With the Spaniard clear at the front, it was left to Juan_nh16, Mereja and trastevere73 to provide the entertainment in an all action fight for second. There was controversy on lap 2 when race 1 winner AndrewZh and adrianDP26 collided at turn 4, with the Ducati man crashing out. It was a move that was investigated by Race Direction, who eventually concluded no punishment was necessary.
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here
Police have released a video of a red car wanted in connection with a motorcycle crash in Capalaba, Brisbane, yesterday afternoon (Monday 16 September 2019) that claimed the life of a Birkdale man.
Queensland Police say their preliminary investigations indicate the rider was heading west on Finucane Road around 3.40pm when “he lost control of his motorbike near Elmhurst Street”.
The 31-year-old man was pronounced deceased at the scene.
However, they have now released a video of a red Holden Commodore wanted in connection with the incident.
At this stage, no one has been charged, but this new video seems to suggest the rider may not have “lost control”.
The car may have been involved.
Police investigators have been working to identify motorists in the area at the time.
While they have identified some of the vehicles, they have released this dashcam footage of the red sedan that they believe is a Holden Commodore.
Police say they would “like to speak with the driver as they may have relevant information”.
Forensic Crash Unit investigators are appealing for any witnesses who have not yet contacted them or anyone who may have additional dash cam vision to contact them.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24 hours a day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24 hours a day.
Quote this reference number: QP1901808315
Our sincere condolences to the rider’s family and friends.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
MotoGP rookie ecstatic to duel with the reigning champion at Misano.
Image: Supplied.
Petronas Yamaha SRT’s Fabio Quartararo has described his battle with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda) at the Misano grand prix as the best moment of his career, despite falling short of victory.
The MotoGP rookie led for majority of the encounter before Marquez made a pass for the lead on the final lap, however Quartararo hit-back with a move for the top spot, but the reigning world champion capitalised on a minor error to steal P1 in the dying moments.
“I can only be happy about the result,” Quartararo stated. “We led the race until almost the end, but I knew Marc would try something on the last lap because he’s been fast all weekend. I was able to pass him back when he did, but I just went a little bit wide when he overtook me for a second time.
“I was faster than him in turn 11 and I fought until the end, but we had to settle for second. He had better grip at the end in one side of his tyres but I had an advantage on the right side, which is something to be proud of because it means I’m learning how to manage them.
“I gave it my all, but Marc has more experience in last lap battles and today he was able to use it all. It’s the first time I’ve even able to fight with him, and to be able to have battled with a seven-time World Champion is the best moment of my career so far.”
The Frenchman moved to the top of the Independent leaderboard, while he’s now ranked seventh in the championship standings.
Source: CycleOnline.com.au
Queenslander fights to ninth at the 13th round of MotoGP.
Image: Supplied.
Jack Miller has expressed disappointment in the way his weekend unfolded at Misano’s 13th round of the 2019 MotoGP World Championship, the Australian just managing to scrape into the top 10.
The round started slowly for the Pramac Racing ace in a weekend that saw all Ducati-mounted riders struggle, completing Friday in practice in P16 – the same position he qualified in.
The Queenslander was able to progress into the top 10 during the 27-lap outing, crossing the line in P9 after admittedly struggling with tyre set-up throughout the Italian stop.
“If I have to be honest, this hasn’t been a great weekend,” said Miller. “The feeling was never at the top and we struggled with all the tyres we tried. But we took important points for the standings. I can’t wait to be at Aragon.”
Miller was demoted from the top spot in the Independent Rider standings, and is currently ranked eighth in the championship points.
Source: CycleOnline.com.au
Spaniard scores first front row start aboard KTM RC16.
Image: Supplied.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Pol Espargaro has continued his surge in form with the RC16 at Misano’s 13th round of the 2019 MotoGP World Championship, starting from the front row before recording a top 10 result.
The Spaniard qualified second fastest, marking the Austrian manufacturer’s first front row start in dry conditions, before putting on a strong performance to claim seventh behind Ducati Team’s Andrea Dovizioso, who currently holds down second in the championship standings.
“We started second and we fought [in the] top six/seven – we had a great weekend and we must be very proud,” Espargaro explained. “There are good riders and such good bikes that you need to go on the limit every single lap. At the moment I am controlling it quite well and I am finishing every race which is very important for the championship.
“We had good corner speed here but I was losing it all in turns three, eight and 10 with Dovi and 11 with [Franco] Morbidelli. It was not much. Just two tenths per lap – almost nothing, but in the end it makes a difference. I’m looking forward to jumping on the bike again and when you finish a race with that feeling then you want to start right away.”
Espargaro is currently ranked 11th in the points standings as the series heads to Aragon in Spain this weekend.
Source: CycleOnline.com.au
SAG Racing contender forced out of Moto2 outing 10 laps in.
Image: Supplied.
Remy Gardner believes a faulty tyre is the reason he crashed out of Misano’s Moto2 encounter just 10 laps in, the Australian experiencing several near-misses in the opening laps before his front-end gave way.
The SAG Racing ace, who confirmed his spot on the team for 2020 on the eve of the grand prix, narrowly missed a front row start after qualifying in P4, however he immediately experienced issues with the front tyre on the right-hand side.
Admittedly frustrated with the incident, Gardner is still optimistic with the strong form he possessed at the Italian venue as the series now heads to Aragon in Spain.
“I just missed out on the front row and we had great race pace, so I was confident after doing the hard work throughout free practice of running at the front,” said Gardner. “I got shuffled back a bit after the start and had to save several front-end slides, but it in the end there was nothing I could do, and I went down.
“It’s so frustrating as I wasn’t even pushing – we had worked all weekend on used tyres, and it seems in the race we got a really bad front tyre. I only had problems on the right side – I saved it five or six times, but there was only so much I could do.
“We actually crashed with the bike pretty much stood up, so I am a bit lost for words. Unlucky again but I did my best all weekend, we know we can be there so on we go to Aragon.”
Gardner is currently ranked 12th in the championship standings ahead of this weekend’s 14th round.
Source: CycleOnline.com.au
Ideal conditions welcomed competitors to the sixth round of the FIM Enduro World Championship. Glorious late summer sunshine, spectacular special tests, and big battles all came together to offer a high-level show to the many spectators.
