:'( :o ??? :-\ >:(
Adios Marco.
Where will Hopkins go?
Who's on first?
etc etc etc....
http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2008/12/official-kawasaki-quits-motogp.html (http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2008/12/official-kawasaki-quits-motogp.html)
Don't count your chicken yet.
Wait till Jan. 5 for the official announcement from Kawi.
I refuse to believe this until I hear it straight from the horse's mouth.
Quote from: DesmoDiva on December 30, 2008, 01:56:59 PM
I refuse to believe this until I hear it straight from the horse's mouth.
what does John Elway have to do with this?
Quote from: DesmoDiva on December 30, 2008, 01:56:59 PM
Don't count your chicken yet.
Wait till Jan. 5 for the official announcement from Kawi.
I refuse to believe this until I hear it straight from the horse's mouth.
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=16386.msg299519#msg299519 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=16386.msg299519#msg299519)
I'm still holding out for an official announcement. :P
A quick tangent--I wish more people would hang out in Racing & Trackdays. There's really good discussion, lots of knowledgeable folks who write long, helpful sposts, and its a good place to learn a lot about riding in addition to racing. The downside? Derby hangs out there a bunch. [cheeky]
re kawi, I was really hoping to see Marco redeem himself after last year's fiasco. My hopes dimished when he chose Kawi. And now this. (cue posting the Melandri powerslide video. . . ) Hopper has always been a disappointment except when it comes to (a) stand-up wheelies or (b) talking and writing like he dropped out of kindergarten.
So now we've lost the tail end of the field, but there are still enough rides to go forward, right?
This is really surprising. I would have thought they'd pull out of MotoGP as a last resort.
Quote from: Spidey on December 30, 2008, 02:09:13 PM
A quick tangent--I wish more people would hang out in Racing & Trackdays. The downside? Derby hangs out there a bunch. [cheeky]
Ding Ding Ding. ;)
Now if Rossi would sign with his own Country"s bike be it Ducati or MV so the Trophies stay in Italy. Dolph [beer]
Honda F1 :-[
Subaru WRC :o
Kawasaki MGP :(
Who's Next ??? ??? ???
Quote from: Spidey on December 30, 2008, 02:09:13 PM
A quick tangent--I wish more people would hang out in Racing & Trackdays. There's really good discussion, lots of knowledgeable folks who write long, helpful sposts, and its a good place to learn a lot about riding in addition to racing. The downside? Derby hangs out there a bunch. [cheeky]
this is just about the only place that
do i hang out... and yeah, that is the downside. ;)
this is a good/rough article: http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2008/Dec/081230uq.htm
and this quote is especially interesting, given the whole wsbk-is-more-fun-to-watch-anyway thing:
"Especially in light of MotoGP's rival world championshipâ€"World Superbike. The WSBK series features production-based motorcycles and dramatically lower costs. How much lower? It's estimated that Kawasaki could race an entire half-season of WSBKâ€"with a well run teamâ€"solely on John Hopkins' MotoGP salary."
also: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72596
"It looks like the decision was taken on December the 24th in Japan...However, I've [Melandri's manager] offered Marco for free to Gresini, if he wants him..."
The chances of a Gresini switch for Melandri appear slim, however, with team boss Fausto Gresini playing the idea down.
"Marco and his manager made their decision in Brno when they refused my offer,†Gresini told Gazzetta dello Sport. “I'm not a salesman.â€
Quote from: gm2 on December 31, 2008, 07:31:49 AM
It's estimated that Kawasaki could race an entire half-season of WSBKâ€"with a well run teamâ€"solely on John Hopkins' MotoGP salary."
Wow! :o
Did Hopkins ever win in the 250 class? I really don't understand what all the hoopla is about this guy. He never won a GP and he only podiumed a 4 times on the Suzuki which both Caparossi and the Mole (albeit in the rain, IMSM) were able to put on top of the box.
I love to root for Americans but Hopper seems like a mid-pack rider at best on any piece of equipment.
The fact his salary alone could support a WSBK team is ridiculous.
Quote from: GregP on December 31, 2008, 10:23:56 AM
Did Hopkins ever win in the 250 class? I really don't understand what all the hoopla is about this guy.
Nope. He pretty much went straight to GP. I think the hoopla is because he was made out to be the next coming of Schwantz in Faster. I was a Hopper fan for a while because of it. Then I got over it. Completely over it.
I still like his wheelies though. [thumbsup]
started in the premiere class. when it was 500, but premiere class all the same
kawi pays (paid) him about $5mil/year
re hoopla, he is really fast. he just never had the racecraft.
Quote from: gm2 on December 31, 2008, 10:43:03 AM
re hoopla, he is really fast. he just never had the racecraft.
