Riders Of Vision

General => Off Topic => Topic started by: Walt_M. on May 11, 2016, 04:54:43 AM

Title: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 11, 2016, 04:54:43 AM
Just wondering if there are any motogp fans around. I have been following the series for a long time and there has been some interesting racing.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: lexx790 on May 11, 2016, 03:57:41 PM
I used to up till a couple of years ago but the BBC gave up its coverage and now its on pay monthly channel.
The highlights are on a couple of days later but the program is not the same.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 11, 2016, 04:36:53 PM
I just re-read my post and hasten to add, last season was very interesting with Rossi leading the championship until he got penalized and had to start from last on the grid in the last race of the season. He lost what would have been his tenth championship to the teammate he doesn't like. This year it has been mostly a tire war, the racers vs Michelin. I can't watch the races as I don't get the BEiN Sports where it is now. It is 99% soccer or futbol and none of us in the US are interested enough to have anyone carry the channel. But I digress, Lorenzo is once again leading the championship with Ross second with Marquez fighting his Honda into third. All three have crashed.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on May 12, 2016, 01:46:25 AM
It's a soap opera what with all the tire development, new compulsory electronics, contracts elapsing, and Honda trying to get the power into the track.  I think they have dug a hole for themselves with so much power.  Nobody needs to go over 200 MPH (330KPH)!  But so what?  Big money makes the show go on.  I think it's great that Suzuki is nearly competitive again, and Ducati IS competitive.  Every factory is having development problems with their bikes and also trying to get or keep the best riders.  It's a real show, I tell ya.

I keep up with it by checking with the websites Asphalt and Rubber, and Motomatters.  Crash.net has MotoGP stuff too plus F1, WSBK, BSB, etc., but they barge in with advertisements so I don't spend much time on that site.  The MoteGP website can be good if you have the bandwidth to watch a bunch of videos.  My internet connection is a bit 'limited', so I tend to read about the races and qualifying sessions.  David Emmitt (Motomatters) is a good journalist, and Jensen Beeler of Aspahalt and rubber does a credible job and usually has good photos of the day.

The next MotoGP race will be at Mugello Italy 20 (practice),21,(qualifying) 22 May (race day).  Maybe some news of Dani Pedrosa signing a contract, but with which team?  If he stays with Repsol Honda then Vinales may go to Yamaha to fill the vacant seat left by Lorenzo as Lorenzo will go to Ducati, but Yamaha hasn't offered as much to Vinales as Suzuki has, so maybe he stays where he is.   It's musical chairs soap opera for sure.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 12, 2016, 04:28:59 AM
It would be good if they could stabilize the rules. The spec ECU is not really a good thing and since it is not helping Honda it will probably be put aside when it isn't so obvious. I am not a Honda fan as you might guess but it is enjoyable to watch them flounder. They have so much money they can do pretty much anything they want but they are so ego driven that they can't ever admit they were wrong. For reasons only fathomable to Honda they seem to have reversed their crank rotation this year and with engine development frozen for the season they may well be screwed.
I hope Pedrosa stays with them and Vinales goes to Yamaha. Iannone can go to Suzuki, the reduction in power may help keep him on 2 wheels. I suspect Ducati will win some races with Lorenzo but they have to get the bike better balanced first.  It should be entertaining if Michelin can just get the tires more predictable
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on May 12, 2016, 01:26:21 PM
And the show goes on . . . . . . .

I think it's not just Honda that can't admit wrong decisions, it's pretty much human nature bur especially in Japanese culture.  Look at the Fukushima nuclear disaster.  Saving face, you know.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 13, 2016, 05:03:16 AM
I guess I am showing my age but I remember when Honda got back into gp racing in the 70s. They didn't want to build a 500 2-stroke but were limited to 4 cylinders, Honda's solution, the oval piston, 8 valve, 8 con rod V-4. The things couldn't get out of their own way. Of course they followed that with the brilliant 500 2-stroke triple. Which was followed by the upside down V-4, another embarrassment.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Rikugun on May 13, 2016, 11:03:30 AM
 :)  Leave it to Honda to over-engineer stuff. Well, at least they spend a lot of money doing it.

Actually, I rather like Honda as a company and admire their diverse and usually reliable, high quality products. I suppose even their spectacular failures teach them things.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 22, 2016, 11:47:10 AM
Well, I just missed the most exciting race of the season. I don't get the bein network it is now on so I just got to watch the jerky, blurry video on a post it note sized window on my computer. There were at least three passes for the lead on the last lap. The announcers gave the win to Marquez every time he passed but Lorenzo kept coming back and got him at the line. Unfortunately Rossi lost an engine early.  Iannone put his Ducati in third and did not crash his teammate.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on May 23, 2016, 01:52:05 AM
Like Nicky Hayden said, "we line up on Sundays, anything can happen".  The 'fortunes' can change in a very short time, and there is a long season yet to go.  It won't be over until the last race in early November.

I am a Honda fan, and a Yamaha fan, and a Ducati fan, etc.  All the companies engaged in the competition at such a high level are trying their best within the 'rules' they have agreed to, and they all want to win, so they spend enormous sums of money and energy to participate in hopes of gaining some boost to their retail sales.  I have no idea if this stuff actually helps make enough financial gain to pay for the effort, but that is the 'excuse' that Honda uses, and probably Yamaha and Ducati too.  No matter the financial return, it is a very entertaining process to behold.