For the second day was no difference as the Grand Prix of the Czech Republic continued to play out in Uhlirske Janovice, where the riding conditions were different thanks to the large number of entrants churning up the track on Day 1. Different pitfalls had appeared, ruts became deeper, and new stones were unearthed.
It was a strong weekend for Brad Freeman taking the wins across both days from Steve Holcombe, and claiming the 2019 E1 Championship title in the process.
“This season has not been easy, and winning this second senior title in my career really means a lot to me. It’s a reward for all the hard work with my great team. Now all we have to do is finish the job in two weeks’ time in France…”
In E2 meanwhile a new winner emerged on Day 1 – Joe Wootton, with Alex Salvini cleaning up on Day 2, with an eye on that E2 title.
“What a race! I’m really happy to have won E2 today. I have retained my championship lead this weekend, despite losing it briefly yesterday. As everyone saw last year, the title can be won or lost until the last second, so I will go to the final round with the will to do my best.”
Steve Holcombe couldn’t overcome Freeman on the overall, but he still took the E3 victories, and is obviously aiming to claim the title, with Danny McCanney in the running as well.
“It’s been good to get back to racing again after the summer break. I’ve worked hard to return to fitness but coming to Czech I was still unsure of how fast I could be across the whole weekend. Despite wanting to win, it unfortunately didn’t work out that way. My fitness is not yet in a position to properly challenge for that top step and on Friday I also hurt my ankle in the super test, which didn’t help matters. I struggled to get going on Saturday morning, but came good towards the end of the day and felt like I kept that going during Sunday. I’ve a bit more to find in the enduro test but know that with the more races I get under my belt, the more I can build that fitness and strength back. As things stand, I’ve got an 18-point lead in Enduro 3, so the focus heading to the final round in France is to lock that title up. Although I’m 10 points behind in EnduroGP, all is not lost. There are still 40 points up for grabs, so I’ll keep pushing as best I can.”
Aussie Wil Ruprecht took the Junior overall win on Day 1 too, along with the J1 victory, with New Zealand’s Hamish Macdonald close to clinching the Youth 125cc class, but not quite making it.
“It was so good to get back on top of the podium, It’s been a long road back from breaking my shoulder and to take the double win was excellent. It just would not have been possible without my family backing me and the Edmondson’s help. Of course, the Sherco Team supporting me as well. I just love riding and it’s fun to be back racing. I’m ready to fight for the Championship in France.”
The final two days of racing in the 2019 Enduro World Championship GP season will take place in Ambert, France on September 28 and 29, here’s a run down of the EnduroGP of the Czech Republic first however:
Brad Freeman put in a performance worthy of his EnduroGP leader status; he set the best time on seven of the day’s tests on Day 1. The young Brit did not make any mistakes, always featuring at the top of the timesheets. In addition to taking the day victory, his greatest satisfaction was to have been able to hold off his closest title rival, compatriot Steve Holcombe.
Holcombe has shown that he has returned in better shape and as determined as ever, but a catastrophic start to the first day in the Czech Republic ruined his hopes of catching up with Freeman. A broken brake cable and crooked handlebars cost Holcombe a lot of time.
Another Brit completed the overall podium! Danny McCanney took third in Uhlriske Janovice, 53 seconds behind Freeman. And if three Brits weren’t enough, this English trio were joined by Joe Wootton! The young rider took his best result so far in Senior with fourth overall and a class victory.
Brad Freeman took E1 victory on Day 1 ahead of Matteo Cavallo and Davide Guarneri. The E2 class had a brand new winner in the form of Joe Wootton, from Larrieu and Salvini. Steve Holcombe won in E3 ahead of McCanney and David Abgrall.
The Czech GP also saw the return to competition of the Wil Ruprecht. In the absence of Verona, and now fully fit, he dominated the overall class. Leading from start to finish, he left no chance to any of his rivals to challenge him.
The Australian won in front of an impressive Antoine Magain, who snatched second place from Theo Espinasse at the end of the day by just one and a half seconds!
In J1 the podium was the same as that of Junior Overall: Ruprecht, Magain and Espinasse. The J2 class went to Enric Fransisco, ahead of Ruy Barbosa and Léo Le Quere.
New Zealand’s Hamish Macdonald made it his mission to come back from his broken shoulder with a vengeance. He won the Youth 125 class ahead of Matteo Pavoni and Nathan Bererd.
In the Champion Lubricants Enduro Open World Cup, Tom Elwood took another victory in the Open 4-Stroke category. In Open 2-Stroke, Patrick Halgas manage the win. David Knight gave more reason for British fans to cheer today, winning the Open Senior category.
| Rider | Nat | Bike | Time |
| 1. FREEMAN, Bradley | GBR | Beta | 1:01:18.48 |
| 2. HOLCOMBE, Steve | GBR | Beta | 1:01:50.75 |
| 3. McCANNEY, Daniel | GBR | TM | 1:02:11.74 |
| 4. WOOTTON, Joe | GBR | Husq | 1:02:25.16 |
| 5. CAVALLO, Matteo | ITA | Sherco | 1:02:29.34 |
| 6. LARRIEU, Loic | FRA | TM | 1:02:37.12 |
| 7. SALVINI, Alex | ITA | Honda | 1:02:55.17 |
| 8. CHARLIER, Christophe | FRA | Honda | 1:03:17.07 |
| 9. HERRERA, Benjamin | CHL | Beta | 1:03:17.30 |
| 10. GUARNERI, Davide | ITA | Honda | 1:03:25.54 |
| 11. OLDRATI, Thomas | ITA | Honda | 1:03:33.70 |
| 12. BASSET, Antoine | FRA | Husq | 1:03:50.69 |
| 13. MIRABET, Kirian | ESP | Honda | 1:04:03.76 |
| 14. ABGRALL, David | FRA | Beta | 1:04:10.65 |
| 15. GESLIN, Anthony | FRA | Beta | 1:04:17.71 |
Brad Freeman delivered another perfect performance in the EnduroGP class on Day 2. The Brit barely had to look over his shoulder all day, despite exchanging special tests with his major rival Steve Holcombe. He goes into the final round of the season in Ambert (France) with a 10-point lead over Holcombe. Danny McCanney, consistent and quick, took another EnduroGP podium on Sunday.
