If you’re even remotely interested in the Indian Challenger, then you should dash on over to Indian’s website to enter the Challenger Ride of a Lifetime Sweepstakes. One lucky motorcyclist will have the opportunity to set out on one of five scenic routes set out by Indian Motorcycle:
Cherohala Skyway – TN and NC
North Cascades Scenic Byway – WA
Twisted Sisters – TX
Pacific Coast Scenic Byway – CA
Pig Trail Scenic Byway – AR
Riders have two ways to enter the sweepstakes. Taking a demo ride of any Indian motorcycle at an Indian dealership automatically enters the person. The second way is to go to Indian’s website and fill out the sweepstakes form. Entries will be accepted from 10/29/19 to 1/31/20.
Alex Marquez says understanding the characteristics of the Honda RC213V is key during the Valencia test as he transitions to the MotoGP class, the rookie overcoming a fall on day one in Spain.
Admitting he made a ‘rookie mistake’ in his first run that saw him crash at turn 10, the Moto2 world champion reflected positively on the day where he recorded a total of 53 laps.
“First I want to say thank you to Honda for this opportunity to join them as the Moto2 world champion,” Marquez stated. “Each lap we were able to improve which is important and I was able to enjoy my time on the bike. I’m very happy, it has been a positive day for me apart from the rookie mistake I made in the first run.
“My rhythm was quite good, and I know where I need to improve and focus on for tomorrow. The plan for tomorrow is to just make more laps so I can understand the bike better, learn how to manage it more.”
Repsol Honda signed Marquez, younger brother for multi-time world champion Marc, to replace the now retired Jorge Lorenzo in 2020.
Jay Wilson believes his fourth place finish at the 2019 Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland is a step in the right direction, the reigning SX2 champion once again narrowly missing the podium.
The Yamalube Yamaha Racing challenger looked primed to secure his first podium of the 2019 Australian Supercross Championship, securing a race win in main event two, however fell one point shy of the box.
The Queenslander went 5-1-4 for fourth overall, and sits fifth in the championship standings – 20 points behind leader Josh Osby (Raceline KTM Thor) with one round to go.
“Tonight was another good step in the right direction,” Wilson stated. “I qualified better, and I felt I fought it out in every lap of every race, but that round win still eludes me. My starts weren’t ideal, but I was able to get track position pretty quickly and be up front early.
“I got myself into a good position early in race one, but then two riders used the short cut to finish ahead of me. Race two, I was in the top four again and just pulled it early to get clear and was able to stay in front for the win. By race three most of the good guys had already used it so it was almost a normal race.
“I have one more chance to win this year in Melbourne and to do that at the biggest race of the year would be awesome. I want to keep the upward trend going on my results and Marvel Stadium would be the perfect place to get my first round win of the year.”
The Monster Energy AUS-X Open Melbourne is scheduled for 30 November at Marvel Stadium.
It was a Yamaha 1-2-3 on day one of the Valencia test at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, but one man was ahead of the rest: Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT).
The Frenchman ended the day top of the pile after 82 laps, the fastest of which was two tenths off his pole: a 1m30.163s. Maverick Vinales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was second and 0.164s off after 66 laps, with Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) completing the top three but a few more tenths in arrears.
At Yamaha, 2020 therefore began with a bang. Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP riders Vinales and Valentino Rossi – who was ninth – had a new chassis, engine and notably different air intake. Rossi’s new Crew Chief, David Munoz, was on hand as well as the team enjoyed an addition of a slightly different sort.
Petronas Yamaha SRT’s Quartararo and Morbidelli, meanwhile, tried the carbon swingarm, and Quartararo tried some aero new to him, but not to Yamaha.
Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) was fourth quickest and only 0.015s off Morbidelli after 58 laps, with the biggest headline from the Borgo Panigale factory proving a new chassis. Danilo Petrucci also stole some limelight for tougher reasons, with the Italian only putting in 10 laps due to pain in his shoulder exacerbated by his crash during the grand prix.
Nevertheless, he was 12th overall. Jack Miller (Pramac Racing) was tenth after an apt 43 laps, trying some new parts but the full package is expected by the Jerez test. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro was on the other side of the Pramac garage, with Francesco Bagnaia remaining sidelined following his crash during the GP weekend.
Honda, meanwhile, were fifth with reigning champion Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team). He put in 60 laps although one was cut short as the number 93 crashed, scattering a few parts through the gravel. The biggest news at Honda was a new chassis though, as well, of course, as the arrival of Alex Marquez.
