Final day of MotoGP and Moto2 testing in Jerez

With Edwards and Checa completing their tests on Thursday, four riders remained to work on the premier class machines, while Scott Redding again posted the top time in the Moto2 category in the last day of private testing at Jerez.

The third and final day of the private three day test held at the Jerez circuit concluded under perfect weather conditions, although this final day saw fewer participants as several teams completed their work at the conclusion of the day on Thursday.

Yonny Hernandez and Iván Silva returned to the track, taking turns at the controls of the Kawasaki powered BQR FTR prototype. Silva took the morning slot, finishing his session by signing a best lap of 1'44.2 but not improving on his best time from yesterday, a 1'43 .6. Hernandez rode in the afternoon, to post a best time 1'44.0, four tenths quicker than his time from Thursday.

That left Colin Edwards holding the fastest time of the CRT bikes, who posted a 1’42.6 aboard the Suter-BMW of NGM Forward Racing team on Thursday.

Randy De Puniet continued with his tests on the Aprilia powered Aspar Team CRT, putting in 70 laps today. Also joining the big bikes was Ducati test rider Franco Battaini aboard the GP12. The Italian was the only Ducati rider as Carlos Checa completed his testing on Thurday.

Among the representatives of the Moto2 class, Scott Redding (Marc VDS Racing Team) again paced fastest for the third day running. The Briton recorded a best lap of 1’43.3 today, four tenths off his time of 1’42.9 which put him at the head the timesheets on both Wednesday and Thursday. British rider Gino Rea (Gresini Racing) had the only fall of the day, having a minor crash in the afternoon but suffering no consequences. Toni Elias returned to the track, and like his first day of testing, put in a remarkable number of laps, no less than 90 aboard the Suter of the Aspar Team.

Unofficial times - Day three

MotoGP

Yonny Hernández (BQR-FTR Kawasaki) 1.44.0 (23 laps)
Iván Silva (BQR-FTR Kawasaki) 1.44.2 (37 laps)
Carlos Checa (Ducati Test Team) did not participate
Franco Battaini (Ducati Test Team) not provided
Randy De Puniet (Aspar Team) not provided (70 laps)

Moto2

Scott Redding (Marc VDS Racing Team) 1.43.0 (54 laps)
Bradley Smith (Tech 3) 1.43.1 (57 laps)
Mika Kallio (Marc VDS Racing Team) 1.43.4 (69 laps)
Gino Rea (Gresini Team) 1.43.8 (58 laps)
Xavier Simeon (Tech 3) 1.43.9 (80 laps)
Toni Elías (Aspar Team) 1.44.6 (90 laps
Nico Terol (Aspar Team) 1.44.7 (73 laps)

Reade more >>

Colin Edwards talks CRT bikes

Experienced MotoGP veteran Colin Edwards talks about his first experience aboard the NGM Forward Racing team’s BMW powered Suter CRT bike, his new ride for 2012.

After two days of private testing at the Jerez circuit, the experienced Texan spoke to motogp.com about his first impressions of the CRT machine, one of the new generation of MotoGP bikes that will join the grid in 2012. This was Edwards' first ride on the BMW-Suter after missing the post- Valencia Official Test while recovering from shoulder surgery.

The veteran expected that there would be work to do before next season, though his first impression of the bike was higher than he originally expected. “Overall, it is better than I thought it would be, the potential is there. I think we are at about 65 percent right now,” he said.

The electronics package the team will use is new to MotoGP, and Edwards said the remaining 35 percent of bike development will come from improvements with those electronics. “The chassis is set up, but the main thing is the electronics and getting the whole package to come together. With the electronics, every time we make a little change and make it better, everything just gets a little smoother and easier.”

Speaking further of the overall impression of the new bike, the Texan said: “The bike reminds me a lot of 2003 when I went to Aprilia. It's got a screamer engine, lots of torque, somebody built the chassis, someone put an engine it, and it came a long way through the year. It was one of the first bikes with ride by wire and all the electronics. It reminds me a lot of that. But I know what I need, I know what I am looking for, I know what want, I know how to make the bike go faster, so the main thing now is just don’t lose focus and keep going down the right path.”

The team spent most of the two days on Bridgestones from 2011, though they did get a chance to test a new rear tire, which created challenges but Edwards is sure are fixable. “We got a little more chatter...once we get the electronics fixed I know that will go away, I am sure it will.”

