Riders Of Vision

General => Off Topic => Topic started by: fret not on February 27, 2021, 12:23:45 AM

Title: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on February 27, 2021, 12:23:45 AM
Moto journalists are not without things to write about, but not racing yet.  Before the season officially begins there will be a practice session before a race weekend, likely jammed together as two consecutive weekends at the same track so everyone doesn't have to travel so much.   Big question is "what about Marquez?"  We just wait and see.  Otherwise it looks like a great setting for the new season as all the seats are filled for now, and mechanical advances have been made by everyone we hope.  It is a very good group of riders on some very competitive machinery, as the 'new guys' are quickly catching up with the big factories.  Because of the virus, this season will probably unfold much like last season, only the 'names will be changed to protect the innocent'. (They will figure it out when they get there.)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on March 10, 2021, 04:42:09 PM
Pre-season testing is underway in Qatar and Marc is not there. He knows he came back too soon last year so he doesn't want to rush it.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on March 10, 2021, 11:36:54 PM
I certainly wish Marquez heals well this time.  Whatever happens will be interesting as the competition is at a very high level, and now Aprillia has joined the 'sharp end' of the pack.  I have a feeling that the virus isn't done yet, and that will figure heavily in the revenue streams of promoters, and really everyone connected with MOTOGP racing.  There are better days ahead, and I hope we can get there soon.  Gotta have crowds through the gate buying tickets, souvenirs, food, etc.$$$.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on March 13, 2021, 12:36:39 PM
Interesting new wrinkle, the government of Qatar has offered to vaccinate the GP paddock. That won't help the fans but the series can proceed.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on March 21, 2021, 01:27:28 PM
Looks like the race in Qatar is still on for Sunday the 28th.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on March 24, 2021, 04:16:30 AM
Great news thread! Thanks for the 'heads up'.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on March 26, 2021, 03:03:55 PM
FP2 is complete and Ducati are 1-2, all the Yamahas are in for Q2 for now.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on March 27, 2021, 03:37:04 PM
Looking at the qualifying lap times shows that competition will be fierce in all the classes.  This is shaping up to be another interesting season as the struggle goes on.   What surprises will appear along the way? 8)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on March 27, 2021, 05:21:14 PM
The MotoGp is scheduled to be on NBCSN at 1130 PM eastern US time. That's past my bedtime so I will be watching Monday morning, it'll be like Christmas! The qualifying times are so close.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on March 27, 2021, 06:27:31 PM
lolol "Like Christmas" lolol   Yeah, certainly a treat to look forward to. I'll be watching after about a day's delay too.
Will download practice sessions etc. to watch in the meantime.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on March 28, 2021, 04:39:28 PM
Thanks to Videopass, I got to open my present early. The buffering was not good but it was a good return to racing. No spoiler here but watch when you can. And to put the bow on it, we come back next weekend and do it again.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on April 01, 2021, 04:12:02 PM
FP for Losail 2 starts tomorrow. Be interesting to see who has done their homework.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on April 02, 2021, 12:26:46 AM
I have to thank you fellas for not posting any spoilers. Thanks.
Finally cued-up to watch race one right now!
Cheer :-)

(edited after watching the race) Wow! Yet another excellent race. It just keeps getting better and better! Looks like another spectacular season is underway. Bravo!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on April 05, 2021, 07:49:27 AM
Round 2 is over, another must watch.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on April 07, 2021, 05:46:36 AM
lololol Whew! Finished watching it only a couple of minutes ago. Breathtaking! Just when we thought it couldn't get any better IT DID! Sensational racing!
I need a valium sandwich!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on April 07, 2021, 09:49:49 AM
On to Portimao, but will Oliveira again exercise his dominance or will tires be the factor? The softs don't work on KTMs. Will Marc be back? The plot thickens.             As of April, 12, Marc Marquez is slated to be at Portimao this week, oh boy!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on April 15, 2021, 04:02:06 AM
Marc has announced he will be at Portimao this weekend.  Cleared to race by his doctors.  We get to see which Marc will show up.  I just hope he doesn't get hurt.  Mending arm and all.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on April 15, 2021, 05:07:44 AM

I'll be a bit surprised if Marc spends much time at the "cutting edge". After all, he's been sidelined for a few months and that has to have had an effect on his attitude (read; SHJT, I'm not superman after all). But the guy is always full of surprises so I suppose we'll just have to wait to see how he feels and what he does.