The number 73 was at LCR Honda and had an early crash later replicated by test rider Stefan Bradl at turn 10, although Alex completed 53 laps by the end of the day. Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) was 11th and did 69 laps working towards 2020.
Suzuki locked out sixth and seventh on day one with Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) leading teammate Alex Rins. The former did 63 laps and the latter 76. The Hamamatsu factory had a new engine previously tested by test rider Sylvain Guintoli, and that’s what Alex Rins set his fastest lap with.
KTM were all hands on deck: a new chassis, different engine spec, a new steering damper and work focusing on electronics, fairing, winglets, seats kept them busy. The new chassis – still a tubular steel frame – is aimed at improved adaptability. Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was 10th and did 58 laps. New teammate Brad Binder was also a big addition for the Austrian factory and he put in 70 laps as a new era in his career begins.
Red Bull KTM Tech 3 also had a new kid on the block, although he’s taken part in his first grand prix: Iker Lecuona. The Spaniard was impressive once again, despite a crash, and ended the day in 13th after 57 laps. Dani Pedrosa was on track for KTM too, putting in 52 laps and based in the Tech 3 garage as Miguel Oliveira remains absent through injury.
At Aprilia Racing Team Gresini, there was nothing new as yet, with work focused on improving electronics and engine braking. Andrea Iannone did 54 laps and was 14th, Aleix Espargaro did 45 laps and was 16th. Test rider Bradley Smith was also on track and caused a red flag with a crash, rider ok, but he did complete 50 laps for the Noale factory. Riders are back on track on Wednesday to continue testing.
It was a Yamaha 1-2-3 on Day 1 of the Valencia Test at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. Fabio Quartararo ended the day top of the pile after 82 laps, the fastest of which was two tenths off his pole: a 1:30.163.
Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was second and 0.164 off after 66 laps, with Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) completing the top three but a few more tenths in arrears.
Petronas Yamaha SRT’s Quartararo and Morbidelli tried the carbon swingarm, and Quartararo tried some aero new to him, but not to Yamaha.
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP riders Viñales and Valentino Rossi – who was ninth – had a new chassis, engine and notably different air intake.
Rossi’s new Crew Chief, David Muñoz, was on hand as well as the team enjoyed an addition of a slightly different sort.
Fabio Quartararo – P1
“We tested many things including new wings and a carbon fibre swing-arm, and spent a lot of time doing back-to-back comparisons between the old and new parts. It means that we’ve already got an idea of all the positives and negatives of what we tried, and a plan for tomorrow on where we need to concentrate. I’ve had good confidence and feedback from the bike all day, and it’ll be useful to work on some areas tomorrow to improve the all-round package. When I crashed I was on a time attack lap but with a front tyre that was a bit used and I just braked a little too much – but we were able to make four more laps after the crash to check everything was fine.”
Fabio Quartararo
Maverick Viñales – P2
“For me it has been a really good test so far, because I worked a lot on my riding style and on my rhythm, and it seems like we improved. Today the grip level was quite good, so maybe we need to keep in mind that we still need to work on this when there‘s lower grip, but I was feeling really good on the bike today. We were especially working on reducing rear tyre degradation and we worked really well. I had a great rhythm on the last laps of a race distance on one tyre and that‘s key and also important for our work tomorrow. The prototypes are good. I‘m very happy. We are riding the bike in a good way and that‘s the most important. We are trying to save some tyres for tomorrow, because then we will try to create a better set-up. Today we just rode with the hard tyre and I felt great. Tomorrow we know more.”
Maverick Viñales
Franco Morbidelli – P3
“It was a positive day for us because we were able to try a couple of things like new aerodynamics, some chassis components and the carbon fibre swing-arm and try and increase the performance of the bike. Some things were good and some weren’t quite as good, of course, but in the end it was a productive day for us. We were fast as well, which is nice, and it’ll be a case of trying to improve a little bit more and understand the new parts a little better tomorrow. The most important job for tomorrow will be to reconfirm what we tried today and maybe to try some more new parts as well.”
Franco Morbidelli
Valentino Rossi – P9
“Today was not so bad. We continue to work on the prototype of the 2020 bike that is a bit different, and the feeling is positive. We also worked a bit on the tyres and the setting, and at the end we found something good. It became better and better towards the end of the day, and I had quite a good pace, so we will try to continue like this tomorrow.”