Is he? I mean, I know he's faster than almost anyone else on the planet, but I don't see him throwing down in qualifying. That's where you'd expect to see the fast guys who can't race showin' up. Stoner is really fast, but needs some work on his racecraft (he's still pretty damn good though). Hopper not so much. I buy that he hasn't had a bike with which to compete, but that Zuke was a good bike his last year on it. And he'd been developing it for a while, so he shoulda been comfy. Even then, he could barely podium. Yeah, he's fast. But not close to Stoner/Rossi/douchebag/Lorenzo fast.
Did I already mention his standups? Whose got a good youtube clip for us, eh? ;D
Here's one from when he rode for Suzuki.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hX63C6o9CYM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hX63C6o9CYM)
I'm still holding out for the official announcement from Kawi. The media can speculate all they want, but that is just what it is: Speculation.
[popcorn]
Quote from: Spidey on December 31, 2008, 10:57:47 AM
Is he? I mean, I know he's faster than almost anyone else on the planet, but I don't see him throwing down in qualifying. That's where you'd expect to see the fast guys who can't race showin' up.
he was getting there in '07. and i should have said testing/qualifying fast, not just 'fast'. he's not aggressive fast in races, as we all know.
he's a highly emotional rider and i think maybe not a setup genius. so he's got to have the right setup AND be in the right confidence vortex; big obvious chip on his shoulder from not winning in 6 years. he was turning in some quick laps on the suzi and started out strong on the kawi.. but almost none of that was in races
Quote from: Spidey on December 31, 2008, 10:57:47 AM
Yeah, he's fast. But not close to Stoner/Rossi/douchebag/Lorenzo fast.
[laugh]
hopper did race a 250 class... just not the one you're thinking of.
he won the north american aprilia challenge, a spec series run on aprlia rs250s.
i seem to remember that ben spies came in 2nd that season, but i could be wrong.
Quote from: derby on December 31, 2008, 04:34:33 PM
hopper did race a 250 class... just not the one you're thinking of.
he won the north american aprilia challenge, a spec series run on aprlia rs250s.
i seem to remember that ben spies came in 2nd that season, but i could be wrong.
I don't think he raced the entire season. Just a coupla races. Right? (I should know better than to try to out-geek derby on racing minutia). I saw Faster too, derb. [laugh] Edit: Crap, google says you're right.
Happy New Year BTW. [beer]
Quote from: derby on December 31, 2008, 04:34:33 PM
hopper did race a 250 class... just not the one you're thinking of.
he won the north american aprilia challenge, a spec series run on aprlia rs250s.
i seem to remember that ben spies came in 2nd that season, but i could be wrong.
you...
wrong?
???
no way
Hopper has been in MotoGP since 2002 and has one pole and two fastest laps to his name. Vermulen has been there for three (IIRC) and has 3 poles and 1 fastest lap on the same kit and a win to boot.
How "fast" can Hopper be when put into that context of not being race fast but fast otherwise?
Maybe I can secure a seat in the bigs with that pitch.
Me: I'm really fast. I won't win too many poles or run fastest laps and I won't even come close to winning a race but I'm fast.
Factory: Just sign on the dotted line son. $5mil is in the mail.
[laugh] [laugh]
Sorry, I'm a relative noob when it comes to racing and race history but I don't get it.
Back on topic: I don't think Kawasaki was gonna win any races anyway so why spend the $$$. It's all about sales in the showroom and the bike was never on the box so what's the point. Develop the bike in superbike and call it a day.
Quote from: derby on December 31, 2008, 04:34:33 PM
hopper did race a 250 class... just not the one you're thinking of.
you mean just not the one he was talking about ;)
Quote from: GregP on January 01, 2009, 08:30:28 AM
Hopper has been in MotoGP since 2002 and has one pole and two fastest laps to his name. Vermulen has been there for three (IIRC) and has 3 poles and 1 fastest lap on the same kit and a win to boot.
How "fast" can Hopper be when put into that context of not being race fast but fast otherwise?
Maybe I can secure a seat in the bigs with that pitch.
Me: I'm really fast. I won't win too many poles or run fastest laps and I won't even come close to winning a race but I'm fast.
Factory: Just sign on the dotted line son. $5mil is in the mail.
[laugh] [laugh]
Sorry, I'm a relative noob when it comes to racing and race history but I don't get it.
