Ducati Monster Forum

Schedule (left coast times)

Friday, 09 April 2010
125 FP1   10:00 - 11:00
Moto2 FP1   11:15 - 12:15
MotoGP FP1   12:30 - 13:30

Saturday, 10 April 2010
125 FP2   08:00 - 08:40
MotoGP FP2   08:55 - 09:55
Moto2 FP2   10:10 - 11:10
125 QP   12:00 - 12:40
MotoGP QP   12:55 - 13:55

Sunday, 11 April 2010
Moto2 QP   Sat-14:10 - 14:55
125 WUP   Sun-08:00 - 08:20
Moto2 WUP   08:30 - 08:50
MotoGP WUP   09:00 - 09:20
125 RAC   10:00
Moto2 RAC   11:15
MotoGP RAC   13:00

I'll be watching it and the WSBK races at my local dealer with the demo truck in attendance.

Not sure I follow this, but when is the Race on Sunday? left side time.

Quote from: ICON on April 07, 2010, 07:45:58 AM
Not sure I follow this, but when is the Race on Sunday? left side time.

1pm....

SpeedTV schedule says 4:00pm EST

looks like speed is showing the races live this year.  [thumbsup]

Quote from: derby on April 07, 2010, 10:09:23 AM
looks like speed is showing the races live this year.  [thumbsup]

with it being a night race...seems like it works out that way doesn't it?

confirmed in HD, no less...

http://www.roadracerx.com/uncategorized/speed-to-air-motogp-races-live-in-hd/ (http://www.roadracerx.com/uncategorized/speed-to-air-motogp-races-live-in-hd/)


MotoGP on SPEED air date and times (subject to change):
* Grand Prix of Qatar â€" April 11 (4 p.m. ET, Live)
* Japan â€" April 25 (Late night Saturday, April 24, 2 a.m. ET, Live)
* Spanish Grand Prix â€" May 2 (8 a.m. ET, Live)
* French Grand Prix â€" May 25 (2 p.m. ET, taped)
* Italian Grand Prix â€" June 6 (8 a.m. ET, Live)
* British Grand Prix â€" June 20 (9:30 a.m. ET, Live)
* Dutch Grand Prix â€" June 26 (9:30 a.m. ET, SDD)
* Catalunyan Grand Prix â€" July 4 (8 a.m. ET, Live)
* German Grand Prix â€" July 18 (8 a.m. ET, Live)
* U.S. Grand Prix â€" July 25 (TBD)
* Czech Grand Prix â€" August 15 (8 a.m. ET, Live)
* Indianapolis Grand Prix â€" August 29 (TBD)
* San Marino â€" September 5 (8 a.m. ET, Live)
* Hungary â€" September 19 (9 a.m. ET, Live)
* Malaysian Grand Prix â€" October 10 (6 p.m. ET, SDD)
* Australian Grand Prix â€" October 17 (Late night Saturday, October 16, 1 a.m. ET, Live)
* Portugal â€" October 31 (5 p.m. ET, SDD)
* Valencia Grand Prix â€" November 7 (8 a.m. ET, Live)

live and in HD??  where the hell are we, europe?!

Live races?!?  Woohooo!!!  I can get in an hour of racing before 'lil Bastard wakes up on Sundays.   [thumbsup]

<dancin', dancin'>

Quote from: gm2 on April 07, 2010, 01:24:22 PM
* San Marino â€" September 5 (8 a.m. ET, Live)

Sweet! I'll be on live TV! ;D

I dislike speed just a little bit less right now.

Let's get this party started!  [moto]

The Ben on the podium.

Oh, and be aware that there's talk of changing the time of the actual race.

Whether that may effect the broadcast time, well, YMMV.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82757 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82757)

Quote from: Speeddog on April 07, 2010, 07:00:38 PM
The Ben on the podium.

Curiously, this is a better chance than he'll have later in the year.  He knows the track, has tested there, Pedro is nowhere right now and Lorenzo isn't 100%.  

Quote from: Spidey on April 07, 2010, 07:10:34 PM
Curiously, this is a better chance than he'll have later in the year.  He knows the track, has tested there, Pedro is nowhere right now and Lorenzo isn't 100%.  

so what you're saying is, you wouldn't bet against him?

Hmmm . . .  Yes, I would.  I win either way.  If he gets a podium, I'm happy.  If he doesn't, I win a bet.

What do I think will happen?  Man, I know better than to think The Ben won't do better than expectations.  

So here it is . . . he's not going to beat Rossi or Casey (though Casey could fall down -- he does sometimes or completely blow a turn).  Pedrosa doesn't put on charges during the race, and doesn't have the speed to get to the front and run away with it, so he's probably not an issue.  Dovi was fast in testing, but routinely loses pace at the end of the race.    Valencia last year was no fluke.  So if The Ben can hang with him (which he can), he'll eat him up at the end.  Colin is consistent, but not a killer as the race progresses.   Hayden is a total wildcard.  His racecraft is good.  He can put passes on people and move up during a race, but who knows if he'll be able to qualify well enough.  Man, if he even gets through Turn 1 unscathed it'll be considered a good start to the season.  I just have less faith in him on the Duc than the Ben on the Yami.  DePuniet? Capi?  They'll be around, but not on the podium.  

So the really big question is Lorenzo.  Lorenzo's had a coupla weeks to heal, has no problem coming on strong at the end of a race, and can race hurt.  And he's proven.  And he's had a year more on that bike.  And he's fast as make the beast with two backs.  I wouldn't bet against Lorenzo.  So yeah, I'd bet against The Ben.  But he's got a real shot at it.

