the track conditions and the fact it’s a brand-new track for us. I simply love the layout but with the tarmac resurfaced just recently, the grip is terrible right now. As the day progressed, a line formed and there was more grip there, but the outer line is still so dirty. It was so easy to crash at the slightest “mistake” and it was hard to go fast without making mistakes. Having said that, we made good progress throughout the day while also collating useful information so that we can try to make a step tomorrow and get closer to the top guys. I wish Iker all the best and hope he will soon be fit and ready to return.”
More, from a press release issued by Team GoEleven:
NEW (and SLIPPERY) ASPHALT, GOOD STEP IN FP2, BUT THE RIGHT FEELING IS STILL MISSING!
Philipp Oettl (5). Photo courtesy Team GoEleven.
Friday saw the riders hit to the track for the first time on the new asphalt of the Mandalika circuit; as often happens when the tarmac is recently redone, in the first sessions the track shows slippery, and with very slow and insignificant times. As the laps went by, conditions improved, with riders and teams able to work ahead of the races, even if the day wasn’t really smooth.
In FP 1 the WorldSBK riders took to the track in rather difficult conditions, almost at the limit of the “wet” times, trying more than anything else to regain the feeling with the track, understand lines and trajectories for those who, like Philipp, had their debut with the Superbike, and just leaving tyre on the asphalt. Team Go Eleven has opted to use only one set of tyres, due to the limited usefulness of the laptimes. Oettl completed 10 chrono laps, getting his best on the last chance before returning to the pits. A good 38.8 that earned him a momentary Top Ten position, before some opponents took advantage of a new softer tyre. In any case, the times were more than 4 seconds from the record, far too far to understand anything of the values on the field.
Free Practice 1:
P 1 T. Razgatlioglu 1.36.938
P 2 I. Lecuona + 0.189
P 3 A. Bautista + 0.571
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.911
In FP 2 the asphalt immediately showed itself to be in better conditions, so much so that several riders entered with fresh tyres; in the first laps Philipp is at ease, improving the time of the morning and entering third position. Just when he was starting the long run to evaluate the durability of the rear SCX, and the front, also very stressed in Mandalika, two red flags caused by some crashes interrupt the session. In fact, new unused tyre; so the technicians decide to try a new solution by extending bike length, with the aim of reducing the nervousness of the bike. Upon returning to the track Philipp immediately drops to 35, scoring a formidable second sector, but in the following laps he makes several mistakes due to a clear difficulty in stopping the bike. As a result, he just can’t take out the most from the new tyre, which surely could have given him a few tenths less. Today the Italian team was unable to carry out a real long run, and the choice of compounds will also be evaluated tomorrow. However, it remains a good thirteenth position, not far from the Top Ten.
Free Practice 2:
P 1 A. Bautista 1.33.626
P 2 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.462
P 3 M. Rinaldi + 0.964
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.984
For tomorrow it will be essential to work with the aim of finding greater consistency in the laps, so that the bike is not too difficult for the race distance, which here will be very physical due to the high heat; today at 1.30pm, Race 1 time, the asphalt was over 60 degrees, with air temperatures around 40!
Saturday Schedule (local time / Italian Time)
FP 3: 08.30 – 09.00 / 01.30 – 02.00
Superpole: 10.40 – 10.55 / 03.40 – 03.55
Race 1: 13.30 / 06.40
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Today it was a difficult day from the beginning due to the track conditions; first time on this track with the new tarmac, it was really slippery. The first session it was good, we didn’t use the new tyre, so the lap time was quite ok. The second session it was a little bit confusing because the practice had been stopped two times by red flag, when I had the new tyre. It didn’t allow me to understand the bike well, and the change on the bike length we did in the second outing, I didn’t realize it completely. Now we have a bit of time to analyse the datas, so we can understand where we are good and where we need to improve. I am quite optimistic for tomorrow, if we work in the correct way we can fight for a good result. The positive thing is that my left arm is completely ok, so I shouldn’t have the same problems of last weekend!”
BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team rider Scott Redding (45). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport WorldSBK Team.
Strong new partnership in WorldSBK: ROKiT is Title Partner of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.
New Title Partner, new name from 2023: ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team, with Scott Redding and Michael van der Mark in the FIM Superbike World Championship.
ROKiT expands its involvement in motorsport into the Superbike World Championship with the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.
Marc Bongers: “ROKiT has established itself as an important player in motorsport internationally”.
Shaun Muir: “It is great to have ROKiT as a strong partner at our side and to head into the future together”.
ROKiT Chairman and CEO Jonathan Kendrick: “We’re very excited to be aligning our ROKiT companies with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and we look forward to great success with this fantastic partnership”.
Munich. As the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) enters the closing stages of the 2022 season, the course has already been set for the future: ROKiT has come on board as new Title Partner of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. The multi-year partnership begins in the 2023 season, in which team principal Shaun Muir’s outfit will line up with riders Scott Redding (GBR) and Michael van der Mark (NED) under the new name ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. This title sponsorship sees ROKiT expand its successful involvement in international motorsport to incorporate WorldSBK. As well as the new team name, the title cooperation also includes many other areas.
ROKiT, co-founded by Jonathan Kendrick and John Paul DeJoria, has a diverse portfolio of innovative businesses products and services including mobile phones, ROKiT Cities (which deploys mass-access out of home wi-fi internationally) , a portfolio of drink brands, a large drinks distribution company, a product licensing division, an apparel and accessories range, eBikes and 3D content production, development and distribution of movies and music. 2023 will also bring a range of electronics and gadgets under their ROKiT Life brand that are complimentary to the spirit of the ROKiT and BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team partnership, including a range of sleek and customisable smart-glasses and digital smartwatches, to fast charging power supply packs.
ROKiT has invested heavily in building brand awareness in recent years in a variety of motorsports internationally including the highly innovative ROKiT Racing Star programme, designed to unearth and develop the next generation of superstar drivers.
“Through its various commitments, ROKiT has established itself as an important player in motorsport internationally, and we are delighted to welcome them into the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family as Title Partner of the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team,” says BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers. “It is fantastic that ROKiT has decided to extend its extensive motorsport activities into WorldSBK through the collaboration with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. Strong partners are an important pillar in the further development and success of our project. Without them, it would not be possible to achieve the project’s goals in such a high-quality world championship as WorldSBK. We are looking forward to a great future together, in which we hope to celebrate a lot of success with the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.”
“I am delighted to secure ROKiT as our new Title Partner for the coming years for the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team,” said Team Principal Shaun Muir. “ROKiT is a fantastic and very inspiring brand that impresses with its many different worldwide activities in several industries. We are proud of our new collaboration and are very much looking forward to it. It will be a comprehensive partnership that will also include associated brands within the ROKiT Group and that will be an important step to further grow our entire project. It is great to have ROKiT as a strong partner at our side and to head into the future together.”
“This is a particularly exciting partnership for ROKiT because it’s very clear that BMW Motorrad share the same passions for innovation, achievement and success that we do, not to mention we both appreciate Bavarian beer as the finest beer in the world!” said Jonathan Kendrick whose ROKiT Drinks company includes ABK Beer, brewed at its 700 year old brewery in Kaufbeuren (GER). “Our move into Superbike racing is a natural extension of our recent motorsport sponsorships, through which I’m looking to involve several of our businesses, as we look forward to huge success together in the coming years.”
The start of the 2022 French Grand Prix in Le Mans, France. Photo courtesy Dorna.
SHARK Grand Prix de France wins 2022 Best Grand Prix
Fans packed into the classic Sarthe circuit to celebrate a truly unforgettable French GP
Thursday, 10 November 2022
The SHARK Grand Prix de France has been named the Best Grand Prix of 2022! The award takes into account everything across the weekend to see who did it best each season, with IRTA voting in a number of different categories before the winner is declared. This year? It’s a first for France and the historic Le Mans.
