Fernandez bags Aragon Moto2™ pole

A good week for the Spaniard just got better

It’s a good time to be Augusto Fernandez. On top of his move to MotoGP™ next year at GASGAS Factory Racing now being confirmed, the current Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto2™ rider has qualified on pole position at the Gran Premio Animoca Brands de Aragon with a 1:51.888. Fernandez will share the front row of the grid at MotorLand Aragon with none other than the Shimoku GASGAS Aspar Team duo of Albert Arenas and Jake Dixon, whom he beat to pole by 0.124 and 0.291 seconds respectively. His nearest rival for the intermediate class title, Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), is set to get away from Row 3 come Sunday afternoon.

Ogura makes a good recovery but Fernandez looks to extend his advantage

Ogura had dropped into Q1 but got himself out of there with the second-fastest time of that initial, 15-minute stanza, before setting the early pace in Q2 on a 1:52.402. That was the fastest lap of the session until Aron Canet (Flexbox HP40) clocked a 1:52.274 with less than five minutes remaining, but the Flexbox HP40 rider’s time would prove insufficient for any place on the front row at all.

Dixon took over top spot with a 1:52.179 before Fernandez jumped from a provisional Row 4 starting berth to first position with his 1:51.888. No one would go faster than that, but Arenas did follow him across the line to improve from seventh to second with a 1:52.012. With last-start winner Alonso Lopez (CAG Speed Up) setting a late 1:52.270, Canet was shuffled to fifth and they are set to share the second row – one which is covered by just a single hundredth of a second – with Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo).

How the rest of the grid looks

Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) earned seventh with a 1:52.289 with the chequered flag out, and will head up Row 3 alongside the Idemitsu Honda Team Asia duo of Ogura, who went as quick as a 1:52.397, and Somkiat Chantra. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) rounds out the top 10, ahead of Fermin Aldeguer (CAG Speed Up), Filip Salac (Gresini Racing Moto2™), and Jorge Navarro (Flexbox HP40), the latter of whom crashed at Turn 5 in the fifth minute of the session.

Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) took 14th, from Q1 pace-setter Cameron Beaubier (American Racing), Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team), and Celestino Vietti (Mooney VR46 Racing Team). Vietti’s had already been an eventful day given he looked to be directly through to Q2 until he lost his best lap for a track limits breach and slipped into Q1. The Italian advanced from that opening qualifying session but was soon on the back foot again due to an early crash at Turn 1 and would ultimately claim just 17th on a 1:53.481, one spot up on Alessandro Zaccone (Gresini Racing Moto2™). Barry Baltus (RW Racing GP) missed the Q1 top 4 by only three hundredths of a second and is set to head up Row 7, next to Lorenzo Dalla Porta (Italtrans Racing Team) and Senna Agius (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team).

Fernandez can put an exclamation mark on his week with a victory at Aragon, but there is no shortage of candidates out to spoil the party. Next up, it’s the Sunday morning Warm Up, then race start at 12:20 (GMT +2)!

Moto2™ Q2 Top 10:
1. Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) – 1:51.888
2. Albert Arenas (Shimoku GASGAS Aspar Team) + 0.124
3. Jake Dixon (Shimoku GASGAS Aspar Team) + 0.291
4. Alonso Lopez (CAG Speed Up) + 0.382
5. Aron Canet (Flexbox HP40) + 0.386
6. Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 0.392
7. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) + 0.401
8. Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) + 0.509
9. Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) + 0.587
10. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) + 0.688

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Advantage Bagnaia with sizzling Aragon pole

‘Pecco’ gives himself a big opportunity for five in a row as Quartararo has to dig deep in qualifying

Francesco Bagnaia has given himself the best possible opportunity to take a fifth straight MotoGP™ win by qualifying on pole position in All Time Lap Record pace at the Gran Premio Animoca Brands de Aragon. Not only did Bagnaia take pole with a 1:46.069, just quicker than Jack Miller in a Ducati Lenovo Team one-two, he is set to start a full row ahead of his key World Championship rivals at MotorLand Aragon. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) came from Q1 to take fourth on the grid, pending a possible visit to stewards, while Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) could only manage sixth.

Bagnaia flies, A. Espargaro salvages fourth

Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) bolted out of the blocks with a 1:46.580 on his initial flying lap in Q2 and that would still be the benchmark when the first runs came to an end. As the Aragon circuit went quiet at the midway point of the session, Bagnaia was second on a 1:46.633 and Miller – one of two with a soft Michelin slick on the front as well as the rear (the other being Alex Rins) – third on a 1:46.784. Quartararo was only seventh on a 1:46.952 and Aleix Espargaro sat 11th with a 1:48.742, but having reused a rear tyre after taking the longer route through qualifying.

