I want to see him slap someone in the paddock again..
http://gpxtra.com/2013/04/26/max-biaggis-wildcard-return/ (http://gpxtra.com/2013/04/26/max-biaggis-wildcard-return/)
Quote from: Uncle Mofo on April 30, 2013, 11:12:04 AM
I want to see him slap someone in the paddock again..
http://gpxtra.com/2013/04/26/max-biaggis-wildcard-return/ (http://gpxtra.com/2013/04/26/max-biaggis-wildcard-return/)
"Biaggi has the same charisma as Valentino Rossi,"
LOL.
Quote from: gm2 on May 01, 2013, 11:57:09 AM
"Biaggi has the same charisma as Valentino Rossi,"
LOL.
If you change "devotion" to "hatred" in the definition, then this might indeed be a true statement! [laugh]
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/May/13051035.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/May/13051035.htm)
Crutchlow on the market?!?!?!?!
Quote from: zooom on May 10, 2013, 08:58:45 AM
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/May/13051035.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/May/13051035.htm)
Crutchlow on the market?!?!?!?!
If we're going to go with wild speculation:
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/817/16135/Motorcycle-Article/Single-Track-Mind--Where-to-Ducati-.aspx (http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/817/16135/Motorcycle-Article/Single-Track-Mind--Where-to-Ducati-.aspx)
If we want to talk about Cal, he has proven that he should move to a factory bike. Yamaha will not get rid of either Lorenzo or Rossi. Honda might drop Pedrosa and Audi will have no issues dropping Nicky or Dovi. If he wants to be competitive, he will need to start praying that Pedrosa crashes at some point during the year.
As much as I like Nicky & Dovi it would be awesome to have Cal & Casey running truly competitive Ducati machinery. Maybe have Nicky & Dovi on the second string?
What about Spies, ready to can him yet?
Cal & Casey? Casey isn't coming back...especially to Ducati.
I think Nicky & Dovi both deserve competitive bikes, as they've both been riding their asses off this year on that turd of a bike.
Cal of course deserves a factory ride. Where though. Hayden's seat is probably the only option, which sucks because of what I said above.
Quote from: duccarlos on May 10, 2013, 09:07:50 AM
If we're going to go with wild speculation:
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/817/16135/Motorcycle-Article/Single-Track-Mind--Where-to-Ducati-.aspx (http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/817/16135/Motorcycle-Article/Single-Track-Mind--Where-to-Ducati-.aspx)
from that article there was this bit....
...Ducati now starts to run out of options. The first, and most obvious, choice is Cal Crutchlow. I have always tipped Cal as a seriously class act and he is now proving to be the fastest of the satellite riders race after race. He is also crawling up the wall with frustration riding machines which, while good, are not the best....with that said...I think the Satelite Yammy seems to be better than the GP13 by a longshot...so even if the Duc only makes minor inroads..it would still be the same level of frustration for Cal...
the bit about Casey is laughable...while not completely worth tossing out like the baby with the bathwater...just would take a lot for that to be an even remote possibility IMHO....
Quote from: zooom on May 10, 2013, 09:54:14 AM
the bit about Casey is laughable...while not completely worth tossing out like the baby with the bathwater...just would take a lot for that to be an even remote possibility IMHO....
You mean, like a change of ownership and a house-cleaning at Ducati Corse to boot the people whom he thinks did him wrong? Lots and LOTS of money? The chance to beat Rossi on the bike (before & after) his crew chief said would take "ten minutes"* to fix and then he & Rossi declared unrideable? The realization that his skillset on a motorcycle doesn't transfer over immediately to four wheels, and that those guys are REALLY fast? Lots more money?
I'd say it's unlikely, but hardly laughable the way things are playing out.
*I don't remember the precise number Burgess put on it, but I think it's safe to say he underestimated by just a tad.
Interesting article...which I didn't read before my last comment. Cal and Casey would indeed be a good team, and they'd probablt get along well I'd guess. I'd still be kind of surprised if he came back to Ducati, but maybe the change in management at Ducati could convice him...and the $$.
I'd still be bummed for Nicky too, but I really like him so I'm admittedly biased. Wouldn't feel so bad for Dovi, as he had a killer factory bike, and didn't do much with it (unlike Nicky). The point about neither ever winning a championship, regardless of the bike, is hard to argue with.