More than 110,000 people flocked to the French venue on race day alone in 2022, proving the perfect crescendo for a weekend packed with on-track thrills and fan activities. The event has long blazed a trail on the MotoGP™ calendar with its full programme of entertainment, from stunt shows to rider appearances and everything in between. Now with not one, but two home heroes fighting at the front in MotoGP™, the roar from the stands is only getting louder.
The 2022 Best Grand Prix award is fitting recognition for a fantastic event and marks the first time Le Mans wins it outright – just in time for the paddock to return to the track in 2023 to celebrate the 1000th Grand Prix in history and the 30th GP organised by PHA Claude Michy.
Claude Michy, PHA Claude Michy: “We are proud of this award, but first of all I must thank Carmelo Ezpeleta for the trust he has placed in me since 1994 and the respect I owe to him. Our fruitful exchanges with IRTA have always helped us in our initiatives.
“We associate to this recognition all the actors of the SHARK Grand Prix de France Moto: the ACO, its collaborators ant its marshals, our private and public partners, our suppliers, the prefecture of SARTHE and the local authorities, without forgetting our fantastic public.
“We are actively preparing our 30th organization of the SHARK Grand Prix de France Moto, which will take place on May 12th – 13th – 14th, 2023.”
Hervé Poncharal, President of IRTA: “As President of IRTA, and being French, I’m very proud to see the French Grand Prix awarded best of 2022. I think Claude Michy and his staff have done an incredible job. For three decades he’s been doing an amazing job, I think they’ve showed the way to quite a few promoters by having a fanzone, bringing the riders to the crowd, the show on Saturday… every single year there is something special, stunt guys… he has showed that the main focus of a Grand Prix is the MotoGP™ race, but you also need to give a full weekend experience to fans. A fan village, concerts, these extra activities… he has showed the way. On top of that, despite a drought of local heroes in the premier class until Johann and Fabio, despite the weather sometimes being more difficult, they’ve also had an incredible crowd and it has always been one of the best attended Grands Prix.
“I think Claude has always listened to IRTA and teams, what we needed, and has been in close contact with Dorna, always willing to improve everything possible and create an incredible weekend for MotoGP. It’s not a shock that the French Grand Prix was voted best of 2022 – I think it’s more of a surprise that they have not won before!”
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports: “We’re very proud to see the French GP voted the best of 2022. It’s a just reward for the three decades in which Le Mans have always brought something special to the table, working closely with us and with IRTA to create a truly spectacular weekend for the hundreds of thousands of fans who come to the French Grand Prix.
“We would like to thank Claude Michy, his team, and all those who make the French Grand Prix such a success, for their hard work, dedication and innovative approach across our seasons working together. Congratulations on winning the Best Grand Prix in 2022, and we very much look forward to returning next season for another history-making event as Le Mans celebrates this 30th event and hosts the 1000th Grand Prix in the history of our sport.”
Keith Farmer (303), circa 2014. Photo by Barry Clay.
Four-time British National Champion road racer Keith Farmer died today, according to media reports out of the United Kingdom. He was 35. The cause of his death was not reported.
The following is from MotorSport Vision Racing and the British Superbike Championship:
Everyone connected with the Bennetts British Superbike Championship is saddened to hear of Keith Farmer’s untimely passing at the age of just 35.
The ‘Clogher Bullet’ was a multiple title-winner within the Bennetts BSB support classes and was a respected and deeply popular rider across the paddock. He announced his retirement from the sport only last year.
Keith celebrated title success for the first time in 2011, claiming the National Superstock 600 Championship title as a privateer with a campaign that included seven podiums, six of those being race wins. His performance on track led him to be head-hunted by Paul Bird and he joined the PBM line-up for the next season as he progressed into the Superstock 1000 series.
Keith delivered his second consecutive title victory in 2012, having quickly adapted to more powerful machinery, and five wins and a further three podiums secured him the championship win.
