Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) is in good shape heading into the second half of 2019. The reigning Champion has a 58-points lead, he’s won more than half the races so far, and there’s been little sign of many chinks in his armour since his crash out the lead at the Circuit of the Americas.
Marc Marquez
“I am very excited to get back on the bike. Summer break is always nice to relax a little bit, but soon you miss the team and the bike! I am ready to get back to work and Brno is a fun circuit to ride. We finished the first half of the season in a very strong way and now we must keep our focus to continue this. Brno is a circuit where lots of riders are often strong so we can’t take anything for granted. I hope Jorge’s recovery is going well and we will soon have him back in the team.”
Sachsenring Round 9 – MotoGP 2019
But this is MotoGP and the course of racing rarely did run smooth, with Brno next up – the circuit that ended his omnipotent run in 2014 – and there is still a maximum of 250-points up for grabs in the remaining ten races. Can his rivals reset, bounce back and start taking the fight to the number 93?
His closest challenger remains Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team), despite a couple of more difficult races for the Italian, and the good news for him is that he won in the Czech Republic last year, in some style.
MotoGP 2018 – Round 10 – Brno – MotoGP Results 1 DOVIZIOSO Andrea 4 ITA 25 Ducati Team Ducati 41’07.728 2 LORENZO Jorge 99 SPA 20 Ducati Team Ducati 0.178 3 MARQUEZ Marc 93 SPA 16 Repsol Honda Team Honda 0.368
So it’s a good track to begin his assault on the second half of the season, with confidence and good memories nothing to be sniffed at when glory and defeat can be thousandths apart.
But Dovizioso’s teammate Danilo Petrucci is now pretty hot on his heels, only six points back, and he could complicate life for the now two-time runner up in the Championship. And ‘Petrux’ knows the bike he’s now on took a 1-2 at Brno last year. Will it repeat the feat in 2019? And if so, in which order?
Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar), meanwhile, is the man looking for a little more redemption. After two DNFs in a row, both from near the front, the Suzuki man went into summer on the back foot despite having some serious speed at both races. He’s now 84-points off Marquez and fourth in the Championship, but the upside is Rins now races with much less pressure. He’ll simply want to win and win as much as possible in the remaining ten rounds. He’s already taken a MotoGP victory, so why not again?
Alex Rins was victorious at Jerez
That’s also true of Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and nine-time World Champion teammate Valentino Rossi, although they arrive the second half of 2019 with very different recent runs of form. Viñales opened his victory account for the year at Assen and then followed it up with a podium, heading into summer looking like a serious threat. Can he start back up where he left off? If yes, it’ll be the first time he’s taken three premier class podiums in a row.
For Rossi, it’s the opposite – with three DNFs prefacing an eighth place in Germany, the ‘Doctor’ needs to bounce back and turn it around. But his CV at Brno is a good one, with a win in every category he’s raced there – including five in the premier class. After such a stellar start to the season, can Rossi come back out swinging for round two?
Brno was the scene of Valentino Rossi’s first ever victory, back in 1996
Then there’s the fight for top Independent Team rider. Jack Miller (Pramac Racing) currently leads it by virtue of consistency and that impressive podium earlier in the year, but he’s only three-points ahead of rookie sensation Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT).
Jack Miller – Le Mans 2019
Quartararo is another looking to bounce back at Brno but only from one mistake in Germany – incredibly, his first DNF caused by a crash – and if his form so far in 2019 hasn’t been quite ominous enough, he’ll now be much more recovered from the arm pump surgery that nevertheless didn’t hold him back from the podium. At full power, Quartararo will doubtless be bothering the field for more than the accolade of top Independent Team rider or Rookie of the Year. Brno, beware.
Fabio Quartararo
“Brno is a track I really like, because it’s fast, it has fun uphill changes of direction, and not so many straights. I’ve been able to have some rest over the break to help to heal my arm and shoulder, and I’ve also been training hard ready for the rest of the season. My arm and shoulder feels good now, and I’ve been doing some motocross to confirm it. I’m really looking forward to seeing how it’ll be during a race weekend again. My expectation will be the same as in the past few races, inside the top eight. We also know that we can be really fast in qualifying, so we can expect even better from that.”