My internet connection is too limited to allow much video use, so I read about the races and employ the 'theater of the mind' so to speak.  Some of the moto journalists are pretty good with their descriptions, which makes it easier to imagine the action.  There was a website last year that I saw a transcription of the race announcers, and that was a great way to follow the race, as it was all the commentary they reported on air.  It may have had a link from the MotoGP site or Motomatters.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 25, 2016, 06:22:16 AM
Well, the more the better as far as manufacturers go. Suzuki and Aprillia are in and KTM is coming next year. The problem seems to be a shortage of riders capable of running at the front. There will be a rider shake up next year with Lorenzo going to Ducati and Vinales moving to Yamaha. Ianonne will be going to Suzuki from Ducati and Bradley Smith is moving to KTM.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 05, 2016, 03:26:26 PM
Another interesting race but a little disappointed that crazy Joe Ianonne took Lorenzo out of fourth.  Rossi and Marquez had  a good battle with Rossi taking the win but Marquez took the points lead.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 05, 2016, 10:11:38 PM
Under a subdued atmosphere as a result of Luis Salom having a 'freak' crash and losing his life during Moto2 practice,  . . . and at the Isle of Man TT two other participants lost their lives in pursuit of 'glory' and a faster lap.  The atmosphere led to Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi to actually come round and shake hands on the parc ferme at the conclusion of the race, a well received gesture that the animosity between them evaporating, and hopefully returning to 'normal'.

Andrea Ianone again took out a competitor, this time Jorge Lorenzo.  There just seems to be something about that guy, though it may not be all his fault.  Lorenzo wasn't anywhere near the front when this happened, so there may be more to the story yet to be explained. :police:
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 06, 2016, 06:13:07 AM
Don't really know why Lorenzo was going so slow, maybe the little metronome in his head was off. I was wrong before and he was actually fifth when the human torpedo got him. Loved the Rossi-Marquez battle though. Marquez rode the wheels off the Honda to pass Rossi and Rossi just cool and collected passed him back and gapped him!
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 06, 2016, 03:36:29 PM
Maybe it's my cynical mind, but Lorenzo has a contract with Yamaha and gets paid a lot of money no matter the outcome of a race, though probably gets incentives for better results.  It's going to be interesting to see how he does on the Ducati next year.  It may not be as great as he thinks it is, but then again, maybe it is.  We'll see.

Lorenzo's tires were reported as 'shot', so it may have been he selected the wrong compound for easy grip, and not so good for a hot dry track.  Just another aspect to juggle in the 'set up' before the race begins.

Recent reports show that Honda again has acceleration over Yamaha, finally.  Their engineers and motor builders in Japan must have been really burning the midnight oil to get back on top after losing the championship to Yamaha and Lorenzo.  Quite a come down after Marquez won two years in a row and was juat about unbeatable.  But that was then.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 08, 2016, 04:21:27 AM
Don't know who said Honda now has acceleration over Yamaha but the last two races didn't look like it. Marquez got passed by Lorenzo at the finish line at Mugello and Rossi just repassed him and rode away the last two laps in Spain. As for engine development, each manufacturer gets seven engines for each rider for the season. The engines are sealed with no development permitted during the season. At least that is true for this year.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: admin on June 08, 2016, 08:41:48 AM
tuning in late but, yes, MotoGP and MotoAmerica fan I try and record all the races on Bein
but I don't always have time to watch them all.
being a skinny Italian kid I have to give it up for Rossi, what a phenomenal rider and career.

as far as having bein on comcast goes, I looked at my cable bill a while back and was ready
to dump them but a friend of mine told me that if you call them and ask they might give you
a loyal customer deal, I did and got my bill dropped to 75 a mo for 2 years with a contract.
I was paying 130 or so.  comcast still sucks but only slightly less so. lol
In some ways you're probably better catching what you can on the site as  I find some of the announcers
to be a bit over the top.

on the lorenzo Ducati move, it will be interesting to say the least, I hope he does well.
I appreciate the commitment Ducati has to their racing team.

so do you think he will be able to outgun Yamaha?




Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 09, 2016, 02:51:47 AM
The Honda acceleration aspect was reported by David Emmit of MotoMatters, a well regarded moto-journalist.  Specific examples of acceleration late in a race can be very misleading as tires lose their grip and tread.  Lorenzo's tires are blamed for his lack of pace before he was taken out by Ianone on the Ducati, and Rossi is well known for managing his tires during a race.  So I am looking for the Repsol-Honda team to have a better showing in the future. 

It's a moving target to be sure, as all the teams are trying to improve.  With the sealed motors about all they can really do is try to understand the required electronics that everyone has to use.