Also of very great interest is that Dovi has expressed great resolution to return to MotoGP - on an Aprilia. That's a bit down the track but worth keeping an eye on as things develop.

Lately we are seeing some of the best racing I can recall - ever! Might start keeping the vids archived.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on April 18, 2021, 06:08:12 PM
Several contenders crashing out (Rins, Miller, Zarco, etc.), . . . the pace is fierce!  If Marc remains healthy I would expect him to challenge for the championship before the season is done.  At this time he needs to rebuild the muscle strength of his damaged arm, the bone seems to be good now. 

They line up on Sundays, and ya never know what will happen.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on April 26, 2021, 02:08:08 PM
Next stop, Jerez. Quartararo won there last year. It's also the scene of Marc's crash. Lots to think about.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on April 26, 2021, 05:39:16 PM
Yes, it will be interesting to see whether he can get back onto the horse that threw him. I'm guessing he probably can BUT he'll have some really tough competition now that the taste of winning has recently blessed so many other riders and teams.
Should be another good race - probably pretty spectacular.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on April 26, 2021, 08:05:44 PM
Marc is not to be underestimated BUT he has been bested several times in recent seasons when he was healthy.  Dovisioso and  Rins have both beaten him in head to head battles but not on a regular basis.  Now Marc has to gain strength in his arms, especially the right one that has been so traumatically abused.  I think Honda should make a "suzuki" for him.  If Honda did make a "suzuki" clone I think other riders would also benefit from a sweeter handling missile, and Honda would get better overall results.   8)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on April 27, 2021, 07:45:36 PM
Honda already has that bike. They were getting no results without Marc so they had to tone it down so Bradl, Nakagami and brother Alex could survive it and Marc looked pretty wasted after coming home 7th on it. Will Marc's conditioning improve before Espargaro figures out the Honda. Will Dovizioso come to an agreement with Aprillia? Aliex Espargaro got a well-earned 6th and Dovi could get them on the podium. Such intrigue. And we haven't even considered Yamaha, Ducati and Suzuki, loving it.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on May 01, 2021, 10:12:33 AM
Qualifying for Jerez is finished, NBCSN is televising tomorrow at 7:30 PM Eastern US.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on May 14, 2021, 07:43:27 PM
FP1 and FP2 at LeMans are finished, Zarco, Quartararo and Vinales are on top and likely into Q2. Rain is forecast for tomorrow.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on June 19, 2021, 06:09:21 PM
Race in Germany this Sunday, lots of possible winners, and warm weather, so tires will have grip . . . until they wear out.  This should be an exciting scramble, and we never know what will happen on Sunday, until it happens.  Marc Marquez 93 is sort of "back" but right arm is still problematic.  The bone is 'healed' but the muscles are weak from the long period of not being used and some degree of bone misalignment from the surgeries .  He starts from the 2nd row!  Aprillia (Alex Espargaro 41) starts from front row!  This is a major accomplishment for Aprillia, as they now have a 'tool' capable of holding it's own at the sharp end of the pack. The usual suspects make up the remainder of the grid, and it is anybody's guess as to who will win this one.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on June 20, 2021, 03:31:33 AM
Looking forward to the race. Probably get to watch it tomorrow night after 10-11 hours driving work during the day.

You gotta lov being on the road! Was riding most of today as is a bit of a weekly Sunday habit now.