...and this part is funny [laugh]
And if he does return, what will happen? The answer, as I and Audi both know, is utterly and completely predictable.
Casey will turn up at the first test and complain about the weather, his state of health, the color of the water in the cooler. He will then hold his head in his hands and look utterly miserable and on the point of wishing to end it all. Five minutes later, and without any familiarization, he will have put the Ducati on pole position
Seriously, the GP13 is not going to catch up to Honda and Yamaha. Cal would take a Duc ride because he wants a factory ride. Stoner? He's like Barry Sanders. We're going to be talking about him til he's 50, but I'm not holding my breath for the Big Return.
In my perfect silly season, everyone (Hayden, Spies) would get a Honda along with Rossi. And I don't even like Honda.
In fact, it feels like we're going back to 2003 'cept that it won't be all Hondas on the grid b/c the rules don't allow it. The Yamaha has become somewhat of a Lorenzo-only weapon, tuned just for him. It's used to be more of a generalist sorta bike under Rossi b/c of Rossi's style. Now it's more specialized (which seems to the new way to design bikes). In contrast, the Hondas are easier to understand and ride on the limit. Get 'em into the corner, get 'em turned and stood up. They can be be ridden faster by more people in more places.
But Cal & Casey on a competitive Duc? Not gonna happen. Unless it does, of course. ;D
think about this..
GP14 gets built in secret with Stoner as consultant.
Audi says to Stoner "You will be the #1 paid rider as you are the best and we want you to make this bike the best"
Stoner says, "sure, and I want Cal as my teammate, with Pedrosa and Spies on the satellite, but factory spec, bikes"
That's as likely as me nailin' Stoner's wife. I can think about it all I want, but it's not gonna happen.
Quote from: Spidey on May 10, 2013, 11:31:10 AM
That's as likely as me nailin' Stoner's wife. I can think about it all I want, but it's not gonna happen.
[laugh]
Quote from: Spidey on May 10, 2013, 11:31:10 AM
That's as likely as me nailin' Stoner's wife. I can think about it all I want, but it's not gonna happen.
+1
I do see Audi at least trying to talk Stoner back onto the GPturd. He will tell them to get off his lawn. Then they will go to Cal and show him a shitload of money that he will immediately take, thus becoming the best paid 7th placer on the grid.
Nicky will be looking for a ride in WSBK cause I can't see him riding a CRT. He will be very competitive there. With his experience on the frameless wonder, he should be able to translate it to the Panigale.
Spies will be following Nicky to WSBK.
Dovi might be kept as the #2, with a paycut.
Quote from: Triple J on May 10, 2013, 11:02:11 AM
Wouldn't feel so bad for Dovi, as he had a killer factory bike, and didn't do much with it (unlike Nicky).
Yes, Nicky and his 3 whole wins in 11 years on factory machines.
Quote from: Jester on May 10, 2013, 12:38:14 PM
Yes, Nicky and his 3 whole wins in 11 years on factory machines.
Not really "factory" machines. I'm not a Nicky fanboy, but he doesn't whine enough about how shitty he's had it. He had a legit Honda for a while and he won a World Championship on it, even while he was the designated the test mule for Pedrosa's parts. Then he had a matchbox-sized bike built for Pedrobot. And since then he's been on the turd. When he had a "real" factory bike, he won a championship. Yes, I know the controvesy around that championship, i.e. he didn't win that much, Rossi lost the championship, Nicky didn't win it, blah blah blah. He won. That's pretty rarified company -- Rossi, Stoner Lorenzo. And we all know that Nicky can (1) race and (2) ride the fack out of a superbike.
Doub hayden would want the pani as a ride else he will be midpack again
the only way it looks it will ge competitive is if they get to get rid of the restrictors
Never say never with women
Quote from: Jester on May 10, 2013, 12:38:14 PM
Yes, Nicky and his 3 whole wins in 11 years on factory machines.
um...and his championship. [roll]
He may not have won a bunch of races, but he was on the podium almost every round that year, proving he deserved it. Consistency wins it...just ask JLo about last year. It also made for a very exciting year, as it all came down to the last race. [thumbsup]
Quote from: Triple J on May 10, 2013, 03:46:38 PM
um...and his championship. [roll]
He may not have won a bunch of races, but he was on the podium almost every round that year, proving he deserved it. Consistency wins it...just ask JLo about last year. It also made for a very exciting year, as it all came down to the last race. [thumbsup]
That year illustrates it perfectly.
