German automotive electronics company claims it has developed the world’s first split-screen instruments for a motorbike capable of showing app and vehicle information in separate screens at the same time.
Ducati and Kawasaki also plan to bring to their motorcycles, but Ducati will not have the split-screen function on their Bosch 6.5-inch connectivity display.
Bosch spokesman Geoff Lieresch claims the split screen facility is not only convenient but safe as it displays all relevant information “at one glance without distracting the rider”.
Users decide on the content they wish to see on the screen, all of which can be controlled by a switch on the handlebar.
The contents of a smartphone app, for example, are automatically adapted with mySPIN to show relevant information fitting the size of the motorcycle display. The split screen continues to show key indicators such as speed and warnings.
According to a Bosch survey nearly 90% of riders use their smartphone to prepare or follow-up on trips.
One third put themselves in great danger using their smartphone even while riding, the survey found.
Bosch’s mySPIN software partners with apps such as REVER to download, track and share routes with a community of like-minded riders, Genius Maps and Sygic to find the way to a nearby hotel or restaurant and Dash Radio for free premium digital radio. The app portfolio is continuously expanded on a global basis.
Bosch says pone of the most important apps is the digitally connected emergency call system Help Connect.
In the event of an accident, it automatically calls rescue services and provides the GPS location of the rider.
Online fundraiser set up for Boyd following lifesaving surgery
Section: GeneralPost: MotoOnline
Park4MX owner and operator remains hospitalised following major injuries.
Image: Supplied.
An online fundraiser has been set up for Park4MX owner and operator Cheyne Boyd, who was seriously injured and required lifesaving surgery in Melbourne last month.
In the incident on 22 October, Boyd broke 17 ribs and ruptured an artery near his heart, which resulted in him being administered 21 bags of blood to stabilise blood pressure.
Following emergency invasive open heart surgery to stop internal bleeding, Boyd was placed in an induced coma for five days and could spend up to eight weeks hospitalised in his lengthy road to recovery.
In addition, former professional national level racer Boyd suffered fractured to his C4 and C5 vertebrae, as well as his pelvis and hip, thoracic, and had collapsed lungs from his extensive injuries.
Boyd’s GoFund Me fundraiser can be found at https://gf.me/u/y7d3p5. Any contributions will be greatly appreciated and will also go a long way following the recent effects COVID-19 has had on Park4MX during 2020.
Beaton ‘gave everything’ in search of Pietramurata overall
Section: Competition
Australian makes ground on series podium with single round remaining.
Image: Supplied.
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jed Beaton has said he ‘gave everything’ in search of winning the Grand Prix of Pietramurata overall, ultimately scoring a third podium of the 2020 MX2 World Championship season in P3.
Beaton was second in the opening moto and was in the frame to challenge for victory in the afternoon, needing just one more position to stand atop the podium, but crossing the line in fourth place.
That left Beaton a single point outside of the round victory, which was Jago Geerts (Monster Energy Yamaha), which was both frustrating and rewarding: “I gave everything I had in that second moto. I knew the overall was there and I just rode as hard as I could, but it wasn’t to be.
“It’s disappointing that I couldn’t get it done but at the same time I’m happy to be back on the podium. It’s great for the team too, they’ve been working really hard and it’s nice to pay them back with a solid result. One more round to go, so I’m looking to end the season with another podium.”
This latest result of Beaton sees him fourth in the championship standings with just one round remaining, only 13 points outside of Yamaha rider Maxime Renaux, who currently holds third position entering the Grand Prix of Garda Trentino this Sunday.
Points scored by Todd in long-awaited return to MX2 field
Section: Competition
Experienced gained by DRT Kawasaki rider in return to competition.
Image: Supplied.
Australian champion Wilson Todd made his long-awaited return to the MX2 World Championship in Italy on Wednesday after being injured in March, scoring points as he looks to build experience in the lead-up to 2021.
DRT Kawasaki’s Todd crushed his fingers, broke his fibula and tore his ACL in a first turn incident at Valkenswaard, which required surgery and almost ended his season altogether until a late decision was made to line up at Pietramurata.
All went to plan for Todd as he met his objective in scoring points, going 21-16 for 20th overall in his return to competition. The 22-year-old was satisfied with the experienced gained, despite entering with no expectations.