Back on topic: I don't think Kawasaki was gonna win any races anyway so why spend the $$$. It's all about sales in the showroom and the bike was never on the box so what's the point. Develop the bike in superbike and call it a day.
if you're consistently top ~6 (or 7 or 8... derbypedia leave me alone), as he was on the zuke, you're both fast and a good sponsor investment. of course it's about winning to the racers but on some other books being in the top 'group' still pencils.
and he's american, etc etc
Quote from: gm2 on January 01, 2009, 10:35:29 AM
if you're consistently top ~6 (or 7 or 8... derbypedia leave me alone), as he was on the zuke, you're both fast and a good sponsor investment. of course it's about winning to the racers but on some other books being in the top 'group' still pencils.
and he's american, etc etc
And he gives good wheelie. ;D
Seriously, what are he & Marco gonna do? Sit out a year? Bump some WSBK rider and go there for a year? I checked out his website and saw a post by him. It was the usual 'I can't tell you anything," but written in Hopper-speak (which is like when a retarded person with a 2nd grade education and a gaping head wound tries to write prose). He said to wait for the official Kawi announcement.
whu?
WORDS FROM HOPKINS
Hey guys. As you all know, everything is up in the air and people want answers. Everything from here is now in my managers hands. I have read nearly all articles posted and find it absolutely crazy how people are stating that I have announced this / or said that. when in fact I have avoided ALL phone-calls from the media until time permits. There will be an official press release held very soon, where we can confirm or deny all rumors. I will let you all now as soon as I get the go ahead. I just wanted to say thank you for all your support through this year and now. will keep you posted...... Hopper
self edit* I can do no better ;D
I totaly respect what even the slowest guy in the paddock is capable of on a motorcycle. Hell, I'm impressed with what guys in the fast group at a track day can do. [bow_down]
However, it's all relative right. He was 4th in points last year which is unreal in human terms but these guys are paid to win and put the bike on the podium.
2nd place is just the first looser!
The little girl that writes for RRW has better writing skills than Hopper as well. [cheeky]
Quote from: bobspapa on January 01, 2009, 12:04:31 PM
whu?
WORDS FROM HOPKINS
Hey guys. As you all know, everything is up in the air and people want answers. Everything from here is now in my managers hands. I have read nearly all articles posted and find it absolutely crazy how people are stating that I have announced this / or said that. when in fact I have avoided ALL phone-calls from the media until time permits. There will be an official press release held very soon, where we can confirm or deny all rumors. I will let you all now as soon as I get the go ahead. I just wanted to say thank you for all your support through this year and now. will keep you posted...... Hopper
self edit* I can do no better ;D
Ok, so it wasn't nearly as bad as some of his other stuff. But hand it to your teacher wife and see what she says. Yeah, I know, I know. They hired him to ride a motorcycle, not to write a book.
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72601 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72601)
Quote from: gm2 on January 02, 2009, 05:42:24 PM
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72601 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72601)
ha! we were
just talkin yesterday about the possibility of somebody else running the team. ;D
yep :)
Still leaves Hopkins without a job.
Quote from: Slag on January 03, 2009, 07:40:57 AM
Still leaves Hopkins without a job.
I didn't read it that way.
Quote from: Slag on January 03, 2009, 07:40:57 AM
Still leaves Hopkins without a job.
I read it the opposite.
mitt
Quote from: mitt on January 04, 2009, 10:31:57 AM
I read it the opposite.
mitt
I find it interesting that Martinez would say that "The matter regarding riders isn't a priority at the moment," and then say "I certainly wouldn't have any problem with Melandri. In fact, he's a rider I've always liked very much."
You would think that he would say something about Hopkins there. I believe that his leaving out of Hopkins says volumes. If Hopkins does stay, I put it at one year max. I just do not think that he will be there.
Quote from: Slag on January 04, 2009, 03:27:02 PM
I find it interesting that Martinez would say that "The matter regarding riders isn't a priority at the moment," and then say "I certainly wouldn't have any problem with Melandri. In fact, he's a rider I've always liked very much."
You would think that he would say something about Hopkins there. I believe that his leaving out of Hopkins says volumes. If Hopkins does stay, I put it at one year max. I just do not think that he will be there.
I'd agree completely if the piece didn't also mention the Monster money that travels with Hopper.
Money talks....
Quote from: Slag on January 04, 2009, 03:27:02 PM
I find it interesting that Martinez would say that "The matter regarding riders isn't a priority at the moment," and then say "I certainly wouldn't have any problem with Melandri. In fact, he's a rider I've always liked very much."
You would think that he would say something about Hopkins there. I believe that his leaving out of Hopkins says volumes. If Hopkins does stay, I put it at one year max. I just do not think that he will be there.
you're ignoring the sentences preceding that...
granted that part of the article is poorly written but the intention is that, more than marco, john-john on the aspar team is a foregone conclusion.
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72609 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72609)
Quote from: ducpainter on January 04, 2009, 05:29:26 PM
I'd agree completely if the piece didn't also mention the Monster money that travels with Hopper.
Money talks....