Once Espargaro got a new soft Michelin slick onto the back of his RS-GP, he was able to go second-quickest on a 1:46.590. That became third when Bagnaia set the 1:46.069 – 0.253 seconds up on his year-old lap record – before Bastianini clocked a 1:46.313 and then Miller a 1:46.159. Those laps decided the front row – a Ducati lockout – and Espargaro would be classified fourth, although he is under investigation for potentially baulking Fabio Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) back in Q1.

Quartararo digs deep, but still struggles

Aragon is not a kind circuit on the Yamahas, so qualifying close to – preferably in front of – the Ducatis was an imperative for Quartararo. It was clear that he was pushing hard to make up the deficit to Bagnaia and company when he was forced into a super save at Turn 2 on his penultimate lap, which ruined that flyer but gave ‘El Diablo’ a fighting chance. Quartararo was only 10th when the chequered flag came out and dug ever so deep with his final attempt, but the 1:46.802 was only able to move him up to sixth. Starting between Espargaro and Yamaha’s Frenchman on Row 2 will be another Frenchman in Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), who also advanced from Q1 before setting a 1:46.646 in Q2.

Marquez off Row 5 for his comeback race

Marquez off Row 5 for his comeback race

With so many big names starting Q1, someone was bound to be disappointed and it turned out that Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) would be one of them. He was quickest after the first runs on a 1:46.909 before Zarco went to the top on a 1:46.843 and then Aleix Espargaro usurped both of them with a 1:46.569. The eight-time World Champion was unable to improve and will therefore start 13th, sharing Row 5 with Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) and Di Giannantonio.

Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) had his first crash of the year, the usual front-end wash-out at Turn 2, and is set to start 16th, alongside Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) and Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team). The latter also hit the deck, late in the Q1 session at Turn 5, and the yellow flag which his incident caused would have seen a faster lap from team-mate Marc Marquez, among others, scrubbed off anyway.

The rest of the grid, from 19th onwards, will be Cal Crutchlow (WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP™ Team), Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), Raul Fernandez (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing), Remy Gardner (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing), and Darryn Binder (WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP™ Team), while Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) has withdrawn from the event due to pain in his right ankle persisting from his crash at the Austria GP.

Warm Up is next on Sunday at 09:40, then the Grand Prix itself lights up Aragon from 14:00 (GMT +2)!

MotoGP™ Q2 Top 10:
1. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – 1:46.069
2. Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) + 0.090
3. Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) + 0.244
4. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) + 0.521
5. Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) + 0.577
6. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) + 0.733
7. Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) + 0.783
8. Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) + 0.842
9. Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) + 0.843
10. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) + 0.855

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Guevara holds on to Aragon Moto3™ pole

The Spaniard misses out on a late time attack but it proves to not be costly

The Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team’s Izan Guevara has held onto pole position at the Gran Premio Animoca Brands de Aragon in a nervous conclusion to Moto3™ Q2. Just 0.095 seconds separated the World Championship leader and Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max’s Ayumu Sasaki at the end of the session, when Guevara had been left vulnerable given he was too late to go for a final time attack and try to improve on his 1:57.868. On the other hand, his team-mate and nearest rival for the title, Sergio Garcia, continued to be shuffled back and is set to start 12th on Sunday at MotorLand Aragon.

A nervous finish for Guevara

Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Ajo) had been quickest once everyone had been through for one flying lap in Q2, on a 1:58.027, before Sasaki responded with a 1:57.963 next time through. Guevara then clocked a 1:57.868 to be the pace-setter with five minutes to go, but the final time attacks still to come.

With the slipstream so important down Aragon’s back straight, there were the usual track position games at the start of the session and then again at the start of the final runs – even in terms of rolling bikes out of their boxes in pit lane, in some cases! Guevara left his run a little bit too late, however, and took the chequered flag before he had a chance to start another flying lap.

Fortunately for him, the first two rows did not change. Behind Guevara, Sasaki, and Holgado on the starting grid will be Tatsuki Suzuki (Leopard Racing), John McPhee (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max), and Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing). Suzuki managed a 1:58.271 on his first run and McPhee a 1:58.296, while Foggia improved to a 1:58.363 on his final lap to consolidate sixth position.

Öncü misses out

Rounding out the top 10 were Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team), Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo), Stefano Nepa (Angeluss MTA Team), and Xavier Artigas (CFMoto Racing PruestelGP). Q1 fast man Carlos Tatay (CFMoto Racing PruestelGP) snatched 11th with the chequered flag out, while Garcia just got a spot on Row 4.

There was frustration for Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech3), who blitzed FP3 but then pulled off the race track early in Q2 with an apparent technical problem. He and bike got back to the pits and while his KTM was eventually re-fired, it would be seconds too late for him to make it back around and start another hot lap before the chequered flag came out. The Turk will start 13th, ahead of Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), Adrian Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Tech3), David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports), Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI), and Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse). Neither of the latter two set a time in Q2, with Moreira having a crash at the Reverse Corkscrew – rider okay.