“We decided it was a good opportunity to do a little racing as a head-start for 2021,” Todd explained after sitting on the sidelines since round two of the season. “I only got as far as the first turn at Valkenswaard in March, breaking my finger, fibula and ACL.
“At the time I wasn’t even sure I’d be able to race again this year, so I went home to Australia to get surgery on the ACL and I only just started riding again. We’ve got new suspension and have been looking at sorting out set-up. I didn’t have any expectations, I just wanted to see how it goes and I got a little race practice and some points.”
There’s a ton of beginner motorcycles on the market for new riders to choose from, that’s no surprise. Many new riders have tons of confusing questions to sort through when getting into the motorcycle scene. Should I buy new or used? How long will it take for me to grow out of this motorcycle? Is this bike going to be uncomfortable for my daily commute? Can I save money on another option?
Spite’s new series on the Yammie Noob youtube channel puts motorcycles to the test with week-long ‘ownership’ sessions to see if they really are worth the money they cost. The CBr500R is a difficult option considering how much sheer ‘motorcycle’ a new rider can get for $7000 on the used market.
Spite mentions that the bike comes in at a 6.5/10 on his rating scale, which makes sense due to it being a beginner-friendly bike but can be alarming to some when you take into account the fact that you can get something that would be a 9/10 when straying away from a ‘new motorcycle’. $12,000 bikes often drop their value to being worth $7000-$8000 after a few years of ownership, so what makes this bike worth the risk?
Gasjer and Vialle crowned in penultimate round of MXGP
Section: Competition
World championships clinched at Pietramurata on Wednesday.
Image: Supplied.
Team HRC’s Tim Gajser has clinched the 2020 MXGP World Championship in the Grand Prix of Pietramurata, joined by new MX2 champion Tom Vialle who also wrapped up the title in Wednesday’s penultimate round.
Gajser won his third premier class crown by finishing second in moto one, this time successfully defending his crown and adding it to his 2016 and 2019 victories.
Moto one was taken out by Jeremy Seewer (Monster Energy Yamaha) ahead of Gajser and Alessandro Lupino (Gebben Van Venrooy Yamaha), before the second moto was won by Gajser – wearing the number one plate in the afternoon – over Romain Febvre (Monster Energy Kawasaki).
Overall, Gajser secured his fourth round win of the season ahead of Seewer and Febvre, while in the championship, he now has an unbeatable 89-point advantage over Antonio Cairoli (Red Bull KTM), who in turn is now only four points ahead of Seewer.
Image: Supplied.
Red Bull KTM’s Vialle earned his first MX2 World Championship with a round to spare by going 1-23 for eighth overall, but his win in moto one was enough to seal the series win.
That first outing was won by Vialle from Jed Beaton (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna) and Maxime Renaux (Yamaha SM Action MC Migliori J1 Racing), before the second race was topped by Jago Geerts (Monster Energy Yamaha) and Ben Watson (Monster Energy Yamaha), with Thibault Benistant (Hutten Metaal Yamaha) third.
It was Geerts and Watson who made it a Yamaha 1-2 overall, with Beaton claiming a third podium of the season in third position after taking fourth in moto two. With a single round remaining, again at Pietramurata this Sunday, Vialle holds a 57-point lead from series runner-up Geerts and Renaux.
Of the remaining Australians in the field, Bailey Malkiewicz (Team Honda 114 Motorsports) continued his late run of consistent form with 11th position via 12-12 finishes, while Wilson Todd (DRT Kawasaki) returned from injury to go 21-16 for 20th overall.
The first of the final three battles in the interesting war that has been MotoGP season 2020 will see shots fired this weekend at Valencia. It is forecast to be an often changing battleground with rain tipped for Friday and Saturday, but race day could go either way…
Piero Taramasso – Michelin
“This has been an unusual season and one that has been complicated with some very strange weather, but now as we reach the tail-end of the year we are heading to a circuit that we know what can be expected, as we visit Valencia at this time of the year in a normal calendar. We anticipate very cold mornings and the specific layout of the track with its tight turns and short straights, means it is one of the few tracks that we have a full asymmetric range of slicks for the front and rear, in fact it is the only one this season after the cancellation of Sachsenring and Phillip Island. The tyre spends a lot of time on the left, so never really cools down, but conversely the right is not used much so needs to heat up quickly when it is needed, so we have to blend the perfect combination of compounds to give the best pairing to satisfy all riders, as well as coping with the challenge of the weather and the characteristics of the track. These will be two very demanding weekends, but with past experience we know what to expect, come rain, shine or cold.”