Fabio Quartararo
Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol), however, will want to be one of those making that as difficult as possible. The Brit is equal on points with Quartararo and his unforgettable first win came at Brno in 2016 as Crutchlow was impeccable in difficult conditions – so he’s another for whom the Czech venue holds good memories. He also took his second podium of the season in Germany despite recovering from a cycling mishap and is another who will be in much better shape heading into the second half. A podium contender? Don’t doubt it.
Cal Crutchlow – Sachsenring Round 9 – MotoGP 2019
The fight throughout the top ten has been tight this year and the likes of Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) and Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) will all be gunning to remain key presences in the battle, with all having taken some top finishes in 2019 so far.
And what of Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) and teammate Andrea Iannone? And they’ll also have someone else to contend with: Stefan Bradl, Honda test rider, who replaces the absent and recovering Jorge Lorenzo at the Repsol Honda Team. The German has put in some solid rides and could cause the odd headache in the fight for Q2 and good points.
Red Bull KTM Tech3 with Miguel Oliveira and Hafizh Syahrin are eager to restart the season and can’t wait to develop the new project further in the latter half of season 2019.
Hervé Poncharal – Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Manager
“With the Czech Grand Prix coming up, we at Red Bull KTM Tech3 are ready to open the second chapter of the 2019 MotoGP season. I believe and I have checked with our riders and our staff, that everybody seems to feel well rested and has made a very good use of this summer break. If we restart on the level we were in Germany, where Miguel was very strong – although he had unfortunate crash at start – I believe we can be quite competitive. I also know that KTM did some tests with test team and hopefully we could have an even more competitive bike. These two GPs back to back in Czech Republic and of course more important for us the Austrian GP, plus the test on Monday in Brno are a busy, but important moment of the season. We are really eager and impatient to arrive there! Brno is a great circuit and has a nice layout, fitting well to riders and machines. Although the break was more than welcome after Germany and a tough first part of the year, we are ready to come back and see our level compared to the rest of the field. We want to give the best possibilities to Miguel and also Hafizh, who at the moment has an uncertain future due to the official announcement that we will have Brad Binder with us next year. We just can’t wait to be reunited all together at Tech3, chat about our summer break and focus on the restart of the very important second part of the 2019 season.”
Miguel Oliveira
As we head for Brno for the 50th time, we’re back in business for 2019, with ten races remaining and 250 points on the table. Healed, reset and fired up to go racing again, the field is deep and gunning for glory…with everything far from decided. Another twist could be just around the corner….
Lack of patience led Wilson to Moree sprint race error
Section: Competition
MX2 title challenger bounces back with top five finish at the penultimate stop.
Image: Foremost Media.
Former MX2 champion Jay Wilson believes a lack of patience in the first sprint race at Moree’s Pirelli MX Nationals led him to crash out of podium contention on the opening lap.
The Yamalube Yamaha Racing contender was attempting a pass on leader Dylan Wills (Davey Motorsports KTM) when he crashed suddenly, the incident only intensified when championship rival Wilson Todd (DPH Motorsport Husqvarna) collided with him upon remounting.
The popular Queenslander was able to bounce back from the crash to keep his title hopes alive, lodging a 12-3 scorecard for fifth overall in the shorted schedule.
“The day didn’t go as I would have liked and that crash in the opening race was a result of me just wanting to get to the front as fast as I could,” Wilson explained. “Looking back, I probably could have been a little more patient but I felt I had opportunity to make it happen, I just didn’t execute it as well as I should have.
“Race two was better and I was applying plenty of pressure to Wilson Todd but couldn’t find a way past. The championship is still tight and with five riders still a mathematical change of winning it, no one can take it easy. It’s an exciting end to the championship and I can’t wait to hook in at Coolum and give it my best.”
Wilson currently sits third in the championship standings ahead of this weekend’s double-header finale at Coolum in Queensland, six points behind second’s Kyle Webster (Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing) and 24 points behind leader Todd.