Late drama in Q1

Back in Q1, Kaito Toba had knocked CIP Green Power team-mate Joel Kelso out of the all-important top four in the final minute before the chequered flag, but that was not the end of the drama. Toba suffered the same fate when Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) improved on his final lap, only for Furusato to oust Migno from Q2 just moments later. The wash-up of all of that is that Migno is set to start 19th, ahead of Toba, Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI), and Kelso. Elia Bartolini (QJMotor Avintia Racing Team) qualified 29th after a crash in Q1 at Turn 17, while debutant Alessandro Morosi (MT Helmets – MSI) did not set a time after a spill at Turn 9. Unfortunately, Alberto Surra (Rivacold Snipers Team) was declared unfit after sustaining a fractured left wrist in a crash in FP3 and will take no further part in the weekend.

Can Guevara press home his advantage on Sunday at Aragon? Warm Up is due at 09:00 (GMT +2), then it’s lights at 11:00!

Moto3™ Q2 Top 10:

1. Izan Guevara (Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team) – 1:57.868
2. Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max) + 0.095
3. Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 0.169
4. Tatsuki Suzuki (Leopard Racing) + 0.403
5. John McPhee (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max) + 0.428
6. Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) + 0.495
7. Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team) + 0.536
8. Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 0.539
9. Stefano Nepa (Angeluss MTA Team) + 0.680
10. Xavier Artigas (CFMoto Racing PruestelGP) + 0.807

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Oliveira sets the pace in FP4

Third went to World Championship leader Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), whose best lap was a 1:47.583 but who consistently lapped in the high-1:47s with a hard Michelin slick on the front and a medium on the rear – far and away the most popular combination of rubber. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) rounded out the top five, while Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) was eighth with a 1:47.849 set before pulling off due to an apparent technical problem, and FP3 fast man Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) 12th-fastest on a 1:48.002. Darryn Binder (WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP™ Team) had a crash at Turn 2 with a handful of minutes remaining, but was able to walk away.

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Lopez back on top in FP3 at Aragon

P1 is becoming familiar territory for the San Marino GP winner

Alonso Lopez (CAG Speed Up) has set the pace FP3 for the Moto2™ class at the Gran Premio Animoca Brands de Aragon. Victorious a fortnight ago at Misano, the newest Grand Prix race winner found himself on top of the timesheet again after clocking a 1:52.180 on Saturday morning at MotorLand Aragon. World Championship leader and future MotoGP™ rider Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) finished second by the end of the session, ahead of Aron Canet (Flexbox HP40). Former Championship leader Celestino Vietti (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) was out of Q2, then in, then back out, all in the space of the minutes after the chequered flag, and will have to advance from Q1 if he is to vie for pole position – as will Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia).

Less than a tenth separates the top four

Lopez had been sitting 10th as riders went for time attacks in the final minutes of FP3 and therefore could well have been somewhat nervous about getting through to Q2, before he fired in his 1:52.180. Still the 20-year-old must have thought he had more in him because, no sooner had he crossed the line to set that lap time, he was venting his frustration about Marcos Ramirez (MV Agusta Forward Racing) going down at Turn 1 and triggering a yellow flag, meaning Lopez’s next lap would not count. It mattered not in the end, with previous fast man Fernandez staying second on his 1:52.267.

At one point, just 0.009 seconds separated Red Bull KTM Ajo team-mates Fernandez and Pedro Acosta, and that was still the case once the session was done. However, Canet – who dusted himself off from a crash at Turn 2 at the halfway mark – split them with the chequered flag out by setting a 1:52.269, meaning it was a top four covered by less than a tenth of a second. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team), who was first to go better than Canet’s Friday benchmark, claimed fifth on a 1:52.413 by the end of the session. Rounding out the top 10 were Jake Dixon (Shimoku GASGAS Aspar Team), Fermin Aldeguer (CAG Speed Up), Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team), Jorge Navarro (Flexbox HP40), and Albert Arenas (Shimoku GASGAS Aspar Team).

Who else made Q2?

Also through to Q2 already are Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team), Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team), and Filip Salac (Gresini Racing Moto2™). Making life harder for World Championship contender Ogura, he was first on the outside at just 0.048 seconds slower than Salac. Then there was Vietti, who was just 24th before he jumped to 13th with the chequered flag out, 14th once Gonzalez crossed the line in his slipstream, then back to 26th once he lost his lap time for breaching track limits at Turn 13 – an unlucky number for the man on Bike #13 this time around.

Can Ogura and Vietti join the fight for pole? Q1 starts later on Saturday at 15:10 (GMT +2)!

Moto2™ Combined Top 10:

1. Alonso Lopez (CAG Speed Up) – 1:52.180
2. Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 0.087
3. Aron Canet (Flexbox HP40) + 0.089
4. Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 0.096
5. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) + 0.233
6. Jake Dixon (Shimoku GASGAS Aspar Team) + 0.247
7. Fermín Aldeguer (CAG Speed Up) + 0.284
8. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) + 0.347
9. Jorge Navarro (Flexbox HP40) + 0.460
10. Albert Arenas (Shimoku GASGAS Aspar Team) + 0.500

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Honda Releases Hornet 755cc Motorcycle Engine Details

Testing the new 755cc parallel twin developed to power the new Hornet concept.