I worked several years in a Honda dealership that had a subscription to the British paper, Motor Cycle News (MCN) and loved reading about Agostini, Hailwood, Phil Read, and Barry Sheen, and then came the Americans and the Transatlantic Races.    It was certainly hot stuff for the times, and all the displacement classes from 50cc to 500cc made it more interesting to me, but now it has been "simplified" to 3 classes ordered by rider age and ability.  I think the 1000cc displacement is too much, too fast, too hard on tires, very dangerous, and VERY expensive.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 09, 2016, 06:04:42 AM
Yes, racing is expensive and the more rules that are to put in to make it less so only make it more so. The six engine rule(last year) only made the engines more expensive. I was reading Kevin Cameron in Cycle World and he reported it takes Yamaha 14 days to build a crankshaft.
As for electronics, Yamaha is blaming the spec ECU for their engine failures at Mugello. They said the rev limiter was not precise enough and allowed the engines to overrev. Of course the spec ECU was put in to save money and it just costs more time and money to make it work. Honda's improved performance is probably due to their coming to better grips with the ECU but they still have handling issues and more power will not make that better. Suzuki will probably be next on that list. Their bikes are being described as 'sweet handling' which is PC for slow.
I would not be at all surprised if Lorenzo comes back and wins the next 4 in a row like he did last year. Of course I am pulling for Rossi for the championship. It is a shame the last season ended the way it did.
I don't know how Lorenzo will do at Ducati. The bikes are fast enough and they finally have their chassis working. It will be a matter of achieving consistency in more conditions. I wish them well, more competition means more exciting racing and we all want that.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 10, 2016, 12:57:23 AM
I have been hoping Dani Pedrosa would step up his pace and begin regular assaults on the championship but it seems not to be in his nature.  Still, it COULD happen.  In the mean time I will root for Marquez and Crutchlow on the Hondas, and hope no one gets hurt in all this. 

The Honda and Yamaha GP bikes seem reasonably matched this season, though it's a bit difficult to really know from the perspective of my computer chair.  When Lorenzo arrives at Ducati we will see if the problem is the bike or the riders.  Rossi found it was the bike when he went there, but that was a different time, and the Ducati now seems to have more speed than anything else on the track. 

It's a cruel obsession.  It will take all the money and time you can throw at it and it will demand more.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on July 19, 2016, 05:41:53 PM
Well, after 2 wet/dry races in a row, my interest in this year's series has seriously waned. I don't know if Marquez is that good, lucky or a good guesser but he now has a commanding points lead and he could have ridden the last 2 on a ruckus with the same result. Glad I didn't waste money on the BeIN channel.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on July 20, 2016, 01:14:04 AM
Maybe we'll find out if Marquez is as talented as it seems, or lucky, but maybe the fortunes of other riders are just in a dump for now.  Poor Jorge Lorenzo is really taking a beating compared to when things go his way, and Rossi too.  It seems that all the factories are having issues making their bikes competitive (manageable, fast, reliable, etc. all at the same time). 

If you want the unexpected to happen just keep watching, and you should have been watching the last couple races.  Rookie Jack Miller won a wet race, and placed well in the last race (also wet-ish), so I think Honda is less anxious over their decision to support him now that he is actually showing progress and results. 

I think the teams are all finally coming to grips with the specified electronics, though there is still some progress to be made.  By the end of the season in early November they should be pretty well sorted out and better ready for the next season.  Then KTM will join the fracas, and they are reputed to have upwards of 270HP already (probably like everyone else).  I think their problem will be to keep tires on the bikes and get the power to the track.  The current electronic package isn't really doing the job in regard to traction control, as it seems everyone is complaining of wheel spin. 

It's mid season break now, so the next race won't happen until the middle of August.  Maybe some sorting out will happen before they all resume the racing and some clear advantage for some team will become apparent.  Or maybe they all will continue to struggle in fits and starts.  Clearly Lorenzo needs dry tracks to be competitive, but maybe he is just saving himself for the next season and his factory Ducati ride.

Cal Crutchlow finishing 2nd is a major boost for his reputation.  This is good for Honda, but if he had held his tongue he might still have been a factory Ducati rider and significantly farther ahead in the championship points. 

What a show!
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 14, 2016, 02:45:04 AM
Race this Sunday in Austria, and the Ducati mob looks to have some advantage, but one never knows what will happen when the green flag drops (or rather when the red lights go out).

With the time zone difference (I'm in California) I can check into MotoMatters or CRASH.net Sunday morning to read what happened and who won the race.  Asphalt and Rubber will have reports a bit later but usually come with more and better photos.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 14, 2016, 05:22:42 AM
The Ducatis were faster by a lot in testing but the Yamahas have caught up with Rossi qualifying second and Lorenzo fourth. Iannone is on pole. The race starts at eight am eastern which would be five your time. It should be a good race but I won't get to see it.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 14, 2016, 02:48:11 PM
Apparently MotoGP drew a significantly larger crowd of spectators to the Austrian track than did F1.  Spectators = $
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 14, 2016, 04:51:33 PM
I haven't followed F1 since it became a Mercedes cakewalk, not that I have anything against Mercedes. The bikes are so much more interesting. You didn't mention results so I won't play spoiler.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 15, 2016, 02:35:23 AM
Anyone can read about it at MotoMatters or Asphalt and Rubber.  Factory Ducati first (Ianone) and second (Dovizioso), then Lorenzo (factory Yamaha) third, Rossi fourth, and Marquez, Vinales, Pedrosa, . . . . . .
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 22, 2016, 11:27:00 AM
Now there have been 3 wet races. If this is going to be the norm, I suggest they install sprinklers at all tracks.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 24, 2016, 02:22:16 AM
Well they don't need to do that for all the tracks, as they will be racing in the UK at Silverstone very soon.  Doesn't it always rain there?
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on August 24, 2016, 02:36:59 AM
I went to silverstone to watch the GP it didn't rain,,, but at one point it was that close to it..

Iain
NZ
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on November 16, 2016, 01:22:10 AM
The last race of the season has been run (Valencia, Spain) and now the teams are busy testing for next year.  Some riders moving to other teams, and KTM also entering MotoGP. 