This will be the 22nd time that the Circuit Ricardo Tormo has hosted a Grand Prix since the first visit in 1999. The track is named after Spanish racer Ricardo Tormo, who won the 50cc title riding for Bultaco in 1978 and 1981.
After the two rounds at Valencia the championship finale will then be staged at Portimao, a circuit that is new to MotoGP, and one that will likely throw even more surprise twists in what has been a season that has been impossible to predict. I can’t wait to see the MotoGP bikes take on the challenge of Portimao, a circuit I have had the pleasure of riding many times and rate right up there with, and perhaps even rate better than our own spectacular wonder that is Phillip Island
I wouldn’t quite say that Joan Mir has one hand on the championship trophy, but I would say he has a finger on it at least… The Suzuki rider has been the most consistent rider this year and that has seen him build a 14-point advantage heading into this final three rounds.
14 riders are still (mathematically) in contention for the MotoGP title, which is this highest number with three premier class races to go since the current scoring system was introduced in 1993. From 1993 to 2019, the highest number of riders still in contention with three premier class races to go was in 2006 with five: Nicky Hayden, Valentino Rossi, Marco Melandri, Dani Pedrosa and Loris Capirossi
Joan Mir
“Last time out I was actually slightly disappointed with third place, only because I felt I had the potential for more. However, my goal was the podium and I managed to achieve that. In general I’m feeling good at the moment and I’m ready to fight at Valencia, which is a nice track that I’m familiar with. It will be good to get back on track on Friday morning for a new race weekend.”
Joan Mir crossed the line in third place for his sixth podium finish in MotoGP, all of them achieved this season. In addition, this is his 26th podium overall in his career in GP racing.
His Suzuki team-mate Alex Rins promoted himself into the title challenge with victory last time out in Aragon but at 32-points behind he is somewhat of a long-shot.
Alex Rins
“Coming into the last three races I don’t feel a lot of pressure, for sure my results have been really good and I’m hoping to continue that trend, but I want to just keep working the way I always do and simply see what happens. I’ve had some nice results in Valencia in the past so I’m happy to get back on track and see what we’re capable of this weekend.”
With Alex Rins and Joan Mir on the podium at Aragon II, this marked first time there was two Suzukis on the podium in back-to-back premier class races since 1981 when Suzuki riders did it in four successive races from Belgium to Finland.
At Valencia last year Fabio Quartararo started from pole position and finished second, the Frenchman will be hoping for another good result to increase the pressure on the current world championship leader.
Fabio Quartararo
“Although we had two difficult races last time out in Aragón, I want to take advantage of the good feeling I have always had on a MotoGP bike at Valencia in these two races coming up. It’s a small track, but is one that I like. I had a great feeling there last year, when I took a podium and the pole position, and also in the post-season test. Of course I hope to be able to repeat that this weekend. There are three races left this year and a 14-point gap with the leader. We know how fast we can be, so I think we have some good opportunities coming into these final events in Valencia and Portimão, and I’m looking forward to the first of them this weekend.”
Yamaha head to the European GP with a 37-point lead over Ducati in the Constructors World Championship and could clinch the title in Valencia/1 if the first Yamaha across the line scores more than 13 points more than the first Ducati, five more than the first Suzuki and doesn’t concede more than 15 points to the first KTM.
Fresh from taking his second MotoGP victory last time out, Morbidelli will be keen to continue this good form at Valencia this weekend, and reduce the 25-point deficit in the riders’ championship. Franco goes into this race, the first of two at the Spanish circuit, fourth in the World Championship standings, but many well credentialed pundits now tip the 25-year-old as the favourite to take out the title on current form.
Franco Morbidelli
“It feels good going into the final three races of the year after the second win of the season at Aragón. Valencia can be a tricky circuit when riding a MotoGP bike, as it’s narrow and the MotoGP bikes have so much power on a track that’s quite small, compared to other categories. But it is a place that I love, because it’s where I made my first step into big-wheeled motorsport, in a Spanish championship. I’m feeling great on the bike, we will work to keep the same feeling at this circuit and be fighting again for the top places. We go there just 25 points from being at the top of the championship standings, so I want to be aggressive in these final races at Valencia and Portimão to see what we can achieve.”