The weekend was filled with emotion for Brad Freeman – in addition to his two EnduroGP wins, he also took two victories in the E1 class and simultaneously won the world title for the second time in his career! Cavallo and Oldrati completed the E1 podium on Day 2, and France will see which of these two Italians will be runner up in the championship.
In E2, Salvini can consider himself back in business after Day 2. The Italian had to bring all his talent, power, and determination to win. He took the class victory in front of main title rival, Larrieu, while Redondi completed the top three today.
For Steve Holcombe the goal is clear: the E3 title. However, he needs be wary because Danny McCanney, second placed in the standings, has all the skill and speed to snatch the crown from him in France. David Abgrall completed the E3 podium on Sunday.
In Juniors, it was Theo Espinasse who took his first overall class success in 2019. The Frenchman had to go all out to claim this feat, and there was an intense fight between Espinasse and the ever-impressive Antoine Magain, as well as with Enric Francisco.
In J1, Espinasse won ahead of Magain, and the likeable Dan Mundell took a great third place after graduating from EY to EJ this weekend. Enric Francisco did the double in J2. In fact the podium was the same of that on Day 1 with Ruy Barbosa second, and Leo Le Quere third.
Coming into the weekend there was a good chance that New Zealand’s Hamish Macdonald would be crowned Youth 125cc Champion. But after meticulous points calculations, it turns out that the ever cheerful Kiwi will have to wait a bit longer yet!
Tom Elwood continued the British success in 2019. By winning again he became the first Open 4-Stroke winner in the Enduro Open World Cup. In Senior David Knight took his 12th victory in as many race days. The giant from the Isle of Man could do a ‘clean sweep’ if he gets the double win in France.
EnduroGP returns in two-weeks for the grand finale of the 2019 EnduroGP season in Ambert (France).
| Rider | Nat | Bike | Time |
| 1. FREEMAN, Bradley | GBR | Beta | 59:59.13 |
| 2. HOLCOMBE, Steve | GBR | Beta | 1:00:35.25 |
| 3. McCANNEY, Daniel | GBR | TM | 1:00:55.08 |
| 4. SALVINI, Alex | ITA | Honda | 1:01:20.99 |
| 5. LARRIEU, Loic | FRA | TM | 1:01:34.15 |
| 6. CAVALLO, Matteo | ITA | Sherco | 1:01:46.97 |
| 7. OLDRATI, Thomas | ITA | Honda | 1:01:49.31 |
| 8. REDONDI, Giacomo | ITA | Husq | 1:01:51.91 |
| 9. HERRERA, Benjamin | CHL | Beta | 1:02:00.37 |
| 10. CHARLIER, Christophe | FRA | Honda | 1:02:02.38 |
| 11. WOOTTON, Joe | GBR | Husq | 1:02:10.30 |
| 12. BASSET, Antoine | FRA | Husq | 1:02:23.90 |
| 13. VERONA, Andrea | ITA | TM | 1:02:48.26 |
| 14. GUARNERI, Davide | ITA | Honda | 1:03:19.25 |
| 15. MIRABET, Kirian | ESP | Honda | 1:03:33.33 |
| 1 | Brad FREEMAN | 204 |
| 2 | Steve HOLCOMBE | 194 |
| 3 | Daniel MCCANNEY | 171 |
| 4 | Alex SALVINI | 118 |
| 5 | Loïc LARRIEU | 114 |
| 6 | Matteo CAVALLO | 112 |
| 7 | Thomas OLDRATI | 105 |
| 8 | Christophe CHARLIER | 93 |
| 9 | Benjamin HERRERA | 73 |
| 10 | Davide GUARNERI | 67 |
| 1 | Brad FREEMAN | 210 |
| 2 | Thomas OLDRATI | 181 |
| 3 | Matteo CAVALLO | 176 |
| 4 | Davide GUARNERI | 148 |
| 5 | Patrik MARKVART | 110 |
| 1 | Alex SALVINI | 177 |
| 2 | Loïc LARRIEU | 175 |
| 3 | Christophe CHARLIER | 158 |
| 4 | Benjamin HERRERA | 146 |
| 5 | Eero REMES | 121 |
| 1 | Steve HOLCOMBE | 231 |
| 2 | Daniel MCCANNEY | 213 |
| 3 | David ABGRALL | 166 |
| 4 | Anthony GESLIN | 166 |
| 5 | Jiri HADEK | 35 |
Daniel Sanders earned top outright honours as the 2019 Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) concluded at Hedley, Victoria over the weekend of 14-15 September. Sanders also earned the double victory in E3 at Hedley’s final rounds of the AORC series, just two weeks after clinching his class championship aboard the factory Husqvarna FE 501.
It was Sanders who stormed to victory in class during Saturday’s penultimate round of the championship, finishing second in the outright classification following a hard-fought battle in the three-hour Cross Country format with Daniel Milner.
Newly-crowned champion Sanders maintained his perfect winning record in Sunday’s E3 finale, going undefeated in the series by securing the win while also topping the outright times to round off the year on a particularly high note.
“It was an awesome season, not only for me, but everyone in the Husqvarna Enduro Racing Team as well. We pushed really hard and got the FE 501 working really well this season, so it’s good to get it done here in Victoria and to deliver for everybody at Husqvarna Motorcycles. My family and friends were here this weekend as well, so it’s a great reward to get it all wrapped up.”