As reigning champion in the Superstock 1000 class, he was elevated into Bennetts BSB with PBM, but after achieving a best result of fourth he parted ways with the team. He returned to the Superbike class a year later where he claimed his first and only main category podium in tricky conditions at Brands Hatch with the PR Racing team.
Keith then turned his attention back to the support classes, competing in both the British Supersport and National Superstock Championships.
His time with the Appleyard/Macadam team in 2017 proved to be a winning combination as they celebrated title victory after nine wins and a further five podiums, impressively making him a champion across three different classes.
In 2018, Keith joined the Tyco BMW team and he superbly claimed a second National Superstock 1000 Championship title.
A year later Keith was back on the BSB grid with the Tyco BMW team, but a mid-season injury curtailed his campaign. He then switched to Buildbase Suzuki a year later. In the past two years, Keith made occasional appearances in both the Superstock and Superbike classes, before he officially announced his retirement from the sport in 2021.
Keith will be terribly missed by all that had the pleasure of meeting him throughout his career. He was a brilliant and successful rider on track, who will be fondly remembered by his rivals, colleagues and fans following today’s tragic news.
Our thoughts and sympathies are with his friends and family members and in particular his children. Rest in peace Keith.
A 2023-model MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
MV AGUSTA MY 2023
For MV Agusta, 2023 marks a true turning point in the name of evolution and technology. The R package makes its début on all the three-cylinder bikes: Brutale, Dragster, F3, and Turismo Veloce flaunt new colours and lots of new features. The new range of three and four cylinder bikes, even more complete and exclusive, finalizes an exceptional development path which has produced astonishing results, particularly in terms of riding thrills.
3-CYLINDER RANGE
Ride by Wire
The electronic throttle control has been entirely redesigned to make using it even more intuitive and gradual, without sacrificing the responsive action that is an absolute must for a sport bike throttle control. The new double return spring and especially the 6° negative rotation simplify throttle management and allow the cruise control to be deactivated without braking: simply close the throttle. The negative rotation also reduces the risk of involuntary engagement when the road surface is particularly bumpy, all to the advantage of comfort. At the same time, the operating algorithms have been upgraded for a superior riding feeling.
Improved ergonomics and interface
A new rider’s seat has been introduced on the Brutale R and Brutale RR, whereas the saddle on the Dragster R and Dragster RR has been changed entirely. Thanks to new development and design tools, as well as the use of 3D Mesh materials, comfort has increased drastically. To make any trip, from a city commute to a long trip on the weekend, a pleasant and comfortable adventure.
The instrumentation focused on the 5.5” TFT panel is one of the main interface points between rider and bike. For 2023, the software is updated and evolved to provide greater ease of use, in addition to the advanced connectivity, with navigation Turn-by-Turn, platform that has been further improved. The equipment includes the Mobisat geolocalised anti-theft system (with the exception of Dragster R and Turismo Veloce R).
New braking system
The constant development path – one of MV Agusta’s fundamental values – also focused on the braking system. Brembo M4.32 monobloc front callipers come standard on the Brutale RR and the Dragster RR. The higher level of stiffness of the callipers improves both modular operation and power, also achieving a significant reduction in weight to the tune of 200 grams. On the F3 R, the F3 RR, the Superveloce, and the Superveloce S, the front callipers are Brembo Stylema M4.30 with Brembo PR 16/19 radial master cylinder. Overall, the new equipment increases braking power and reduces the weight by a full 300 grams.
Rear brake modular operation has been improved on the entire 3-cylinder range thanks to upgrades to the hydraulic circuit, increasing the hydrostatic pressure in the system. The result? Improved feeling during use.
Tyres and ABS
Introducing new OEM tyres, respectively Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV and Diablo Rosso Corsa IV. The Continental MK100 ABS has also been upgraded, with refinements made to the cornering feature in order to provide an even more precise and safer response in all conditions.