At the Teruel GP, Franco Morbidelli won for the second time in the premier class along with the San Marino GP. With his win, Franco Morbidelli became the second rider who has won more than once since opening race in Spain, along with his teammate Fabio Quartararo (3 wins).
Over in the Monster Energy Yamaha factory garage the line-up for the weekend is not yet completely clear. Valentino Rossi is hopeful of making his eagerly awaited return to MotoGP, however, should he be unable to meet the requirement of two negative PCR test results needed for him to be allowed to take part in the European GP, the Italian will be replaced by Garrett Gerloff.
Garrett Gerloff
“I‘m so honoured that Yamaha has considered me for this opportunity. This year has already been quite the adventure, and this would be the cherry on top. It‘s been a dream of mine to ride the Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP bike since I started racing so many years ago, and to potentially have it happen is really exciting. But I am just sorry to get this opportunity under these unfortunate circumstances for Valentino. I feel really bad for him and I hope that he recovers soon, we all miss the number 46 on track! All the best to him. If I do end up riding this weekend, it will be an uphill battle not knowing the bike, tyres, brakes, etc. Also, I have never been to the Valencia track before. But I‘m confident in myself and ready for the challenge! Thanks to all at Yamaha. Bring it on!”
Rossi had taken a PCR test on Tuesday 3rd November, which came back positive, he will undergo a new test and should the Italian test negative, he will still have enough time to complete the required second PCR test and fly to Valencia. In order to be allowed to compete in this weekend‘s Gran Premio de Europa round, he needs negative test results from two PCR tests conducted 48 hours apart, as per FIM rules.
Valentino Rossi
“This virus is very complicated and serious. I felt bad for two days, then in a few days I came back to being fully fit, at my 100 per cent. I self-isolated at home all the time and I followed the medical advice closely. It‘s a very sad and difficult situation, but that‘s the way it is. Unfortunately, yesterday (Tuesday 3rd November), I had another test and it came back positive again, like all previous ones. Luckily I still have two more chances to be back on track on Friday or Saturday. I am very sad because I am feeling well, and I can‘t wait to be back aboard my M1 and be reunited with my team. I really hope the next PCR test result will be negative, because missing two races was already two too many.”
Maverick Viñales has stood on the podium twice before at Valencia. He secured a victory in his first Valencian 125cc race in 2011, and he graced the top step once more in 2013 when he claimed the Moto3 World Championship Title. His best MotoGP finish at Valencia though was a fifth place in 2016. Currently he is 19-points from the top of the overall standings and just five-points from second.
Maverick Viñales
“It‘s true that the last race wasn‘t the most positive, but it‘s important that we don‘t let that affect us in these final three rounds. We need to work hard, focus, and keep a positive mindset and get the best results possible in every single session. Valencia is usually a bit tricky for us, but I personally really like this track. For sure, it‘s not going to be an easy weekend but, as always, we will give our maximum.”
While Rossi’s participation is still up in the air, that of Marc Marquez is not. Earlier in the week Repsol Honda confirmed that Stefan Bradl will once again join Alex Marquez in the factory Honda garage.
There will be none of this for Marc Marquez this year at Valencia – Image AJRN
Stefan Bradl
“I am very pleased that the Repsol Honda Team have continued to put their faith in me and return to ride the RC213V again. We have done some testing at Valencia in the past and in Aragon we made a good step with the bike, I think we can have a good weekend here and again battle with riders further ahead as we did in Aragon and Le Mans as well. Always at around this time of the year in Valencia the temperature, especially in the morning, can be critical so we will have to pay attention to this.”
Despite suffering his first DNF of the year last time out in Aragon, Alex Marquez returns to the circuit with the same ambitions as always. The MotoGP rookie has been a standout in recent rounds and enters the closing stages of the year on equal points with Brad Binder as they contest the Rookie of the Year title. Alex got his first taste of the Honda RC213V at the post-season Valencia test in 2019 with the rest of the field and is eager to see his progress since.
Alex Marquez
“It has been good to have one final week to train and prepare for what will be an intense and demanding end to the season. We approach it in the same way as all the previous races; looking to improve and show our potential. I rode there already in the test but since then I have changed a lot so I am looking forward to seeing my growth as a MotoGP rider. Let’s finish the season well and keep improving.“
Despite a disappointing recent run of results Andrea Dovizioso firmly remains in the championship hunt if he can turn that form around.The Italian would certainly love to leave Ducati at the end of the season with that coveted #1 plate in his bag. Ducati have had three premier class wins in Valencia with three different riders: Troy Bayliss (2006), Casey Stoner (2008) and Andrea Dovizioso (2018).