If you need a bit of excitement, try this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGsTcmLG7dU
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on June 24, 2021, 05:43:24 PM
Entertaining race in Germany, Assen is this weekend and a completely different style of track.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on June 24, 2021, 11:05:39 PM
Interesting times.  I like that KTM are doing so well.   8)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on June 27, 2021, 12:45:54 PM
Assen was run today, watch it when you can. It will be 5 weeks before the next round.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on June 27, 2021, 05:36:26 PM
Marquez 7th after a back row start.  Rossi crashed out, as did Miller, and a few others.  Marc Marquez still needs to regain strength.  This break in the schedule should help his healing/recovery.  I'm looking forward to the next race and to find out who goes where.  There 'was' a rumor that Maverick would go to Aprillia, but then quickly denied, . .  sort of.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on June 28, 2021, 06:50:49 AM
Rossi absolutely trashed his bike! Very spectacular.
Nakagami looked great for a while but just lost the momentum - or was it the plot he lost.
Another very entertaining race.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on June 28, 2021, 06:56:57 PM
I wonder whether Nakagami is in great physical condition so he can endure the whole race  or  has a psychological hurdle to deal with.  Some individuals have some difficulty dealing with success.  He was out in front several times  while Marquez was at home healing, and he has been "up there" in several races and then fades away.  We know he can do the job if he will.  Will he?  I was rooting for him during the race just to get on the podium, or a win would be appropriate if he could make it happen sometime.  Maybe later.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on June 29, 2021, 10:17:55 AM
Does anyone have a bigger psychological problem than Vinales? He was last in Germany and 2nd at Assen, on the same bike!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on July 03, 2021, 01:09:33 AM
Maybe Gerloff gained some perspective from his recent Moto GP ride, as he just topped the WSBK time sheets at Donnington, .3+ ahead of Rea!  Rumor has it he might go to Petronas/aqua.  Interesting times.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 01, 2021, 02:32:04 PM
Next Wednesday 'they' will converge on the Spielberg track to begin practice and qualifying for the Sunday race.  Aside from all the drama ('soap opera' for men) there should be some exciting racing.  Valentino Rossi 'may retire' (he has been pushed off the factory Yamaha team, and on to the Pertonas team that does not want him)or head up and manage his own team for Yamaha, Vinales might go somewhere (Aprillia ?, he left the factory Yamaha team).  Pedrosa(KTM) and Crutchlow(YAMAHA) are both entered to race.  Marquez has been seen riding a Honda 600, and reported to be in very good form.  So, the stage is set, and we will see what happens when it all unfolds.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on August 01, 2021, 06:58:15 PM
Well, this is KTMs 'home track' so look for Oliveira and Binder. Marquez may be in better condition but we will know more about that on Sunday. Zarco may be getting desperate now so he could try another 'Yamaha takeout'. Who knows what demons are lurking in Vinales head. If Quartararo gets top 5, he will be champion for 2021.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 06, 2021, 12:05:47 AM
Valentino Rossi has announced he will retire at the end of this season.  So, maybe he will be out of the clutches of the Saudi prince who rules over the Petronas team.  Valentino had a good run, 9 times world champion, and a legacy of mentoring younger riders.  Franco Morbidelli was one, and look where he is now!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on August 08, 2021, 10:51:38 AM
Entertaining race in Austria, it will be on NBCSN at 1130 eastern tonight. I didn't realize how much I had missed it. If you're DVRing, best to add 30 minutes.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on August 12, 2021, 05:27:57 PM
After another last place finish and unusual rider input on the bike after the end of the race, he was hitting the rev limiter coming down pit lane. Maverick Vinales will not be participating at this weekend's race in Austria.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 14, 2021, 02:55:47 PM
Ducati, Yamaha, Ducati, (first row)
Ducati, Honda, Ducati, (second row)