Fly Racing have introduced their 2020 racewear with the Evolution DST and Lite Hydrogen gear leading the charge. The Evolution DST offers Fly’s most progressive racewear with a strong mix of both durability and stretch mobility, alongside a low profile construction and comfortable, natural fit.
With the Lite Hydrogen you’re getting optimal lightweight performance, alongside breathability, flexibility and athletic comfortable fit, with Fly Racing continuing to improve the line thanks to constant feedback. Here’s a look at what’s on offer:
Fly Racing Evolution DST Pants – $269.95 RRP
The Fly Racing Evolution DST pant offers the brand’s Durable Stretch Technology (DST) with HEX-stretch fabric, alongside laser-cut perforations and stretch-mesh ventilation for ideal comfort and breathability.
2020 Fly Racing Evolution DST Pant
Relaxed leg cuffs are joined by leather heat-shield panels with Dupont Kevlar stitching and pre-shaped knees designed to suit the majority of knee braces or guards. The seat is a full-floating 900D design with HEX-Stretch material and features a light mesh to reduce pulling, with a Lycra liner throughout for comfort.
The Fly Racing BoA System allows for micro-adjustability, while there’s a ratcheting fly closure at the waist for further adjustment, along with a zipper lock system to ensure a secure fit. The Fly Racing Evolution DST pant is available for $269.95 RRP from your local Fly Racing stockist.
DST (Durable Stretch Technology) constructed of four-way HEX-Stretch fabric provides excellent mobility with heavy-duty durability
Laser-cut perforations in key areas for advanced airflow
Strategically placed stretch-mesh ventilation areas
Relaxed leg cuffs
Exclusive four-way HEX-Stretch fabric construction is flexible and tough
Leather heat shield panels with DuPont Kevlar stitching
Seat panel sewn to breathable light mesh reduces pulling
Advanced Lycra liner adds increased comfort and performance
The Boa System offers fast, on-the-fly micro adjustability
Ratcheting fly closure allows for adjustability
Ergonomically pre-shaped knee accommodates most knee braces and guards
Full-Floating durable 900D seat surrounded by HEX-Stretch material moves naturally with your body
Exclusive zipper lock system keeps pants closed and secure
2020 Fly Racing Evolution DST Racewear
Fly Racing Evolution DST Jersey – $69.95 RRP
The Fly Racing Evolution DST jersey features a low-profile construction, with seamless armpits, full mesh back and integrated mesh for strong breathability. Laser-cut perforations add to the ventilation offered, with zero-cuff openings including Lycra stretch gussets.
2020 Fly Racing Evolution DST Jersey
A silicone printed tail to the jersey ensures it stays tucked in, while the overall design is what Fly Racing call ‘Pro Fit’ with ergonomic arms for full, easy movement as well as a slightly slim cut for a stylish look. The Fly Racing Evolution DST jersey is available for $69.95 RRP from your local Fly Racing stockist.
Laser-cut perforations for advanced ventilation
Full mesh back and integrated mesh in key areas
Zero-cuff arm openings with Lycra stretch gussets provide unrestrictive mobility, and a comfortable fit
Multi-directional Lycra neck and shoulder panels
Low profile multi-panel construction for maximum performance and a comfortable fit
Seamless armpit construction prevents underarm rubbing and irritation
Silicone-printed tail keeps jersey tucked in
Pro fit: ergonomic arms with a slightly slim cut
Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen Pants – $239.95 RRP
The Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen pants offer a lightweight pant with minimalist design, including stretch rib panels and stretch paneling, alongside pre-shaped knees and leather heat sheild panels featuring Dupont Kevlar stitching.
2020 Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen Pants
Mesh panels in the back of the knee and lower leg offer further breathability, with a full-floating seat surrounded by stretch-ribbing to ensure it moves naturally with the rider.
A zipper-lock system is joined by a ratcheting closure at the waist and the Fly Racing BOA system for micro-adjustability – on the move. The Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen pant is available for $239.95 RRP from your local Fly Racing stockist.