Andrea Dovizioso
“The two races at MotorLand Aragón were tough for us; we struggled a lot, and of course we didn’t get the results we were expecting. After a week off, we return to the track with more motivation; there are only three races left in the Championship, and we know that everything can still happen. This year, each Grand Prix has its own story. I still have three races with Ducati and, as always, I will try all my best till the end”.
Andrea Dovizioso’s early season form has deserted him
Recent reports suggest that Dovizioso could end up as a Yamaha MotoGP test rider next year, which of course could lead to some wildcard appearances at certain rounds. Or if one of the regular Yamaha incumbents was to get injured, or retire early…
Danilo Petrucci started the season strongly but like his team-mate, that form has deserted him as the season wore on.
Danilo Petrucci
“We left Aragón behind, and now we are focused on the next two races in Valencia. The Circuit Ricardo Tormo is not one of our ideal race tracks, but this year it is complicated to make any predictions before taking to the track. Michele Pirro was here for a test a few days ago, and the feedback was quite positive, so we arrive in Spain with interesting data at our disposal. These next three Grands Prix for sure will be demanding, but I am determined to let that these three last races with Ducati will leave us positive memories”.
Of all the Ducati riders the most consistently fast has been Jack Miller. Unfortunately though the Aussie has three DNFs not of his own doing that have nobbled his tilt at the title. An engine failure, an engine problem after a tear-off from Quartararo blocked his air intakes, and then at Aragon he was taken out by Brad Binder. If not for those misfortunes it is clear that Miller would be very much in the title hunt.
Brad Binder skittled Jack Miller in turn one last time out
The South African was penalised by the Stewards and will have a long lap penalty to be served during the race this weekend at Valencia.
Another rider that saw his potential cruelled last time out was Takaaki Nakagami, but in that case it was all his own doing. The Japanese rider dominated practice and qualifying and looked a safe bet for the win at Aragon II, but he threw it away only a few corners into the race while leading. He will be looking to bounce back and further his advantage as the leading Honda rider of season 2020.
His LCR Honda team-mate Cal Crutchlow will certainly be looking to finish the season strongly and advertise himself in the best way possible to try and earn a seat on the grid for season 2021.
Honda have not won any of the first 11 MotoGP races this season. This is the first time there is no Honda win in at least one of the first ten (or more) races in the premier class since Honda returned to the class in 1982.
Another rider that could surprise this weekend, and is looking in decent form, is Johann Zarco. In recent rounds he has significantly out-performed the factory Ducati riders and will likely be in the mix up front.
Pol Espargaro can’t be overlooked and Franceso Bagnaia has shown glimpses of briliance at certain points this season.
Like all the rounds this season though, it will likely be unpredictable and throw up plenty of surprises. It is going to be a late one for us here in Australia though as the race is not scheduled to get underway until midnight on Sunday.
Valencia Lap Records
Valencia All Time Lap Record – Jorge Lorenzo (Yamaha) 1m29.401 (2016)
Valencia Race Lap Record – Marc Marquez (Honda) 1m31.116 (2019)
Valencia Qualifying Record – Jorge Lorenzo (Yamaha) 1m29.401 (2016)
Valencia Top Speed Record – Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati) 335.9 km/h (2015)
Finding a ~20-year-old motorcycle with zero (or two) miles on the clock should be near impossible for many. Especially if you want a special edition Ducati with as few miles as possible. With two miles I can almost guarantee this motorcycle has never hit a public road in its entire life. Those miles are probably from pushing it by hand from point a-to-b in its 18-year life.
This extremely low mileage Ducati Monster S4 is a special edition tribute from the factory for World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty and has only seen two total owners in its life. Carl Fogarty is one of the most successful World Superbike racers of all time, with the second-highest number of race wins (59) and four total world championship winnings. That means this motorcycle is not old rare, but special as well.
This Monster S4 features a powerful 916cc L-twin Ducati engine (producing 110 horsepower) married to a six-speed standard transmission. Due to it being a special edition, the bike is decorated with carbon fiber body parts, Brembo brakes all-around, Marchesini wheels, and a special custom suspension allowing for an extra 20mm of height on the bike due to the 43mm Showa front fork and dual-sided swingarm.