then the rest of the pack.  It looks like anyone of the 'usual suspects' could win this one.  We will know tomorrow! 8)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on August 16, 2021, 07:46:48 AM
Well, that was a goat rodeo! No narrative just watch if you get a chance.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on August 16, 2021, 08:14:18 AM
Ha ha ha! That was great! Ha ha ha! I can't get the smile off my face :-) :-) :-) Brilliant- with a good bit of luck. :-) :-) :-)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 26, 2021, 01:06:18 PM
AUG 29 RACE at Silverstone UK, so I am watching for reports from the practice sessions that should be happening now.   8)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 28, 2021, 12:41:21 AM
Nobody knows what will happen on Sunday when they line up, but it looks like Quartararo(Yamaha) will have the pole position, . . . so far.  The grid positions will be set tomorrow in Q2 (qualifying).  The talk among the riders is that the track has huge grip, so managing tires will be important.  More than one race has been lost while leading because the tires wore out.  Better to be close to the front at the end of the race and still have a bit of grip and drive for a final charge to the checkered flag than to be leading and not have anything left when someone comes by at the end.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on August 28, 2021, 05:11:33 PM
Pol Espargaro, Bagnaia and Quartararo on the front row. there have been several crashes due to cold tires, don't know what the weather there will be tomorrow.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 28, 2021, 05:50:45 PM
It is pleasing to see challengers to Quarteraro's recent  blazing dominance.  Martin, Espargaro, Marquez, Bagnaia, and others look to be competitive, so it should be a good race on Sunday.  England, ya know, so weather will be unknown until it happens.  Both Marquez and Quarteraro have taken tumbles in practice, let's hope no one gets hurt.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 28, 2021, 10:56:16 PM
Pol Espargaro / REPSOL HONDA sitting in pole position this time.  Quartararo still starting on the front row.  Marquez in second row.  This is shaping up to be a rather crowded first turn scramble.  I hope they all get through the first few turns safely.  Actually, I hope they all get through the whole race safely.  We will know how it all went sometime within the next 15 hours or so.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 29, 2021, 02:38:41 PM
Some first lap attrition as Marquez loses the front and takes out rookie Martin (Ducati).  It is clear from the slowMo video Marc's front tire lost traction and skated across the track into Martin,taking them both down and out.  Losing the front is one of the main problems Honda needs to improve.  This is not a new problem, as Cal Crutchlow also complained in years past of the tendency of the Honda to lose the front, resulting in going down.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on August 30, 2021, 03:23:55 AM
It is very good to see all six manufacturers represented in the top six finishers.  DORNA has achieved their goal of making things competitive for everyone so there is closer and more exciting racing to draw larger crowds.  Now if they could get rid of that pesky virus the crowds could attend in greater numbers.($)  I think it is amazing that such races are made to happen in spite of very low spectator attendance and consequent low financial income from the ticket sales.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on September 06, 2021, 04:17:00 PM
 Racing in Spain in a few days.   :police:
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on September 06, 2021, 06:47:14 PM
I will be interested in seeing how Vinales goes on the Aprilia.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on September 08, 2021, 02:07:53 AM
Aprillia just recently achieved their first podium, maybe they can get two this time.  This is another one that 'anybody' can win it.  Quarty is blazing, Mavrick should be fast on the Aprillia, it is Marquez's 'back yard', Miller is hot, . . . . . . we will find out on Sunday.

My 'little brother' just made a record at Bonneville on a 250 Aermacci at Speed Week (it was what they call 'low hanging fruit' but a record none the less), and now is preparing his Suzuki T500 for World of Speed this coming weekend.  This 500 class is a steeper hill, and he has a tendency to hole a piston now and then.  Fingers crossed and all. :angel:
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on September 10, 2021, 09:46:42 AM
After FP2, Aleix Espargaro is 2nd fast after Jack Miller, Crutchlow is 3rd on Vinales' Yamaha and Vinales is 18th on the other Aprilia.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on September 10, 2021, 04:58:18 PM
This is only Friday, there is still qualifying on Saturday.  More interesting as the day goes on.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on September 12, 2021, 03:01:28 PM
If you want excitement, watch this race.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on September 12, 2021, 03:09:16 PM
Especially the last few laps!  Marc is almost back!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on September 13, 2021, 05:03:19 AM
Mama Mia! What a great dice at the end. So many great riders up there over the last couple of seasons. Fabulous.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on September 13, 2021, 05:30:29 PM
Yes, Marc is back, to being a dick. He wasn't as fast as Bagnaia and the 7 pass attempts he made resulted in him being easily repassed because he couldn't keep it on the racing line and ultimately the track.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on September 14, 2021, 02:22:23 AM
lolol. His ego certainly hasn't gone away. Looked bloudy dejected at not having won. Did seem to have pulled his head in a bit though.
Just wonder whether his ego not being regularly fed will allow him to continue racing much longer. My guess is that it won't.
To make things even more difficult for him there seems to be a lot less tolerance toward dangerously aggressive riding of late. Not mentioning any names lolol.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on September 17, 2021, 01:40:06 PM
First day of practice at Misano is over. It was dry to start then it rained. Fastest overall is, drumroll please, Vinales!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on September 18, 2021, 10:27:53 PM
Vinales, in a recent article he was touted to be the king of qualifying and last in the race.  Maybe he will break that pattern and just go fast.  I would like to see the Aprillia make some news.  Their head wizard was purloined by Ducati a few years ago if you remember.  I love this stuff.  (MotoGP: soap opera for men).
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on September 19, 2021, 12:54:45 AM
Vinales qualified in the 4th row for the start.  Not bad but not a great position.  Just thinking about the start of a race starts the adrenaline; all the bikes beginning to move at the same moment and going every which way threading between the other bikes as they pick up speed, and everyone with a handful of throttle aiming for the first turn and hoping no other bike will be occupying the same space. First turn pile-ups can happen, and I think it is amazing that they don't happen more often. 
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on September 19, 2021, 10:17:55 AM
The front row was Bagnaia, Miller and Quartararo. The second row was all Ducati. Now watch the race, another good one.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on September 30, 2021, 07:05:16 PM
Next race this Sunday!  Austin, TX.  Then 3 more races to the end of the season.  Vinales sitting this one out due to the death of his cousin.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on October 01, 2021, 02:05:58 AM
Beauty. Fun and demanding circuit. This could be anybody's I reckon.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 01, 2021, 09:35:58 AM
FP1 starts in a couple of hours, I will be watching with interest.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on October 01, 2021, 10:41:13 PM
Marquez and Miller at the front so far.  The track is badly bumpy again, even after the bumps were "shaved".  Sounds like it needs to be rebuilt from the foundation.  Lots of rain forecast, and hopefully less on Sunday.  This one will keep everyone busy trying to figure out some advantage over everyone else.  We will find out on Sunday. 8)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on October 02, 2021, 05:43:52 AM
Thanks for the info. It inspired me to look up the latest on MotoGP_dot_com. BUT I messed-up and typed it into my search slot instead of the URL slot.