Ah! I seemed to read right over that without digesting [thumbsup] [laugh] [bang]
Quote from: gm2 on January 04, 2009, 05:45:38 PM
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72609 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72609)
I think I would fire my manager if he said:
"Marco Melandri's manager Alberto Vergani says he is relying on MotoGP promoter Dorna to find the Italian a 2009 ride after Kawasaki's decision to withdraw."
Vergani is relying on someone else - what is his job description again? Though Marco can't sell himself on his results from the last year.
mitt
Quote from: mitt on January 05, 2009, 10:11:17 AM
I think I would fire my manager if he said:
"Marco Melandri's manager Alberto Vergani says he is relying on MotoGP promoter Dorna to find the Italian a 2009 ride after Kawasaki's decision to withdraw."
Vergani is relying on someone else - what is his job description again? Though Marco can't sell himself on his results from the last year.
mitt
read it again: there are no seats available on the grid. the only way that there will be any seats available is if dorna subsidizes or offers up incentives for somebody to field another team in the motogp class.
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/090105wmz.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/090105wmz.htm)
pretty soon we'll hear that freddie spencer is the new kawi rider.
Interesting.
[popcorn]
Has the 'official' announcement been made yet ?
Nothing on Kawasaki's MotoGP site or Hopper's site yet. :-\
I have been periodically checking since yesterday am.
Quote from: Capo on January 06, 2009, 10:28:26 AM
Has the 'official' announcement been made yet ?
no.
rumor recap http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/173020-0/kawasaki_rumours_rumble_on.html
official statement of No Decision Yet... lol http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/173030-0/kawasaki_speak__no_decision_made_yet.html
either way, so far 'melo aint worried about it http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72640
"...After all, Kawasaki signed an agreement with Dorna and these deals can't just be binned from one day to the next."
"MotoGP must start cutting costs. I already have many ideas but I can only make proposals. It's up to the constructors to take certain decisions and find a way to go racing while spending less. I'd propose for example just three bikes per team, so I'd do with one less.
"I'd use steel brakes, no more carbon ones. If useful, I'd cancel Friday practice. And the satellite teams' bikes should be competitive for at least two seasons, unlike now when at the end of a season they get destroyed to be rebuilt from scratch."
Quote from: gm2 on January 06, 2009, 08:55:43 AM
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/090105wmz.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/090105wmz.htm)
pretty soon we'll hear that freddie spencer is the new kawi rider.
Yamaha: Hopkins Rumor Laughably Wrong http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/081207a.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/081207a.htm)
Quote from: gm2 on January 07, 2009, 08:16:54 AM
Yamaha: Hopkins Rumor Laughably Wrong
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/081207a.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/081207a.htm)
I read that yesterday and was laughing also...
"The issue is under consideration," the source said. "We have made no decision. We are in contact with parties concerned so that we can decide our future course of action.â€
[popcorn]
Apparently, the 'consideration' is a result of the size of the compensation that Dorna is demanding
Quote from: Capo on January 07, 2009, 01:42:35 PM
Apparently, the 'consideration' is a result of the size of the compensation that Dorna is demanding
as i said earlier, it'd more likely be the other way around (dorna subsidizing/offering incentives for somebody
anybody to run the kawasakis).
Hopkins On AMA Superbike Rumors: "No. Definitely Not." (http://roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=35295)
http://moto-racing.speedtv.com/article/motogp-kawasaki-reconsidering-motogp-withdrawal/ (http://moto-racing.speedtv.com/article/motogp-kawasaki-reconsidering-motogp-withdrawal/)
Aspar want long-term Kawasaki deal (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72655)
Quote from: Capo on January 08, 2009, 06:31:28 AM
http://moto-racing.speedtv.com/article/motogp-kawasaki-reconsidering-motogp-withdrawal/ (http://moto-racing.speedtv.com/article/motogp-kawasaki-reconsidering-motogp-withdrawal/)
20M Euro total cost to pull out! :o
Quote from: Speeddog on January 08, 2009, 11:40:38 AM
20M Euro total cost to pull out! :o
no wonder carmelo wasn't worried.... [laugh]
same info, more or less: http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/090108kawinn.htm
Quote from: Speeddog on January 08, 2009, 11:40:38 AM
20M Euro total cost to pull out! :o
...and that doesn't even include whatever other contractual obligations they had (hopper, melandri, sponsors, etc).
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/090108kawinn.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Jan/090108kawinn.htm)
Apparently the 'incentive' was higher than that....
20M Euro per season for '09, '10 and '11.
That's a lot of skin.
getting a bill for $82 million wouldn't exactly accomplish the cost-cutting desires at KHI
contractual obligation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMmf-Vafv5s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMmf-Vafv5s)
but wait, there's more:
http://www.roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=35303 (http://www.roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=35303)
http://www.roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=35305 (http://www.roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=35305)
it's official!!
this sucks. >:(
I hope Hopper and Melandri can find rides somewhere else.