The bike has a custom livery by Aldo Drudi with Foggarty’s nickname, “Foggy”, adorned to the bike in scripts. The paint job also features Foggy’s signature eye logo on the fuel tank.
The bike has been kept in perfect condition, comes with a fluid flush, new battery, red bike cover, spare keys, and a clean Pennsylvania title in the seller’s name.
The bike is sitting with a current bid of $4200 with 7 days remaining on the bringatrailer.com auction. This will probably be one of your only chances to own a 2-mile special edition Ducati Monster, so if this is something right up your alley I’d hop on it before someone else does. Opportunities like this don’t come by often.
Long criticised for expensive and frequent servicing, Ducati has launched its Multistrada V4 and V4 S adventure tourers with a 60,000 main maintenance interval.
The Bologna motorcycle manufacturer has now unveiled the model with full specifications ahead of the announcement of four more new models over the next month.
Now the full reveal shows a highly sophisticated and hi-tech bike with longevity of servicing the icing on the cake for adventure travellers and tourers.
Ducati says it has sold more than 110,000 Multistradas since its launch in 2003 with the unfortunate-looking “Uglystrada”. The fourth generation is a substantially different bike thanks mainly to the V4 Granturismo engine.
The lightweight (66.7kg) and compact 1158cc V4 delivers 125kW (170hp) at 10,500rpm with a maximum torque of 125Nm (12.7kgm) at 8750rpm.
Oil change is scheduled every 15,000km, while valve clearance check and eventual adjustment is required every 60,000km, the longest intervals of any production bike.
The V4 engine configuration and 22-litre tank also required a substantial redesign that still looks streamlined, lithe and sexy — albeit ungainly which is common among tall-suspended adventure bikes.
It is complemented by a hefty electronics package that not only includes blind-spot and adaptive cruise controls, but also ABS and traction cornering control, wheelie control and cornering lights on the Multistrada V4 S which also comes with a function to prevent rolling backwards on hills during take-offs.
Ducati’s semi-active Skyhook Suspension will also automatically self-adjust the front and rear suspension levels according to the weight of rider, pillion and/or luggage.
The Multistrada V4 has an aluminium monocoque frame and double-sided swingarm with a total bike weight of 215kg. It sits on a 19-inch front wheel with a choice of spoked or alloy wheels on the V4 S.
Ducati also took the Multi to the wind tunnel to provide the rider and pillion with better wind protection and less “hissing noises” or engine heat on the rider’s legs.
This was achieved with an adjustable Plexiglas windscreen and two side deflectors plus aerodynamically shaped handguards.
Modern Ducatis run very hot for lower emissions and can be uncomfortable for riders in hot climates, especially with the top cylinder so close to the family jewels.
The Multistrada V4 not only directs heat away from the rider but also includes deactivation of the rear cylinder bank at idle. This is also a feature of some big V-twins such as Harley to combat uncomfortable heat when stopped at traffic lights.
The standard V4 comes in red while the V4 S will be available in “Aviator Grey” or red and the V4 S Sport comes in red/white/black with an Akrapovič exhaust and carbon front fender.
Ducati has a range of accessory packs for the Multistrada V4 S: Essential, Travel, Radar, Performance, Full.
The Multistrada V4 is expected to arrive in Australia and New Zealand in the first quarter of 2021 with prices ranging from under $A30k to over $A40k, ride away.
The 2020 MXGP of Pietramurata in Italy proved to be a day of champions as Team HRC’s Tim Gajser and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle claimed the MXGP and MX2 World titles, both in the opening races of the GP and with a round to spare.
Tim Gajser and team celebrate the world title win
Tim Gajser 2020 MXGP Champion
For Gajser, the 2020 season came with ups and downs. The Slovenian looked strong in the first two rounds in Matterley Basin and Valkenswaard, where he finished second both times. But then we saw him struggle in Latvia, as the season resumed, before he turned things around for the MXGP of Lombardia where he finally got his hands on the red plate. He then got his first overall victory two rounds later during the MXGP of Europe in Mantova, before following that up with a string of podiums and race wins.
The Slovenian turned the red plate gold, as he claimed his fourth world title with a fourth overall Grand Prix victory of the season, along with a 14th heat win in race two. The stats for Gajser are pretty impressive in 2020, he has 13 podiums to his name, has led a total of 205 laps along with eight pole positions this season, more than any other rider in the category.