Both Hayden and Rossi were on the podium 10 times in 17 races.
Rossi won 5 times, Hayden 1.
Rossi had 3 races where he scored no points.
Rossi did not get the championship that year.
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=62581.msg1169601#msg1169601 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=62581.msg1169601#msg1169601)
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/739/16262/Motorcycle-Article/STM--How-Long-is-Rossi-for-MotoGP-.aspx (http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/739/16262/Motorcycle-Article/STM--How-Long-is-Rossi-for-MotoGP-.aspx)
Split this off from the 2013 Silly Season thread, as the wild speculation for 2014 is in full swing.
Quote from: duccarlos on May 29, 2013, 12:24:57 PM
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/739/16262/Motorcycle-Article/STM--How-Long-is-Rossi-for-MotoGP-.aspx (http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/739/16262/Motorcycle-Article/STM--How-Long-is-Rossi-for-MotoGP-.aspx)
congrats Frank, you said absolutely nothing
Quote from: duccarlos on May 29, 2013, 12:24:57 PM
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/739/16262/Motorcycle-Article/STM--How-Long-is-Rossi-for-MotoGP-.aspx (http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/739/16262/Motorcycle-Article/STM--How-Long-is-Rossi-for-MotoGP-.aspx)
I have a hard time believing that Yamaha is losing patience with Rossi at this point in the season.
Not to mention how long MotoGP in general has kept Colin around. Charisma sells tickets. And the riders that keep the fans coming back are the ones that have some strong staying power.
There is no way Yamaha would fire Vale. He will definitely retire before Yamaha is done milking his image.
http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/05/30/motogp_s_claiming_rule_to_be_dropped_fro.html (http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/05/30/motogp_s_claiming_rule_to_be_dropped_fro.html)
2014 sillyness....no more CRT
Quote from: zooom on May 30, 2013, 11:58:51 AM
http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/05/30/motogp_s_claiming_rule_to_be_dropped_fro.html (http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/05/30/motogp_s_claiming_rule_to_be_dropped_fro.html)
2014 sillyness....no more CRT
Technically true. The slow bikes will no longer be called CRT.
Quote from: duccarlos on May 30, 2013, 01:27:11 PM
Technically true. The slow bikes will no longer be called CRT.
Because the motors can no longer be claimed by the factories. That's the key.
Cal being Cal...
http://www.bikesportnews.com/news-detail.cfm?newsid=9432 (http://www.bikesportnews.com/news-detail.cfm?newsid=9432)
Pretty good interview with Michael Bartholemy:
http://www.crash.net/motogp/interview/191987/1/exclusive_michael_bartholemy_marc_vds_-_qa.html (http://www.crash.net/motogp/interview/191987/1/exclusive_michael_bartholemy_marc_vds_-_qa.html)
Seems to think that Pol Espargaro is already signed to Tech3....
So how do the seats fill up so far?
Rossi already on for next season
Spies already
Who else has contracts for 14 season?
so now we can speculate about the remaining seats...
Quote from: DanTheMan on June 06, 2013, 06:29:35 AM
So how do the seats fill up so far?
Rossi already on for next season
Spies already
Who else has contracts for 14 season?
so now we can speculate about the remaining seats...
probably easier to list who doesn't have a contract for '14
on factory machinery...
Hayden
Crutchlow
I think Bautista
Bradl I think is up this year as well
If both Bautista and Bradl are out of contract this year, I see new riders coming in. I also fear that Nicky is also on the hot seat.
Quote from: duccarlos on June 06, 2013, 01:00:43 PM
If both Bautista and Bradl are out of contract this year, I see new riders coming in. I also fear that Nicky is also on the hot seat.
Nicky brings a LOT of US customers in the door for Ducati. As mediocre as his results have been, they have been consistently mediocre. Relegating him to a factory supported satellite bike would make sense from a marketing standpoint ("See...we still got Nicky!") than dumping him altogether.
But I would be very surprised if he held on to the factory seat very much longer.