I call Rossi, Stoner and Lorenzo in that order.  The prediction is subject to change, up and during the last lap.   ;D

Edit:  wait a sec.  Didn't I say at some point that I wasn't betting against The Ben this year?!?

so... stoner has won every 800cc race in Qatar.  3 in a row.

last/only time ben raced here, he doubled.  then he finished the test here in 4th but for more than a little while he was 2nd.

george says he's "still not 100%".  which is probably a little bs, but i don't think he's bright enough to really play the press, rossi-style.

i think rossi is hungrier than ever because the threats are stacking up, and that's what he loves.

colin wants to prove he's not going to be just ben's tuner.

nicky would give up a finger (hi rog!) to prove that 2006 wasn't strictly a matter of rossi losing.


so yeah.. i would wager that ben lands on the podium in his first race.   ;D

... i say that thinking full well that it aint gonna happen.  but that's what i also did all of last year re the championship. 

Stoner
Rossi
Lorenzo

Qatar has been Stoner's track for a few years, it suits the Duc well. I would have picked Rossi to win or come in second anyway. Lorenzo is playing possum(sp?).

Stoner
Rossi
Capirossi

Stoner
Rossi
The Ben

Lorenzo highsides trying not to get beat by a rookie on a satellite bike.  ;D

Looks like they've decided to not change the race time:
http://www.motomatters.com/news/2010/04/08/ezpeleta_no_need_to_change_schedule_at_q.html (http://www.motomatters.com/news/2010/04/08/ezpeleta_no_need_to_change_schedule_at_q.html)

Quote from: Triple J on April 08, 2010, 08:07:07 AM
Stoner
Rossi
The Ben

Lorenzo highsides trying not to get beat by a rookie on a satellite bike.  ;D

" must outride The Ben "

(http://www.visordown.com/news/images/lorenzo-china-02.jpg)

"I bet The Ben can't do this!"

(http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/210052/images/Jorge%20Lorenzo%20crash%201.jpg)

" Ben sure is a fine looking man from up here "

(http://www.themccurrys.com/images/lorenzo_highside.jpg)

Quote from: Speeddog on April 08, 2010, 08:09:02 AM
Looks like they've decided to not change the race time:
http://www.motomatters.com/news/2010/04/08/ezpeleta_no_need_to_change_schedule_at_q.html (http://www.motomatters.com/news/2010/04/08/ezpeleta_no_need_to_change_schedule_at_q.html)

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82757 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82757)

Quote from: Triple J on April 08, 2010, 08:07:07 AM
Lorenzo highsides trying not to get beat by a rookie on a satellite bike.  ;D

[laugh]

And well done, Jester.    [thumbsup]

Quote from: Speeddog on April 07, 2010, 07:09:31 PM
Oh, and be aware that there's talk of changing the time of the actual race.

Whether that may effect the broadcast time, well, YMMV.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82757 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82757)

;D

stupid chickens and eggs.  =)

125 FP1 live video now.

COMMERCIALBANK GRAND PRIX OF QATAR

MotoGP Free Practice Nr. 1 Classification

Doha, Friday, April 09, 2010
Pos.   Num.   Rider   Nation   Team   Bike   Km/h   Time   Gap 1st/Prev.
1   27   Casey STONER   AUS   Ducati Marlboro Team   Ducati   317.7   1'55.500   
2   99   Jorge LORENZO   SPA   Fiat Yamaha Team   Yamaha   314.3   1'56.026   0.526 / 0.526
3   46   Valentino ROSSI   ITA   Fiat Yamaha Team   Yamaha   315.2   1'56.028   0.528 / 0.002
4   4   Andrea DOVIZIOSO   ITA   Repsol Honda Team   Honda   319.1   1'56.698   1.198 / 0.670
5   69   Nicky HAYDEN   USA   Ducati Marlboro Team   Ducati   315.1   1'56.793   1.293 / 0.095
6   11   Ben SPIES   USA   Monster Yamaha Tech 3   Yamaha   312.9   1'56.818   1.318 / 0.025
7   19   Alvaro BAUTISTA   SPA   Rizla Suzuki MotoGP   Suzuki   315.2   1'56.998   1.498 / 0.180
8   14   Randy DE PUNIET   FRA   LCR Honda MotoGP   Honda   311.8   1'57.031   1.531 / 0.033
9   36   Mika KALLIO   FIN   Pramac Racing Team   Ducati   318.6   1'57.059   1.559 / 0.028
10   40   Hector BARBERA   SPA   Paginas Amarillas Aspar   Ducati   318.2   1'57.105   1.605 / 0.046
11   26   Dani PEDROSA   SPA   Repsol Honda Team   Honda   317.3   1'57.133   1.633 / 0.028
12   5   Colin EDWARDS   USA   Monster Yamaha Tech 3   Yamaha   311.3   1'57.167   1.667 / 0.034
13   65   Loris CAPIROSSI   ITA   Rizla Suzuki MotoGP   Suzuki   317.2   1'57.363   1.863 / 0.196
14   58   Marco SIMONCELLI   ITA   San Carlo Honda Gresini   Honda   312.5   1'57.535   2.035 / 0.172
15   41   Aleix ESPARGARO   SPA   Pramac Racing Team   Ducati   314.2   1'57.605   2.105 / 0.070
16   33   Marco MELANDRI   ITA   San Carlo Honda Gresini   Honda   316.4   1'58.035   2.535 / 0.430
17   7   Hiroshi AOYAMA   JPN   Interwetten Honda MotoGP   Honda   316.6   1'58.082   2.582 / 0.047

WOW, 4 Ducks in the top ten [clap]

Nicky and The Ben 5th & 6th! Wo0T!  [moto]

Quote from: Speeddog on April 09, 2010, 12:41:15 PM
Nicky and The Ben 5th & 6th! Wo0T!  [moto]

And Casey half a second ahead of everyone else...Double Woot!