| Pos | Rider | Time |
| 1 | Daniel MILNER | 2:53:09.502 |
| 2 | Daniel SANDERS | 2:53:24.753 |
| 3 | Lyndon SNODGRASS | 3:00:02.306 |
| 4 | Joshua GREEN | 3:02:30.827 |
| 5 | Luke STYKE | 3:04:23.821 |
| 6 | Fraser HIGLETT | 3:05:17.731 |
| 7 | Michael DRISCOLL | 3:06:16.043 |
| 8 | Jeremy CARPENTIER | 3:07:49.770 |
| 9 | Stefan GRANQUIST | 3:08:45.811 |
| 10 | Mason SEMMENS | 3:08:57.934 |
| Rider | Rider | R1-R5 Total Time |
| 1 | Daniel SANDERS | 44:51.820 |
| 2 | Daniel MILNER | 45:13.653 |
| 3 | Joshua GREEN | 46:16.689 |
| 4 | Luke STYKE | 46:35.735 |
| 5 | Michael DRISCOLL | 46:52.326 |
| 6 | Lyndon SNODGRASS | 46:54.350 |
| 7 | Mason SEMMENS | 47:14.738 |
| 8 | Stefan GRANQUIST | 47:53.683 |
| 9 | Jeremy CARPENTIER | 47:55.038 |
| 10 | Andrew WILKSCH | 47:56.764 |
| Pos | Name | Total |
| 1 | Daniel SANDERS | 275 |
| 2 | Andrew WILKSCH | 212 |
| 3 | Jesse LAWTON | 198 |
| 4 | Matt MURRY | 177 |
| 5 | Beau RALSTON | 148 |
| 6 | Luke BUNNIK | 104 |
| 7 | Daniel WELSH | 84 |
| 8 | Nathan DELAWARE | 62 |
| 9 | Alexander BOLTON | 58 |
| 10 | Timothy LONSDALE | 56 |
Daniel Milner claimed the E2 Crown in the 2019 Australian Off-Road Championship, following the final rounds over the weekend at Hedley, Victoria. Saturday’s 10th round saw Milner emerge victorious in his class, while also topping the outright times. In the process, he was crowned the 2019 AORC E2 champion aboard the KTM 450 EXC-F.
Multiple national champion Milner was able to make it a clean-sweep in the E2 division after taking out another class victory in round 11. This time around, he was runner-up in the outright classification.
“And just like that it’s all over for another year. Unfortunately I pulled up short of the outright title but was fortunate enough to still come away with the E2 title. It has been a roller coaster of a season with plenty of ups and downs, but all I can do it take the positives out of the year and build on them for next season. The weekend was really good at Hedley for me. Halfway through the year, having the problems that I had, it’s been a struggle to get back on top. I’m starting to ride back to where I felt I could, so in Saturday’s Cross Country I was fired up and pushed hard! This is my third year in a row that I’ve actually had a clean-sweep in class, so I’m stoked to have done that and am really happy to bring home the E2 title with KTM.”
The ever consistent Josh Green with Yamaha Active8 Yamalube Racing did what he does and rode his way to more podium finishes over the weekend in the E2 division. Green finished second both days in class and inside the top four Outright to finish off another good season for the experienced campaigner.
“I gave it my best all season, Sanders and Milner are riding at such a high level at the moment and are just a bit above the rest of the pack. They are two world class riders and deserve their success, so congratulations to them. I’m satisfied with my year and think we did a great job as a team to stay in the hunt all year and remain consistent at every round. Racing the WR450F has been awesome fun and the bike has handled all the conditions well with no dramas at any stage. Thank you to everyone at Yamaha and our team sponsors for making 2019 enjoyable and look forward doing it again next year,” Green ends.
| Pos | Name | Total |
| 1 | Daniel MILNER | 275 |
| 2 | Joshua GREEN | 242 |
| 3 | Jeremy CARPENTIER | 205 |
| 4 | Brad HARDAKER | 148 |
| 5 | William PRICE | 117 |
| 6 | Stefan GRANQUIST | 102 |
| 7 | Harrison TEED | 91 |
| 8 | Brent DEAN | 88 |
| 9 | Nathan DALBOSCO | 73 |
| 10 | Broc GRABHAM | 70 |
Yamaha Active8 Yamalube Racing’s Luke Styke has surged to back to back E1 class championships after securing victory at the final round of the Australian Off Road Championship, at Hedley in Victoria, over the weekend.
Styke came into the final weekend of racing carrying a 16-point lead in the E1 (250cc) category but couldn’t afford to take it easy as a gruelling weekend was ahead and plenty of hours of racing still to be completed.
In Saturday’s Cross-Country event, Styke started strongly and was leading the E1 class but made mistakes in the later stages of the three-hour race to allow his championship rival, Lyndon Snodgrass, to steal the round victory and move three points closer.
With the gap now at 13-points, Styke needed to finish inside the top five on Sunday to win the class if Snodgrass snatched the final round victory. But in typical Styke style, he won the final round in another strong performance and rolled across the finish line with his fist in the air celebrating another successful AORC campaign.
“Its good to get the championship win and go back to back in the E1 class. I struggled a bit on Saturday as my energy dropped dramatically in the final stages and I wasn’t at my best, but I was able to regroup overnight, get some food and hydration in and felt much better on Sunday morning. The team did a great job again and the bike was prefect all weekend. Three hours on a 250 on a fast and sandy course is hard work and then the boys put some hours in on Saturday night and it ran strongly and was perfect all weekend. Thanks to the event organisers and sponsors on another great series and I also would like to congratulate Lyndon, Fraser and Michael on making the E1 class a great race and exciting challenge this year.”
Riding the KTM 250 EXC-F, Snodgrass experienced great success during round 10, overcoming a pair of early falls to emerge victorious in the E1 division, while also finishing third outright. Sunday proved to be a more difficult outing, as a heavy fall saw him forced to climb the order to salvage a podium in E1. He managed to round out the day third in class and sixth outright.
“Saturday was really good being a Cross Country. I was feeling comfortable and, despite crashing twice after a bad start, I had to come through the pack and worked my up to third Outright and first in class. Today started off good with the two sprints, but then I had a crash and it sort of went downhill from there. I ended up second overall in the E1 championship, so I’ll take it and hopefully we go one better next year.”
| Pos | Name | Total |
| 1 | Luke STYKE | 259 |
| 2 | Lyndon SNODGRASS | 241 |
| 3 | Fraser HIGLETT | 219 |
| 4 | Michael DRISCOLL | 216 |
| 5 | Lachlan ALLAN | 169 |
| 6 | Alexander RUDLOFF | 140 |
| 7 | Jonte REYNDERS | 63 |
| 8 | Joseph COLE | 51 |
| 9 | Kye MALONE | 48 |
| 10 | Jeremy FRANKLIN | 46 |
Report by Catherine Pattison
The overwhelming feedback from the popular 2019 New Zealand Veterans’ and Women’s Motocross Nationals revolved around a well-run weekend – where the champions of the future and the past converged to enjoy the natural Otane track.