Testing the new 755cc parallel twin developed to power the new Hornet concept. (Honda/)

About a year ago, Honda revealed a teaser of the Hornet concept, confirming its plans to revive the popular middleweight naked streetfighter. At that point, all we got was a wire frame and some cryptic language from Honda about an “ultramodern” bike with “exhilarating engine performance.” Honda has at last given us some concrete details, at least as far as the engine is concerned.

In short, the concept bike will be powered by an all-new 755cc parallel twin. The eight-valve Unicam engine will feature a 270-degree crank and be capable of producing a little over 90 hp at 9,500 rpm and 55 lb.-ft. of torque at 7,250 rpm.

Fuyuki Hosokawa, test project leader for the Hornet project, offered his remarks in a company press release:

“The Hornet has always been a very special motorcycle for Honda. Exciting, engaging performance has always been matched to lithe, agile handling.

“Before starting this project, we thought long and hard about what kind of performance we wanted to give to the rider. We knew that it was essential to keep the classic Hornet top-end power ‘hit’ and at the same time, as a new generation Hornet for modern times, we wanted the engine to have a really strong torquey feel and ‘throbbing’ sensation at low to mid rpm. Our aim has always been to match these to the lightest, most agile handling possible, to make every ride, even in town, as engaging and fulfilling as possible.

“To get the kind of performance and lightweight handling we wanted, we knew we had to develop an all­-new short-stroke twin­-cylinder engine, with a 270-degree crankshaft. This would not only deliver that top-­end rush, but also the sporty low­-down torque, ideal for riding in urban environments and powering out of corners on the open road.”

The eight-valve Unicam engine will feature a 270-degree crankshaft and be capable of producing a little over 90 hp at 9,500 rpm and 55 lb.-ft. of torque at 7,250 rpm.

The eight-valve Unicam engine will feature a 270-degree crankshaft and be capable of producing a little over 90 hp at 9,500 rpm and 55 lb.-ft. of torque at 7,250 rpm. (Honda/)

Designers wanted to keep the top-end power intact while providing a torquey bottom-end.

Designers wanted to keep the top-end power intact while providing a torquey bottom-end. (Honda/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Miller quickest in FP3, A. Espargaro into Q1

Five Ducati riders within a tenth of a second at the top of the timesheet

Jack Miller is quickest in a super-tight, all-Ducati top five after MotoGP™ FP3 at the Gran Premio Animoca Brands de AragonMiller set the pace with a 1:46.992 and fellow Ducati Lenovo Team rider Francesco Bagnaia was only 0.030 seconds slower on his personal best lap. Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team), Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) rounded out the top five, with the former two combining to knock Aprilia Racing’s Aleix Espargaro out of the top 10 at the end of the session. Espargaro will form part of an all-star Q1 later today at Motorland Aragon which will also include the Repsol Honda Team’s Marc Marquez.

Bologna bullets on the pace as Espargaro misses out

Martin had been fastest at the end of Friday on a 1:47.402 and he came tantalisingly close to improving when he checked in with a 1:47.403 just inside the final quarter-hour of FP3. However, it was Miller who finally shifted the benchmark when he rode his Desmosedici to a 1:46.992 with new soft Michelin slicks on the front and rear. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) then had turns in second position before Bagnaia made his place in Q2 safe with a 1:47.022 after the chequered flag had come out.

Bezzecchi and Bastianini left it even later than Bagnaia had, setting a 1:47.048 and a 1:47.057 respectively. While those efforts pushed Martin all the way back to fifth – even if he was only 0.090 seconds slower than Miller! – the bigger story was the #41 Aprilia. Espargaro had crashed in each of the Friday sessions and while they seemed like minor mishaps, the Argentina GP winner was having a struggle to decisively clinch a place in the top 10. Once Bezzecchi and Bastianini broke into the top 10, the Spaniard was out, finishing the session classified 11th on a 1:47.321.

Who else made the top 10

There was better news for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, which got both of its riders into the Q2 shootout – Binder finished sixth on a 1:47.167 and Miguel Oliveira claimed seventh on a 1:47.224. Also into the top 10 were Quartararo, Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), and Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) – at only 0.280 seconds off the pace – despite the latter’s late crash at Turn 5.

Speaking of crashes, Marc Marquez saved one in sensation fashion when he skated through Turn 17 on his left elbow during his first run. While the eight-time World Champion was delighting the fans again, he would hit the deck on his second run with a front-end lose at Turn 7. Fortunately, the Spaniard was immediately jogging away from the scene to hitch a scooter ride back to the pits. Marquez could not get back into the top 10, finishing 12th on a 1:47.429, but don’t bet against him making it into Q2 via the long route this afternoon. Others to watch in Q1 include Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team), Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), and Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing).