What's up with Colin?

Quote from: swampduc on April 09, 2010, 01:16:15 PM
What's up with Colin?

it's just fp1.. i expect everybody to get faster.

besides, he's only .3s off 6th.

(http://www.superbikeplanet.com/image/2010/motogp/qatar/1/8.jpg)

Quote from: gm2 on April 09, 2010, 11:05:29 PM
(http://www.superbikeplanet.com/image/2010/motogp/qatar/1/8.jpg)

his gig sucks...

eh? ;D

(http://www.superbikeplanet.com/image/2010/motogp/qatar/1/8.jpg)


Caption:

Yea, life is good.  I am racing gp and hitting this ->


mitt

^ she's secretly looking at Rossi's lap times.

fap fap fap fap fap

FP2 times

1.    Casey Stoner    AUS   Ducati Marlboro Team    1m   55.501s   
2.    Valentino Rossi    ITA   Fiat Yamaha Team    1m   55.841s   
3.    Randy de Puniet    FRA   LCR Honda MotoGP    1m   56.35s   
4.    Andrea Dovizioso    ITA   Repsol Honda Team    1m   56.569s   
5.    Jorge Lorenzo    SPA   Fiat Yamaha Team    1m   56.646s   
6.    Mika Kallio    FIN   Pramac Racing    1m   56.664s   
7.    Ben Spies    USA   Monster Yamaha Tech 3    1m   56.678s   
8.    Loris Capirossi    ITA   Rizla Suzuki MotoGP    1m   56.713s   
9.    Dani Pedrosa    SPA   Repsol Honda Team    1m   56.736s   
10.    Colin Edwards USA   Monster Yamaha Tech 3    1m   56.776s   
11.    Nicky Hayden USA   Ducati Marlboro Team    1m   56.786s   
12.    Marco Simoncelli ITA   San Carlo Honda Gresini    1m   56.796s   
13.    Alvaro Bautista SPA   Rizla Suzuki MotoGP    1m   56.972s   
14.    Aleix Espargaro    SPA   Pramac Racing    1m   57.024s   
15.    Hector Barbera    SPA   Paginas Amarillas Aspar    1m   57.272s   
16.    Hiroshi Aoyama JPN   Interwetten Honda MotoGP    1m   57.371s   
17.    Marco Melandri    ITA   San Carlo Honda Gresini    1m   57.513s   

I think its pretty exciting that 80% of the field is essentially running the same times.  There should be some great scraps for the non podium positions... and even 3rd place possibly.

Qualifying Times

1. Casey Stoner AUS Ducati Marlboro Team 1m 55.007s
2. Valentino Rossi ITA Fiat Yamaha Team 1m 55.362s
3. Jorge Lorenzo SPA Fiat Yamaha Team 1m 55.52s
4. Randy de Puniet FRA LCR Honda MotoGP 1m 55.831s
5. Loris Capirossi ITA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 1m 55.899s
6. Andrea Dovizioso ITA Repsol Honda Team 1m 55.963s
7. Dani Pedrosa SPA Repsol Honda Team 1m 55.99s
8. Colin Edwards USA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 1m 56.005s
9. Nicky Hayden USA Ducati Marlboro Team 1m 56.163s
10. Hiroshi Aoyama JPN Interwetten Honda MotoGP 1m 56.227s
11. Ben Spies USA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 1m 56.271s
12. Mika Kallio FIN Pramac Racing 1m 56.283s
13. Alvaro Bautista SPA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 1m 56.45s
14. Aleix Espargaro SPA Pramac Racing 1m 56.652s
15. Marco Simoncelli ITA San Carlo Honda Gresini 1m 56.957s
16. Hector Barbera SPA Paginas Amarillas Aspar 1m 57.13s
17. Marco Melandri ITA San Carlo Honda Gresini 1m 57.325s

i was only sorta watching but with about 8mins to go ben had a big moment in T14.  saved it but blew his lap of course.  i think he went back out after that but i'm not even sure.

none of the yamahas were in the top 10 of top speed.

Yeah, that is going to be an interesting point.  Yamaha was saying they hadn't lost performance, but they are back to being 10+kph off top speeds like 2-3 years ago.  We'll see how it all pans out I'm sure.  I'm willing to bet we'll see a few guys dip past the 6 engine alotment before the season ends.

Gee... ya think? No way people stick to that engine limit rule. They'll take the fines. I'll take that bet with you Jacob. [thumbsup] Sorry but it's a stupid rule. The factories will spend more $$$ trying to figure out a way to make the motors perform AND be more durable than they did last year on performance motors alone. So... what's the alleged $$$ saving point? Can we be sure that some Washington DC oversight committee isn't in charge of this rule change??? [laugh]

Stoner is rippin'.  I thought that--even at Qatar--Rossi's preseason speed would have him on par.  While they've been close a lot of the time this weekend, Stoner can throw down laps that Rossi just can't touch.  If he gets away at the front early and Rossi can't stay with him to make him change his line (or even just make him think), he's gone. 

Damn, Spies blew qualy. 

Told you (whoever "you" are) Lorenzo would be blazin' this weekend. 

Quote from: fastwin on April 10, 2010, 05:43:46 PM
Gee... ya think? No way people stick to that engine limit rule. They'll take the fines. I'll take that bet with you Jacob. [thumbsup] Sorry but it's a stupid rule. The factories will spend more $$$ trying to figure out a way to make the motors perform AND be more durable than they did last year on performance motors alone. So... what's the alleged $$$ saving point? Can we be sure that some Washington DC oversight committee isn't in charge of this rule change??? [laugh]

go look at the last decade of f1. i guarantee you BILLIONS have been wasted in the name of saving money.