Valentino Rossi
Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) was fourth quickest and only 0.015 off Morbidelli after 58 laps, with the biggest headline from the Borgo Panigale factory proving a new chassis.
Andrea Dovizioso – P4
“I’m pleased because we tested some new stuff and it’s very interesting. Of course we’ll have to do some more tests with everything and also get some feedback on another track, to confirm the positive feeling we had today and then work on the details to try and make more improvements. In any case today went very well and I’m really satisfied”.
Andrea Dovizioso
Danilo Petrucci also stole some limelight for tougher reasons, with the Italian only putting in 10 laps due to pain in his shoulder exacerbated by his crash during the Grand Prix. Nevertheless, he was 12th overall.
Danilo Petrucci – P12
“Unfortunately I was only able to do a few laps today because my left shoulder, which was already giving me a few problems, was injured a bit more in my crash on Sunday. Even though I tried to rest on Monday, when I got back on the bike today I didn’t have any strength in it so I preferred to stop and see if I can do a few laps tomorrow or if it will be better to postpone everything to next week at Jerez. Despite the fact I only did a few laps, my first impressions of the 2020 bike are certainly positive”.
Danilo Petrucci
Jack Miller (Pramac Racing) was tenth after an apt 43 laps, trying some new parts but the full package is expected by the Jerez test. Miller also set the fastest speed on day one at 328.9 km/h. In contrast, pace-setter Quartararo’s Yamaha only registered 318.3 km/h through the speed trap.
Ducati test rider Michele Pirro was on the other side of the Pramac garage, with Francesco Bagnaia remaining sidelined following his crash during the GP weekend.
Honda, meanwhile, were fifth with reigning Champion Marc Marquez. He put in 60 laps although one was cut short as the number 93 crashed, scattering a few parts through the gravel.
Marc Marquez – P5
“I’m happy with how today went overall, we had our first contact with the 2020 bike and started to understand it. I had a strange crash on my out lap from the box but there weren’t any issues on the bike. Tomorrow we will concentrate on some other areas to understand some more things. It will be another busy day but I am looking forward to continuing our work so the team can work on our feedback over winter.”
Marc Marquez
The biggest news at Honda was a new chassis though, along with the arrival of Alex Marquez. The number 73 was at LCR Honda and had an early crash later replicated by test rider Stefan Bradl at Turn 10. Alex completed 53 laps by the end of the day.
Alex Marquez
Alex Marquez – P23
“First I want to say thank you to Honda for this opportunity to join them as the Moto2 World Champion. Each lap we were able to improve which is important and I was able to enjoy my time on the bike. I’m very happy, it has been a positive day for me apart from the rookie mistake I made in the first run. My rhythm was quite good, and I know where I need to improve and focus on for tomorrow. The plan for tomorrow is to just make more laps so I can understand the bike better, learn how to manage it more.”
Alex Marquez
Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) was 11th and did 69 laps working towards 2020.
Cal Crutchlow – P11
“We had a positive day. First of all, we tried the 2020 prototype bike and, as with everything, you have to set the bike up and make sure it runs properly first of all. I think we did that quite well today. It’s only the first steps towards making sure the bike is working in the correct way, we’ll try some more stuff after having a look at the data tonight. But overall, we’re quite pleased so far. It’s different in quite a lot of areas, although all the bikes in MotoGP have the same DNA so it’s not a massive difference. But what we’re always looking for is small advantages and I feel it’s a little bit stronger in the braking zone at the moment, which is what we were looking for compared to this year’s bike. So that for me is a positive.”
Cal Crutchlow
Suzuki locked out sixth and seventh on Day 1 with Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) leading team-mate Alex Rins. The former did 63 laps and the latter 76. The Hamamatsu factory had a new engine previously tested by test rider Sylvain Guintoli, and that’s what Alex Rins set his fastest lap with.
Davide Brivio – Suzuki Team Manager
“As always, it’s very good when you have a full day of testing to go through everything. Today the main focus was to check the 2020 engine specification, and the feedback so far has been positive. Now we have to fine tune all the settings, in terms of electronics and the bike in general. We’re interested to compare it again tomorrow, and also to try it on a different circuit, like Jerez next week. Tomorrow we’ll go through a few more things, comparing parts as well as the engine, trying to get some more information and confirm some feelings.”