It seems that Michelin has finally got a good grip on the tires as new lap records have recently been set.  It has been a difficult season for Michelin, what with grip issues, tires "exploding", etc.  Things seem to be sorting out and settling into a 'comfortable' zone as the riders learn how to use the tires and electronics, and the factories squeeze just a bit more out of their machines.  Next season is beginning to look pretty good for spectators.  YAY!  Racing begins March 26.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on February 17, 2017, 12:59:14 AM
So far it looks like only a few riders are capable of winning a race, but the statistics can hide other realities, and then there is the variable weather.  Young upstart rookie (Vinales) on a factory Yamaha heads the time sheets but has much to learn, while Marquez is 'right there' and has more experience and 3 world titles, then Rossi with even more experience and cunning is a few steps behind.

Honda, Yamaha, Ducati, Suzuki, Aprillia, and now KTM field factory teams, and the Aprillia is showing very well so far.  It's anybody's race, with a few favorites of course.  First race is March 26 in Qatar.  18 races this season.

Any guesses as to the outcome this season?
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on February 17, 2017, 03:45:30 AM
I am a Yamaha fan through and through but it would be hard to bet against Marquez. He won last year even after Honda gave him another screwed up motorcycle. I will still be cheering for Rossi and Vinales. Ianone has looked good on the Suzuki, maybe it was the Ducati that made him the 'human torpedo'.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on February 18, 2017, 12:59:25 AM
Well, the season is certainly shaping up well for the spectators with so many possible winners.  Obviously some machines are superior to others but the riders are the biggest factor.  There are some 'hungry' riders for sure, which will make this an interesting process.  Valentino Rossi is trying for his 10th championship at the age of 37, while Marc Marquez at 23 owns 3 of the last 4 season championships.  Young Maverick Vinales (rookie) is riding the factory Yamaha team with Rossi, and so far Vinales is the fastest in practice and test sessions, but not by much.  If the riders remain healthy this season should be interesting.

I have usually not sided with a brand but rooted for the 'best' rider.  That aside, I used to work in a Honda dealership, and I had 3 different Yamaha racing bikes.  That, and I used to read the British MCN paper to follow the international racing scene.  I had several 'heroes' that I admired (Mike Hailwood (Honda), Phil Read (Yamaha), Giacomo Agostini (MV Agusta), Angel Nieto (Derbi), Cal Rayborn (Harley-Davidson), etc.) but now I root for the Repsol Honda team (Marquez and Pedrosa) and Cal Crutchlow.  I think if Pedrosa were retired that Crutchlow would end up on the Honda factory team.

I watch with interest the Ducati team with Jorge Lorenzo and Andrea Dovizioso.  Lorenzo has seemed a bit 'sensitive' and moody over the past few seasons, so I wonder how he will adapt to the Ducati.  It is so much different than the Yamaha he is used to.

Let us hope no one gets hurt and the weather is good for all the races.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on March 06, 2017, 02:25:41 AM
The new season begins March 26, in Qatar with 6 factory teams (Honda, Yamaha, Ducati, Suzuki, KTM, and Aprillia) and several satellite teams filling the grid.  It should be an interesting season as the 'new' teams are nearly up to a competitive level, and everyone is 'getting used to' the Michelin tires.  It seems amazing to me that nearly everyone is complaining of wheel-spin and lack of horsepower.  That seems like an oxymoron, but they are treating it in a serious manner.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on March 06, 2017, 02:50:10 PM
Im looking forward to this year's racing i think it may be good for ducati as they seem to have the legs down the back straight..


Iain
NZ
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on March 08, 2017, 01:48:56 AM
" . . may be good for Ducati as they seem to have the legs down the back straight."  Yeah, but can they win regularly?  For certain the season is shaping up for what appears to be more competitive than the previous seasons.  As the old cowboys used to say,"it's the Indian,not the arrow".  But it really helps to have a good arrow too.  Or in this case "it's the alien, not the rocket ship". But it helps to have a faster rocket ship.

Even the 'slow' riders in MotoGP are terrifyingly fast compared to what we used to do in the 60s and 70s, and back then it was terrifyingly fast to me.  I can only imagine what it must be like to work that hard at such speed, and only a fraction of a second from the brink of disaster.  I recall Barry Sheen made a comment about going faster, he called it "piling on the agony".  The bikes they had then were much lighter and "twitchy" compared to the heavier and much more powerful rigs being run now.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on March 08, 2017, 05:49:15 AM
I believe it will still be tire management that decides the title. Yamaha seems to have decided their previous emphasis on corner speed is harder on tires than the Marquez/Honda emphasis on entry and exit. We will see how they do in adapting their chassis for the change. So far Vinales has been fastest in testing but Marquez is still best at race distance. Only a couple of weeks until the opener. I may even subscribe to the BEin channel so I can watch this year.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on March 21, 2017, 01:09:22 AM
First race of the 2017 season is this coming Sunday.  Practice Thursday and Friday, qualifying Saturday, and Race Sunday.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on March 26, 2017, 07:03:07 PM
Well, Qatar 2017 is in the books. I know the results but will hold off until tomorrow. The word is that it was a great race. Rain threat, in the desert?
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on March 27, 2017, 01:54:31 AM
just watched it...Great race

Iain
NZ
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on March 31, 2017, 10:31:04 PM
This is not motorGP but a great race,,, its pre 82s i think????


https://youtu.be/Oza3a23ZItE

Iain
Nz

Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Rikugun on April 01, 2017, 07:31:12 AM
70HP 350 two strokes - just doesn't seem like it was that long ago.....man I feel old.