Quote from: Spidey on April 10, 2010, 06:13:18 PM
Told you (whoever "you" are) Lorenzo would be blazin' this weekend. 

I'm not sure Lorenzo is going to hang up front though.  He's put in a fast lap or two, but his consistant laps are closer to midpack pace.  Typically Lorenzo lays down tons of fast laps in the same manner as Stoner and Rossi.  He hasn't been the kind of consistant rider we're used to seeing.  I think the hand still needs another few weeks.... but I guess we find out tomorrow.

Quote from: Jester on April 10, 2010, 06:39:36 PM
I'm not sure Lorenzo is going to hang up front though.  He's put in a fast lap or two, but his consistant laps are closer to midpack pace.  Typically Lorenzo lays down tons of fast laps in the same manner as Stoner and Rossi.  He hasn't been the kind of consistant rider we're used to seeing.  I think the hand still needs another few weeks.... but I guess we find out tomorrow.

are you referring to his laps in qualy?

http://resources.motogp.com/files/results/xx/2010/QAT/MotoGP/QP/Analysis.pdf?v1_8a6ee4c4 (http://resources.motogp.com/files/results/xx/2010/QAT/MotoGP/QP/Analysis.pdf?v1_8a6ee4c4)

Warm up top 5...

Stoner
Rossi
Lorenzo
Hayden
Spies

rossi and stoner the only two in the 55s.

someone at repsol is having kittens

Quote from: derby on April 10, 2010, 06:19:55 PMgo look at the last decade of f1. i guarantee you BILLIONS have been wasted in the name of saving money.

Exactly what I've been saying for years. The "cost saving" thing is just a front, same in GP, F1 and WRC unfortunately.

I'm a bit concerned about Moto2, I was looking at qualy for a min before I realized that I didn't give a shit. The racing better be good or we'll end up with another "cost saving" exercise.

The times for GP are really interesting, I'm hoping that Bautista get's his shit together and stays up there. THE BEN is damn impressive and it's great to see Nicky up there as well. The usual Rossi/Stoner battle will ensue I think. Stoner needs at least .5 of a second a lap to make up for Rossi's racecraft with pure speed. Lorenzo it like Rossi but just not quite as fast.

wow... what a race!

nicky SO close... impressive first race for ben.

Race Results

1.    Valentino Rossi    ITA   Fiat Yamaha Team    42m   50.099s   
2.    Jorge Lorenzo    SPA   Fiat Yamaha Team    42m   51.121s   
3.    Andrea Dovizioso    ITA   Repsol Honda Team    42m   51.964s   
4.    Nicky Hayden USA   Ducati Marlboro Team    42m   51.975s   
5.    Ben Spies    USA   Monster Yamaha Tech 3    42m   54.002s   
6.    Randy de Puniet    FRA   LCR Honda MotoGP    42m   59.421s   
7.    Dani Pedrosa    SPA   Repsol Honda Team    43m   6.607s   
8.    Colin Edwards USA   Monster Yamaha Tech 3    43m   9.966s   
9.    Loris Capirossi    ITA   Rizla Suzuki MotoGP    43m   10.992s   
10.    Hiroshi Aoyama JPN   Interwetten Honda MotoGP    43m   11.199s   
11.    Marco Simoncelli ITA   San Carlo Honda Gresini    43m   21.737s   
12.    Hector Barbera    SPA   Paginas Amarillas Aspar    43m   22.672s   
13.    Marco Melandri    ITA   San Carlo Honda Gresini    43m   30.879s

DNF:   
Alvaro Bautista SPA   Rizla Suzuki MotoGP   
Aleix Espargaro    SPA   Pramac Racing   
Casey Stoner    AUS   Ducati Marlboro Team   
Mika Kallio    FIN   Pramac Racing   

damn dovi!  that sucked for hayden BIG time.

MotoGP may be lots of fun to watch this year if this race portends things to come! Too bad for Nicky. That was a balls up pass on the last lap only to get out pulled by Dovi.

Those damn Hondas were hauling ass down the front straight.
Interesting to see if they make the full season on 6 motors....

Good to see Hayden mixing it up near the front.  [moto]

Good ride by The Ben.  [beer]

Didn't see what happened to Stoner.  ???

Really tough to see Nicky end up off the podium.  I'm really surprised at Casey's mistake.  I'm not sure I'd say its a pattern, but he has done this a few times now... out front with the clear pace to manage and win a race and starts pushing qualy pace on hard race tires trying to break the field when I don't think it was necessary at all.  Sometimes his tendency to needlessly ride on the ragged edge hurts more than it helps.  Batshit fast doesn't always get you the win.

How about Rossi fielding the slowest bike on the grid and taking victory?  This reminds me of the 2007 campaign watching other bikes catch/blow past Rossi on the straights.  Yamaha has to be a bit worried about that.  They commented on the engine management possibly knowing he was light on fuel and killing power, but who knows what the real answer is.

Moto2 had some good racing today.  Not the finish for first we were looking for I'm sure, but plenty of scraps for second position throughout.

Nicky's result broke my heart. Good for Spies. Bummer for Stoner.

looks like you yanks may have a good season this year!    [thumbsup]

my heart sank when stoner fell!   :'(

great race tho!

Great race!  [bow_down]

Awesome to see Hayden do well...and Spies was very impressive. Lorenzo was as well.

Stoner...WTF.

My throat hurts from screaming!!!!
Awesome!!!!