They have the Ben on the satellite. Nicky will most likely be put to the pasture unless he can work miracles the rest of the year.
I understand the US market is very important, but they need results.
Quote from: ZILBERT on June 07, 2013, 09:25:17 AM
Nicky brings a LOT of US customers in the door for Ducati. As mediocre as his results have been, they have been consistently mediocre. Relegating him to a factory supported satellite bike would make sense from a marketing standpoint ("See...we still got Nicky!") than dumping him altogether.
But I would be very surprised if he held on to the factory seat very much longer.
You say that, but how many people honestly buy a Ducati because some cornbread Kentucky kid happens to ride around mid pack on one in MotoGP? I'm pretty sure no one cares who is riding the bike over in Europe. They buy the bikes for twin performance, the sex factor, exclusiveness, and to be part of the community of people that own the bikes.
Quote from: Jester on June 07, 2013, 01:27:45 PM
You say that, but how many people honestly buy a Ducati because some cornbread Kentucky kid happens to ride around mid pack on one in MotoGP? I'm pretty sure no one cares who is riding the bike over in Europe. They buy the bikes for twin performance, the sex factor, exclusiveness, and to be part of the community of people that own the bikes.
the us is their largest market (by far) and having an american on the team is very good for marketing materials no matter where they finish.
IIRC, the Nicky Hayden Edition 848's sold out ~immediately, yes?
Quote from: Speeddog on June 07, 2013, 02:46:56 PM
IIRC, the Nicky Hayden Edition 848's sold out ~immediately, yes?
ben Spies edition would do the same. They don't need 2 US riders and Ben is contracted for 2 years.
Quote from: duccarlos on June 07, 2013, 03:17:47 PM
ben Spies edition would do the same. They don't need 2 US riders and Ben is contracted for 2 years.
"Now from Ducati, the Ben Spies Edition 848*."
*Note: We aren't sure how this bike will perform as our test rider has yet to ride a fully healthy minute on the bike.
Quote from: ZILBERT on June 10, 2013, 08:39:52 AM
"Now from Ducati, the Ben Spies Edition 848*."
*Note: We aren't sure how this bike will perform as our test rider has yet to ride a fully healthy minute on the bike.
Yep, but again, they don't need 2 US riders and Ben is contracted for 2 years, while Nicky is not.
Not really sure where this should go since it is out from 2014 if it does happen but...
http://cyclenews.uberflip.com/i/135930/124 (http://cyclenews.uberflip.com/i/135930/124)
Some pretty good points. Especially when it comes to the Italian fans/Italian WSBK tracks.
I for one would very much like to see him keep on keeping on. Besides, the BeIN WSBK coverage is WAY better than Speed's MotoGP coverage. [coffee]
I think we beat that horse. Rossi generally follows his own rules and I think he enjoys rally more than going to WSBK. It would put him somehow in the same category as Biaggi, which he would not enjoy.
I dunno...Rossi seems to enjoy beating Biaggi at his "own" game.
Manufacturers...sponsors...titles...Vale enjoys taking them all from Max. LOL.
Redding to MotoGP for 2014... On a Honda...or maybe a Ducati...or maybe...
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/Bartholemy+confirms+MotoGP+interest+in+Redding (http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/Bartholemy+confirms+MotoGP+interest+in+Redding)
More of the same, but interesting nonetheless..... seems not much interest in the Production Hondas.
http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/06/24/silly_season_update_scott_redding_s_pros.html (http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/06/24/silly_season_update_scott_redding_s_pros.html)
Possibility of Nicky going to WSBK:
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130710owb.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130710owb.htm)
I'm not liking this at all.
Lose Nicky from Motogp and open up a slot for Crutchlow to flush his career.
Quote from: Speeddog on July 10, 2013, 08:40:39 AM
Possibility of Nicky going to WSBK:
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130710owb.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130710owb.htm)
I'm not liking this at all.
Lose Nicky from Motogp and open up a slot for Crutchlow to flush his career.
Hopefully Cal is not that desperate to get on a factory bike.