Lightweight minimalist design
Multi-directional stretch-rib panels for flexibility
Mesh panels on back of knee and lower leg
Low profile stretch leg cuffs with removable elastic band
Stretch panel construction for maximum comfort and movement
Leather heat shield panels with DuPont Kevlar stitching
The Boa System offers fast, on-the-fly micro adjustability
Ergonomically pre-shaped knee accommodates most knee braces and guards
Full-Floating seat surrounded by stretch-rib material moves naturally with your body
Exclusive zipper lock system for a secure fit
Ratcheting closure allows for adjustability
2020 Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen Racewear
Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen Jersey – $69.95 RRP
The Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen jersey offers a multi-panel construction with low profile mesh collar and mesh ventilation panels for breathability, alongside zero-cuff arm openings and reinforced mesh gussets, for fit and mobility.
2020 Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen Jersey
Laser cut perforations dissipate heat, while an extended tail helps ensure the jersey stays tucked in, while an overall ‘athletic fit’ ensures a compact fit. The Fly Racing Lite Hydrogen jersey is available for $69.95 RRP from your local Fly Racing stockist.
Laser-cut perforations help dissipate heat
Zero-cuff arm openings with reinforced mesh gussets provide unrestrictive mobility and a comfortable fit
Mesh ventilation panels dissipate unwanted heat
Multi-panel construction for maximum performance and comfortable fit
Low profile multi-directional tagless mesh collar
Extended tail helps keep jersey tucked in
Athletic fit: fits close to the body with minimal excess
Limited Edition 2020 Fly Racing Lite ‘Glitch’ Racewear
Lowes praises Yamaha teammates in Suzuka runner-up
Section: Competition
WorldSBK regular joined on the podium by van der Mark and Nakasuga.
Image: Supplied.
Alex Lowes has praised his Yamaha Factory Racing teammates Michael van der Mark and Katsuyuki Nakasuga for their efforts in scoring runner-up honours at the 2019 Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours in Japan.
The squad was initially classified as the victors of the event after Suzuki Endurance Racing Team crashed out in the closing minutes, followed by Kawasaki Racing Team falling due to an oil spill from the accident after the red-flag was flown.
However, in accordance with the rule stating that in case the race is stopped when the red-flag is waved, the standings reflect positions on the previous lap, granting KRT the win while demoting Yamaha Factory Racing Team to second in the classification.
“I love the Suzuka 8 Hours and to get the opportunity to ride with Michael rather than against him is nice, as he’s a tough opponent to beat normally,” Lowes explained. I always enjoy riding with Nakasuga-san too, as we are friends as well as teammates.
“So this is always a special race for me and today we all did our best. We pushed right up until the end, we never gave up chasing and it was a lot of fun. Thanks to my teammates, and to everyone in the team, for all the hard work they put in to chasing success here in Suzuka.”
Lowes will now resume his WorldSBK duties when the championship returns to action on 6-8 August at Portimao in Portugal.
The recent launch of the Northern Talent Cup has spread KTM’s influence wider into the foundations of road racing and further increased the credibility of the newest manufacturer to join the MotoGP entry list.
KTM recently announced providing the RC4R for the 2020 Northern Talent Cup
The Northern Talent Cup will draw 24 riders in 2020 between the ages of 12 and 17 for a seven round, one-make, cost-effective series with at least two of the events taking place alongside MotoGP fixtures. The scheme will compliment the other elements in Dorna’s development structure but with a firm emphasis on junior prospects from northern and central Europe. KTM will supply the 250cc four-stroke KTM RC4R that will be set and locked for several years in terms of technical specification.
The Northern Talent Cup solidifies the base of the pyramid from 2020 (the initiative replaces the ADAC Junior Cup powered by KTM where the KTM RC390 Cup bike was used) and where the levels begin.
2020 Northern Talent Cup – KTM RC4R
Moving up from the Northern Talent Cup riders will be able to expect the RC 250 R in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, which brings the bright and best young talent even closer to the tech of Grand Prix.