As for the bike’s lap times, of which the unofficial best time on Wednesday was a 1'43.9 and Thursday was a 1’42.6 (as compared to Edwards’ best time of 1’40.188 in the Spanish GP at Jerez in March), Edwards was unconcerned. “I came here and I would have been happy with just yesterday's times, being injured and all, but I did a ‘42.6 today, which is a little better than a second faster. I’m reasonably happy with that.”

The test was also the first time the American worked with his new crew chief for 2012, Kor Veldman. “I've never worked with him before, but he has a lot of knowledge and experience and we get along great. Just spending a couple days with me I can see he knows what he is talking about, and that’s a plus, you know, when you can find someone you can communicate with and get things done. So I'm really happy with him.”

Two days of putting the bike through its paces was enough to learn what the team needs to do next according to the veteran. “We didn't set the world on fire, but like I said we are at 65 percent, we have to work to find the rest of it,” he said.

The team will have two months to complete that work before the next time the bike will hit the pavement at the Official Test at Sepang in 2012.

Reade more >>

Colin Edwards talks CRT bikes

Experienced MotoGP veteran Colin Edwards talks about his first experience aboard the NGM Forward Racing team’s BMW powered Suter CRT bike, his new ride for 2012.

After two days of private testing at the Jerez circuit, the experienced Texan spoke to motogp.com about his first impressions of the CRT machine, one of the new generation of MotoGP bikes that will join the grid in 2012. This was Edwards' first ride on the BMW-Suter after missing the post- Valencia Official Test while recovering from shoulder surgery.

The veteran expected that there would be work to do before next season, though his first impression of the bike was higher than he originally expected. “Overall, it is better than I thought it would be, the potential is there. I think we are at about 65 percent right now,” he said.

The electronics package the team will use is new to MotoGP, and Edwards said the remaining 35 percent of bike development will come from improvements with those electronics. “The chassis is set up, but the main thing is the electronics and getting the whole package to come together. With the electronics, every time we make a little change and make it better, everything just gets a little smoother and easier.”

Speaking further of the overall impression of the new bike, the Texan said: “The bike reminds me a lot of 2003 when I went to Aprilia. It's got a screamer engine, lots of torque, somebody built the chassis, someone put an engine it, and it came a long way through the year. It was one of the first bikes with ride by wire and all the electronics. It reminds me a lot of that. But I know what I need, I know what I am looking for, I know what want, I know how to make the bike go faster, so the main thing now is just don’t lose focus and keep going down the right path.”

The team spent most of the two days on Bridgestones from 2011, though they did get a chance to test a new rear tire, which created challenges but Edwards is sure are fixable. “We got a little more chatter...once we get the electronics fixed I know that will go away, I am sure it will.”

As for the bike’s lap times, of which the unofficial best time on Wednesday was a 1'43.9 and Thursday was a 1’42.6 (as compared to Edwards’ best time of 1’40.188 in the Spanish GP at Jerez in March), Edwards was unconcerned. “I came here and I would have been happy with just yesterday's times, being injured and all, but I did a ‘42.6 today, which is a little better than a second faster. I’m reasonably happy with that.”

The test was also the first time the American worked with his new crew chief for 2012, Kor Veldman. “I've never worked with him before, but he has a lot of knowledge and experience and we get along great. Just spending a couple days with me I can see he knows what he is talking about, and that’s a plus, you know, when you can find someone you can communicate with and get things done. So I'm really happy with him.”

Two days of putting the bike through its paces was enough to learn what the team needs to do next according to the veteran. “We didn't set the world on fire, but like I said we are at 65 percent, we have to work to find the rest of it,” he said.

The team will have two months to complete that work before the next time the bike will hit the pavement at the Official Test at Sepang in 2012.

Reade more >>

Randy de Puniet to MotoGP Aspar Team in 2012

The Aspar Team is expanding their MotoGP effort next season to two bikes, with Randy de Puniet and Aleix Espargaró piloting the Aprilia powered CRT machines.

The Aspar Team has joined the list of teams to compete the 2012 season with CRT (Claiming Rules Team) bikes. In addition, the team will have two riders, Randy de Puniet and Aleix Espargaró.

De Puniet had the opportunity to complete two days of testing with the Aspar Team, and feelings of both sides have been magnificent. On the other hand, Valencia and Italian firm set are linked since 1996, have sealed their way four titles and seven subtitles. So the Aspar Team has decided to rely on Noale house as a supplier of engines for its new adventure CRT.

Jorge "Aspar" Martínez:

"We are convinced that this challenge will be very successful, both with the riders and the engines, which will be supplied by Aprilia. We wanted to work with the brand in this new project because of our good working relationship and for their proven capabilities in smaller categories. Our goal this year is to be the best CRT and prepare to go a step further in 2013."