Now if only Colin would return as well...of course, the CBR has nothing on the RC51s they used to ride (within their respective eras that is)
Man, I can't remember the last time I watched Nicky actually ride. There were like 3 laps at one point this year or last. But before that, it was the 990cc era. Between his Pedrosa-special 800cc bike and that dogshit Ducati, he hasn't put in a really competitive dry race in more than 7 years (cue someone to lob facts at me to tell me I'm wrong).
Just saw the Nicky/WSBK story on sbkplanet. Wouldn't hurt my feelings one bit. As was said, I'd love to have seen CEII go back to WSBK a year or so ago. I kind of miss Max, hate to see Checa struggle so much and I love to see the run by Sykes on the Kwacker this year! But I think Nicky could really add some sauce to the series. And who (that is worth a shit) would give him a top flight ride in MotoGP next year?
The Kid has proven his worth when it comes to hard work, ethics, being fair to his team and he is a PR golden boy. Other than podium finishes every week what more would you want? I'd love to see him move. He's had his day in GP. He's got a better chance at another championship in WSBK... just my 2 cents. [popcorn] ;)
I could see Nicky taking Checa's position in WSBK.
Rumor is Carlos will hang up the leathers at the end of this season.
I hate to admit it, but I'm with fastwin on this one. It would be nice to see Nicky competing again rather than trying to herd the turd around the track.
well then he shouldn't ride the Panigale :-X
Quote from: Raux on July 10, 2013, 03:24:12 PM
well then he shouldn't ride the Panigale :-X
well...perhaps his experience with the frameless design in GP could translate to the Panigale?...the thing he would have to get used to is steel brakes again and the grip from a different manufacture/spec/size of tire
Hate to say I told you so, but...
WSBK is where good riders go to restart their careers. I would love to see him back on a competitive ride.
Quote from: tufty on July 10, 2013, 10:38:49 AM
Hopefully Cal is not that desperate to get on a factory bike.
Cal has proved that he's extremely desperate for a factory ride, but he was bit last year by Ducati. Unfortunately it's the only factory ride available next year unless Yamaha provides a third factory bike.
Yammy won't provide a 3rd factory bike....and Cal was partially bitten by Ducati because they were in the midst of some major managerial upheaval...like the old CEO who is now gone for example...I am sure there are some different strides being taken in that negotiation now...
as far as Nicky in WSBK, as an additional thought, he might be allowed ( time/schedule permitting of course) to finally chase that Grand Slam title by getting his Mile flat track race dream as well as being a GP and potential WSBK champion all under 1 belt
there's been plenty of chatter about cal's factory requirement possibly having as much to do with a factory salary..
nick should go to wsbk. not that i can watching that make the beast with two backsing series.
Quote from: gm2 on July 11, 2013, 04:47:23 AM
there's been plenty of chatter about cal's factory requirement possibly having as much to do with a factory salary..
nick should go to wsbk. not that i can watching that make the beast with two backsing series.
You don't get to see SBK or you don't want to?
http://motomatters.com/analysis/2013/07/11/motogp_silly_season_update_how_ducati_be.html (http://motomatters.com/analysis/2013/07/11/motogp_silly_season_update_how_ducati_be.html)
Quote from: ducpainter on July 11, 2013, 05:03:55 AM
You don't get to see SBK or you don't want to?
i don't get to. could watch it online in realtime but never can, logistically. not available on u-verse.
of course there are other options, but i haven't gotten around to it..
Is it just me or has this year's WSBK season looked more like the MotoGP parade? Sykes is running away with it and we've seen a lot less battles than what we saw before.
Quote from: ducpainter on July 10, 2013, 03:18:00 PM
Rumor is Carlos will hang up the leathers at the end of this season.
I hate to admit it, but I'm with fastwin on this one. It would be nice to see Nicky competing again rather than trying to herd the turd around the track.
I hate it when DP has to admit that he might agree with me! [laugh] [laugh]
I can surely see Carlos retiring after this season. Better to go out on top ala Bayliss, Max, etc. but that is not always possible. He has nothing more to prove. I love Checa and I would hate to see him hurt trying to push the Duc too hard for no good reason.
Nicky on an Ape or Kwacker... hmmm. [popcorn] [bacon] ;) Would also like to see that mile flat track win for the records. [thumbsup] [Dolph]
Quote from: duccarlos on July 11, 2013, 07:12:58 AM
Is it just me or has this year's WSBK season looked more like the MotoGP parade? Sykes is running away with it and we've seen a lot less battles than what we saw before.