I'm sooooo happy Nicky is baaaack!!!!!
WoooooooooHoooooooooo!!!!!

Yes, I know he didn't make it on the podium, but that's ok.  There's time  ;)

woooooohoooooo!!!!!!!

Nice start to the season  [thumbsup]

Really glad to see Nicky doing well again, and if Casey can remain upright, he'll be impressive this year.

nicky's post-race interview was kinda heartbreaking.

he basically said that if somebody had told him before the race that he was going to be 2s from rossi and finish 4th, he would've been like "yeah, ok." but after getting that start and being up in the mix, he was really bummed for his team that he didn't reach podium.

i'm really hoping we see the hungry nicky of old in japan.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82829 (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82829)

"It was confidence inspiring after the weekend we had to keep Lorenzo right there and actually for a few laps we were reeling in the front guys," he said. "But that was everything I had and I think I rode a pretty good race.

"I didn't make too many mistakes and that was all we had today."

Good race overall. I really wanted to see Hayden on the podium.

Quote from: Spidey on April 07, 2010, 08:15:48 PM
So here it is . . . he's not going to beat Rossi or Casey (though Casey could fall down -- he does sometimes or completely blow a turn) . . . . . So the really big question is Lorenzo.  Lorenzo's had a coupla weeks to heal, has no problem coming on strong at the end of a race, and can race hurt . . . . I call Rossi, Stoner and Lorenzo in that order.  

Damn accurate prediction.

Too bad for Hayden in the last turn.  I'll be interested to hear what the deal with Stoner's crash was.  Bad night for Pramac.  Bad night really for Desmos in general.

Congrats to Nicky  [beer]


Stoner better get his head straightened - he said for himself yesterday, he needed solid points - well, that isn't the way to get them.


mitt

Just watched the delayed telecast down here in Melbourne. You can't afford to give the GOAT 25 points like that.
Depressed :(

I still don't see a post race interview with Casey.  Is he dodging the media because all didn't go well? 

now that's more like it!  who told those guys to actually go have a race?

flippin' pedro is gonna get to T1 first even if he starts last.  sheesh.

crazy to see the repsol bikes going so fast.  that only took 'em 3 years...

no podium for nicky really sucked but i almost don't care.  that was some hungry, awesome riding.  hell yeah!

stoner.  pfft.

i like how dovi gets half a bike on rossi, rossi outbrakes him (shocker) and then throws down 2 blindingly fast laps.  uh oh.. i'm outta here.  that guy... man.  amazing.

and what a ride from george.  sandbag city.

8)  The Ben.  that was not a rookie ride by a long shot.

:'(  melandri.  wth is going on with the gresini bikes that LCR has evidently already figured out?


and the moto2 race was awesome.  that is gonna be scrappy all year long.  sorry for de angelis.. but it's not like he didn't have it coming.

http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/158653/1/stoner_apologises_for_qatar_crash.html (http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/158653/1/stoner_apologises_for_qatar_crash.html)

Quote“The bike bogged at the start so I didn't get away well but I felt good and I was able to pass the other guys,” began Stoner, who slipped from pole to fourth at turn one. “Once I got to the front I started to get into my rhythm but I lost the front end a couple of times in long corners so I made the decision to try to ride a bit smoother and not put so much pressure on the front tyre with the full tank.

“Unfortunately that is what led to the crash because looking at the telemetry I didn't have enough load on the front, so I guess in hindsight I should have stuck to the way I'd been riding all weekend.

Stoner seems to contradict himself in this quote.  He upped the pace a half a second a lap, and then crashed out immediately afterwards, so I don't see where he was trying to take load off the tire and smooth it out.  From what the riders say, bridgestones don't work well unless under heavy load, so I don't get why he'd want to unload the front anyway.. you'd think that would start making the bike push and not get through the corners, not to mention compromise grip.  I think the lack of load in telemetry data was because the front tucked  :P .  

Honestly I think he 'was' riding the way he had all weekend when he crashed and is making lame exucses when he simply overrode hard tires in a section of the track that is a little slippery.  He was doing his typical blaze away into the sunset maneuver and it didn't work out.  Just admit it.  This is the third or fourth time he's slid off the track when trying to clear off into the distance since 2008.  Its not a one time error.

Quote from: gm2 on April 11, 2010, 08:53:57 PM
  sorry for de angelis.. but it's not like he didn't have it coming.

Isn't that the truth.

Quote from: Jester on April 11, 2010, 09:02:30 PM
Stoner seems to contradict himself in this quote.   

he does that ALL the time.  he could fall down a flight of stairs, take responsibility for it, and then blame the stair in the next breath.

I was really impressed to see Nicky back up near the front, but saddened when he got nosed off the podium there at the last second.  Hopefully this is a sign of good things to come from him this  year, as he was competitive all race, instead of being near the front due to multiple DNFs.  Good race all the way around!

Rossi - himself
Lorenzo - Holy shit! From 4th to 2nd in a lap or 2? That was probably the best riding of the night.
Dovi - Awesome ride and pulling it out at the end
Nicky - Ditto as Dovi. Who would have guessed that it would have been a battle to the very end between these 2.
The Ben - 5th on his first GP race on a satellite team. You think he has a future in bike racing?

Quote from: gm2 on April 11, 2010, 08:53:57 PM

and the moto2 race was awesome.  that is gonna be scrappy all year long. 

+1

Those guys were bumping everywhere, and the bikes were all over the place. Very entertaining!  [thumbsup]

Quote from: Triple J on April 12, 2010, 06:14:31 AM
+1

Those guys were bumping everywhere, and the bikes were all over the place. Very entertaining!  [thumbsup]

it's like some people never watched the 250gp races.  ;D

Guilty  :-[

Quote from: Triple J on April 12, 2010, 08:07:36 AM
Guilty  :-[

go back and watch last season or something... those guys are insane.