THE R FAMILY, THE GATEWAY TO THE MV AGUSTA WORLD
The new R family, which replaces the Rosso, was conceived as an entry-level offer to the MV Agusta world. The greater availability of colour schemes, focused on red and black in various combination, is just one of the new features for the Brutale R, Dragster R, F3 R, and Turismo Veloce R model.
A 2023 MV Agusta Brutale R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
The Brutale R makes its début packed with plenty of refinements: fork and mono shock with new adjustment, Continental MK100 ABS with optimised calibration, a new rider saddle, 5.5” TFT instrumentation with updated software, new electronic Ride-By-Wire throttle control featuring negative rotation, and valve tappets with DLC coating that reduces friction and improves efficiency.
A 2023 MV Agusta Dragster R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
For 2023, the Dragster R has new Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, a more modular rear brake, fork and mono shock with new adjustment, Continental MK100 ABS with optimised calibration, a new saddle, 5.5” colour TFT instrumentation with updated software, new electronic Ride-By-Wire throttle control featuring negative rotation, and valve tappets with DLC coating.
A 2023 MV Agusta F3 R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
The sporty F3 R joins the 2023 range with new graphics and the glossy Ago Red colour scheme. A new Full LED front light cluster makes its début, complete with DRL and a pair of futuristic headlamps for low and high beam. The LED turn indicators have been redesigned and inserted in rear view mirrors that are also brand new. The rear turn indicators are now LED. The fork has a TIN coating, whereas the OEM tyres are Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa IV. All the improvements already offered on the other models are confirmed here as well, specifically the redesigned Ride-By-Wire system featuring negative rotation to favour throttle modulation and deactivating cruise control without braking. The braking features new equipment in the form of Brembo M4.30 Stylema front callipers.
A 2023 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce R. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
The Turismo Veloce R is available in matt black (Metallic Carbon Black) and in the classic red and black combination (Metallic Madness Red Gloss and Metallic Carbon Black Gloss). The rider saddle has been lowered to make it even easier to reach the ground and comfort has increased thanks in part to the wider windscreen and the longer gear ratios.
RR RANGE
A 2023 MV Agusta Brutale RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
Brutale RR
The new Surreal White/Fire Red colour scheme with glossy finish makes its début, whereas the highly successful Fire Red/Intense Black combination has been reconfirmed. Some of the noteworthy main upgrades include the Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, the Brembo M4.32 front brake callipers, the revamped Ride-By-Wire system, the new rider saddle, the fork with DLC treatment, the Continental ABS with optimised Cornering, the Full LED front light cluster, also with Cornering function, the instrumentation with updated software and improved connectivity.
Three colour schemes are available for the model that mounts the Rekluse clutch, developed in collaboration with MV Agusta and which lets you forget about the left lever: Ago Red/Mica America Blue, Fire Red/Intense Black, and Metallic Pearl Yellow/Intense Black. In addition to the new features on the Brutale RR, there is now a brand new front wheel rim with thicker spokes, an even more popular design piece in terms of finishing and materials, and an aggressive rear wheel cover in Rush style which enhances, although partially covering it, the lightweight wheel rim in forged aluminium.
A 2023 MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
F3 RR
The supersport bike celebrates Bahattin Sofuoglu’s victory in the European WorldSSP Championship with two spectacular colour schemes: one, more classic, combines Matt Fire Red and Matt Metallic Dark Grey. The other breathes life into an uncompromising combination of Metallic Carbon Black and Metallic Dark Grey. The fork benefits from TIN surface treatment for smoother action. The Full LED light cluster is new, as are the rear view mirrors and the turn indicators. The rider footpegs are CNC machined. The racing kit, which guarantees 8 more horsepower, includes a dedicated CNC fuel cap, the passenger seat cover, the ECU with racing map, and the lightweight Akrapović exhaust muffler, approved for street use.