It was a case of the who’s who and who-used-to-be-who turning up for some intense racing between the country’s elite females, in both the junior and senior grades, and also the top male riders aged over 30 years.
Hosted on the Twist’s property, by the Central Hawkes Bay Motorcycle Club, the fast-flowing circuit earned a favourable review from two-time, former motocross world No.2 Josh Coppins. The Motueka-based, ex-international star comfortably cleaned up the Vets 40-44 years category, winning all five races and heading home runner-up Cambridge’s Damien King, a former multiple national champion and Barry Morris, in third.
While he won The Gathering of the Gods feature race for the top four riders from each Vet class, on outright speed, the final result was determined by adding the riders’ ages together with their points earned. The 70-79-year-old competitors were at an advantage here and consequently claimed some well-justified glory ending up on the podium. Peter Palmer topped the score sheet, followed by Reg Davey – the pair also finishing second and third respectively in the Vets 70-79 years class.
The Vets’ 40 to 54 years categories were headed by some seriously big names. British-born former Grand Prix star Kurt Nicoll, a four-time 500cc motocross world No.2, was one of them and only dropped to second once, winning the other four races to lift the Vets 50-54 years trophy.
Hamilton’s Amie Roberts was utterly dominant on her YZ250F in the Senior Women’s class, winning all five races to claim her first national title. The 20-year-old credited riding and training with her partner, top Kiwi MX1 rider Kayne Lamont, for helping her to reach the top of the podium.
The 1996 500cc motocross world champion Shayne King, from New Plymouth was expected to feature strongly in the 45-49 years class but it was ex-GP racer Cameron Negus, of Rotorua who claimed the honours. Former veterans’ world champion Pukekohe’s Tony Cooksley, demonstrated he still had the goods, claiming the Vets 60-69 years title amongst a field of seven other riders.
Taupo’s Nick Saunders enjoyed a successful return to racing after taking the past four years off to start a family. He clean-swept the Vets 30 to 34 years category on his Kawasaki KX450 and is now considering re-entering the competitive motocross scene.
Next year’s New Zealand Veterans’ and Women’s Motocross Championships will be hosted by the Gore and Districts Motorcycle Club.
Brian Anthony and Gary Moulds have completed the World Sidecar Motocross championship in 21st place, despite running only four of the 14 GPs. The title was claimed by Etienne Bax and Kaspars Stupelis.
“Eventful, good start in qualy but unfortunately a crash on the first lap left us a bit banged up. We got back on and a long way back, and started fighting for a direct qualification position. We made some awesome passes and got up to P10 so was happy with the end result. Unfortunately second row start and another broken knee brace but better that than me. 21st in the world championship and only riding four of the 14 GP’s together, well proud, thanks to the whole team and everyone who supported us.”
For the full report see:
Herlings wins MXGP of China | Prado goes 1-1 in MX2 (link)
The 2019 FIM Motocross World Championship concluded over the weekend in China, with Red Bull Jeffrey Herlings winning his second MXGP Overall of the season while Jorge Prado made a statement winning the last round of the season.
Being the last round of the season, the Shanghai Off Road International Circuit also witnessed the conclusion of one of the most spectacular seasons ever. Taking the top three spots in the final MXGP Championship standings were Tim Gajser, Jeremy Seewer and Glenn Coldenhoff while in MX2 classJorge Prado, Thomas Kjer Olsen and Jago Geerts finalized the MX2 Championship standings.
“I am very happy to win my third World championship title. We had a great off-season, the beginning was just amazing and then I won seven rounds in a row which was so special. Now at the end of the season I am struggling and not finding the flow unfortunately. Coming to this weekend I felt good, yesterday I was fast on the track and enjoyed it. In the qualifying race I had the holeshot and then made a mistake and hit my neck and I was sore. From 11th gate pick today I took two solid starts and we were close to Jeffrey and Glenn. Second race I was feeling good but jumped off the track and unfortunately I just missed the podium.”
“I felt really good all weekend on the track, and it was a really nice dirt today. I wasn’t going for the championship but I was pushing in the first race because I felt amazing, but things happen. I got a rock in my eye and then cut my chin when I crashed and I was fighting hard to get third position. I didn’t want to risk too much anymore. That’s amazing to get second in the championship. A big thank to my team for this season.”
“I feel like we did a great job this weekend. It was a solid start in the second race and I was second and led all the races, I started making mistakes and I was looking at the bigger picture that is the bronze medal and I got a podium, which was good. First race was great. I am so pumped, I knew I needed a great gate pick and I was able to hold of Jeffrey (Herlings) and Tim (Gajser).
“The first race I just couldn’t make to win but I am very thankful to win the last two races of the season and I am looking forward to next year. I wanted to save some energy in the first race, but the second race I missed the start a bit and it was a bit tricky. I managed to win it at the end, and I am pretty happy. I want to thank the team and my personal sponsors.”
| # | Rider | Nat. | Bike | R1 | R2 | Total |
| 1 | Herlings, Jeffrey | NED | KTM | 22 | 25 | 47 |
| 2 | Coldenhoff, Glenn | NED | KTM | 25 | 22 | 47 |
| 3 | Seewer, Jeremy | SUI | YAM | 18 | 20 | 38 |
| 4 | Gajser, Tim | SLO | HON | 20 | 18 | 38 |
| 5 | Van Horebeek, Jeremy | BEL | HON | 14 | 16 | 30 |
| 6 | Jonass, Pauls | LAT | HUS | 16 | 14 | 30 |
| 7 | Paulin, Gautier | FRA | YAM | 13 | 15 | 28 |
| 8 | Jasikonis, Arminas | LTU | HUS | 15 | 11 | 26 |
| 9 | Monticelli, Ivo | ITA | KTM | 11 | 13 | 24 |
| 10 | Tixier, Jordi | FRA | KTM | 12 | 12 | 24 |
| Pos | Rider | Bike | Total |
| 1 | Gajser, Tim | HON | 782 |
| 2 | Seewer, Jeremy | YAM | 580 |
| 3 | Coldenhoff, G. | KTM | 535 |
| 4 | Paulin, G. | YAM | 527 |
| 5 | Tonus, Arnaud | YAM | 462 |
| 6 | Jonass, Pauls | HUS | 458 |
| 7 | Jasikonis, A. | HUS | 442 |
| 8 | Van Horebeek, J. | HON | 433 |
| 9 | Febvre, Romain | YAM | 384 |
| 10 | Cairoli, A. | KTM | 358 |
In the MX2 class Jorge Prado’s winning streak continued in China, to top off an exceptional season.