By the time riders might consider FIM CEV Moto3 Junior World Championship and the last ‘examination’ before the FIM World Championship then they will already be very familiar with the KTM RC4 currently used by 15 racers in Moto3. The RC12 in Moto2 is steered by nine athletes, while four have chosen the RC16 at the peak of the sport: MotoGP.
2020 Northern Talent Cup KTM RC4R
KTM hold three titles in road racing (2012, 2013 and 2016 in Moto3 with Sandro Cortese, Maverick Viñales and Brad Binder respectively) that take a valuable place in the 302 already won in all FIM disciplines by the factory from Mattighofen.
With the fresh investment into the Northern Talent Cup KTM make another statement in their belief, passion and value towards prototype racing and their role in the future for years to come.
2020 Northern Talent Cup launch conference
Pit Beirer – KTM Motorsports Director
“As we mentioned at the launch of the Northern Talent Cup in Sachsenring recently we are proud of what we have been able to contribute to the world of road racing so far and in normal KTM style, when we set our eyes on something we like to ‘go for it’. We already have a strong base thanks to the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup but the Northern Talent Cup allows us to go even closer to the beginning for many riders who want to be racers, and for families that want to start the dream but wonder how to make it work. For us it means a truly great stretch down through the prototypes and to that base machinery that might let the Espargaros and Zarcos of tomorrow start their journey. For a company like us – that takes such a big pride in our racing – there is no better feeling than watching that progression and helping it happen.”
2019 represents the third season for KTM and their Red Bull-backed teams in MotoGP and in rapid time the KTM RC16 has sliced race deficits to Grand Prix-winning rivals substantially. The motorcycle, in the hands of Red Bull KTM’s Pol Espargaro, has already crested the MotoGP podium and continues to inch closer to repeating the distinction in the foreseeable future.
Pol Espargaro
But while KTM may be relative ‘new guys’ to the premier class the factory has been accomplishing feats in Grand Prix and feeding elite talent into the upper echelons of the sport for almost two decades.
Firstly their supply of RC 250 R machinery to the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup from 2012 (previously providing 125cc two-stroke motorcycles from 2007) has helped over 180 riders from more than 30 countries sample the high-profile series on international FIM World Championship spec circuits and twenty of the alumni are currently competing in either Moto3, Moto2 or MotoGP.
The ‘Rookies’ contest has amassed over 150 races in 13 seasons and is still the pinnacle ‘feeder’ into Moto3. The very first champion, Johann Zarco, is Red Bull KTM’s third representative in MotoGP.
Johann Zarco
KTM previously excelled in the old 125cc and 250cc divisions between 2003-2008 where their two-stroke technology helped athletes like Casey Stoner and Marc Marquez to the initial chequered flags of their careers.
In their first entry to Moto3 in 2012 (after dipping out of 125s in 2009) KTM snared the title with their RC 250 GP in the hands of Sandro Cortese and have remained protagonists ever since with stars like Jack Miller, Miguel Oliveira and Brad Binder shining; the last two names being the first racers to make the full climb in KTM colours from the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies through the stages up into MotoGP and passing through the capable climes of long-term partners Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup
The ‘ladder’ was made complete with Moto2 (thanks again to the Ajo framework) and MotoGP participation in 2017: that same year was the ultimate milestone as KTM took two places on the premier class grid.
Less than two years on another landmark was dropped in the Grand Prix story thanks to the alliance with Red Bull KTM Tech3 for 2019. Partnership with one of the best satellite teams in the history of the sport permitted four RC16s to echo through the paddock and allow a significant acceleration in R&D and development. Amplification of the test team with KTM stalwart Mika Kallio and Dani Pedrosa accumulating essential non-race mileage was another noteworthy deed.
Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup
For the third year in a row the entire scope of KTM’s prototype efforts across the divisions will be in full evidence at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria on August 9-11.
Moree result confidence inspiring for MX1 rookie Evans
Section: Competition
Yamalube Yamaha Racing rider fifth in New South Wales.