Before then, riders get to tune up their race packages in FP4 – tune in from 13:30 (GMT +2)!

MotoGP™ Top 10:
1. Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) – 1:46.992
2. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) + 0.030
3. Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) + 0.056
4. Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) + 0.065
5. Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) + 0.090
6. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) + 0.175
7. Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) + 0.232
8. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) + 0.266
9. Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) + 0.274
10. Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) + 0.280

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Öncü storms to the top in FP3 at Aragon

The Turk helps himself to a big margin right at the end of FP3 at the MotorLand

Red Bull KTM Tech3’s Deniz Öncü has claimed Moto3™ Free Practice honours at the Grand Premio Animoca Brands de Aragon with a very late flying lap in FP3. The Turk was second when the chequered flag came out and safely through to Q2 later on Saturday afternoon when he put the exclamation mark on his morning by storming to a 1:57.265 around MotorLand Aragon. Öncü’s effort nudged World Championship leader Izan Guevara (Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team) back to second on the timesheet, with Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Ajo) taking third ahead of qualifying.

FP3 honours decided right at the end

Guevara was already solidly in the top 14 cut-off for Q2 berths in third position when he used a slipstream off Holgado to clock a 1:57.612 and go quickest with less than six minutes to go in the session. For a little while, the Spaniard had more than four tenths of a second on the field and his gap over Öncü was still 0.232 seconds when the chequered flag came out. However, the Tech3 rider pulled off a turnaround of almost six tenths of a second when he laid down the aforementioned session benchmark, finishing up 0.347 seconds up on Guevara. Holgado also improved on his final lap, to a 1:57.829, making him the last rider to lap Aragon under 118 seconds.

FP1 pace-setter Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max) claimed fourth on a 1:58.037 and the very fastest rider on Friday, Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) is classified sixth after the first three sessions of the weekend on a 1:58.292, with the two split by Xavier Artigas (CFMoto Racing PruestelGP) on a 1:58.240. Rounding out the top 10 were Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI), John McPhee (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max), Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo), and Sergio Garcia (Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team).

Who else made Q2?

Also through to Q2 already are Adrian Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Tech3), Tatsuki Suzuki (Leopard Racing), Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team), and Stefano Nepa (Angeluss MTA Team). However, a crash right at the end of FP3 was costly for Kaito Toba  – the CIP Green Power rider gave marshals the thumbs up but the spill cost him a chance to hold onto his spot in the top 14.

Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) and Nicola Carraro (QJMotor Avtintia Racing were both okay after spills at Turn 5 and Turn 2 respectively, although both will be joining Toba, among others, in Q1. Meanwhile, Alberto Surra (Rivacold Snipers Team) has gone to the medical centre with pain in his left hand and right hip at Turn 10, just five minutes into the session.

Here’s hoping Surra makes an appearance in Q1, which gets underway at 12:35 (GMT +2)!

Moto3™ Combined Top 10:

1. Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) – 1:57.265
2. Izan Guevara (Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team) + 0.347
3. Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 0.564
4. Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max) + 0.772
5. Xavier Artigas (CFMoto Racing PruestelGP) + 0.975
6. Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) + 1.027
7. Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI) + 1.043
8. John McPhee (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max) + 1.186
9. Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 1.187
10. Sergio Garcia (Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team) + 1.195

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Suzuki Announces 2023 Lineup of Sport, Street, and Adventure Bikes

2023 Suzuki SV650 ABS in Metallic Reflective Blue
2023 Suzuki SV650 ABS in Metallic Reflective Blue.

Following the Suzuki announcement in June of select 2023 sport, dual-sport, supermoto, and off-road motorcycles and its recent announcement of updated V-Strom 1050 models, the company has released information on more sport, street, and adventure bikes that are returning for 2023. Included in the lineup are the high-performance sport GSX-R series, the street-tested and agile GSX-S series, the SV650 standard, V-Strom 650 adventure bikes, and the Burgman 400 scooter.

Read Suzuki’s press release below for details and pricing.


2023 Suzuki GSX-R Series

2023-Suzuki-GSX-R1000R-in-Pearl-Brilliant-White-and-Metallic-Matte-Stellar-Blue
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.

GSX-R1000R – At the pinnacle of the GSX-R product line of high-performance motorcycles, the 2023 GSX-R1000R’s engine combines high-performance engineering with performance and tractability. Traction control, launch control, and a bi-directional quick shifter help deliver an unparalleled sport riding experience.

The GSX-R1000R offers Showa BFF and BFRC-Lite suspension components delivering a suspension feel that helps riders rule any track day or mountain pass. Up-front, stainless-steel brake lines, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc brake calipers grasp a pair of 320mm Brembo T-drive floating brake rotors for strong stopping power with outstanding braking response and lever feel.

The GSX-R1000R continues its reign as the best liter-class supersport offering excitement with a proven combination of stellar reliability, durability, usability, and overall high performance with excellent racing potential. All delivered in a striking package augmenting the GSX-R’s 35+ year legacy of championship-winning sportbike performance.