“I’m happy to finish my MX2 career this way. I want to thank everybody from my team and everyone who helps me. It was an incredible season, many race wins and Grand Prix wins, and it is exciting to move to the MXGP class, we will work hard for that.”
“It was a consistent season, the first part of the year was just amazing, the second part of the season was not as I wanted but overall I’m happy with my second position. I’m already thinking of how to improve next season.“
“I arrived in China with a few points and I managed to win, my season had some ups and down but I’m very happy about my third position. I’m looking forward to the Monster Energy FIM MXoN now and I hope Team Belgium can be again on the podium.”
| # | Rider | Nat. | Bike | R1 | R2 | Total |
| 1 | Prado, Jorge | ESP | KTM | 25 | 25 | 50 |
| 2 | Vialle, Tom | FRA | KTM | 20 | 22 | 42 |
| 3 | Vlaanderen, Calvin | NED | HON | 22 | 18 | 40 |
| 4 | Geerts, Jago | BEL | YAM | 18 | 20 | 38 |
| 5 | Olsen, Thomas Kjer | DEN | HUS | 16 | 16 | 32 |
| 6 | Renaux, Maxime | FRA | YAM | 15 | 14 | 29 |
| 7 | Sterry, Adam | GBR | KAW | 13 | 13 | 26 |
| 8 | Larranaga Olano, Iker | ESP | KTM | 14 | 12 | 26 |
| 9 | Forato, Alberto | ITA | HUS | 9 | 11 | 20 |
| 10 | Harrison, Mitchell | USA | KAW | 10 | 10 | 20 |
| 18 | Evans, Mitchell | AUS | HON | 0 | 8 | 8 |
| Pos | Rider | Bike | Total |
| 1 | Prado, Jorge | KTM | 837 |
| 2 | Olsen, T. | HUS | 624 |
| 3 | Geerts, Jago | YAM | 543 |
| 4 | Vialle, Tom | KTM | 537 |
| 5 | Jacobi, Henry | KAW | 442 |
| 6 | Sterry, Adam | KAW | 410 |
| 7 | Renaux, Maxime | YAM | 405 |
| 8 | Vlaanderen, C. | HON | 399 |
| 9 | Boisrame, M. | HON | 303 |
| 10 | Watson, Ben | YAM | 282 |
| 11 | Evans, M. | HON | 279 |
| 12 | Beaton, Jed | HUS | 250 |
This weekend the Nation’s best junior motor cycle riders from across the country will head to the Central Coast to contest the Australian Junior Dirt Track Championship for a two-day event over September 28-29, at Allen Park MVR Speedway, Debenham Road North, in Somersby.
Although some riders may be young in age they are much older in experience, skills and talent if the results shown at the recent Central Coast Cup event were any indication. Many of these young riders seem to have raised the standard for all riders if they are to have any chance of taking the championship.
With strong competition likely from Queenslanders – Riley Nauta, Nate Hicks, Lenny & Henry Snell and Steph Connors; Victorians – Cooper Antone, Jed Fyffe and Oli Bergic; and Central West NSW riders – Sam and Tom Drane, Noah Grabham and Beau Bailey being just a few riders to beat if they want to be crowned champion.
Forbes brothers Tom and Sam Drane along with Queenslander Riley Nauta have just returned from six-weeks of competition racing long track in America.
Riders from age-seven through to 16 will compete in their individual classes to hold the title of 2019 National champion. Several previous winners of this event have continued on to hold world championships.
The weekend entertainment will not only be provided by the high quality of the competitors but on the Sunday the crowd will be treated by a special appearance and demonstration ride by clinically blind Australian Ben Felten who is the current Guinness World Record and FIM record holder for the fastest land speed by a blind motor cycle rider.
Practice will commence at 9.30am followed by racing on the Saturday and racing opening from 9.30 am on the Sunday. Entry fee of $10.00 per car will cover you for the two-days of competition. So fill your car and be treated by the champions of tomorrow.
It is now less than sixty days to go until the 2019 FIM International Six Days of Enduro takes place in Portimao, Portugal from November 11-16. As well as remaining the ultimate test of man and machine, the event in November will also incorporate the fourth edition of the FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy. This will be contested over the final four days of the main event, starting with an initial acceleration test before three days of intense racing.
This edition of the FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy will welcome the introduction of a new category – The Vintage Veterans Trophy Team. This will comprise of one team per country, nominated by the respective national federation.
Each team must include three riders, each aged at least fifty-years-old. These three riders must represent two of the classic categories (excluding EVO 86) of the Vintage Trophy. All three riders’ times will count in the overall results. The best three teams will be awarded according to their accumulative rankings.
Team Honda HRC have announced their roster of racers for the 2020 race season, with a unique arrangement that will see two different riders competing in separate series alongside Ken Roczen, who earlier this year signed an extension to his agreement.
Joining the factory squad during the AMA Supercross series will be Justin Brayton, who has ridden for the Smartop/MotoConcepts/Bullfrog Spas Honda team for the past three years and had planned to continue in that partnership until this opportunity arose.
For the AMA Pro Motocross series, Brayton will pass the baton to current GEICO Honda rider and reigning 250SX East Champion Chase Sexton, who will join the factory 450 effort fulltime at that point.
A veteran rider with a solid résumé, Brayton brings experience and consistency to the table for the 17-race Supercross series. This isn’t his first stint with the team, as he raced with the factory Honda squad in 2012, when he scored his career-best series-overall placing of fourth, achieved with the help of five podium finishes and six additional top-five results. Since Brayton’s return to the Honda brand in 2017, he and the MotoConcepts team have opted to race Supercross only. The Iowa native is also a two-time Australian Supercross Champion and will in fact return Down Under this fall to defend that title with the Penrite Honda squad before turning his attention to preparing for 2020 aboard a Team Honda HRC CRF450R.