Maybe Hopper should use all his sponsorship money and run his own independent team for the season.
No comment from Hopper on his website, just a cut and paste of the official announcement from Kawi. :-\
Quote from: DesmoDiva on January 09, 2009, 06:38:01 AM
this sucks. >:(
I hope Hopper and Melandri can find rides somewhere else.
with no mention of Aspar, i bet an announcement is coming soon. KHI isn't going to put themselves on the hook for 30+ million euro (this year) with no back-up plan.
or maybe they are.
Quote from: DesmoDiva on January 09, 2009, 06:38:01 AM
Maybe Hopper should use all his sponsorship money and run his own independent team for the season.
even with Monster dollars, he couldn't afford it. and it would be a disaster. better to sit home in RSF and play video games.
This sucks. :(
so we (maybe) have 1 less backmarker on the grid. big deal. i feel bad for hopper but it's not like he's hurting. i feel worse for marco. what a shit couple years.
even though i'm sure that KHI is suffering somewhat like the rest of the world, that is a HUGE company. if they wanted to run 10 bikes, they could. this was a partially the economy and partially them pouting b/c they did something in the first half of 2007 to the development of that bike that they haven't been able to reverse. and it's theoretically more prudent to focus on the win-on-sunday-buy-on-monday series.
i say theoretically because, look at yamaha.
:( :(...this sucks.
What a shame, Kawi had some of the best looking paddock girls last year a Seca.
Quote from: pennyrobber on January 09, 2009, 12:24:38 PM
What a shame, Kawi had some of the best looking paddock girls last year a Seca.
you do realize those paddock girls are sourced "locally" and will likely still be at the races, yes?
Quote from: gm2 on January 09, 2009, 08:07:06 AM
so we (maybe) have 1 less backmarker on the grid. big deal.
I wish I was good enough to be a "backmarker". [roll]
This is unfortunate. The field was already too small.
Quote from: derby on January 09, 2009, 01:05:56 PM
you do realize those paddock girls are sourced "locally" and will likely still be at the races, yes?
Of course, and thus why it was a joke and not a serious concern.
Quote from: kopfjager on January 09, 2009, 04:18:17 PM
I wish I was good enough to be a "backmarker". [roll]
Me too...
but those guys are getting big bucks to be last...
I have to pay for that privilege.
What's up with that? ;D
I wish I was better than Rossi. [moto]
Quote from: superjohn on January 09, 2009, 04:46:15 PM
This is unfortunate. The field was already too small.
Don't worry. I bet the bikes will still make the grid.
Quote from: Speeddog on January 09, 2009, 05:57:22 PM
I wish I was better than Rossi. [moto]
Hell...I wish I was better then Ant West ;D Or Kurtis ;D
Quote from: superjohn on January 09, 2009, 04:46:15 PM
This is unfortunate. The field was already too small.
which is exactly the concern I have for the future of the sport...I think if this trend keeps up, then it will affect the support classes too.
This may have been stated already but what is the advantage at this point of the GP program for the manufacturers? I don't believe most mortals can access the capabilities of most motorbikes at the local dealer in stock trim. Near 200hp and sub-400lbs at the local shop seems like all there is left to do is refine.
WSBK and other superbike series seem to provide a format for manufacturers to race and develop what is already incredible pieces of equipment at a semi-reasonable expense. Can they get 300hp out of 800ccs? Probably but what's the point?
Just looking at this from a practical standpoint. I love MotoGP but it is just motorbike racing afterall.
look at F1. what's the practicality of that series?
or is it about the manu's flexing their technological and bank account muscles against eachother only, for our enjoyment. yes, there is a lot of trickle down technology, and there are rules around when/how they can do that. the '09 R1 is a good example. that engine didn't come from wsbk development.
where does the 'return' come from? brand loyalty. and advertising. Repsol, Marlboro, Rizla, Fiat, Red Bull... all huge names. LOTS of money spent making sure we know that.
it's not just motorbike racing (greg!! =))... this stuff is 2nd (or 1st?...) to football in spain, italy, and many other areas. valentino rossi is like tiger woods, michael jordan, wayne gretsky, and ali.. all rolled into one person. that guy literally can't walk down the street anywhere in europe without being mobbed.
Quote from: gm2 on January 12, 2009, 09:33:50 AM
or is it about the manu's flexing their technological and bank account muscles against eachother only, for our enjoyment. yes, there is a lot of trickle down technology, and there are rules around when/how they can do that. the '09 R1 is a good example. that engine didn't come from wsbk development.
same is also true for Ducati in the 1098 with the eliptical throttle bodies and chassis design among other things....not just the street version of the Desmosedici.
what GP racing was many many many moons ago wasn't so much...but over the course of the 4 stroke years, it has been very apparent that GP has been used as a mule for testing future streetbike technology, so some of the racing budget does come from the R&D department of things as long as results trickle back in to fuel that formula in the form of parts and technology that does end up finally getting homologated into a sellable product.
there's literally something in the rule books (can't be arsed to find it.. i'm sure derbypedia can/will) about the amount of time the manu has to wait before they can move some technology to production from GP. first guess is 3 years.