Randy De Puniet:

"I am delighted to return to the Aspar Team, a team I raced with in 2005 in 250cc. I have very fond memories of that time. Together we will embark on a new challenge, CRT. I realize that this team is very competitive and will fight for the best material, in fact I have been able to train with them and the conclusions have been optimal. CRT is the future of MotoGP and I think there will be a lot of work ahead, but a very rewarding work. The goal for the next season will be to adapt as quickly as possible to the prototype, and gradually catch the front runners."

"Training in Jerez was productive and I was able to get a lot of information about the bike. It’s clear that we are still far from what the final motorcycle will be, but I'm very happy with how everything has happened. The test in Jerez gave me the opportunity to realize the enormous potential of the new concept of CRT,and I am proud to be one of the pioneering riders in this new category."

Aleix Espargaró:

"First of all, I am very excited to be on the Aspar Team, and returning to MotoGP is a big motivation for me. 2010 was quite positive for me and I would have liked to stay another year. I think for my weight and my height I can adapt well to the category and the bike."

"I am convinced that the year will go very well and I'll get great results for the Aspar Team. CRT is a completely new class, and we will initially have a lot of work, but I have chosen the Aspar Team is because I know it is a team that will face the new category very seriously. They are very professional and certainly developed a great bike. I am delighted with this new project."

Reade more >>

Hayes the pace man in MotoGP warm up

Josh Hayes, riding in place of Colin Edwards on the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team, set the fastest time in the morning warm up in preparation for the Gran Premio Gernerali de la Comunitat Valenciana. Aoyama and Stoner followed in second and third.

American rider Josh Hayes starts his first MotoGP race ever from the back of the grid, but he shined in a damp morning warm up session by leading the field with a fast lap of 1’40.469. Hayes opted for slick tires over wets and the decision paid off as he lapped over a second and a half faster than second place pace man Hiroshi Aoyama (San Carlo Honda Gresini).

Pole man Casey Stoner (Repsol Honda) was third in the cold and slippery outing at the Ricardo Tormo circuit, ahead of team mate Andrea Dovizioso, who starts the raced from ninth on the grid.

Fourth place starter Nicky Hayden was fifth, followed by Pramac Racing’s Loris Capirossi, who starts the final GP of his career this afternoon, with Ben Spies (Yamaha Factory Racing) completing the top seven times.

Reade more >>

The Honda family mourns one of its own

The Honda family is mourning the loss of one its rising stars, the charismatic Italian Marco Simoncelli, who lost his life in a racing accident in today's Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang.

Simoncelli was one of the sport's rising stars, a charismatic 24-year-old who rode with his heart. He was as passionate on the track as he was off, and sometimes that got him in trouble. His was an aggressive style that didn't always suit the venue, but he was maturing as a rider. This season he earned his first two MotoGP podiums and his first two MotoGP pole positions. Only a week ago, he finished a career best second in MotoGP race at the Australian Grand Prix, taking the runner-up spot to Casey Stoner (Repsol Honda RC212V) with a brilliant last lap pass of Andrea Dovizioso (Repsol Honda RC212V).

Photos from that day show Simoncelli standing out on the podium, which he also did in life. It wasn't just because he was one of the taller riders in MotoGP, and it wasn't just for the blossoming, bushy hair that paid homage to guitar legend Jimi Hendrix, but it was because of his outsized personality and his passion for winning.

The Honda Motor Company family would like to express its sincere condolences to the family of Marco Simoncelli, his team owner Fausto Gresini, his team, his legion of friends, and his thousands of fans throughout the world. He will be missed.

Shuhei Nakamoto, HRC Executive Vice President, says "I just don't know what to say; words escape me. Marco was a very nice guy and a very talented rider. Sometimes I was a little harsh with him, for example after his first MotoGP podium in Brno when I told him, 'Lucky podium!' and he was so angry, but I wanted to motivate him as I knew he was able to do even more. I was thinking that when he won his first race we would have been able to celebrate together. Now I just want to say thank you to Marco, for what you gave me, and pass my sincere condolences to his family at this very sad time."

Repsol Honda rider Dani Pedrosa says, "In a tragedy like this there is not much to say. I just want to give my condolences to his family and all the people who love him. I've been with his father and all we could do was to hug, nothing else matters. It was a fatal accident and everybody in the paddock remains in shock. Many times we ourselves forget how dangerous this sport can be and when you lose people on the way nothing has any meaning. It's clear that we all do what we like, what we love, but on days like today nothing matters."