A 2023 MV Agusta Superveloce. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
Superveloce and Superveloce S
The magical Nardo Grey/Matt Metallic Carbon Black/Ago Red and Ago Red/Ago Silver colour schemes project the Superveloce into the future. The main upgrades include the fork with TIN treatment, updated Ride-By-Wire and Continental ABS with Cornering function, Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa IV tyres and braking system with Brembo M4.30 Stylema front callipers and a Brembo PR 16/19 radial master cylinder. The colour schemes for the Superveloce S are monochromatic on a silver base (Silver Iridium) with gold frame and wheel rims (Matt Gold) and on a black base in two shades (Metallic Carbon Black and Matt Metallic Carbon Black), also with Matt Gold frame and wheel rims. The racing kit includes the fantastic three-muffler Arrow exhaust approved for street use – a true touch of refined classic style – the ECU with dedicated mapping, and the tail cover in fibre carbon.
A 2023 MV Agusta Superveloce S. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
There are upgrades for the Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS as well, breaking into 2023 with two colour combinations: Metallic Carbon Black/Matt Metallic Dark Grey and Fire Red/Matt Metallic Dark Grey. Fitted with semi-active Sachs suspension to the advantage of comfort both in the city and over long distances, it has been updated like the entire range with the introduction of the electronic Ride-By-Wire throttle control and other upgrades on the Turismo Veloce R such as, for example, the wider windscreen and the lowered saddle.
4-CYLINDER RANGE
There are plenty of upgrades for the four-cylinder range comprising Brutale RS, Brutale RR, and Rush.
Engine
The engine has been updated with the arrival of the countershaft unit which allows a 54% reduction of the second order vibrations, all to the advantage of comfort and reliability. The valve tappets, like on the three-cylinder engines, have DLC treatment to reduce internal friction and improve performance. The profile of the cams has been revamped to optimise torque availability. The radial valves are made of titanium.
Ride-By-Wire
On all the four-cylinder bikes, the new electronic Ride-by-Wire throttle control with 6° negative rotation drastically improves the feeling of the throttle, making control of the bike more intuitive and immediate. Credit also goes to the new control algorithms. further refined to provide a response worthy of a supersport bike, but without being too abrupt. In the new configuration, the throttle control, along with the new control management, allows cruise control to be deactivated simply by closing the throttle, whereas braking was previously required.
Electronics
The instrumentation, focused on the 5.5” TFT panel, also benefits from an overall improvement thanks to the software upgrade, also to the advantage of the connectivity features. The Mobisat anti-theft system with geolocalisation lets you sleep more peacefully at night. As do the inertial platform and the Continental Cornering ABS, both upgraded to provide the utmost in safety.
The most versatile of the 4-cylinder Brutale bikes flaunts the elegant Nardo Grey/Matt Metallic Dark Grey colour scheme and the classic version on a red base, Ago Red with contrasting Metallic Dark Grey elements. The most significant upgrade on the engine is undoubtedly the countershaft, which has positive effects on comfort and reliability because fewer vibrations ensure a longer operational lifespan for the components, especially the electronics. The Marzocchi fork with DLC surface coating stands out for its best-in-class smooth action.
The Brutale RR in the Matt Hedonist Red/Matt Metallic Carbon Black colour scheme is the rightful heir, for elegance and aggressiveness, of the first Brutale 1000. The grit of the version in (Matt Metallic Carbon Black/Matt Metallic Dark Grey) with a stroke of Magma Red to seal a unique design is impressive. Armed with 208 HP of power for a kerb weight of just 198 kg, the Brutale RR is the naked bike to beat.
A 2023 MV Agusta Rush. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
Rush
The 2023 colour of the Rush combines Mamba Red 2.0 and Intense Black. One of the many details that make the Rush a truly unique model is the support bracket for the front light cluster, made in aluminium. Thanks to SLM (Selective Laser Melting) technology, it gives this model a truly exclusive touch. Last, but not least, the kit that comes with the Rush is a true treasure trove: Arrow muffler with carbon fibre cover, ECU with dedicated mapping, carbon forged rear wheel cover, 24-spoke front wheel rim, and CNC machined fuel cap. And much more.
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Accessibility
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Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
November 14, 2026
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Disability profiles supported in our website
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Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
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Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