“I’m beyond excited to be riding for factory Honda in the 2020 Supercross season. Riding with the team in 2012 was the achievement of a dream for me, and I had my best season so far that year. Now I feel like I’m living my dream all over again, just a little older and more experienced to be able to take full advantage of this opportunity.”
Meanwhile, Sexton will have the opportunity to once again campaign the 2020 250SX series with GEICO Honda before moving up to the CRF450R for AMA Pro Motocross. The Illinois native will not defend his East crown in Supercross, but will instead ride a CRF250R in the West region before beginning his Team Honda HRC agreement, which currently runs through the 2023 season. There’s also a possibility of him periodically competing in the 450SX class at East rounds, as a wildcard rider.
“I’m super excited to be joining Team Honda HRC. Factory Honda is a team that I’ve wanted to ride for since I was a kid, so to have this opportunity is honestly a dream come true. I’m looking forward to starting this journey with them, and I think it will be a successful one. I think the CRF450R suits me because I’m a bigger guy and I ride it well. Still, 2020 is going to be a learning year for sure. I’m just getting my feet wet in the 450 class, and it will be good to have an outdoor series under my belt to get me ready for a full 17-round 2021 Supercross series. I’m also looking forward to being teammates with Ken. We’re pretty close friends and train together every day, so I think this will push us both and take us to the next level. You couldn’t ask for a better guy to have under the tent, with his speed and knowledge.”
Western Australian youngster, Regan Duffy (Raceline Motorsports), has been confirmed as part of the 2019 MXStore MXoN Australian team to compete at the 2019 FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN). Duffy will represent Australia at Assen, the Netherlands on September 28-29.
Duffy, who took out the 2019 MX Nationals MXD Championship will get his chance to impress on the world stage, and was understandably excited about the opportunity.
“I’m super excited to be able to partner both Dean [Ferris] and Kyle [Webster] on the 2019 Motocross Des Nations at Assen. I’m really looking forward to tackling the deep sand at Assen on a KTM 450 and hoping to do Australia proud.”
Duffy will replace Mitch Evans, World MX2 rider due to ongoing medical concerns. The line up will now consist of Dean Ferris, Kyle Webster and Duffy.
Shaun Simpson has announced that for the 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship season he is planning to establish his own Grand Prix and British Championship race team using KTM and WP Suspension equipment. The 31-year-old will leave the RFX KTM team to race under his own ‘SS24’ banner next year.
The veteran struggled with the set-up of his race machine as well as basic technical issues in the last rounds of the current campaign and after recovering from a broken hand that forced to Scot to miss five Grands Prix in the mid-part of the season. Simpson has decided to tailor a racing operation around his needs and return to the modus operandi that served him brightly in 2014 and 2015 for GP success.
“I have almost fifteen years experience in the world championship and still totally believe I have the speed and the knowledge to run as high as possible in MXGP; definitely to get in amongst the factory boys,” he said. “Now is the time to do things the right way that will allow me to do my best on the track. For what feels like many reasons it simply hasn’t happened for me in the last month in MXGP but we have already taken some steps to reorganise and make sure we’re in the right direction for the Motocross of Nations and the last British Championship round. Thanks to the people involved at RFX KTM, but I know I can keep progressing in my career if we make this move. It will be far from easy but I can count on great support from KTM and it’s a brand that is a natural fit for me with the most competitive equipment. It’s exciting. We’ll start small but we want a high level of presentation because we know what sponsors and fans will expect. The goal will be a strong world championship campaign, the British title and a few surprise race appearances and then who knows where the team will grow for ’21.”
Simpson, who is the last privateer winner of a premier class Grand Prix when he triumphed at the 2013 Grand Prix of Benelux with a stock Yamaha, is likely to run as the sole rider in the new team but is beginning to confirm the scale and full ambition of the project.
Source: MCNews.com.au
Pramac Racing’s Miller scrapes into the top 10 at round 13.
Image: Supplied.
Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) was the victor at the Misano grand prix after a duel with rookie Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT), who led for most of the race before being passed in the closing moments, as polesitter Maverick Vinales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) completed the podium.
Vinales was on pole and the Spaniard made it count, keeping the lead heading into turn one as third place Quartararo grabbed P2, with Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) dropping back slightly from second on the grid. Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) pounced for P3, with Marquez giving himself work to do after a wobble off the line.
But work is exactly what the seven-time champion did, grabbing third from Morbidelli at turn eight as the leading trio throughout the weekend found themselves 1-2-3 on lap one.
Sure enough, the three started to stretch away. The gap on lap two was already up to 0.7s over Morbidelli in fourth and it was Vinales leading the way, but not for long. Quartararo was right behind his fellow Yamaha rider and getting a good run out of turn 10, the rookie dived past to lead. Marquez wasn’t going to waste any time either, and lap three saw the 93 set the fastest lap of the race as Quartararo started to pull away.
Having seen that, Marquez dived under Vinales at turn 10 on lap four and locked his radar onto the Petronas machine at the front, as Vinales struggled to hold the pace. Further back, Espargaro was still able to make trouble Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar), Valentino Rossi (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and second in the championship Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) for P5 as the KTM rider continued to impress.
Back at the front, Quartararo had a 0.8s lead over Marquez, with Vinales slipping to 1.5 seconds back on lap six. The Frenchman’s advantage wouldn’t stay above half a second for long though as the Repsol Honda began to reel the Petronas Yamaha in; the reigning World Champion and the MotoGP rookie locked in a face-off. Vinales then seemed out of range nearly three seconds back, but late race pace has often been a calling card for the number 12.
In the battle for sixth, Rins was given a long lap penalty shortly after finally dispatching Espargaro’s KTM, but soon it didn’t matter for the Silverstone winner. The Suzuki man was suddenly down at turn four, leaving his third place overall in the standings under attack.
Rossi pressured Morbidelli for fourth, Viñales was at a fairly constant gap, and Quartararo remained nigh on faultless at the front. There was no sign of the 20-year-old buckling under the pressure, with the gap between the two hovering at two tenths.