Joan Mir
Joan Mir – P6
“I’m quite happy with how today has gone. We worked on the bike and tried the new engine specification; my first impression is good. Tomorrow we’ll make some adjusts and continue to see what we think. The plan for me is to continue trying the engine and then also some settings such as electronics.”
Joan Mir
Alex Rins – P7
“We’re feeling good today. We tried the 2020 specification engine in the morning and then did some comparisons. My initial thought is that the new spec is better in the areas of top speed and traction; at the end these are the aspects we had in our target, but we’ll continue with set-up, settings and comparisons tomorrow and see what we think ahead of Jerez next week.”
Alex Rins
KTM were all hands on deck: a new chassis, different engine spec, a new steering damper and work focusing on electronics, fairing, winglets, seats kept them busy. The new chassis – still a tubular steel frame – is aimed at improved adaptability.
Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was tenth and did 58 laps. New team-mate Brad Binder was also a big addition for the Austrian factory and he put in 70 laps as a new era in his career begins.
Brad Binder
Red Bull KTM Tech 3 also had a new kid on the block, although he’s taken part in his first Grand Prix: Iker Lecuona. The Spaniard was impressive once again, despite a crash, and ended the day in 13th after 57 laps.
Iker Lecuona – P13
“Today was my first official day in this team as a MotoGP rider and I’m very happy. I didn’t change the bike, but I was just working on myself and my riding style. For sure, I need to continue to improve, but I’m quite satisfied to finish this first day in 13th position, just 1.482 seconds to the top. I did very consistent laps and decent lap times, so it’s truly ok. Tomorrow I can’t wait to continue to work with my new team and improve myself, I need to ride more and we will see.”
Iker Lecuona
Hervé Poncharal – Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Manager
“It’s the end of day one testing for Iker Lecuona at Red Bull KTM Tech3. We are very happy. We don’t have too much to test on the bike, but a lot with the rider. Iker just moved from Guy Coulon’s to Nicolas Goyon’s crew, so he had to relearn new guys and new methods of working, although they are quite similar and it was very interesting to start working with him without the pressure of a Grand Prix, with more time than a 45 minutes session. What he did today, was very impressive, to be honest, because we have been testing different settings, different tyres and he reacts quite well. You could see that run after run, his riding style is improving, he’s getting more efficient for the MotoGP bike and I would like to say, that tonight we are a happy team. We are very proud and lucky to have Iker with us, so just wait for tomorrow, don’t be carried away, but it was a good first day for the 2020 season. On the other side of the garage, we don’t have too much to say, but we have the honor of Dani Pedrosa using our garage. We have a lot of very exciting technical things under our eyes, we have a very clever and skillful rider there, so this was a very emotional day one for the 2020 season. Thanks Dani, thanks Iker and more tomorrow!”
Dani Pedrosa was on track for KTM too, putting in 52 laps and based in the Tech 3 garage as Miguel Oliveira remains absent through injury.
At Aprilia Racing Team Gresini, there was no big developments revealed as yet, with work focused on improving electronics and engine braking. Andrea Iannone did 54 laps and was 14th, Aleix Espargaro did 45 laps and was 16th. Test rider Bradley Smith was also on track and caused a Red Flag with a crash, rider ok, but he did complete 50 laps for the Noale factory.
The Shoei J-Cruise II helmet is now available in North America.
Begin Press Release:
All-new Shoei J-Cruise II Helmet Announced for North America
SHOEI® Safety Helmet Corp is excited to announce the arrival of the all-new J-Cruise II to North American dealers.
DESIGN CONCEPT
Motorcyclists around the globe have enjoyed the one-with-the-road experience of the SHOEI J-Cruise for years. The safety and performance of a premium helmet combined with innovative luxury features and the exhilarating freedom that comes with the J-Cruise suits riders of nearly every motorcycling discipline. Featuring SHOEI’s latest technological advances and benefiting from the evolution of several SHOEI-exclusive features, the all-new J-Cruise II revolutionizes the category once again. Not your average open-face helmet, the J-Cruise II is compact, lightweight, aerodynamic, and packed full of innovative technology. Featuring a lengthened internal sun shield for optimal sun-glare protection, all-new “first position” shield opening for advanced ventilation and defogging, enhanced aerodynamics, ventilation and noise-reduction technology, and the ability to seamlessly integrate with the SENA SRL/SRL2 Communication Systems, the J-Cruise II does it all while keeping you safe and connected with the road ahead.