Well, surprise surprise!

The entire event is up for sale! - according to the first item listed in the search result.

Phillip Island Moto Gp Sold Direct on eBay - Fantastic Prices on Phillip Island Moto Gp

Not sure if this beaut deal includes the brolly girls, the cameras, all the spectators, the bikes, riders, commentators, spectators, entire circuit etc. etc. etc. - even if it's just for the duration of the event, but this is bloady AMAZING!

I'm writing a new book on the strength of it; How to Win Friends, Influence People and Sell Absolutely ANYTHING

Going back to inputting that stuff into my browser (the RIGHT slot this time) in the hope of finding the latest for tomorrow's race.

Oh. Before I go;
Anyone wanna buy the USA? BE QUICK! For a short time only, the first ten buyers will also receive the big half of Tasmania!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 02, 2021, 06:47:27 AM
Why would anyone buy the USA, we're just giving it away. Come on in, take what you want.

But seriously, Marquez owns COTA. If he has the strength to stay on he will win. Second, Bagnaia, maybe Jack. Fabio should be happy with a top 5, unless it rains and he should be happy to score a point.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on October 02, 2021, 08:41:13 AM
:-)
Well, I'll gamble three Vegemite sambos, a bottle of OP Bundy rum (to wash the sangas down) AND our Opera house (as an added bonus) against your Yosemite Sam and the Andrews Sisters, that Marc brings himself unstuck within the first ten laps and/or never sees the finish line without grazing his bike on the deck.
Are ya feelin' lucky??
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 02, 2021, 10:54:15 AM
FP3 starts in a few minutes and it's dry for now.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 02, 2021, 04:12:24 PM
Qualifying is over, Bagnaia, Quartararo and Marquez on the front row. What a rough beast that track is! Don't know what happened to Jack. He was .6 quicker than anyone after FP3. I think tomorrow will prove the old cliché, the winner will be among the finishers.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on October 02, 2021, 11:12:03 PM
The roughness of the track will make this race an endurance event.  That will be a real test for Marc as he is still trying to regain his former strength, and sort out the worthy from the rest of the pack.  I wonder how hard it will stress the bikes.  Thinking of frames cracking and what not.  With such a bumpy track the lightest wheels (unsprung weight) will be an advantage.  I wonder who has the lightest wheels, of if anyone has much difference from any other.  "Everyone" is using Brembo brakes and Michelin tires, so mostly on parity with each other .  Carbon fiber wheels are very light, are they as tough as the aluminum wheels?  Details, details, . . . .  8)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on October 03, 2021, 02:19:31 AM
They reckon carbon fibre somposite materials can have five times the tensile strength of steel and five times the rigidity.
The rough track may make it tougher on the riders than the bikes, I reckon but it all depends on the design parameters of the bike components.
Doubtless the suspension folks will be working flat out to make it easier on both bike AND rider - not to mention tires.
Then there's the effect of all these unusual settings on the mappings needed for appropriate power delivery.
Then there's the possibility that the winning rider's team may well have just gotten "lucky" with the settings they've used. That's why I reckon the race could be anybody's and may be an utter surprise!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 03, 2021, 04:54:25 PM
Another one in the books, 3 to go for the season.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on October 04, 2021, 01:03:27 AM
It appears that Quartararo will probably be the new MotoGP champion, but next year he will have more competition as Marc is getting stronger, J Martin is showing significant strength, Miller is hungry and almost there, Bagnaia IS there, plus the Suzuki boys have been showing they can also play at the sharp end.  KTM and Aprillia too.  All this and there will be new riders coming from Moto2 that are showing skill and speed.  This is getting GOOD! And likely to be that way for some years.  As long as new skill and talent arrives the process will continue.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: MikeScoot on October 04, 2021, 05:42:46 AM
Some good racing in there and a lot of brave riding over those attrocious bumps. Great riding by Marc!
The triple stack in Moto3 was a shocker and all three riders were really lucky to have walked away. It was pretty spectacular.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 04, 2021, 12:17:30 PM
I think most were in survival mode. Nakagami tried hero mode and crashed out, Zarco wasn't going all that well and crashed too. Quartararo had no reason to race Marc so he was happy in second. He did fight off Martin which allowed Marc to get away. Now we have 3 weeks to wait before Misano.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 22, 2021, 05:05:06 PM