Tim Gajser
Trentino is a circuit that Gajser knows how to win at, as he secured his first ever Grand Prix victory in Pietramurata back in 2015, the same year he asserted his first world title in MX2 and then followed it up with an MXGP world title in Charlotte, USA, during his rookie season in the 450cc class. Title number three came last season in Imola, as he wrapped things up three rounds early and now his fourth at the MXGP of Pietramurata during the penultimate round of the year.
Tim Gajser – 2020 MXGP Champion
“It feels unbelievable to be world champion for a fourth time. Winning one time is amazing, but four times, I’m just speechless. It was a weird season with the COVID-19 and then the break between the rounds two and three, but in the end, everything came together and we won another title! Racing today was very nice, in the first race, I didn’t have the best start but I was still able to come through the field and finish second and that meant that if I could win race two, I would take the overall. In the second moto I grabbed the holeshot and then had a really good battle with Romain all the way to the chequered flag. We were pushing the whole time so I’m super happy to win this title and the overall on the same day. A big thanks to the whole of Team HRC, there are a lot of people who are involved who couldn’t be here today so a big thank you to all of them and to everyone who has supported me all year long. It is a privilege to ride for this team and I appreciate every single person who has helped me. Thank you!”
Tim Gajser
MX2 crowns Tom Vialle Champion a round early
Meanwhile in MX2, Vialle had a close battle with Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jago Geerts all season long. Geerts was the early championship leader, though by the second round Vialle was able to take over the spot and retain that position, as he swapped the red plate for a gold one. He confirmed his first world title with a confident race win, which saw him take the Fox Holeshot from the outside. This was his 13th heat win of the season and while the Frenchman missed out on a spot on the podium, the only thing that mattered was the championship.
Tom Vialle
Last year, Vialle joined the Red Bull KTM Factory squad and was already a key player in the championship. His first podium in MX2 came in Uddevalla during the MXGP of Sweden, last season and he ended the season fourth, just 5 points down on Geerts. This season, the Frenchman entered as the leading factory KTM rider and he took on the role with confidence as he racked up a total of seven GP wins, his first at the MXGP of the Netherlands, 13 podiums and led a total of 309 laps. He is also this year’s winner of the Fox Holeshot Awards with a total of 20 points, with one round remaining.
Tom Vialle – 2020 MX2 Champion
“I’m so happy but there have been a lot of emotions today. I was a bit angry with the verdict this morning but to make the holeshot and lead the first moto was fantastic. I was almost crying on the last lap. There was so much emotion. It was really special. Crazy. In the second moto I was around sixth position and someone hit me and bent the gear shifter under the bike. I was stuck in second gear. I tried hard to get the bike into third but it was not possible, so I had to come into the pits. I still finished the moto. It was a bit of a shame because I was feeling so good today. Sometimes bad luck happens though. The important thing is that we achieved our goal. I want to say a big thanks to the whole team and everybody who worked together to make this happen. It was tiring to have a lot of races so close together and also keep the concentration through the training. I think we did it pretty good.”
Tom Vialle
Jed Beaton claimed third overall in MX2, with a second-place finish in race one followed up with a solid fourth in moto two, earning the Australian a well-deserved place on the final step of the podium, just one-point away from the eventual GP winner Jago Geerts who cemented his MX2 championship runner up position, and tied on points with Ben Watson. Beaton currently sits 13-points off Maxime Renaux in the standings, a gap he’ll need to close in the final round this weekend to end the season on the overall podium in third.
Jed Beaton
“I gave everything I had in that second moto. I knew the overall was there and I just rode as hard as I could, but it wasn’t to be. It’s disappointing that I couldn’t get it done but at the same time I’m happy to be back on the podium. It’s great for the team too. They’ve been working really hard and it’s nice to pay them back with a solid result. One more round to go so I’m looking to end the season with another podium.”
Jed Beaton
Bailey Malkiewicz had a consistent weekend with two 12th place results, to claim 11th overall for the round. He now sits 16th in the MX2 standings.
MXGP
Team HRC’s Tim Gajser sealed his fourth world title in style, with a 2-1 result that saw him take to the top step of the box. Following a tough start to the first race, Gajser was able to make a good recovery, passing Gebben Van Venrooy Yamaha Racing’s Alessandro Lupino and Brent Van Doninck. The Slovenian caught up to the race leader, Jeremy Seewer of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing, who he pushed until the end, though could not manage to get around the Swiss. But a second-place finish was enough for him to secure the gold plate.