Yeah the 250 class was some incredible racing and I'm happy to see Moto2 looks to produce some very similar theatrics.  It should be a fun year to watch.

You know what I love about some people? Its that when a bloke is down they love to lay the boot in, I'm glad your not on my side.
Don

Quote from: The Don on April 12, 2010, 10:18:28 AM
You know what I love about some people? Its that when a bloke is down they love to lay the boot in, I'm glad your not on my side.
Don

you aussies are waaaay too sensitive about stoner....

Guilty, but Im sure the boot was laid into Hayden last year as well when he wasnt doing so well.
Don

It was laid into him when he wasn't doing all that great with Honda. We seem to be used to it. I think Don might be Stoner in disguise.

Quote from: The Don on April 12, 2010, 10:45:39 AM
Guilty, but Im sure the boot was laid into Hayden last year as well when he wasnt doing so well.
Don

when nicky screws up or isn't cutting it, he's the first guy to say it.

http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?PHPSESSID=sj57abmmokvmgfv98o7023i7b2&topic=23157.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?PHPSESSID=sj57abmmokvmgfv98o7023i7b2&topic=23157.0)
Found it
The only thing Casey and I have in common is size and nationality, oh and he's from the same state.
Don

On a lighter note, the paddock girl selection at Qatar was a bit thin.  I'm looking forward to other venues.   8)

I stood up on the couch when Nicky passed Dovi on the final lap. That Honda was just too fast down the straight though.

Quote from: Blackout on April 12, 2010, 11:40:37 AM
I stood up on the couch when Nicky passed Dovi on the final lap. That Honda was just too fast down the straight though.

That was sooooo frustrating.  Oh, well - great race.

Just got done screamin at the computer.  Good race, it's gonna be fun season.  [moto]

Quote from: duccarlos on April 12, 2010, 05:44:32 AM
<snip>
The Ben - 5th on his first GP race on a satellite team. You think he has a future in bike racing?

I sure hope so...

he sucks as an actor. ;D

nicky talks qatar

http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100412-69tranny.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100412-69tranny.htm)

OK, haven't read all the posts on this thread but is it just me that wonders why Casey Stoner wore a damn dark shield on his helmet in a night race????? Ah, I'm sure the track was lite up like crazy. I have seen this race every year thay have run it at night and it is always bright as hell. Ah..... why would you need a really dark face shield?? Not saying that's why Casey crashed out, sounds like he tossed it because of front grip issues. Just saying why the dark shield at night?? Seems stupid...

This doesn't really look like the same corner, or maybe just a different part of the corner, but it's just such a contrast.

(http://resources.motogp.com/files/images/xy/2010/MotoGP/n508666_edwards_23.slideshow.jpg)

(http://resources.motogp.com/files/images/xy/2010/MotoGP/n508663_spies_6.slideshow.jpg)

Is it just me or does Spies look like a spider/spiderman when he's riding?

Quote from: Wood Duck on April 12, 2010, 08:22:31 PM
Is it just me or does Spies look like a spider/spiderman when he's riding?

maybe you already know this but his nickname has been elbowz for a long time...

and yeah, what a contrast.  he's clearly very quick but colin has always been the least fast looking rider to me.

Quote from: fastwin on April 12, 2010, 06:04:49 PM
I have seen this race every year thay have run it at night

wow, every year huh?   :P  ;)

Quote from: gm2 on April 12, 2010, 08:39:01 PM
maybe you already know this but his nickname has been elbowz for a long time...

and yeah, what a contrast.  he's clearly very quick but colin has always been the least fast looking rider to me.

Yep, knew that.  ;)

Doesn't look too orthodox, but, it's working for him.  [bacon]

Quote from: gm2 on April 12, 2010, 08:41:51 PM
wow, every year huh?   :P  ;)

Well, the last 3 at least.  ;)


[laugh]

What a great race.   [thumbsup]  So much goodness there.

I think one of my favorite moments (other than watching Nicky get his mojo back and put some serious passes on people) was when Dovi/Pedro? went by Spies on the straights and then tried to outbrake him into Turn 1.  Dovi/Pedro got a sudden education about how good Spies is on the brakes.  It was awesome.

Nicky's finish was just heartbreaking, but I'm really happy to see Dovi running at the front again.  I'd rather see him up there than Shorty McTwatwaffle.

BTW, who do y'all think gets "best ride of the night" award? 

My least favorite moment of the race?  I really regret my too-early announcement to the entire room of people watching the race that "If Lorenzo gets second, I'm gonna punch myself in the nuts."    :'(

Did it hurt?

Quote from: fastwin on April 12, 2010, 06:04:49 PM
Just saying why the dark shield at night?? Seems stupid...

Probably due to the glare the lights give off.  My guess.

Quote from: Spidey on April 12, 2010, 08:50:58 PM
I really regret my too-early announcement to the entire room of people watching the race that "If Lorenzo gets second, I'm gonna punch myself in the nuts."    :'(

Just wear a cup next time you give out predictions.  Then you look hardcore when you nail yourself after the race.

Quote from: Spidey on April 12, 2010, 08:50:58 PM
I think one of my favorite moments (other than watching Nicky get his mojo back and put some serious passes on people) was when Dovi/Pedro? went by Spies on the straights and then tried to outbrake him into Turn 1.  Dovi/Pedro got a sudden education about how good Spies is on the brakes.  It was awesome.

pedro.  and yes, yes it was.  :)

Quote from: Spidey on April 12, 2010, 08:50:58 PM
Shorty McTwatwaffle.