When I said it's just motorbike racing I intended to point out the general frivolity of professional sport. [cheeky]
I love the stuff and get how passionate people are for their moto heros.
My point is as you may have validated, MotoGP and F1 are really about thinking and acting with the little head as opposed to the big one. [bacon]
I also appreciate the wonders of the thechnology and engineering but at this point it seems like unless they are looking at hydrogen or other alternative fuel engines can you really make the motorcycle any better than it already is and will those improvements be appreciable to us?
As an aside, I like watching the "touring car" races and seeing someone dice it up in a 3 series BMW and a C class Benzo all tricked out. It's something, if I had the money, I can go out and put together myself, in a practical manner.
Quote from: GregP on January 12, 2009, 03:53:59 PM
When I said it's just motorbike racing I intended to point out the general frivolity of professional sport. [cheeky]
I love the stuff and get how passionate people are for their moto heros.
My point is as you may have validated, MotoGP and F1 are really about thinking and acting with the little head as opposed to the big one. [bacon]
I also appreciate the wonders of the thechnology and engineering but at this point it seems like unless they are looking at hydrogen or other alternative fuel engines can you really make the motorcycle any better than it already is and will those improvements be appreciable to us?
As an aside, I like watching the "touring car" races and seeing someone dice it up in a 3 series BMW and a C class Benzo all tricked out. It's something, if I had the money, I can go out and put together myself, in a practical manner.
okay...take awa y the traction control developed in telemetry data aquisition from the years of Ducati in MotoGP that trickled down into WSBK and now into your 1098R and 1198S....also while you are at it take the same telemetry data aquisition that Honda has now trickled down into an ABS system they are going to implement in their line of sportbikes.....
we are seeing now trickled down from GP into streetbikes currently
Crank firing technology
Actively functional Traction and ABS systems
Fueling management and componentry
structural analysis of frame design and geometry feedback that allows adjustability
suspension system improvements
I am sure there are a few other things I am forgetting that are equally as signifigant as well...
Tires (alltho at least one person here disputes that)
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72753 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72753)
'"But Kawasaki leaving isn't a reason for everyone to start panicking. I think they are leaving not just because of financial reasons," added the 2007 world champion.'
gee, ya think ;)
Quote from: GregP on January 12, 2009, 03:53:59 PM
I also appreciate the wonders of the thechnology and engineering but at this point it seems like unless they are looking at hydrogen or other alternative fuel engines can you really make the motorcycle any better than it already is and will those improvements be appreciable to us?
This argument can be made every single year. Back when Hailwood won the TT, I bet no one could even imagine what GP bikes would be today...just like we can't imagine what they will be in 30 years.
Quote from: derby on January 09, 2009, 01:05:56 PM
you do realize those paddock girls are sourced "locally" and will likely still be at the races, yes?
Wasn't Sarah Walker from TOB usually a Kawasaki promo girl?
big
Quote from: bigiain on January 13, 2009, 11:27:09 PM
Wasn't Sarah Walker from TOB usually a Kawasaki promo girl?
big
yup.
I just came across this about Suzuki -
http://www.motogpmatters.com/news/2009/01/14/suzuki_to_follow_kawasaki_exit_rumors_pe.html (http://www.motogpmatters.com/news/2009/01/14/suzuki_to_follow_kawasaki_exit_rumors_pe.html)
Will Suzuki follow in Kawasaki's footsteps and exit MotoGP?
Money is probably tight at Suzuki, and they announced today that they were going to shut down their car+motorcycle factories for a few extra days this month.
Quote from: bluemoco v2.0 on January 14, 2009, 01:21:36 PM
Money is probably tight at Suzuki, and they announced today that they were going to shut down their car+motorcycle factories for a few extra days this month.
I think literally every motor manufacturer (cars included) in Japan are doing that.
http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/173245-0/dorna_kawasaki_must_race_testing_now.html (http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/173245-0/dorna_kawasaki_must_race_testing_now.html)
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72816 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72816)
Quote from: derby on January 16, 2009, 07:04:04 AM
http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/173245-0/dorna_kawasaki_must_race_testing_now.html (http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/173245-0/dorna_kawasaki_must_race_testing_now.html)
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72816 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72816)
Make an engine last 3 weekends?
Is he nuts?
"...Ezpeleta once again warned Kawasaki that it cannot simply walk away: "If Kawasaki will not race, I will take them to court."