Back to Misano we go, first day of practice was in the wet. So it looks like the championship will not be decided this weekend if it doesn't dry out.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 23, 2021, 10:58:32 AM
The track did dry for qualifying but it didn't help Quartararo. Both he and Bagnaia had to go to Q1 but Bagnaia went to Q2 and Fabio didn't. Bagnaia is on pole, Quartararo is starting 13th.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on October 24, 2021, 01:37:57 AM
Front row is all Ducati.  Very cool weather.  The mix of dry/wet track has made a guessing game of the set up to use on Sunday.  Some of the younger riders are showing some ability (Lecuona, Marini), and Marc Marquez starts from the 3rd row,  Quartararo starts from the 5th row.  We will find out what happened when Sunday comes around.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 24, 2021, 10:10:16 AM
Well, this one should be on everyone's must see list. It's on NBCSN at 7 eastern US. My schedule mis-identifies it as Valencia. I was wrong, the race is on NBC now!
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on October 25, 2021, 12:44:59 AM
Yeah, I got to see it but had the interruption of the power going out a few minutes before the race started, and I was just mixing the eggs and heating the frying pan for french toast.  Several minutes later power resumed and the day progressed a bit delayed, but happening.  Several laps had been run by the time the TV caught up. (darn satellite system had to reset itself which took several extra minutes)  Not a terribly exciting race but I watched it all, and happy it happened.  We are having RAIN and wind!  Seeing a Ducati go end over end after a low-side crash shows how much energy is stored in the mass/momentum.  That is hard on a bike.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 25, 2021, 09:20:16 AM
I found the race quite entertaining with the championship implications and all. Watching Marquez chasing Bagnaia and Quartararo moving up from his poor start, good stuff.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on October 27, 2021, 10:02:51 PM
Next race is NOV. 7 in Portimao, Portugal, and the last race will be NOV. 14 in Spain. 
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on October 28, 2021, 07:05:05 AM
With the championship settled everyone should be more free to race. Marquez will be trying to win as always, Bagnaia will be trying to make up for Misano and Quartararo might want to prove that he deserves to be champion. These could be some of the best races of the year.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on November 01, 2021, 12:51:50 AM
Next Sunday on NBC again!  In the mean time with the VideoPass I can see older races.   ;D
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on November 04, 2021, 04:02:46 PM
Disappointed to hear Marquez will not be racing at Portimao. The official explanation is a possible concussion while training on a motocross bike. The race just became less interesting.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on November 04, 2021, 07:35:52 PM
Well, all the guys will be trying to show their stuff, getting ready for the next season.  They can't help it, it's just the macho thing with competition.  No one needs to 'go for blood' now that the championship is decided, but I think they will put forth a good effort and we will see some good racing in the final two races.  It is unfortunate that Marquez will be out with injury, but there are several other shining 'stars' that will provide entertainment.  Watching the younger riders coming up through the classes is showing us there is more good racing to come in the seasons ahead.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on November 05, 2021, 08:33:00 AM
Looks like a beautiful morning in Portugal. FP1 will be starting soon and we may learn more, stay tuned.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on November 05, 2021, 05:52:30 PM
Surprise, Quartararo and Bagnaia are on top. Mir should not be surprising in 4th but Oliveira in nowhere is. The grid is set, Bagnaia, Miller and Mir on the front row, Quartararo is starting 7th. Does this make the race the race more interesting or less?
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on November 07, 2021, 01:40:10 AM
The race is scheduled to be broadcast on NBC!  So I get to watch it on the TV, hopefully with breakfast.  This should  be a good morning here in California.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on November 07, 2021, 05:55:42 PM
The first 7 laps were pre-empted by my local station and not much drama from there. Ducati have the constructors championship and probably the team's and they certainly deserve them.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on November 12, 2021, 05:47:30 PM
And now for the Finale of the season:  Friday FP times have Miller on top, and the top 14  within one second of the leader.  Big Qualifying day Saturday to sort the starting grid.  So it looks like a mad dash for the first turn with everybody getting there at the same time. 