The last couple races sure, but the ones before that have been fantastic.
Sykes has been possessed lately.
Quote from: ducpainter on July 11, 2013, 09:54:34 AM
Sykes has been possessed lately.
In a good non-zombie kind of way! [thumbsup]
http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/13071135.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/13071135.htm)
Cal's gonna have to buy his own parts, again, if he goes to Ducati in 2014 and expects to be competitive....
If LOrenzo keeps going the way he's going, Cal might get his factory ride sooner than he thinks
No factory ride for Nicky in 2014
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/July/jul1613-hayden-told-no-factory-ducati (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/July/jul1613-hayden-told-no-factory-ducati)
"The universally popular American was told by Ducati during last weekend’s German MotoGP round at the Sachsenring’s of the Bologna factory’s plan not to offer him a new deal to keep on a Desmosedici for a sixth season."
Quote from: MonstaS2R on July 16, 2013, 05:56:51 AM
No factory ride for Nicky in 2014
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/July/jul1613-hayden-told-no-factory-ducati (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/July/jul1613-hayden-told-no-factory-ducati)
"The universally popular American was told by Ducati during last weekend’s German MotoGP round at the Sachsenring’s of the Bologna factory’s plan not to offer him a new deal to keep on a Desmosedici for a sixth season."
Does this really surprise anyone? Nicky... run, do not walk, to WSBK. [thumbsup]
Quote from: MonstaS2R on July 16, 2013, 05:56:51 AM
No factory ride for Nicky in 2014
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/July/jul1613-hayden-told-no-factory-ducati (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/MotoGP/2013/July/jul1613-hayden-told-no-factory-ducati)
"The universally popular American was told by Ducati during last weekend’s German MotoGP round at the Sachsenring’s of the Bologna factory’s plan not to offer him a new deal to keep on a Desmosedici for a sixth season."
well, we all saw this coming but it still sucks to see him go. I hope they get the restrictors off of the bike before he gets onto the pani though.
Quote from: thought on July 16, 2013, 10:04:10 AM
well, we all saw this coming but it still sucks to see him go. I hope they get the restrictors off of the bike before he gets onto the pani though.
The rules allow it but apparently there wasn't enough time before the last round to implement it. The next race should be interesting to see if the Duc is near the front.
rumors coming out of italian media is they didn't offer it to him, due to an offer to Stoner
Quote from: Raux on July 16, 2013, 01:58:32 PM
rumors coming out of italian media is they didn't offer it to him, due to an offer to Stoner
Stoner was originally going to take the offer, but refused to promote the brand in any capacity and asked Ducati Corse to paint the bike matte black with no sponsors.
It's official...
Ducati Corse sucks.
Cal would be an idiot to take the deal.
Quote from: ducpainter on July 16, 2013, 05:19:54 PM
It's official...
Ducati Corse sucks.
Cal would be an idiot to take the deal.
We all know that Corse has sucked for many a year, but what made it official? The fact is that Nicky was just there to sell bikes in the US. He has not shown much in terms of being able to ride the stupid bike. It's a miracle he's still there. He should have run for the hills years ago.
Quote from: duccarlos on July 16, 2013, 05:42:51 PM
We all know that Corse has sucked for many a year, but what made it official? The fact is that Nicky was just there to sell bikes in the US. He has not shown much in terms of being able to ride the stupid bike. It's a miracle he's still there. He should have run for the hills years ago.
even Stoner couldn't ride the abomination they've built.
As far as him running for the hills...
he's loyal...
unlike Corse.
I can only hope he tells Ducati to make the beast with two backs off and rides a Kwack in SBK.
The only loyalty they have shown him has been paying him a regular check. I understand him playing second fiddle to Stoner and Rossi, but to Dovi? make the beast with two backs that shit. I would take the shitty Honda in WSBK before the Duc.
Quote from: duccarlos on July 16, 2013, 05:52:01 PM
The only loyalty they have shown him has been paying him a regular check. I understand him playing second fiddle to Stoner and Rossi, but to Dovi? make the beast with two backs that shit. I would take the shitty Honda in WSBK before the Duc.