INTERCOM-READY DESIGN
The all-new J-Cruise II has been designed to seamlessly integrate with the optional SENA SRL/SRL2 Communication Systems* with ease and precision. Jointly designed by SENA and SHOEI, the SRL and SRL2 are sleek in appearance and install effortlessly, allowing for the J-Cruise II’s advanced safety and performance to remain intact. With a simple 3-button control, riders can pair to their smartphones to listen to music, hear GPS directions, talk on the phone and more. The intelligent Audio Multitasking feature allows you to simultaneously listen to music and talk to other riders via intercom, and the Universal Intercom technology makes the SRL/SRL2 compatible with other non-SENA Bluetooth systems.*SRL and SRL2 are specially developed for SHOEI and are sold exclusively by SENA. For more information on the SENA SRL/SRL2 Communication Systems, visit sena.com
AERODYNAMICS PERFORMANCE
Developed and refined in SHOEI’s in-house wind tunnel, the all-new J-Cruise II boasts aerodynamic improvements in all relevant performance categories (as compared to its predecessor). Thanks to a more compact, aerodynamic shell shape that features an integrated spoiler, along with strategically-shaped air intake and exhaust vent covers that help streamline the helmet’s overall profile, the J-Cruise II significantly reduces the load placed on a rider’s head. The aerodynamic performance of the J-Cruise II has been improved by the following reductions: Lift (upward lift force): -7%; Drag (forward drag force): -1%; Yawing (horizontal pull force at high speed): -43%.
*Reference value comparison measured using SHOEI’s in-house wind tunnel testing facilities(J-Cruise II vs. J-Cruise).
NOISE & WIND TURBULENCE REDUCTION
In addition to the J-Cruise II’s improved aerodynamics, enhancements to its shell shape also reduce wind noise around the helmet. The combination of optimal shell and shield aerodynamics, liner components designed to prevent unwanted road noises from entering through the bottom of the helmet, an all-new window beading that provides a wind and waterproof seal, and the shield’s integrated air dam total dramatic increases in overall riding comfort by reducing wind turbulence inside the shell. Additionally, refinements made to the shell opening that allows the internal sun shield mechanism’s metal wires to pass through to the activation switch also contributes to an overall reduction of unwanted noise inside the helmet.CJ-2
SHIELD & BASE PLATE SYSTEM
The J-Cruise II’s CJ-2 shield provides a massive field of vision and protects against 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays. SHOEI’s 3D injection-molding process ensures a distortion-free view throughout the entire field of vision, and the integrated air dam at the bottom edge of the shield increases rigidity and reduces wind turbulence inside the helmet. Coupled with the all-new CJ-2 base plate system, shield changes and base plate functions have never been smoother. Thanks to advancements made to the CJ-2 base plate gear, the J-Cruise II’s all-new “first position” shield opening allows riders to enjoy enhanced venting and defogging without excess wind distractions. SHOEI’s patented spring-loaded base plate technology along with the all-new airtight window beading helps prevent wind and water from entering into the helmet. The J-Cruise II also features a shield locking mechanism for secure closure and easy opening.*To maximize safety, always have the shield in the fully closed position when riding at high speeds.QSV-2
INTERNAL SUN SHIELD
The J-Cruise II’s all-new, built-in QSV-2 sun shield is 5mm longer and gives riders improved, instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion. A large, easily located switch activates the 3D injection-molded inner shield, and the distortion-free view blocks 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays just like the CJ-2 external shield that lies ahead. Additionally, refinements made to the shell opening that allows the internal sun shield mechanism’s metal wires to pass through to the activation switch helps contribute to an overall reduction of unwanted noise inside the J-Cruise II’s shell. An all-new sun shield locking lever makes the removal and installation of the QSV-2 internal sun shield smooth and easy.
*The QSV-2 Internal Sun Shield exceeds ANSI Z80.3-2010 Standard for non-prescription eyewear.
VENTILATION PERFORMANCE
The ventilation performance of a helmet is a crucial feature, as overheating while riding can have a direct impact on rider fatigue and safety. Improving the ventilation performance of theJ-Cruise II (while reducing noise inside the helmet) was a primary goal while evolving the design of its predecessor, and after valuable time spent in SHOEI’s in-house wind tunnel facilities, we’ve achieved exactly that. Adding an extra intake hole to the 3-position upper air ventilation system increases the volume of air entering the helmet by approximately 30%. Simultaneously, several revised top air outlet vent shapes were investigated during wind tunnel testing in an effort to improve hot air exhaust efficiency. As a result, the J-Cruise II’s patent-pending top air outlet improves hot air expulsion by 20% without the need for additional outlet holes.*Reference value comparison measured using SHOEI’s in-house wind tunnel testing facilities(J-Cruise II vs. J-Cruise).