Looks like tire technology has developed to the point where moving body weight inside and extending the knee is being explored.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on April 07, 2017, 12:24:21 AM
Racing in Argentina this coming Sunday.  A fast track set far from a city or major airport,   Very likely to be entertaining, and the race is likely to be also.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on April 07, 2017, 04:08:18 PM
Qualifying is tomorrow. I will probably be watching that too.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on April 08, 2017, 01:58:36 AM
My internet connection doesn't let me watch the races but I get to read about them after they have happened.  Fortunately there are a couple decent motojournalists that regularly report on the 'drama' and post some pics.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on April 08, 2017, 04:33:50 AM
After missing last season I grudgingly added the BEin channel to my cable package so I can watch. Got a bit of a bonus in that it includes superbike. The races were pretty good last week although the camera work is only so-so.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on April 09, 2017, 02:03:40 AM
It will be interesting to see how well the french rider does, who I can't remember his name at the moment but we will call him Mr Frog. He led the first race for the first six or seven laps, and was actually pulling away from the lead bunch. Definitely a potential podium place getter in the future.

Iain
NZ
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on April 09, 2017, 04:34:53 AM
I think it was Zarco. I didn't see how he qualified yesterday. The qualifying was in the rain and the race is expected to be dry. Marquez is on pole and a very surprising Karel Abraham was second on a two year old Ducati. The races start around noon eastern time for Moto 3.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on April 09, 2017, 05:34:21 PM
Well, if I am happy you must know the result. It will be good to see the next race at COTA where Marquez has never lost,  two weeks.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on April 10, 2017, 02:08:38 AM
Race development is a process of strengthening the weakest link in your system.  It used to be they just needed more power, then they needed better suspension, then better tyres, and on and on.  If you strengthen one aspect it stresses another that then needs fixing.  Sort of a never ending exercise to improve and balance the system. 

It seems most of the MotoGP bikes have more power than the tyres can handle because they spin on corner exit, and unless they are very carefully managed they lose their grip before the end of the race.  If Tyres with better traction and longer wearing tread compounds are developed you can bet the horse power will be increased even more.  And since we are dealing with physical mechanics I think the Mohr's Law concept is not applicable like it is with electronics.  Even so, it is truly amazing the stuff that has been developed for this sport over the years.  The venerable Norton Manx had about 50 horse power, the current MotoGP bikes somewhere north of 250HP.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on April 22, 2017, 02:32:37 AM
Qualifying happens Saturday, to see who gets which place on the starting grid on Sunday.  Looks like Marquez will get pole position unless someone else significantly steps up the pace.  The weather is supposed to be dry, so tires will be punished.  3 different front and 3 rear tires to choose from, and Michelin is continuously developing combinations of rubber compounds and carcass configurations.

I wonder if Lorenzo is really regretting his move to Ducati, and watching the upstart Vinales in his old place on the Yamaha team, and can't keep up with him.  I'm sure he is well paid but his chances of winning the world championship are just about nonexistent, but Vinales on the Yamaha is leading the championship points so far.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on April 24, 2017, 12:40:34 AM
Sorry, Walt,  but Marquez on the Honda won this time.  Valentino Rossi is now in the lead for championship points, after Vinales crashed out. 

There may be much to look forward to as Jorge Lorenzo is getting used to the Ducati.  But will he ever win with it?
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on April 24, 2017, 08:13:12 AM
Not too surprised Marquez won again, he owns that track. I was disappointed when Vinales crashed out but Rossi has the point lead.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on April 26, 2017, 01:51:31 AM
I admire Valentino for his deep experience and his skill, remaining competitive for so many years.  He is an interesting person and will be in contention for the championship this year as long as he can consistently manage to get on the podium, though he will need to actually win some races to remain in the lead.  This is so far his best possibility to regain the championship, as he ages it becomes more difficult.  Kind of 'now or never'.  While the 'hot shots' battle it out and risk crashing Valentino will be waiting and watching for opportunities to score. One must finish the race in order to win, and he is good at finishing, and shows surprising speed on Sundays(race day).  His qualifying runs are still a bit lagging but they are only for grid placement.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 08, 2017, 04:40:05 AM
Sunday was not a good day for Factory Yamaha. Hard to believe they could get their setup so wrong. Zarco's fourth was the only bright spot. It was hard to watch Rossi struggle in tenth. Lorenzo finally seems to be getting a handle on the Ducati but the Hondas ruled at Jerez.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on May 08, 2017, 04:52:29 AM
It was good to see lorenzo back on form,,,

Iain
NZ
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on May 09, 2017, 12:17:38 AM
With four races done out of eighteen for the season, it looks like several contenders have a good chance to win the championship this year.  However, as time passes and races are run the field of possible winners will narrow considerably.