2023-Suzuki-GSX-R1000R-in-Metallic-Triton-Blue-and-Metallic-Mystic-Silver
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver.

Key points of the 2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R include:

  • A compact inline four-cylinder engine produces an exciting powerband thanks to the Suzuki Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system.
  • Advanced electronics, like Launch Control and the Bi-Directional Quick Shift System, augment riding performance.
  • Twin-spar aluminum frame with adjustable swingarm pivot carrying Showa Balance Free Front Fork (BFF) and rear shock for confident high-performance handling.
  • Stainless steel brake lines feed the ABS-equipped Brembo 4-piston front calipers for extraordinary stopping performance and lever feel.
  • Superb wind protection and aerodynamics with an LED headlight and Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD) ducts.
  • Advance and distinctive LED position lights.
2023-Suzuki-GSX-R1000R-in-Metallic-Matte-Black-and-Glass-Sparkle-Black
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Metallic Matte Black and Glass Sparkle Black.

For 2023, the GSX-R1000R rules the street or track in three color options. A historic Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver paint scheme evocative of Suzuki’s MotoGP bikes, a stunning Metallic Matte Black and Glass Sparkle Black, or a Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue paint scheme. MSRP is $18,199. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

GSX-R1000 – In 1985, Suzuki revolutionized the sportbike category with the introduction of the original GSX-R750, and then created another milestone in 2001 with the introduction of the GSX-R1000. The GSX-R1000 features the lightweight chassis of the GSX-R750 and a 988cc inline four-cylinder engine design.

2023-Suzuki-GSX-R1000-in-Pearl-Brilliant-White-and-Metallic-Matte-Stellar-Blue
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.

Related Story: 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000 | First Ride Review

The 2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000’s inline 4-cylinder engine provides power delivered smoothly and controllably across a broad rpm range. Like the original GSX-R1000, the 2023’s compact, light, and strong chassis deliver precise high-performance handling and excellent suspension feel combined with stellar braking control. All combined to help riders conquer a racetrack or a country road with confidence. Advanced electronic rider aids such as Traction Control and a Bi-Directional Quick Shifter augment the riding experience while the distinctive, aerodynamic GSX-R bodywork offers styling that continues to turn heads.

Equipped with Showa’s Big-Piston Fork plus Brembo T-drive rotors and Monobloc brake calipers, the GSX-R1000 help deliver the sort of performance and confidence a sport rider’s favorite canyon road ride or local track day demand.

2023-Suzuki-GSX-R1000-in-Metallic-Matte-Black-No.-2-and-Glass-Sparkle-Black
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000 in Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black.

For 2023, the GSX-R1000 is available in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue or Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black liveries. MSRP is $16,149. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

GSX-R750 – On the road or on the track since 1985, the GSX-R750 features a pairing of 750cc performance with the lightweight, compact chassis of a 600cc Supersport, complemented by technologically advanced suspension front and rear. The 2023 GSX-R750 is the latest expression of the GSX-R’s original concept.

2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray.

Related Story: Suzuki GSX-R750: The First Generation 1986-1987

Key features for the 2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 include:

  • Iconic, GSX-R aerodynamic styling with three distinctive paint and graphics schemes.
  • Fuel-injected, 750cc, 4-cylinder engine powers a balanced sportbike experience.
  • Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) lets the rider adjust the power delivery.
  • Twin-spar aluminum frame and Showa Big Piston Front Fork (BPF) deliver extraordinary handling.
  • Twin Brembo Monobloc, radially mounted front brakes deliver robust stopping power.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver.

The 2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 is available in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver, Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue or Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray. MSRP is $12,849. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

GSX-R600 – The 2023 GSX-R600 underscores the GSX-R’s tradition of blending championship-winning track performance with impeccable handling.

The GSX-R600’s compact, four-cylinder engine reacts with vigor when a rider demands it, while its supremely refined suspension and brakes provide precise, responsive confidence-inspiring handling. The superb ergonomics enhance rider control and comfort, and the iconic GSX-R bodywork delivers an agile look.

2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray.

The GSX-R600’s race-ready look isn’t manufactured, it’s the byproduct of the GSX-R’s multiple decades of producing road racing dominance. The Suzuki GSX-R600 is designed for riders considering a mid-size supersport bike at home, on the track, or on the street. 

Key features for the 2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 include:

  • Iconic, GSX-R styling with three distinctive paint schemes.
  • Fuel-injected, 599cc, 4-cylinder engine delivering championship-delivering power from idle to redline.
  • Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) lets the rider adjust the power delivery.
  • Twin-spar aluminum frame and Showa Big Piston Fork deliver exceptional handling.
  • Twin Brembo Monobloc, radially mounted front brakes deliver strong stopping power.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.