Image: Foremost Media.
A career-best fifth place finish in the premier class at Moree’s Pirelli MX Nationals has injected confidence into Richie Evans as the series wraps up this weekend with a double-header finale at Coolum in Queensland.
The Yamalube Yamaha Racing contender rode strongly in the sole 15-lap outing, holding down fourth for much of the race before crossing the line in a well-earned fifth position.
“Fifth is a good result and one that I am happy with,” said Evans. “I was able to get a good start and run with the lead group and found that they weren’t really getting away. I tried to stay calm and keep pace with Brett Metcalfe who was a couple of seconds ahead of me.
“Dylan Long closed in and past me just past half way and I made a mistake which cost me a few seconds, but I was able to keep my composure and finish fifth.”
Racing was reduced to just the opening motos after the local hospital reached its capacity, calling for promoter WEM to declare the event. Evans is ranked eighth in the championship standings ahead of this weekend’s finals in Queensland.
The 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs Prologue has been run and won, with Taddy Blazusiak taking top honours in the latest installment of the World Enduro Super Series, after a flying start.
2019 Red Bull Romaniacs – Prologue
The rider led home a strong field of Gold Class riders to take victory on the streets of Sibiu. He was joined on the podium by teammate Jonny Walker and Pol Tarres.
After much anticipation the fifth round of the World Enduro Super Series got underway in Sibiu, Romania, marking the 16th edition of Red Bull Romaniacs. Thousands of spectators gathered on the city streets to watch the world’s best Enduro riders, from up to 50 nations, do battle. As the feature race of the day, the bumper-entry Gold Class saw 38 riders take to the start line for the 10-minute plus one lap race.
Poland’s Taddy Blazusiak was eager to show his speed and quickly grabbed the holeshot. Riding both aggressively and confidently on the tough and technical course, Blazusiak controlled the lead for the majority of the race. Fending off early challenges from Wade Young, he managed to pull clear and claim victory.
Pol Tarres – 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs Prologue
Behind Blazusiak the fight for the remainder of the podium places was intense. As Young made mistakes and slipped backwards, Walker and Tarres came to the fore. Tarres momentarily took up second over Walker, but a mistake on the log beam allowed Walker back in front to eventually place second.
Despite his mistake, Tarres delivered one of his most impressive performances of the series so far to secure the final step of the podium in third. Alfredo Gomez rode a quiet race for fourth, with teammate Bolt in fifth.
Taddy Blazusiak topped the Gold Class podium from Walker and Tarres – 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs Prologu
Taddy Blazusiak
“I had a great start – Billy Bolt was to the side of me and riding aggressive, but I thought to myself I’m not having any of it. I got my head down and charged for a few laps, but then I made a little mistake. Luckily, I had a good gap to the guys behind so was able to stay in front. From then on I rode defensive lines and just took it steady. It feels great to get the win, although it doesn’t mean that much in terms of the whole event, however it’s still a good feeling to win here in front of the crowds.”
Taddy Blazusiak – 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs Prologue – Image by Predrag Vuckovic/Red Bull Content Pool
Jonny Walker
“I had a bit of a nightmare in the qualifying – it went ok but it just wasn’t fast enough for the front row, so that was a bit of a disadvantage at the start of the final. I’m happy with second – I could see Taddy but just couldn’t gain on him. My momentum is building gradually as this season goes on. I’m feeling confident going into this one. We’ve made a few changes to the bike over the break and I’m positive we can turn things around here in Romania.”
Jonny Walker – 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs Prologue – Image by Predrag Vuckovic/Red Bull Content Pool
Pol Tarres
“This morning I had a super good feeling with the track and the bike and I knew I would be able to push in the final. In the end it all went well. I had a good battle with Jonny throughout the race, but eventually he got second and I got third. But I’m super happy to be on the podium here at Red Bull Romaniacs – it’s one of the toughest races in the world. The result means I have to start first tomorrow, but my plan is push as hard as I can and hopefully stay with Jonny and Taddy if they come past me.”