I'm wondering what will change for Ducati and Honda, as they are the most physically difficult bikes to ride, and yet Honda is having very good results.  One would think that chassis issues would have been worked out long ago, like Yamaha and Suzuki have done.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on May 17, 2017, 01:28:33 AM
Race at LeMans this coming Sunday.  You never know what will happen.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 18, 2017, 04:58:57 PM
It has been interesting so far. They tested the Monday after Jerez and Vanales was fastest. Hope I don't forget qualifying this weekend
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 20, 2017, 04:33:06 PM
Yamaha front row for tomorrow in France! Could be an interesting race, and it could rain. Zarco had an excellent ride in Q1. He rode 10 laps on the same tire and finished second fastest with his last lap his fastest. Very impressive.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on May 21, 2017, 12:16:39 AM
Yes, it looks like it is Yamaha's race to lose, but there are some that would very well upset the Yamaha apple cart if the opportunity arises.  Then there is the weather, and if it rains the possibility of other than Yamaha winning could be significant. In short, we never know what will happen, and that's why they line up on Sundays.  I'll read about it in the morning to find out how it all goes down.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on May 21, 2017, 02:40:28 PM
It was a good race, would have been better without two of the crashes. Pedrosa had a great ride from 13th on the grid and Zarco did not disappoint.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 04, 2017, 06:17:01 PM
Great race today at Mugello. Definitely not a runaway and Italian riders won all three classes. Ducati won their home race for the first time since 2009. Lots of passing and few crashes.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 10, 2017, 02:26:03 PM
I just watched qualifying at Valencia. Hot day and hot track. Honda and Ducati front row. If it stays hot, look for a win from Pedrosa. Marquez fell four times but is still on the second row.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 11, 2017, 01:34:58 AM
Cheers for Dani Pedrosa!   :) 
It looks like Mavrick Vinales is having difficulty, but when they line up on Sunday you never know what will happen.  I think everyone is struggling with how to make their tires last until the checkered flag.  The track is both "greasy" and abrasive, add the heat and you have a severe test for the tyres.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 11, 2017, 02:39:31 PM
I guess the factory Yamahas just can't get Spanish pavement figured out. Both Tech III riders beat them and both factory Hondas. Dovi won again and is a strong second in the championship.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 11, 2017, 03:56:36 PM
This was round 7 of 18, so there is much yet to happen before the championship is decided.  Ducati must be very pleased with Mr. Dovisioso, and J. Lorenzo is showing significant improvement, though not nearly up to the level he was expected when he signed his contract with the Ducati team.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 24, 2017, 04:01:29 AM
Well, now they are at Assen. The Yamahas seem to be working again,  Vinales was fastest in Friday's free practice. Rain predicted for Saturday qualifications. What an interesting season.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 24, 2017, 04:26:04 PM
Well, they seem to keep things stirred up and interesting.  Track conditions may well play a big part in Sunday's race.  Mind games, new parts, better set up, aerodynamics, will the tires work?  It's always thus, we don't know what will happen, so they line up on the grid on Sunday . . . . . I predict that somebody will win. ;)
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 25, 2017, 10:47:47 AM
Wow, what a race! Too bad Vinales crashed out but Rossi won a close one. Glad I got the BEin channel this season.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on June 26, 2017, 03:55:58 AM
From what I read it was a VERY CLOSE race for the first two positions.  That Ducati almost got there first, and the Ducati big wigs are not real happy with Jorge Lorenzo's results.  Unless he makes SIGNIFICANT progress in mastering the Ducati I predict he will be looking for a different ride next year.  I know he has a two year contract but there are ways to break such agreements.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on June 26, 2017, 04:32:29 AM
I have to agree with Walt ..what a race??? One of the best rounds so far

Iain
NZ
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on June 26, 2017, 08:43:31 AM
Mike,  it's a shame you didn't get to watch the race. When Rossi passed Zarco for the lead with about 10 laps to go, Zarco tried to get him back and they collided. Rossi kept the lead, barely and Zarco dropped to fourth. Petrucci and Marquez in second and third. Bit of a battle between them which Petrucci won. Zarco tried for third but his tires were shot and Marquez held. Dovisioso is now fourth and passed up to second and went after Rossi but he has used up his tires and went back to fourth. Then Crutchlow came up and got Dovi then Marquez for third. Marquez got him back, on the last lap, and Petrucci is still hounding Rossi. Oh, and there was a rain threat at the end. Some,  including Zarco actually came in for rain bikes. I suppose you could say the first 2 positions were close.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on July 01, 2017, 01:43:12 AM
Next race to be held at Sachsenring track in Germany on Sunday, July 2.  So far there is no one running away with the championship and several possible contenders.  This is getting good.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on July 01, 2017, 03:00:39 AM
And it has tended to be a track that favors Honda. 4 riders within 11 points. As you said, this is getting good.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on July 01, 2017, 05:46:35 PM
Wow, qualifying in the wet, Marquez on top. The race could be very interesting or very boring,  dang!
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on July 02, 2017, 11:08:43 PM
Well, not exactly the Yamaha factory team's day, but the brand was well represented by the Tech3 satellite team as young Jonas Folger led the race for a short while and finished 2nd.  Honda fared well with 1st and 3rd, so now Marquez is again barely in the lead for the championship.  A lot can happen between now and the conclusion of the season in early November.  KTM is improving as is Aprillia.  Much is developing, and this is an interesting season.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on July 03, 2017, 05:23:59 AM
Halfway through the season and ten points between first and fourth with Pedrosa not far behind. It looks like the FIM has finally achieved the parity they were looking for. I thought that Yamaha finally had their chassis sorted at Assen but wet qualifying in Germany proved otherwise. Everyone now gets a month off to work on the second half.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on July 19, 2017, 02:35:48 AM
August 6 will be the next race in Brno, Czech republic.  It seems like time is going so slowly as I anticipate that date.  In the mean time time is flying as we work on getting the salt flats bike ready. 
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: pinholenz on July 25, 2017, 06:07:32 AM
Fascinating post thanks.