Paint options include Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue, Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray, and Suzuki’s historic Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver paint scheme. MSRP is $11,699. Click here for more details.

2023 Suzuki GSX-S

GSX-S1000 – The 2023 GSX-S1000 now aims to deliver greater controllability, agility, and power while complying with worldwide emissions standards. The GSX-S1000’s physique comes in a tight and striking package.

2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in Glass Sparkle Black
2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in new Glass Sparkle Black.

The GSX-S1000’s styling features include stacked LED headlights housed in a minimalistic cowling that resides between a pair of MotoGP-inspired winglets protruding from the angular radiator shrouds.

Related Story: 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 | Road Test Review

Riders can keep that power of the GSX-R-based engine under control with the electronic Ride-by-Wire throttle bodies and the latest version of the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) that smooths shifting and engine braking.

There’s more GSX-R DNA in the chassis with its aluminum, twin-spar frame design, and superbike-braced swingarm. The suspension features a fully adjustable, inverted KYB fork and easy-to-adjust rear shock. Stopping performance is stellar via the dual, ABS-equipped, radial-mounted, four-piston Brembo front brake calipers and 310mm floating rotors. Wider than the prior generation model, the cast-aluminum handlebar provides a comfortable reach and the proper leverage to hustle the GSX-S1000 through the corners and maneuver in tight city streets and traffic.

Related Story: 2022 Motorcycle of the Year

The 2023 GSX-S1000 has the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) in its corner. Make this bike your own using the three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector and the five-mode (and OFF) Advanced Traction Control System. Give your clutch hand a rest with the Bi-Directional Quick Shift system. Suzuki’s popular Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems get the fun started without any hassle.

2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in Metallic Triton Blue
2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in Metallic Triton Blue.

The 2023 GSX-S1000 comes in Metallic Triton Blue and the new Glass Sparkle Black. MSRP is $11,499. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

2023 Suzuki SV650 and V-Strom 650 Adventure Series

SV650/SV650 ABS – Since the first SV650 launched in 1999, this iconic middleweight has seen continual improvements while still embodying the sporty ride, precise feel, and riding versatility and prowess only a provocative, mid-sized V-twin roadster delivers. 

2023 Suzuki SV650 ABS in Metallic Reflective Blue
2023 Suzuki SV650 ABS in Metallic Reflective Blue.

The 2023 SV650 and SV650 ABS use an entertaining and refined engine delivering torquey middleweight performance, low emissions, and outstanding fuel economy. This enjoyable V-twin mill is mounted in a trim and lightweight chassis delivering a keen and spirited riding experience.

For 2023, the SV650 is available in Glass Sparkle Black and Solid Iron Gray bodywork, while the SV650 ABS features Metallic Reflective Blue bodywork.

Related Story: 2017 Suzuki SV650 | First Ride Review

Both SV650s’ great looks and sparkling performance deliver sportbike-like handling, exceedingly great value, and riding versatility that a broad range of riders continues to embrace, whether they are new to the sport, growing their riding skills or avid road racers; the confidence-inspiring Suzuki SV650 is their ideal ride.

2023 Suzuki SV650 in Glass Sparkle Black and Solid Iron Gray
2023 Suzuki SV650 in Glass Sparkle Black and Solid Iron Gray.

Key features of the 2023 Suzuki SV650/ABS include:

  • Liquid-cooled, 645cc, 4-stroke, DOHC, V-twin engine delivers inspired performance.
  • Suzuki EFI system with Low RPM Assist makes takeoffs smooth and pleasant.
  • Steel trellis-style frame blends low weight and strength for nimble handling.
  • Slim bodywork is aesthetically pleasing while aiding comfort and maneuverability.
  • Dual 4-piston front brake calipers and compact ABS** system (SV650 ABS) help provide great stopping performance.

V-Strom 650XT Adventure – Point the iconic Suzuki DR-BIG-inspired beak of the V-Strom at the horizon as the 37L quick-release aluminum panniers, rugged accessory bar, handlebar cross-brace, and mirror extensions are standard equipment. Finished with deep, Glass Sparkle Black paint, the 2023 V-Strom 650XT Adventure performs on tubeless-spoke wheels with blue-anodized rims conveying style, strength, and performance.

2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black.

Loaded with intelligent features and ready for any adventure, the V-Strom 650XT Adventure continues the V-Strom legacy of offering a fun, agile, adventurous motorcycle providing unmatched versatility. The engine delivers stellar performance and great fuel economy while achieving worldwide emission standards. Suzuki’s proven engineering delivers a bike with low weight and a trim chassis, creating a V-Strom 650XT Adventure that does so many things so well, this bike could be called the Swiss Army Knife of motorcycles.

MSRP is $10,799. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

V-Strom 650XT – Riders love the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT for its unique merger of a lightweight chassis coupled with an exciting liquid-cooled, 90-degree, 650cc, V-twin engine. A merger that creates a perfectly balanced motorcycle capable of delivering excitement, comfort, and confidence on every ride.