Repsol Honda rider Andrea Dovizioso says, "In these circumstances, words don't seem to be appropriate. I think of Marco's family and all the people dear to him, in particular his father and mother. I also have a child and what happened today is the hardest situation you can imagine. I watched the images and I'm shocked. In a race you fight and push hard and disaster is often around the corner. Marco was a strong rider and he always pushed hard. We raced together since we were kids. I saw him always pushing to the maximum, he crashed many times, but without major injuries, he was seemed invincible. What happened today seems impossible."

Repsol Honda rider Casey Stoner says, "I'm so shocked and saddened by the loss of Marco. When things like this happen it reminds you how precious life is, it makes me feel sick inside. All I can say is how sorry I am for Marco's whole family I can't imagine what they are all going through and our thoughts and wishes are with them at this time. I hope they all stay close and pull through this tragedy together."

Reade more >>

Race Direction press conference: Marco Simoncelli

Members of the Race Direction Paul Butler, Claude Danis, Franco Uncini and Javier Alonso were joined by Medical Director Michele Macchiagodena at a press conference to explain the circumstances of Marco Simoncelli’s death at the Sepang circuit on Sunday.

Paul Butler opened the press conference, saying: “The purpose of this press conference is to apprise you of the circumstances that resulted in the tragic death of Marco Simoncelli. You know who we all are, the Race Direction; Claude Danis who is the FIM representative, Javier Alonso the Dorna representative, Franco Uncini the riders’ representative, and I’m Paul Butler the IRTA representative and Race Director. Michele Macchiagodena is our Medical Director and he will explain to you the circumstances that resulted in this death.”

Michele Macchiagodena said: “I’m very sad to be here to report about the death of Marco Simoncelli, a friend. Because of the crash he had during the race, in which he was hit by other riders, he suffered a very serious trauma to the head, to the neck and the chest. When our medical staff got to him he was unconscious. In the ambulance because there was a cardiac arrest they started CPR (cardiac pulmonary resuscitation). Immediately in the Medical Centre, with the help also of the Doctor of our staff at the Clinica Mobile and local Doctors, he was intubated and it was possible to take off some blood from the thorax. The CPR was continued for 45 minutes because we tried to help him for as long as we thought it was possible. Unfortunately it was not possible to help him and at 16:56 (local time) we had to declare he was dead.”

Paul Butler responded to a question about Marco Simoncelli’s helmet coming off in the crash by saying: “I think if I may reply, that will be for another occasion. Quite clearly the consequences and circumstances surrounding the accident will be thoroughly investigated.”

Answering a question about the condition of Colin Edwards, who was involved in the incident, Michele Macchiagodena said: “He had a dislocation of the shoulder and with anaesthesia the shoulder now is in the correct position. He is fine.”

Paul Butler concluded the press conference by adding: “Our sympathies go to his family and we want to show every respect possible to Marco.”

Reade more >>

Marco Simoncelli succumbs to injuries at Sepang

On Sunday 23rd October, during the MotoGP race at the Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit, San Carlo Honda Gresini’s Italian rider Marco Simoncelli suffered a serious accident wherein he sustained critical injuries.

The race was stopped immediately with the red flag and Simoncelli was transported by ambulance to the circuit medical centre where the medical staff worked to resuscitate him.

Despite their efforts, Marco sadly succumbed to his injuries at 4:56pm local time.

Everyone involved in MotoGP extends its deepest condolences to Marco’s family, friends and team at this tragic loss.

Reade more >>

fellow motogp riders pay tribute to marco simoncelli

Through various press releases, interviews and media outlets, fellow and former MotoGP riders and teams expressed their shock and sorrow at the tragic death of the charismatic Italian rider at the Malaysian GP on Sunday. Here are some of their statements.

Factory Yamaha’s Jorge Lorenzo, who was not present at the Malaysian GP following a surgery on his finger, published via Twitter: "I don’t know what to say on a day like today ... Only that you will be missed - rest in peace Marco."

Lorenzo’s team mate, Ben Spies, shared: "Super Sic rest easy..."

Nicky Hayden posted: "Sometimes life just don't make sense... RIP #58 you were a star on & off track we all going to miss you."

Cal Crutchlow’s post: "RIP Marco Simoncelli! A great rider and all round nice guy. My thoughts are with all his family & friends. I will never forget today... #58"

Former full time and two time wild card entry this year, John Hopkins, said: "God Speed #58 Simoncelli... Your fighting spirit will live on forever!"

Two time replacement rider this year, Damian Cudlin, shared via Titter: “Terrible news. Marco’s gone. Sad day for motor racing and all the llives he touched along the way. Won’t forget you, mate.”