Tim Gajser
In race two (the re-run), Gajser was able to get a good jump out of the gate and grab the Fox Holeshot to then lead every lap of the race, despite immense pressure from Romain Febvre of Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team, to claim his 14th race win of 2020.
There was a re-start of the second MXGP race, due to a red flag which was caused by an incident involving Gajser and Honda SR Motoblouz rider Jeremy Van Horebeek, who was taken off track, but luckily walked back to the camper in decent conditions.
MXGP Start
Seewer finished second overall, the Swiss was looking strong all day, as he took his first pole position in time practice, then managed to grab the Fox Holeshot in race one and lead the race from gate drop to chequered flag. This was his 3rd heat win of the year. Then in the second race, the factory Yamaha rider was able to grab another good start, though was quickly passed by Febvre for P2 and eventually finished the race in 3rd, which gave him a solid overall result, to keep third position in the championship standings, just 4 points behind Cairoli.
Jeremy Seewer
Febvre was the last rider to claim a podium spot, as he worked hard in race one to get up to 5th and then in race two had a much better start, inside the top 5 and made some quick passes on the opening lap to get behind Gajser, where he kept him tight all race long. The Frenchman really applied the pressure onto the 4-time world champion, though in the end was forced to settle for 2nd, which put him third overall.
Romain Febvre
With Gajser crowned champion, the door is now wide open for the vice-champion position. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Antonio Cairoli had not such a bad day, though may not have been what he had expected, following an overall victory last time around. The Italian finished the first race 6th after a crash while pushing Seewer for the lead, though he did try to re-group and had some nice battles with Lupino and Febvre. While in the second race we saw the 9-time world champion battle with Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing’s Clement Desalle though he could not get around the Belgian and had to settle for 5th. This has allowed Seewer to close in, in terms of championship points, as there’s only 4 points in it, heading into the final round.
It was a good day for Alessandro Lupino who took a season best result in race one as he crossed the line in 3rd. Race two was a bit tougher for the local rider, who finished 11th which gave him 6th overall.
Tim Gajser – 2020 MXGP Champion
“It feels just unbelievable. Like I said many times, winning one is incredible but now four is just…speechless. I’m really happy. It was a weird season, but anyway in the end everything came together, and we won another title. In the first race, I was already struggling with the clutch and was riding without the clutch the whole race, finishing second. Then in the second race, I had a nice battle with Romain [Febvre] who was really pushing and I’m super happy to win the title and the overall on the same day.”
Tim Gajser
Jeremy Seewer – P2
“First pole position and then got a great start…I’ve been second many times in qualifying this year so it didn’t really matter for the start, it is just a good feeling to be on pole and then after an amazing first race, Tim [Gajser] had some technical problems, so hats off to him for riding that fast without a clutch and also congratulations on the world championship, he’s done great this year. Anyway, I’m really happy, solid results, second overall and good points for the championship, especially on this kind of track, where I kind of struggled the last few years and not got a podium here, not even in my MX2 days, so it felt great. I know it’s going to go between me and Tony [Cairoli] for the vice world championship, but honestly I hope for some more races like today. I mean my goal was to be up front and win, to be on the podium and I will hope to do the same on Sunday.”
Jeremy Seewer
Romain Febvre – P3
“Last Sunday, I had a really bad first race, crashed at the start so I was last and then crashed two more times after that. Anyway, today in the first race, I didn’t really get the start and came back to 5th, so I was really happy about my riding, but I knew they key was the start. We focused for the second start and I had a really good start, maybe third or something, and moved to second quick and battled with Tim [Gajser] for the whole race, congrats to him on the championship of course and today’s win, he was the best this year.”
Romain Febvre
Gajsers injured teammate, Australian Mitch Evans congratulated him on a great season.
Mitch Evans
“It has been a great season for Tim, and he thoroughly deserves to win this title. He works extremely hard and I couldn’t be happier for him and the whole team. It is a great group of people here and having now experienced the atmosphere this year, I am really happy to be here again next year. The injury is progressing really well and I’m aiming to come into 2021 just how I started this year, knowing that I’ll be riding a championship-winning bike.”