[laugh]

Quote from: Spidey on April 12, 2010, 08:50:58 PM
BTW, who do y'all think gets "best ride of the night" award? 

man.. between curious george, dovi, hayden and the ben... it's hard to say.  probably, all things considered, hayden.  we haven't seen that nicky in quite a while.

then again, 11th to 5th and kicking several asses into T1... and that make the beast with two backs off get out of my way pass on RDP.. all in your first GP.  not so bad either.

http://www.motomatters.com/news/2010/04/12/scott_jones_race_day_photos_from_qatar_p.html (http://www.motomatters.com/news/2010/04/12/scott_jones_race_day_photos_from_qatar_p.html)

the usual high-quality photos from Scott Jones

Quote from: Spidey on April 12, 2010, 08:50:58 PM
BTW, who do y'all think gets "best ride of the night" award? 

Lorenzo or Spies. I would also say Stoner, since he probably got lucky later.

Quote from: gm2 on April 12, 2010, 09:07:12 PM
man.. between curious george, dovi, hayden and the ben... it's hard to say.  probably, all things considered, hayden.  we haven't seen that nicky in quite a while.

I think of it largely the same way.  Hard to call.

That said, there's a case to be made that it was Rossi who had the ride of the night.  We're used to him winning and he has been at top form all season, but that doesn't take away from what a great ride that was.  He was dead last in top speed among everyone (in part because he never had a draft on the straight).  And still had the fastest lap of the finishers, lead almost the entire race, and dropped the hammer when he needed to.  Just cuz we're used to seeing him do it doesn't make it less impressive.

Edit:  I was wrong.  George had the fastest lap of the finishers.   By .01 second.  Followed by Rossi and then Spies. 

was just watching the spies live-wth-ott chat.. last 7-8 laps ben was faster than rossi.  i didn't know that.

but yeah, hard to give it to him even tho he totally deserves it.  running away from dovi was just sick.  we're just too used to him being him.

Quote from: gm2 on April 12, 2010, 09:07:12 PM
probably, all things considered, hayden.  

He agrees.

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100341-2/002_P01_Hayden_ambience.jpg)

The ah-mur-ick-ans

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100366-2/4505926607_50ab0cf5bb_o.jpg)

Edwards needs to stop having so much fun.  This is bloodsport, for frack's sake.  (I love that those two--even when they're no longer teammates, still get along so well).

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100369-2/4505928045_659f681f0f_o.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100426-2/_TIN3056.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100427-2/_TIN3137.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100433-2/FYT_100410003505120_15.JPG)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100438-2/FYT_100410003505120_4.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100440-2/FYT_100410003505120_8.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100446-2/mgp_2010_04_09_Losail_AndreaDovizioso_9889.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100449-2/mgp_2010_04_09_Losail_DaniPedrosa_3419.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100453-2/mgp_2010_04_09_Losail_HiroshiAoyama_6547.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100455-2/mgp_2010_04_09_Losail_MarcoMelandri_1104.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100465-2/mgp_2010_04_09_Losail_RandydePuniet_6720.jpg)

(http://pix.crash.net/motorsport/710/PA723284.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100441-2/FYT_100410003505120_9.JPG)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100439-2/FYT_100410003505120_6.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100421-2/_GIS7556.JPG)

The old man

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100344-2/20100409225752_SUZUKI_4.jpg)

Worth derbying  ;D

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100349-2/20100409230258_SUZUKI_2.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100351-2/20100409230311_SUZUKI_4.jpg)

The Ben pron for gm2   ;D

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100365-2/4505925677_592771f916_o.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100409-2/4506573314_9edfa55dea_o.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100401-2/4506561042_340c319cb3_o.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100373-2/4505934645_13d34751e7_o.jpg)

sooooo fast.... the stickers came unglued  [laugh]

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100427-2/_TIN3137.jpg)

porn  ;)

and that elbow on the ground shot is pretty ridiculous.

Quote from: gm2 on April 13, 2010, 11:37:40 AM
porn  ;)

spelled that way purposely.  Supposed to capitalize the R.

BTW, holy glowing rotors.   :o

(http://www.mcnews.com.au/MotorcycleRacing2010/MotoGP/Rnd_1/Gallery_B/images/Rossi_10GP01_1447_AN.jpg)

Quote from: Spidey on April 13, 2010, 12:11:13 PM
spelled that way purposely.  Supposed to capitalize the R.

hah.. actually i didn't even notice that you wrote pron the first time

IIRC from the race video, only Rossi and Ben were getting 'em red going into T1.

Quote from: Spidey on April 13, 2010, 12:11:13 PM
spelled that way purposely.  Supposed to capitalize the R.

BTW, holy glowing rotors.   :o

I think The Ben got 'em good and warmed up when Pedro tried to go by him.   ;D 

Quote from: Spidey on April 13, 2010, 12:48:25 PM
I think The Ben got 'em good and warmed up when Pedro tried to go by him.   ;D 

once OTT dave's convo with ben today becomes available on-demand (maybe it already is..?) he makes a pretty funny comment about that.  basically, "wherever he was braking, i was going to brake later"

also says something to the effect of when rossi or jor-ghey come by him, he can at least get his head around what they're doing and how they're going faster, can see how to do it.  stoner, can't even begin to get it.

The video is available now.

The paint on the Ducatis looks bad-ass this year.  Looks a lot like the Ferrari paint from a couple years ago.