Kenny Roberts and his family sent the following sentiment: "The entire Roberts Family is deeply sadden by the news about Marco. We wish to send our condolences to his family, friends, fans and MotoGP. We will never forget him!"

Jeff Belskus, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer, shared: "We are deeply saddened at the passing of Marco Simoncelli. He was one of the most charismatic figures in the World Championship and had a fantastic future ahead of him in MotoGP.”

“Marco was one of the most popular riders at the MotoGP event at Indianapolis, as his talent on the motorcycle and his ability to connect with fans both were very special. We extend our sincere sympathies to his family, team and fans."

Fellow MotoGP rider Héctor Barberá said: "I am in shock. We are bike riders and we are aware that there are risks involved with what we do, but we also know that every day our safety is looked after more and more by the organisers. These past few years have seen a huge amount of work done to try and make our job even safer. Despite this, there are moments in which misfortune can lead to tragedy -and we saw this happen today with Marco Simoncelli.”

“Today is another tough day for motorcycle racing. We have lost a great companion, and I will remember Marco as a great rival with whom had some fantastic battles in the past."

Team owner Jorge 'Aspar' Martínez, shared: "What has happened today is immensely sad. It should be said that every Friday before a Grand Prix, the Safety Commission convenes at 5pm with all the MotoGP riders to evaluate safety issues at all Grand Prix circuits. Marco lost the front end and attempted to save the crash, but unfortunately the inertia of the bike took him onto the inside of the corner just when Edwards and Valentino were passing. There was nothing that they could do to avoid him. Today is a tremendously sad day for the entire paddock and for those who love motorcycle racing."

Toni Elías tearfully stated in an interview: “There is nothing I can say…Marco was a unique person – but above all, he was a good guy.”

Karel Abraham and his team released a statement: "The Cardion AB Motoracing team extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Marco Simoncelli, who succumbed to injuries he received in the race at the Sepang International Circuit."

Taka Horio, General Manager of Bridgestone Motorsport Department, released the statement: “Today we are left devastated. Our thoughts and prayers are with Marco’s family at this terrible, terrible time, and with his team. Words can do no justice to the emotion we are all feeling. The MotoGP family has lost one of its bright stars, a genuine character whose larger-than-life persona, charisma and unstoppable spirit were infectious, and we’ve all lost a great friend."

"We worked closely with Marco for his first two years in MotoGP and it was clear that he was a true racer, something he proved again and again this season. Determined to the end, and a great showman. His ascent through the field in just two seasons has been fantastic to watch, testament to his raw talent, ability and dedication to the sport he so loved."

"We remember fondly the tenacity and spirit with which he raced, and he will be sorely, sorely missed.”

Long time friend Valentino Rossi refrained from earlier media interviews, to later publish via his Twitter account: "Sic for me was like a youngest brother. So strong on track and so sweet in the normal life. I will miss him a lot."

Reade more >>

Injured Capirossi a doubt for Japan

The Pramac Racing rider dislocated his right shoulder in a crash during the Gran Premio de Aragón on Sunday. His Pramac Racing team-mate Randy de Puniet finished 12th.

A disappointing end to the Gran Premio de Aragón with a crash and DNF for Loris Capirossi on Sunday was compounded by the news that the Italian rider dislocated his right shoulder in the incident.

Attempting to overtake Toni Elías at Turn 14 on lap 15 the Pramac Racing rider caught the back of the Spaniard’s LCR Honda bike and took a heavy fall, also sustaining a concussion and contusion on his elbow.

“There’s little to say. I crashed on my ‘famous’ right shoulder and suffered another dislocation as a result,” said Capirossi, who injured the same shoulder in a crash at Assen earlier in the season. “It hurts a lot, even with the pain-killer I received. After the Misano race, I wanted to try to at least finish the race, but instead things went like they did. At this point, my presence in Japan is in serious doubt, but I still hope to recover in time.”

On the other side of the Pramac Racing box Randy de Puniet was left dissatisfied with 12th place after what had been a promising weekend.

“Once again I have to say that I’m disappointed after a race. I could have been in the top five or six positions, but instead I finished the race in 12th place,” said De Puniet, who was forced to run off track and avoid Karel Abraham who crashed in the first turn on the opening lap.

“When Abraham crashed, I couldn’t do anything but go off, and after that I was able to make up a lot of seconds and some positions. I had almost caught the group in front and was pushing really hard when I made a mistake and lost everything I had gained. We’re not very fortunate, that’s for

Reade more >>