The laps ticked by and still there was no change, with the Frenchman holding firm. Marquez was fierce on the brakes coming into turn 10, but ‘El Diablo’ was a demon at picking the bike up onto the straight. There was simply nothing splitting the two, and Viñales was then starting to close the gap…
Onto the final lap, the number 93 was about to strike. Marquez had the run on Quartararo and led into Turn 1, but Quartararo got a good run out of Turn 2 and Turn 3 to bite straight back. Into turn four they went, Quartararo was back in front, but the back straight and Turn 8 provided a golden passing opportunity and Marquez got it stopped into the left-hander – slicing back into the lead.
Now it was Marquez’ to lose, with no way through for Quartararo at turn 10, although the Yamaha got a good run down through turn 11 and 12. As the tight left of turn 14 approached, the Frenchman was right behind the Spaniard. Marquez went defensive and was slow mid-corner, Quartararo tried to cut back…but there was no way through as the Yamaha almost touched the rear wheel of the Honda.
Subsequently, Quartararo had to sit up, and that was sadly game over. The reigning champion returned to winning ways after two consecutive second places, winning in enemy territory and overtaking Mike Hailwood’s grand prix win record in the process – 77 is now his tally. And his points lead? 93.
Quartararo’s second, however, made him ‘the real winner’, according to Marquez, and the Frenchman is the top Independent Team rider once again. Vinales didn’t quite have enough on Sunday afternoon for the men ahead of him in the end, but a fifth podium of the season continues his consistent form of late to edge clear of teammate Rossi in the Championship.
Speaking of ‘The Doctor’, it wasn’t a home GP podium Rossi would have been looking for, but a great fight with Morbidelli and a third consecutive P4 is a good turn around for the nine-time world champion since summer break. For Morbidelli, a strong and consistent weekend ends with a fourth P5 of the year – a nice way to celebrate his 100th grand prix race. All four Yamahas inside the top five at Misano is also promising for the Iwata factory.
Ultimately Dovizioso could do no more than sixth at the venue he won at last season, with Pol Espargaro next up in P7 as a solid reward for his – and KTM’s – impressive weekend. Upon his return from injury, Joan Mir was the sole Team Suzuki Ecstar finisher in P8, with Pramac Racing’s Jack Miller recovering from P16 on the grid to grab ninth ahead of fellow GP19 rider Danilo Petrucci (Ducati Team) in P10.
Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol), teammate Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), wildcard Michele Pirro (Ducati Team) and Pramac Racing’s Francesco Bagnaia crashed out of the race.
Augusto Fernandez (FlexBox HP 40) secured his third win of the season as the Moto2 race at Misano came down to the wire, with the Spaniard going toe to toe with Fabio Di Giannantonio (+Ego Speed Up) on the final lap to deny the home hero. Championship leader Alex Marquez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) completed the podium, as Australian Remy Gardner (SAG Racing) crashed out of the encounter.
Tatsuki Suzuki secured an emotional victory for SIC58 Squadra Corse at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, putting in a faultless ride in Moto3 to beat John McPhee (Petronas Sprinta Racing) and Tony Arbolino (VNE Snipers) to the top step for his maiden win.
There’s no place like home to do the double and after claiming victory in race one, home rider Matteo Ferrari (Trentino Gresini MotoE) did it again on Sunday morning in MotoE, getting to the front and able to pull out a lead that proved unassailable.
Tech 3 E-Racing’s Hector Garzo took second once again, coming out on top in a multiple-rider tussle on the final lap, with Mattia Casadei (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse) snatching the final place on the podium at the final corner. Australian Josh Hook (Pramac Racing) was 12th.
Source: CycleOnline.com.au
CFMoto continue to offer some of the cheapest learner bikes in Australia with the 300NK arriving next month at just $4990, ride away.
We could not find a 300cc motorcycle on the market for less. In fact, the Chinese-made motorcycle is about the same price as a couple of 150cc bikes on the market.
And it includes an unlimited kilometre, two-year factory warranty.
It rounds out their NK (naked) road bike range: 150NK ($3490 with free jacket and helmet worth $350); 250NK ($4290) and 650NK ($5990).
Despite the cheap prices, we have found all the CFMoto models we’ve tested to be reliable and great value.
This latest variant is powered by a new 300cc four-valve DOHC, water-cooled engine with 25kW of power in its lithe 151kg frame.
The EFI engine has a balance shaft and a sixth gear to reduce vibration in the footpegs and hand grips.
Braking is handled by Spanish J Juan brake callipers and a Continental Dual Channel ABS controller.
The frame is narrow making it easy for most riders to get a foot on the ground and the seat is split for rider and pillion.
Modern features include a full-colour TFT instrumentation panel, LED headlight and daytime running lights.
Like all NK motorcycles, styling has been outsourced to Kiska, the Austrian design house responsible for many KTM models.
The company has close ties with KTM, making their bikes in China for the domestic market.
300NK ABS will be available in Midnight Black only.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
The next-generation Arai Regent-X helmet will address the problem of tight-fitting helmets being difficult to pull on and off.
It will be released late this year with the latest version of Arai’s Facial Contour System.
This system includes a 5mm adjustment in the jawline and cheek pads that “articulate up and down” as you pull on and take off the helmet.
They say this makes it easier to pull on and take off.
When the helmet is on, Arai claim the cheek pads will wrap around your face for a snug fit.
This is important as brain injuries can occur if your helmet does not fit tightly around your head.
Although it has a snug fit, the cheek pads have bigger speaker recesses and they say it is now easier to fit an intercom.
And, as usual, the cheek pads are adjustable and come in multiple sizes to fit your head.
It also comes with their usual multi-density one-piece liner.
However, some people with round heads (like me) can’t wear Arai helmets as they have an oval shell shape.
Arai has also fitted a lighter weight neck roll, although they don’t say how much lighter it makes the helmet.
But Arai does claim it reduces wind noise seeping in from the bottom of the helmet.
Protection is claimed to be the same as their race helmets even though it uses a new less-expensive resin.
We don’t have confirmation yet of its arrival time or prices in Australia.
Aussie prices for Arai helmets range from about $550 for the Acces-III to $1339.95 for the RX-7V graphic.
It will be available in sizes XS-XXL in solid colours and graphics.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