Those words could also be seen as warning to any other manufacturers thinking of quitting...."
seems this is a strong statement to the Suzuki people in lieu of the rumors of them thinking of pulling up stakes also...especially amidst their sponsorship troubles with Rizla.
Quote from: just another painter on January 16, 2009, 07:38:38 AM
Make an engine last 3 weekends?
Is he nuts?
taking cue from formula 1, which was two races per engine last year and eight engines for the whole season (17 races) in 2009. gearboxes must also last four races.
Quote from: derby on January 16, 2009, 08:57:41 AM
taking cue from formula 1, which was two races per engine last year and eight engines for the whole season (17 races) in 2009. gearboxes must also last four races.
I wish all of them luck.
A race motor lasts...
for a race plus...one lap.
Quote from: ducpainter on January 16, 2009, 05:19:09 PM
I wish all of them luck.
A race motor lasts...
for a race plus...one lap.
I think it was Colin Chapman who said "If the whole car doesn't fall to bits as it crosses the finish line, you built it too heavy..."
big
http://www.crash.net/MotoGP/News/142365/1/kawasaki_delays_motogp_decision.html (http://www.crash.net/MotoGP/News/142365/1/kawasaki_delays_motogp_decision.html)
http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm)
This is great news. If it's true. [clap]
What about Hopper?? :-\
[popcorn]
my guess is he's being extremely lawyer-is-telling-me-to-be-quiet quiet
Quote from: gm2 on February 10, 2009, 01:32:47 PM
http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm)
I thought I just read something about Melandri doing a stint on 4 wheels? Did I get my gossip all mixed up?
Quote from: gm2 on February 10, 2009, 01:43:33 PM
my guess is he's being extremely lawyer-is-telling-me-to-be-quiet quiet
I hope he (Hopper) lands a ride.
They both deserve to be on the grid. [thumbsup]
Quote from: Spidey on February 10, 2009, 01:45:27 PM
I thought I just read something about Melandri doing a stint on 4 wheels? Did I get my gossip all mixed up?
Yeah, he was going to do something 4W: http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/090210a33.htm
it gets stranger
http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm)
" Melandri riding ex-Kawasaki MotoGP bikes this season. Insiders suggest that Dorna will run the team independently "
Well, at least green is an appropriate color for the folks at Dorna ;D
Quote from: desmoquattro on February 10, 2009, 02:02:41 PM
Well, at least green is an appropriate color for the folks at Dorna ;D
[laugh] [clap] [laugh]
Quote from: mitt on February 10, 2009, 02:00:50 PM
it gets stranger
http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/09021033-2.htm)
" Melandri riding ex-Kawasaki MotoGP bikes this season. Insiders suggest that Dorna will run the team independently "
marco referred to this a while back; he said that his future was "in Dorna's hands". kawi is contracted with Dorna to have two bikes out there. Dorna is contracted (or whatever the appropriate word is there) with FIM to have at least 18 bikes on the grid, or one more than they had with the 2 kawis gone.
kawi would theoretically owe Dorna $60mil for '09 and '10 if they didn't race, but i'm sure that Dorna would be ensuring there'd never be a kawi in motogp ever again if they really went after that money.
and kawi has to pay marco and john either way.
...so i'm sure everyone got together, kawi spent some money, but less money, and Dorna spent some. it's an investment in their own commercial rights, either way.
plus i bet hopper wants not only his full salary but at least a decent shot at not running in the back of the pack. that means engines for the whole season, testing money, decent crews, yadda yadda. all the things he should expect if they were going to mount a serious charge.
which they (kawi) aren't. so.
...what a mess.
I like the name DornaSaki!
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/73315 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/73315)
"Hopkins has given up: in his opinion money is more important, while now we have to race for nothing," said Melandri. "I'm ready to invest in myself. I'll be alone."
They're baaaaaaaaaack . . . . And without Hopper (While I'll miss his stand-ups, he's never lived up to the Faster hype).
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/090226a.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2009/Feb/090226a.htm)
The Power of Lawyers: Kawasaki To Run Melandri In MotoGP!
Melandri to start 2009 MotoGP season in one-rider team
FEBRUARY 26, 2009 - Kawasaki announces that after constructive talks between Kawasaki, Dorna and other involved parties, a new one-rider Team will participate in the 2009 MotoGP Championship season.
This decision was made after negotiations that followed Kawasaki's January 2009 announcement to suspend its factory supported MotoGP activities due to the economic crisis. Rider for the new MotoGP team will be the Italian Marco Melandri.
The team will be equipped with Kawasaki motorcycles and supporting materials.
That Kawasaki has come to this new team approach is the result of on the one hand the need for a strong reduction of MotoGP racing investments and on the other hand the necessity to come to constructive solutions for all related parties.