During the Americas Cup (which New Zealand won BTW), there was only live subscription broadcast in NZ. The event was held in the Bahamas and I found that it was being live streamed in the Bermudas by the local TV Station. When I tried to connect from NZ, I was barred from access. The Pay for view people had that well tied up.

However, I did find that if I subscribed to a Virtual Private Network subscriber for a month, and set my location as Bermuda, I was able to watch the live stream. Brilliant. Not HD over the internet, but good enough to follow the action until the delayed broadcast coverage was available.

You might find the same will work for MotoGP. A list of broacasters can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_MotoGP_broadcasters

I've enjoyed the free full race videos on MotoGP.com when they get posted. Phew.

Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 05, 2017, 04:03:53 AM
Well, they're back. First practices Friday had the Ducatis and Tech 3 Yamahas fastest. There was some rain but qualifying is supposed to be dry. Should be fun.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 05, 2017, 12:47:04 PM
We should be able to see the results vary soon.  9:44 here in California as I type this.  The grid positions show that it could be "anybody's" race, and with so many so close to the championship lead we know that anything can happen.  Still, the usual suspects are there near the top.  This is interesting.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 05, 2017, 11:37:52 PM
Oh yeah, this is Saturday.  The race is Sunday!   :-[
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 06, 2017, 12:09:17 PM
Well, another one in the books. The wet start caused a guessing game, will it stay wet, get wetter or dry. It dried out and Honda made the best guess. Marquez won by 20 seconds over Pedrosa, Vinales and Rossi. The only drama was whether Rossi could get Crutchlow for fourth and he did on the last lap.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 06, 2017, 04:36:08 PM
The race season is half over now, and though it appears that Marc Marquez will likely take the crown again, it is still wide open for the top five.  Things have a way of turning out in ways we don't expect, sometimes.  The fortunes can change if the leader crashes out of a race and another contender takes the win.  25 points for a win, 0 for crashing out.  The thing is that ALL the riders have a tendency to push the limits and risk crashing.

I am glad to see KTM and Aprillia making progress so quickly.  KTM generally doesn't fool around when it comes to competition, so I think they are going for as much development as they can muster this season in an attempt to go for the championship in the next season or two.  All the bikes seem to be fairly close in ability compared to a year or two ago. 
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on August 07, 2017, 04:44:35 AM
It was a interesting race, but not as exciting as some of the others,,

Iain
NZ
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 13, 2017, 12:42:52 AM
Marquez has the pole, and it looks like every team has made progress in their respective issues.  The race should be close if you can believe all the statistics and reports of all the developments in set up and aerodynamics, but we all know that you just never know what will happen on Sunday when the race starts.  I am guessing that Marquez will win again unless he crashes, but we will wait and see what really happens on Sunday.  Both Ducati and Yamaha are very fast, and will give Honda stiff competition.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 13, 2017, 09:50:04 AM
It was a good race. Dovizioso won, had a hard battle with Marquez. Pedrosa was third. Yamaha seem to be fading and got 5, 6 and 7.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on August 14, 2017, 12:43:50 AM
Andrea Dovizioso is Ducati's best chance at a championship now, but as well as he is doing I think he has a steep mountain to climb to win the championship this year.  No other Ducati is close enough this season.  Jorge Lorenzo is progressing well but not fast enough for this season, maybe next year.  Still, there are more races before the season is complete, and anything can happen. 

Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 14, 2017, 06:10:27 AM
I think the championship is Marquez to lose. The same finish order for the next three races would still see him with the points lead. Honda seem to have the electronics figured out. They have had both men on the podium the last three races. There will still be some good racing left.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on August 27, 2017, 01:17:45 PM
Big changes at Silverstone. Dovizioso won again and Marquez bike blew up. Rossi led for 17 laps but Dovizioso made a clean pass then Vinales got by. It was a good race. Dovizioso is leading by 9 over Marquez.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on September 10, 2017, 12:03:52 PM
Wet race at San Marino but it wasn't bad. Marquez won on the last lap from Petrucci. Dovizioso was third and Vinales. Marquez and Dovizioso are tied on points with Vinales 16 back. Rossi did not race as he broke his leg in a dirt bike crash and he is 42 back in fourth,  pretty much out of the championship.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: iain on September 11, 2017, 04:43:10 AM
I think Lorenzo"s days are numbered,,,???

Iain
Nz
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on September 11, 2017, 07:31:54 PM
Whatever the reason, Jorge can not race in the rain.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on September 12, 2017, 01:19:11 AM
I think Lorenzo is a very complicated individual, complete with psychological strengths and weaknesses, but in the racing business his strengths need to dominate and his weaknesses need to be minimized.  He is being paid a significant salary to win, but so far he is only an 'also ran', though he IS getting stronger with the Ducati.  He is on the wrong bike for his style of riding, should have stayed with the Yamaha team, but he didn't.  I think Lorenzo could do well on the Suzuki but that is not at all likely to happen.  Just maybe he will get a grip on the Ducati and begin winning again.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on September 25, 2017, 02:52:44 AM
Well, another race is in the books, and another four to go to complete this season.  Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa finished "0ne two" for the factory Honda team, and Jorge Lorenzo brought his factory Ducati across the line for third place on the podium.   Valentino Rossi rode a brave race to finish fifth in spite of having just broken his leg less than a couple weeks ago.