MULTI-PLY MATRIX AIM SHELL
Few characteristics of a motorcycle helmet are as critical as its first layer of defense, which is precisely why the all-new J-Cruise II features the SHOEI-exclusive Multi-Ply Matrix AIM (Advanced Integrated Matrix) Shell construction. Combining fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers, the J-Cruise II’s proprietary AIM Shell structure provides optimal impact-absorption, strength, and elasticity. The forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield, allowing for the integrity of the helmet’s inner EPS liner to remain intact.DOT Certifed, the J-Cruise II’s AIM Shell comes in four (4) shell sizes to ensure a custom fit for heads between the sizes of XS-XXL (6 helmet sizes total).
MULTI-PIECE / MULTI-DENSITY EPS LINER
The J-Cruise II’s Multi-Piece/Multi-Density EPS Liner not only provides enhanced impact absorption by utilizing varying densities of foam in strategic locations, it is designed to allow cooling air to travel unrestricted through tunnels created in the EPS, further enhancing the J-Cruise II’s optimal ventilation characteristics. Precise placement of high-quality multi-density EPS material yields a more compact, lightweight design. The forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield, allowing for the integrity of the helmet’s inner EPS liner to remain intact.
MICRO RATCHET CHINSTRAP
After years of successful use and satisfaction on SHOEI helmet models in Europe and other regions around the world, the all-new J-Cruise II features the SHOEI Micro
Ratchet Chinstrap. With a 100% stainless steel interlocking mechanism, our patented Micro Ratchet Chinstrapsystem is comfortable, easily-adjustable, and offers a quick, smooth, and secure closure. Additionally, the J-Cruise II Micro Ratchet Chinstrap system is equipped with a D-ring for locking the helmet to a motorcycle’s helmet holding mechanism.
3D MAX-DRY INTERIOR SYSTEM
The J-Cruise II is equipped with a fully removable, washable, adjustable, and replaceable 3D Max-Dry Interior System capable of dissipating sweat 2x faster than traditional nylon interiors. Featuring a hybrid of moisture absorbent, quick-drying material in areas that cover the cheeks and brow, along with soft, raised fabric in areas that tend to rub against the rider’s face during helmet removal, the J-Cruise II interior provides the optimal balance between plushness and performance. Multi-layer cheek pads deliver added comfort and helmet stabilization, and a premium synthetic leather material along the lower edge of the cheek pad provides durability and an extra touch of style. Like all current SHOEI helmet models, optional-sized liner components are available for the J-Cruise II to customize the fit, as needed.
PRICING
J-Cruise II Pricing (Solids & Metallics): $549.00*MSRP subject to change / U.S. pricing only.
Current Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) number three Wayne Maxwell remains confident that he will be able to make the grid in 2020 despite the news that Team Suzuki Ecstar won’t race-on next season.
Maxwell, 37, has been a mainstay in ASBK since his debut almost 20 years ago and has no intention to hang up the helmet following the shock news that Suzuki Motorcycles Australia has suspended its factory program.
This year saw Maxwell string together a series of race wins including the overall victories at Winton and Morgan Park aboard the Phil Tainton Racing-prepared GSX-R1000R, however, he fell short of the crown following multiple DNFs at the beginning of the season and a more difficult finale in Sydney earlier this month.
To learn the news that Suzuki would close its official team altogether came as a surprise of sorts to Maxwell, who had anticipated that the manufacturer would scale back to a single-rider effort even though both he and 2019 teammate Josh Waters were contracted through 2020 on two-year agreements. Suzuki also exited the sport at the end of Maxwell’s title-winning campaign in 2013.
“It was a bit of a surprise, but I sort of knew that they’d talked about cutting back to one rider,” Maxwell told CycleOnline. “With the year that I had, I thought I was going to be pretty safe, but with motorcycle racing, nothing’s guaranteed.
“I wasn’t too stressed either way as I would have still sort of got paid my salary from Suzuki if they had of terminated my contract, so it wasn’t a massive concern. Picking up a seat is not the hardest thing, getting paid is. It’s disappointing, you know, because last time I rode for Suzuki the same thing happened – maybe I’m the bad luck there!”