2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT in Pearl Brilliant White
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT in Pearl Brilliant White.

Related Story: 2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT vs V-Strom 1000XT | Comparison Review

V-Strom 650XT riders see it delivering on motorcycling adventure while bringing a big dose of intelligence and versatility. The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT comes in a Pearl Brilliant White livery and is complemented by hand guards, a lower engine cowl, as well as spoke-style gold-anodized wheels mounting tubeless radial dual-sport tires.

MSRP is $9,599. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

V-Strom 650 –The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is the perfect motorcycle for riders looking for versatility, real-world performance, and exceptional value. The 2023 V-Strom 650’s perfect blend of V-twin performance in a strong, yet lightweight chassis that delivers thrilling rides and cost-effective fun like no other adventure tourer on the scene today.

2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650 in Pearl Vigor Blue and Metallic Matte Sword Silver
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650 in Pearl Vigor Blue and Metallic Matte Sword Silver.

Related Story: 2017 Suzuki V-Strom 650 | Road Test Review

The 2023 V-Strom 650 rocks Suzuki’s beautiful Pearl Vigor Blue and Metallic Matte Sword Silver paint complemented with black accents giving this model runway-level attractiveness. The beak-style fairing, with vertically stacked headlights, augments the V-Strom 650’s aerodynamic prowess while protecting the rider in style. Light and strong 10-spoke cast wheels shod with Adventure-spec Bridgestone Battlax 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless radial tires are great for all-around performance.

MSRP is $9,104. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

2023 Suzuki Burgman 400 Scooter

Already the leader in its category, the 2023 Suzuki Burgman 400 continues with a host of styling, technical, and feature updates galvanizing its reputation as the Elegant Athlete of the scooter world. The Burgman 400’s slim and sharp styling features a new Solid Iron Gray paint scheme combined with blue wheels and seat stitching that pay classy homage to Suzuki’s on-road championship heritage.

2023-Suzuki-Burgman-400-in-Solid-Iron-Gray
2023 Suzuki Burgman 400 in Solid Iron Gray.

The Burgman’s nose and tail blend sophisticated styling with full LED function, as the dual headlights have integrated position lights, while the rear combination taillight elegantly blends with the smooth bodywork. Functional design is brought to the well-thought-out instrument panel. Riding range and real-time fuel consumption indicators also may help the rider conserve fuel.

Related Story: 2018 Suzuki Burgman 400 | First Ride Review

The Burgman’s strong and responsive 400cc engine has a revised camshaft profile and a dual-spark technology ignition system achieving worldwide emissions standards while offering impressive fuel economy and highway riding power.

Similar to systems used on Suzuki’s V-Strom 650 adventure tourer and GSX-S750 street bikes, the Burgman features a rider-selectable Traction Control system offering the rider peace of mind and excellent road-holding ability in a variety of road conditions. Suzuki’s Easy Start System is a standard Burgman feature, so a simple, momentary press of the starter button starts the engine, while the fuel injection maintains a steady, smooth idle under all conditions.

The large-diameter 15-inch cast front wheel helps increase stability while enhancing the Burgman 400’s visual appearance and carries a pair of 260mm disc brake rotors. The 13-inch rear wheel has a 210mm hydraulic disc brake for reliable stopping control. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) monitors wheel speeds and hydraulic pressure hundreds of times per second to help provide stopping power that matches the available traction.

MSRP is $8,599. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.

To see Suzuki’s full motorcycle lineup or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit the Suzuki website.

The post Suzuki Announces 2023 Lineup of Sport, Street, and Adventure Bikes first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

C. Jane Taylor | Ep. 45 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

C. Jane Taylor Rider Magazine Insider Podcast
C. Jane Taylor reads from “Spirit Traffic” at Timbre Books in Ventura, California.

Our guest on Episode 45 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is C. Jane Taylor. We talked to Jane back in April on Episode 32. Her book, Spirit Traffic: A Mother’s Journey of Self-Discovery and Letting Go, had just been released, and we published an excerpt in the April 2022 issue of Rider. During our previous interview, Jane was down in Costa Rica on a yoga retreat with her husband, John. In May, Jane and John embarked on a motorcycle tour to promote Spirit Traffic. They packed gear on their BMW F 650 GS motorcycles and hit the road for 97 days. They rode 15,000 miles, and Jane gave more than 50 readings in bookstores, bars, coffee shops, motorcycle events, and people’s homes. We talk with Jane about her and John’s cross-country tour to promote her book about a cross-country tour they did with their son, Emmett, in 2015. Spirit Traffic is a thoroughly enjoyable book that’s honest, funny, poignant, and original – we highly recommend it.
LINKS: C. Jane Taylor’s website

You can listen to Episode 45 on iTunesSpotify, and SoundCloud, or via the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.

Visit the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage to check out previous episodes:

The post C. Jane Taylor | Ep. 45 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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