Pol Tarres – 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs – Image by Future7Media
Red Bull Romaniacs, Prologue – Gold Class
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM – POL) 10:48.266
Jonny Walker (KTM – GB) +12.002
Pol Tarres (Husqvarna – ESP) +14.249
Alfredo Gomez (Husqvarna – ESP) 25:746
Billy Bolt (Husqvarna – GB) +29.999
Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – GER) +30.752
Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna – GB) +34.250
Wade Young (Sherco – RSA) +35.499
Mario Roman (Sherco – ESP) +1:07.501
McCarthy tops Silver – Brent Brady wins Bronze
In the Silver class it was a win for USA’s Dustin McCarthy. The American rode to victory over Finland’s Aleksi Vilkko with Britain’s Stefan Simpson in third.
Bronze riders – 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs Prologue
The Bronze class saw Australia’s Brent Brady take a confident win over Brazil’s Marco Faria, with the Netherland’s Robin Holtmeulen third.
Dustin McCarthy – Silver winner
“I had no idea I was in the lead – I knew I was close, but I didn’t realise I was winning. I was going as fast as I could out there, but also trying to conserve to make it through the race. I was getting pretty tired at the end, that’s for sure. I’m super stoked to be here – Red Bull Romaniacs is my favourite event of the year, so to win the Silver Prologue feels great.”
Brent Brady – Bronze winner
“I’m exhausted! That was awesome though. I had a blast out there fighting for the win. The rock garden was the hardest section but everything else was manageable for us in Bronze so the battles were really fun. It’s awesome to win – here’s to a good week ahead.”
Aussie Brent Brady claimed the Bronze Class Prologue win -Image by Future7Media
Red Bull Romaniacs now moves into the surrounding Carpathian Mountains for Off Road Day 1.
Red Bull Romaniacs, Prologue – Silver Class
Dustin McCarthy (USA) 5 laps, 9:32.387
Aleksi Vilkko (FIN) 9:36.133
Stefan Simpson (GB) 9:40.130
Sam Winterburn (GB) 9:57.833
Fabien Poirot (FRA) 10:16.637…
Red Bull Romaniacs, Prologue – Bronze Class
Brent Brady (AUS) 4 laps, 9:48,877
Marco Faria (BRA) 10:16.627
Robin Holtmeulen (NLD) 11:13.127
Alexander De Haan (NLD) 12:06.880
Ole-Johnny Skoien (NOR) 12:18.130…
2019 Red Bull Romaniacs Prologue
2019 World Enduro Super Series Calendar
Round 1: Toyota Porto Extreme XL Lagares (Portugal) May 10-12
Round 2: Trèfle Lozérien AMV (France) May 17-19
Round 3: Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble (Austria) May 30-June 2
Round 4: Hixpania Hard Enduro (Spain) June 21-23
Round 5: Red Bull Romaniacs (Romania) July 30-August 3
Round 6: Hawkstone Park Cross Country (United Kingdom) September 21-22
Now it seems the Streetfighter V4 street version may be accompanied by a Multistrada V4.
Earlier this month motorcycle magazine Motorrad claimed it had seen the bike out testing in Borgo Panigale, home of the Ducati factory in north-east Italy.
They did not have any images to prove their sighting, but they have now published iomages from this Facebook post by Luca Moncalieri, Managing Director of Ducatisti Integralisti,Pavia, Italy.
A Multistrada V4 makes a lot of sense as does a Monster version.
Will there be any L-twins left?
Streetfighter V4 is expected to have similar power to the Panigale V4’s 158kW (213hp).
It had been suggested the street production version may be a little tamer. However, it is likely to still be more than the Aprilia Tuono’s 173hp (129kW).
The Multistrada is likely to be tuned for less top end and more low-down power and torque.
The current Multistrada 1260 has 117kW (158hp) output.
Ducati Multistrada 1260
The new V4 models are likely to have front and rear radar for blind spot alerts and cornering ABS as Ducati has previously said it would add these features to its entire range in 2020.
MotoGP Schedule (AEST)