Maxwell has indicated that he intends to team up with one of the few privately-operated teams on the grid with a share of his own backing if it can be secured, but didn’t disclose who he is currently in discussions with. He has declared though that he would not be willing to pay for a factory-supported seat at this stage of his career.
“The plan is to keep going and in the current climate now I’d say the only person on a decent salary is Troy [Herfoss] on a one-year deal,” he continued. “Motorcycle racing is taking a change, so it’s coming to a time where I’m going to have to use all of my knowledge and personality to find sponsors.
“At the moment I’m more confident of being on the grid than not. It’s still early days, this news is only really a week old, so hopefully I’ll be on the grid. It took a while to put a budget together and there are some teams in place that are quite good, but don’t have the funding. We have to find a little bit of funding from me and from the team to hopefully make 2020 count.”
CDR Yamaha Monster Energy guest rider Josh Hill admits the triple crown format at the 2019 Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland wore him down, the technical circuit proving to test his conditioning in just his second race this year.
While Hill raced the same format one week earlier at Wollongong, New Zealand’s Mt Smart Stadium delivered a much more challenging track for the trio of eight-lap outings.
The popular American showed promising form, leading the opening five laps of main event two before relinquishing the top spot to Jason Anderson (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing). He raced to 7-3-7 race results for sixth overall.
“I thought my speed was good tonight, but with the three-race, back-to-back sprint format, it just took it out of me,” said Hill. “With three starts and short races, the intensity is so high that it is really demanding physically. I just need to be fitter to handle it, and you only get that by doing more racing.
“But, I’m still happy with how things are going, and the event was awesome. It’s great to come to New Zealand and the fans have been so friendly and the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team has been great to work with.
“We have one round to go and I would love to get a round win or at the very least on the podium before it’s done. I think we have the tools to do it, I just need to make it happen.”
After missing the first two rounds, Hill sits 11th in the Australian Supercross Championship SX1 standings ahead of the Monster Energy AUS-X Open Melbourne on 30 November.
Michael Rutter (MGM by Bathams Honda RC213V) was declared the winner of the Suncity Group Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix – 53rd Edition after two red flag-interrupted races on the 6.2km Guia Circuit.
2019 Macau Grand Prix
Defending champion Peter Hickman (MGM by Bathams BMW) was second, with South Australia’s David Johnson (Tak Chun by PBM Ducati) third.
The race began with Hickman doing what everyone expected of him: he stormed the opening two laps to build a lead of seven-seconds over Rutter (MGM by Bathams Honda RC213V) with David Johnson (Tak Chun by PBM Ducati), Lee Johnston (Ashcourt Racing BMW) and Davey Todd (MGM by Penz 13 BMW) all in close pursuit.
Hickman appeared to have backed off and settled into his lead as lap three went by but then red flags came out when Rob Hodson (JGH Racing) fell at the Esses and Marek Červený (Wepol Racing BMW), who was close behind, could not avoid the fallen motorcycle. Both riders received only minor injuries and returned to the paddock on the recovery truck.
The organisers declared a re-start, thereby nullifying the three laps which had been run, per the regulations, and re-formed the grid for an 8-lap race.
This time Michael Rutter was the one with the quick getaway and was ahead of Hickman before Turn One, but he couldn’t break away from Hickman in the same way as Hickman had escaped in race one – instead of three-seconds as it had been in lap one, the gap was closer to three-tenths, and Hickman duly passed Rutter under brakes into Lisboa Bend and started stretching the gap at once.
But the red flags came out only a few seconds later as six riders were involved in an incident at Post 15 – Erno Kostamo (MGM by Penz 13), Derek Sheils (Burrows Engineering/RK Racing Suzuki), Didier Grams (G&G Motorsport BMW), Michael Sweeney (Martin Jones Racing BMW), Philip Crowe (Handtrans-Lee-Jackson-AC BMW) and Dan Kruger (MGM by Penz 13 BMW). Three riders were taken to hospital; Kostamo, Sheils and Kruger, all were conscious. Kruger and Sheils were quickly discharged, while Kostamo is in a stable condition after surgery.
There was no opportunity to re-start the race for the second time. After first declaring a no result, and that no podium ceremony would be held as the race was declared null and void, organisers then changed their mind and called the results to be declared as per the race order at the end of the opening lap.