The new team will disclose more details about its 2009 season's plans on a short notice.
Sad to see hopper gone, He has never been a real contender, but he was from CA so... felt like he was local team.
I'm not looking forward to this season like I have others, but It's good to see at least one more bike on the ever shrinking grid.
(MELANDRI)
gaaaaaawdammmm, what a consolation prize. F'up with the best team in the world and go from a D16 to riding a thing that looks like a fish. [laugh]
At least he has a job riding. that still doesn't suck too bad.
Quote from: Cynic on February 26, 2009, 01:15:08 PM
Sad to see hopper gone, He has never been a real contender, but he was from CA so... felt like he was local team.
+1
kawi('s lawyers) seem to be sure, but marco isn't.
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/73459 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/73459)
Marco Melandri says his MotoGP future is still up in the air, despite the announcement from Kawasaki that they will run a one-bike team in 2009.
The Japanese squad, who had announced their withdrawal from the sport at the start of the year, said on Thursday that Melandri would be riding their bike after partially reversing their decision.
The Italian rider signed with Kawasaki last year after leaving the Ducati team, and he was expected to be partnering John Hopkins before the manufacturer confirmed its exit.
Despite Thursday's announcement, Melandri said he was yet to hear from the team and he admitted he wants to test this year's bike before he commits to racing with it.
"I got calls from many people, but I haven't received any official confirmation," Melandri was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport. "It's incredible that I should come to know these things from journalists.
"My situation is up in the air: I need to close the old contract and do a new one for this different solution. I know there's not much money, and that's no big issue for me.
"But the discussion was very clear: since they didn't give me guarantees on the 2009 bike, I want to try it myself, from Sunday onwards in Qatar, and then decide.
"That's because I don't feel like starting the season with a bike that is three seconds slower than the others, and that doesn't even get developed during the season.
"I don't know whether the bikes are in Qatar, but I guess they are. But the team is formed: the mechanics are the same I had in the first tests, and they will be headed by telemetry man Andrea Dosoli."
That would suck riding at that level on a half-assed committed team. It is one thing to not be competitive, but it could also mean putting your life on the line with a marginal bike / team / parts etc.
mitt
for sure.
and while marco is saying all the right things re money and flexibility etc., i'm sure he doesn't want to spend a 2nd consecutive season riding around in last place. or be out there only b/c it's cheaper for them to do that than it is to pay off Dorna. talk about demoralizing.
shoulda taken that gresini ride...
As if the Kawis weren't bad enough last year, Kawi just shot themselves in the foot for the next half-decade of MotoGP. What idiots.
Quote from: gm2 on February 27, 2009, 07:54:27 AM
<snip>
shoulda taken that gresini ride...
Hindsight is cheating... ;)
Quote from: ducpainter on February 27, 2009, 11:06:51 AM
Hindsight is cheating... ;)
True, but it's an essential part of any monday morning quarterback toolkit. I never go onto the interwebz without it. ;D
http://www.crash.net/MotoGP/News/143925/1/marco_melandri_i_will_race_the_hayate.html (http://www.crash.net/MotoGP/News/143925/1/marco_melandri_i_will_race_the_hayate.html)
"Kawasaki had wanted a total withdraw, but has been 'persuaded' to back a privateer entry after consultations with Dorna. Kawasaki will supply the machinery and necessary technical support to Hayate, but no development is expected."
I don't care how good Melandri is. With no development and on a Kawi? He's gonna be in eleventy billionth place for every round this year.
"Whilst Melandri was a worrying 3.207sec off former team-mate Casey Stoner, Melandri was within two seconds of third placed Valentino Rossi - a reasonable deficit given the troubled background of the Hayate project - and only 0.065sec from Tech 3 Yamaha's James Toseland."
at least he's only .06 off last place so far... =)
sad part is that reasonable deficit is only going to get more and more unreasonable.
seems like it is just downright pathetic to me unless it has immeasurable set-up and handling in the rain which seems to be an equalizer and he ronks and stonks on that thing.
better than sitting home. probably.
Quote from: gm2 on March 12, 2009, 12:51:07 PM
better than sitting home. probably.
what is the old phrase?...a bad day of riding still beats a good day at work! I guess for him it is just the opposite...but still...he IS riding!
maybe he needs to take a cue or few from them BSBK guys with their "Bin it or Win it" way of riding and hangin it out there!
Quote from: zooom on March 12, 2009, 01:23:19 PM
maybe he needs to take a cue or few from them BSBK guys with their "Bin it or Win it" way of riding and hangin it out there!
I know he's not getting paid much (perhaps at all) to ride it, but I wonder how much Casey would pay him (in unmarked bills in a brown paper bag) to take Rossi out early in the season?
<smirk>
big