In 'club racing' I always dreaded the start of a race because of uneven trajectories of all the bikes, but somehow we all got through without much issue.  I have watched a few first turn "wads" as someone near the front of the pack goes down and some others can't avoid collision.  Usually if more than two riders went down the race would be restarted.  In MotoGP the fact that so many really fast riders are aiming at the same spot and they get through safely is a testament to their skill and nerves.  I watch in awe as these modern warriors shred the limits, and I think back to some moments that are seared into my memory, and think "I want to do that again", but I well know these guys are so much faster than we ever could go.  Now we have slo-mo replays and cameras everywhere so we can see the wheels slide and chatter, the bikes buck and shake their head in resistance as the riders try to force them into submission of testing the edge of possibilities.  There is a LOT of potential 'information' to assess any moment of a race. 
I am content to watch from a safe distance, as I know too well that older bones break easier and heal less well.  I will let THEM take the risks, and I will imagine the smell of castor oil in the exhaust, as I sit in comfort . . . from a safe distance.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on November 13, 2021, 02:40:21 PM
Now the grid is set for Sunday's race.  All Ducati front row; 2 Suzukis and a Ducati on second row; KTM, Yamaha, and Honda on third row.  Marc Marquez is still out because of concussion/double vision.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on November 19, 2021, 02:16:35 AM
The results of the 2 year engine development freeze is just about to show up on the track.  2022 will be interesting to watch.  EVERYBODY needs more horsepower except Ducati, but that won't stop Ducati from bringing some if they found any more during the 'freeze'.  Funny how the horsepower figures are not much discussed in numbers now.  A couple years ago it was reported 250, then 270 horsepower, but now nobody discusses numbers.  I suspect they must be closer to 300, and no wonder why tires wear out before a race is over.  I guess they need better tires. 

As the weakest area is improved, the next weakest area shows up.  It's called 'development', and we get to see it happening all the time.  This past year or two it has been the aerodynamics with the 'wings' and 'tire coolers', with everyone trying to find a bit more down force, which happens to be directly against the rules.  So they come up with imaginative explanations for the devices that show up on the bikes.  :police:   ( MotoGP, soap opera for men)
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: Walt_M. on November 22, 2021, 08:01:04 AM
It would seem that the tires have caught up making tire selection more critical. At the Jerez tests, Ducati seem to have a clear advantage, Honda made progress as did Suzuki. Aprilia not so much and Yamaha made none at all. KTM may have just lost their way.
Title: Re: MotoGP 2021
Post by: fret not on November 22, 2021, 12:57:15 PM
I will be looking forward to the next tests as the beginning of the 2022 season approaches and engine development is frozen for the season.  This time period should show who is going to be competitive.  Now that the Ducati can turn,  it is the big dog with all it's power, but others are gaining power too.  Honda has shown some, and reports from Suzuki and Yamaha riders indicate a small gain.  The mad dash to get more power before the new season . . . . . . . .