Peter Hickman
Peter Hickman was on course to win the race on the Bathams BMW and had clearly demonstrated that he had the speed to best all-comers, but it was his Honda RC213V-S mounted team-mate Michael Rutter that took the winners cheque and yet another Macau GP victory as he was ahead at the end of the first lap, prior to the final red flag incident on lap two.
Peter Hickman
“The MGM Grand Bathams Racing by FHO Racing and Smiths Racing has enjoyed a successful event finishing P1 & P2 and retaining the Top Team Trophy. After the second red flag situation the organisers decided the race would not be restarted due to failing light and a Sunday rerun could not be shoehorned into an already tight schedule, as such the result was declared at the end of lap one with Michael taking the win and me in second. Three of the six riders were taken to hospital and our thoughts are with them to make speedy recoveries, we were reassured that none of the injuries are life threatening.”
Peter Hickman
David Johnson was hopeful that he would have mustered the pace to try and run down Rutter for second place over a full-distance race but had to settle for third. Johnson raced the event on a BSB spec’ Superbike from PBM, the same as those ridden to a 1-2 in the British Superbike Championship with Scott Redding and Josh Brookes. Johnson’s team-mate for the event in the PBM Ducati squad was John McGuinness.
2019 Macau Grand Prix Results Michael Rutter – Honda RC213V-S Peter Hickman – BMW S 1000 RR +0.298s David Johnson – Ducati V4 R +0.861s
Johnson had qualified three-tenths quicker than team-mate McGuinness but McPint did not make the race start after machine problems on the sighting lap ended his race before it began.
David Johnson
“It’s quite a strange way to get a podium but I felt we thoroughly deserved it as our pace has been really strong all week. Every time I rode the bike, I learnt more and more about it and we found a lot of things in between the qualifying sessions and even after Q2 when we sat down and looked at the data we could see there were a couple of key areas on the circuit where I was losing a lot of time including using the wrong gear in some of the corners.
“The plan was to put it all together on the track on Saturday where we made a couple more changes during morning warm-up. By the time we got to the race I felt that we were in a position to fight for the podium and in the first three laps, I felt really comfortable. Hicky had obviously disappeared but I was just sitting behind Rutter waiting for the second half of the race. Unfortunately, the crashes meant we never got another proper run but I’m over the moon with the third place and really grateful for the team for giving me the opportunity.”
David Johnson
John McGuinness
“What can I say, I’m absolutely gutted that I didn’t get to start today’s race as it John McGuinnesshad been an amazing week up until that point. From the moment I jumped on it, I loved riding the Ducati and I’m really grateful for the PBM team and everyone around me for keeping the faith in me. I felt really comfortable on the bike and we ran some good, competitive times during qualifying so I felt confident we could fight for the podium.
“There was little to choose between Davo and myself but I had a problem on the sighting lap and although the boys did everything they could to try and fix it on the grid, as soon as I pulled away for the warm-up lap, I knew it wasn’t right. Like I say, I’m gutted and it’s not what we deserved but we showed how competitive we could be so I’m sure we’ll be back next year for another go.”
2019 Macau Grand Prix Results (Declared at end of lap one after red flag)
Serco Yamaha’s Aaron Tanti says he has nothing to lose as the SX2 title fight heats up following the Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland’s penultimate round of the Australian Supercross Championship, the former red-plate holder sitting seven points behind leader Josh Osby (Raceline KTM Thor) in third position.
Tanti put on another impressive display in New Zealand, racing to 3-4-2 results in the triple crown to earn third overall at Mt Smart Stadium.
Despite Osby marginally strengthening his lead, Tanti remains very much in the hunt with just the AUS-X Open Melbourne remaining, where he believes he’ll lay it on the line and see what unfolds as a result of his approach.
“It’s always good to get on the podium and we were again able to do that tonight,” Tanti begins. “My pace was pretty good all night and it was just a matter of not getting caught up in the craziness at the start of each race as there were lots of bikes and riders going everywhere.
“I would like to have made up a couple of points tonight, but with just seven points between the top three, the pressure is on the guys in front of me,” Tanti commented.
“I can turn up in Melbourne and just go for it and see where it takes me. I have nothing to protect or lose, so I might as well lay it all on the line and see what comes of it.”
Set to be staged inside Marvel Stadium, the AUS-X Open Melbourne is scheduled for 30 November.