Lorenzo seems to be adapting to the Ducati pretty well.  It will be interesting to see how he does with his new found ability.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on September 25, 2017, 05:27:46 AM
It looks like it is Marquez championship to lose. Honda got their electronics figured out before Yamaha and Marquez has to revert to his younger days to lose and I doubt he will.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on September 26, 2017, 01:46:09 AM
The series is still close enough to keep it interesting to see what actually happens as it rolls down to the end.  As Nicky Hayden is famous for saying,"they line up on Sunday because you never know what will happen".
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on October 15, 2017, 01:27:25 AM
Things are shaping up in Japan, and we will know in about 12 hours how it all plays out.  It's been raining off and on there, so tyre choice  will be crucial.  Marquez has had good luck in that area, usually selecting harder tyres than many of his competitors.  If the track is anywhere near dry I think he will dominate, but we will find out in about 12 hours when Sunday rolls around.  Anything can happen. ;)
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on October 15, 2017, 11:30:58 AM
It was a really good race even though it was in a downpour. Exciting to the end. I won't share the results until later.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on October 15, 2017, 02:57:10 PM
Going into the final 3 races with 11 points between Marquez and Dovizioso, it looks to be a rather contentious struggle for both riders.  Marquez already a previous champion with a strong desire to win again (probably lots of pressure from the factory folks to get the championship again) and Dovizioso seeing the championship within grasp and I imagine excruciating pressure from Ducati factory folks. 

It is a feast for the fans watching this unfold as the dust begins to settle and more is kicked up.  Next race is Phillip Island, Australia.  this is a track that tests both skill and bravery like no other track.  Very high speeds on a very challenging track, unpredictable weather, and jet lag anyone?  The tension builds, piling on the agony until the crescendo finally erupts into joy for a few and disappointment for the others, and the dust finally settles, only to be continued at the next race. 
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on October 22, 2017, 10:40:28 AM
Very good race at Phillip island. Marquez added to his points lead. Dovizioso finished a dismal 11th. You could have thrown a blanket over the three Yamahas in second, third and fourth.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on October 22, 2017, 05:29:46 PM
 . . . . . and in the rain!  It seems the weather has been a significant factor in the last few races, and may yet play a role in the final two races.  I don't recall so many wet races per season in previous years.  Just more things to think about and deal with, which makes life rather complicated.  I'll be ready for a rest when the last race is over, knowing full well it doesn't take long before we will miss the activity of "the chase".  The riders get about 4 months away from racing before the new season begins, and by the time it rolls round everyone will be eager to begin racing again.

Next race in tropical Sepang, Malaysia, and the final race in Valencia, Spain, where there is a good chance it will be a dry race.  Or not.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fiat-doctor on October 24, 2017, 07:45:21 AM
Depends... Is Valencia on the plain?  :)
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on October 24, 2017, 01:21:46 PM
In Spain, . . . .in Spain! ;D
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on October 24, 2017, 07:16:54 PM
50 points available and Marquez has a 33 point lead. I think we have a season championship but it has been a great season. Looking forward to next year.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on October 25, 2017, 01:12:00 AM
Well, there are still two races to complete.  And though the final results seem to be fairly well settled by now there is likely to be more scrambling for final positions.  Contract negotiations to consider next time round.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on October 29, 2017, 11:21:20 AM
Unbelievably another wet race. It wasn't as exciting as Japan or Phillip island. Dovizioso did what he had to and it didn't look like team orders when he passed Lorenzo for the lead. Now Marquez has 21 points on him heading for the last race at Valencia in 2 weeks.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on October 29, 2017, 01:54:52 PM
A "home" track for Marquez.  If he doesn't fall off or blow up his motor it is almost a sure thing he will take the championship.  I say almost because ya never know what will happen.

At this point I'm a bit worn out following the races, and welcome the end of the season, but I know full well that we all will be eagerly awaiting the start of the next season.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on November 11, 2017, 06:53:23 PM
Qualifying today is almost a gimme to Marquez. He is on pole with Dovizioso well back. only reason for watching, Zarco and Ianonne are on the front row. Does Marquez have the maturity to stay out of their way? I think he does.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on November 12, 2017, 12:16:13 AM
It's good to see Ianonne take the Suzuki to the front row, finally.  I wish he had been more "on the ball" through the season.  I think he was pouting because he lost his factory Ducati ride.  He should have been showing off what he was capable of if for nothing else as a bargaining chip in future contract negotiations.  Now, too little too late.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: Walt_M. on November 12, 2017, 12:06:27 PM
Well, the season is over. Marquez made the last race more interesting but the outcome was pretty much inevitable. Dovizioso gave it his all but came up short. Ducati should not be too hard on Lorenzo for not following orders, as it wouldn't have mattered anyway. As for Yamaha, they have to catch up with their own 2016 chassis.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on November 13, 2017, 12:57:29 AM
It's good to see Dani Pedrosa win this one. 

Everybody seems to complain of evil handling and lack of grip no matter what brand they ride.  Thst's because they are on "the edge", at the limit of adhesion between the tires and the asphalt, and that's because they are going so freaking fast.
Title: Re: Motogp
Post by: fret not on January 23, 2018, 12:40:53 AM
Test session coming up before long.  Time to shake out the kinks of the new equipment and take stock of the competition.  The first race will be March 18. Easy for me to remember as it's our wedding anniversary. (1973)