Not sure if this goes in this thread but I just watched my TIVO'd Moto2 race... it was like a hand job with no happy ending! Zzzzzzz... It reminded me of a boring AMA race. Save money my ass. I'm calling bullshit. Where are the great 250GP races??? Someone somewhere make the beast with two backsed up! [bang]

More photos.

Elias
(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100645-2/mgp_2010_04_10_Losail_ToniElias_1376.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100654-2/0823_R01_Hayden_action.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100660-2/0841_R01_Stoner_action.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100699-2/20100411230057_SUZUKI_1.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100729-2/20100411230335_SUZUKI_3.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100750-2/_TIN0024.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100741-2/20100411232203_SUZUKI_2.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100768-2/FYT_100412015427846_12.JPG)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100765-2/FYT_100412015427846_10.JPG)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100783-2/FYT_100412015427846_4.jpg)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100798-2/FYT_100412015427846_9.JPG)

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100780-2/FYT_100412015427846_3.JPG)

Has anyone seen a pic of Stoner crashing in this race?

haven't seen pics nor any footage of it

http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100414zrydernotesqat.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100414zrydernotesqat.htm)

Quote from: ducpainter on April 14, 2010, 10:50:19 AM
Has anyone seen a pic of Stoner crashing in this race?

Nope.  Mebbe he didn't crash?

Quote from: Spidey on April 14, 2010, 12:22:30 PM
Nope.  Mebbe he didn't crash?

Another Stoner conspiracy?

Quote from: gm2 on April 14, 2010, 11:30:33 AM
http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100414zrydernotesqat.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100414zrydernotesqat.htm)

Last year I was at times under the impression I was talking to Mick Doohan in a particularly bad mood...

;D

Quote from: ducpainter on April 14, 2010, 10:50:19 AM
Has anyone seen a pic of Stoner crashing in this race?

(http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/47639000/jpg/_47639933_casey466.jpg)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/motorbikes/8618502.stm# (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/motorbikes/8618502.stm#)

Quote from: DCXCV on April 14, 2010, 01:11:22 PM
(http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/47639000/jpg/_47639933_casey466.jpg)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/motorbikes/8618502.stm# (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/motorbikes/8618502.stm#)

Thanks. [thumbsup]

Quote from: Spidey on April 14, 2010, 07:27:58 AM
More photos.

(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100660-2/0841_R01_Stoner_action.jpg)


(http://www.rideontwo.com/gallery/d/100750-2/_TIN0024.jpg)

man, stoner can lean it over


mitt

That looks like more than 53 degrees of lean.

Maybe his problem is occasionally he leans too far and washes out ?

Dolph     :)

Quote from: Wood Duck on April 12, 2010, 08:22:31 PM
Is it just me or does Spies look like a spider/spiderman when he's riding?

Greg White used to call him "Spiderman Spies" back in AMA when he was on the old Two Wheeled Tuesday program before he started riding for Yosh-Zukey....

watched the race again yesterday, just cuz.  i sorta wish they were all at night.

Quote from: DoubleEagle on April 14, 2010, 07:46:02 PM
That looks like more than 53 degrees of lean.

Maybe his problem is occasionally he leans too far and washes out ?

Dolph     :)

As far as riding technique goes, I wouldn't say he really has any problems :).

Quote from: gm2 on April 15, 2010, 11:46:41 AM
watched the race again yesterday, just cuz.  i sorta wish they were all at night.

Could you imagine Laguna Seca at night. The top of the cork screw would look like you were about to ride off into the dark abyss.

Quote from: pennyrobber on April 15, 2010, 12:41:14 PM
Could you imagine Laguna Seca at night. The top of the cork screw would look like you were about to ride off into the dark abyss.

I just watched the race again as well.  Laguna would be very cool at night.  I don't imagine it would pose any visibility difficulties to the riders, but maybe knowing California weather the asphalt might be colder and slightly less gripping?  Just my theory, what do I know, I'm only a Doctor!

Laguna would be too damp at night.  No bueno. 

Quote from: Spidey on April 15, 2010, 01:33:45 PM
Laguna would be too damp at night.  No bueno.  

Do you find most roads get too damp at night up in your neck of the woods?  Or just too damp for racing?

Man, 10 pages of discussion on the first race - safe to say we were past due for some moto racing!


mitt

Quote from: mitt on April 16, 2010, 04:18:59 AM
Man, 10 pages of discussion on the first race - safe to say we were past due for some moto racing!


mitt

I can quit whenever I want.   [roll]

hide your puppies from spidey...

http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100421-ben-spies-11.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2010/Apr/100421-ben-spies-11.htm)

Schwantz on Qatar, AMA Road Atlanta and Moto2

Kevin Schwantz 2010 from Road Atlanta (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obHAODN3Ieo&feature=player_embedded#lq-lq2-hq-vhq)

Just of note, apparently Rossi's team is saying the gearing they chose for the race was the reason he was dead last on the charts, not because of any mechanical problems.

Quote from: Jester on April 28, 2010, 08:24:44 AM
Just of note, apparently Rossi's team is saying the gearing they chose for the race was the reason he was dead last on the charts, not because of any mechanical problems.

i read that they had geared his bike to take advantage of casey's draft, but never saw that they were using that to "excuse" his position on the speed charts.

if you look here, rossi and spies are in the bottom half of the top speeds and jorge is dead center:

http://resources.motogp.com/files/results/xx/2010/QAT/MotoGP/RAC/AverageSpeed.pdf?v1_a59759c6 (http://resources.motogp.com/files/results/xx/2010/QAT/MotoGP/RAC/AverageSpeed.pdf?v1_a59759c6)

fwiw, there's more than one way to get around a track and top speed down the front straight isn't necessarily indicative of anything other than having a really, really fast bike.