What's funny is the Eurosport guys were talking about Nicky getting tired of the BS and thinking about a mile victory instead of putting his ass on the line every week...
for what?
stoner who?
Quote from: ducpainter on July 16, 2013, 05:48:10 PM
I can only hope he tells Ducati to make the beast with two backs off and rides a Kwack in SBK.
^ what he said. [thumbsup] [Dolph] Nicky would look good in green leathers. ;)
Why does everyone think Nicky got the shaft? I'm a huge Hayden fan and I just don't see it.
They paid him for 5 years to ride the D16, and he never got any real results (regardless of who's fault that is). From the quotes in the article it sounds like they want him to stay at Ducati, probably in WSBK. That could be a great thing...Bayliss is a legend for Ducati fans due to WSBK (and he too got the GP boot from Corse).
The only way I see he got the shaft is that they never built him a competitive bike.
Quote from: Triple J on July 17, 2013, 08:22:04 AM
Why does everyone think Nicky got the shaft? I'm a huge Hayden fan and I just don't see it.
They paid him for 5 years to ride the D16, and he never got any real results (regardless of who's fault that is). From the quotes in the article it sounds like they want him to stay at Ducati, probably in WSBK. That could be a great thing...Bayliss is a legend for Ducati fans due to WSBK (and he too got the GP boot from Corse).
The only way I see he got the shaft is that they never built him a competitive bike.
That's true, they haven't given Rossi or Dovi a competitive bike either. Rossi solved the issue his way.
And to reward him for his hard work and loyalty while herding that turd for 5 years they give him a no confidence vote, replace him in GP, and send him to the retirement home?
That sounds like the shaft to me.
Quote from: ducpainter on July 17, 2013, 09:12:17 AM
And to reward him for his hard work and loyalty while herding that turd for 5 years they give him a no confidence vote, replace him in GP, and send him to the retirement home?
His hard work was rewarded by a paycheck, probably a significant one. I hear the loyalty thing, but I'm not sure he would have stayed had Yamaha or Honda been beating his door down with a contract (I wouldn't have, and Rossi/Stoner sure didn't).
If I was Hayden I'd be relieved. He gets off that POS, without having to make the choice to "quit" MotoGP. Hopefully he goes to WSBK and starts having fun again on a competitive bike.
Sounds like Audi/Corse are looking to reduce expenses by putting a cheap(er) test mule on the GP bike for the next few years; they really don't need someone of Hayden's caliber right now, anyway, and it's easy to make him the scapegoat.
69's a multiple-series champion - he'll do well wherever he winds up.
Quote from: Triple J on July 17, 2013, 09:48:07 AM
His hard work was rewarded by a paycheck, probably a significant one. I hear the loyalty thing, but I'm not sure he would have stayed had Yamaha or Honda been beating his door down with a contract (I wouldn't have, and Rossi/Stoner sure didn't).
If I was Hayden I'd be relieved. He gets off that POS, without having to make the choice to "quit" MotoGP. Hopefully he goes to WSBK and starts having fun again on a competitive bike.
You make valid points.
Time will tell if him going to SBK, assuming it's on the Duc, is actually a way to be competitive again.
I'm not exactly sure what caliber Nicky is being referred to, but he hasn't won a race in 7 years and has not once been the lead rider, despite being on factory teams for 11 years. Say what you want about 06', but the guy was testing parts for a rookie who will be remembered as a far better rider than Nicky ever was even if the Turd doesn't win a championship. Nicky cracked 200 pts twice in his career. The fact he's kept a factory seat is a minor miracle aside from the fact he's probably employed just to sell Americans their motorcycles.
I don't blame Ducati for finally dropping him in GP. He needs to go to SBK and rip it up. There is way too much talent around for Nicky to hold a spot going forward. Honestly, Colin and Ben should go to SBK with him and form the Texas triangle *insert bike manufacturer* racing team.
Quote from: Jester on July 17, 2013, 07:24:33 PM
Honestly, Colin and Ben should go to SBK with him and form the Texas triangle *insert bike manufacturer* racing team.
how do you do that with three guys when one is from kentucky?
Quote from: derby on July 17, 2013, 08:12:24 PM
how do you do that with three guys when one is from kentucky?
I got a bit too excited there and tunnel visioned Colin/Ben. On another note. I found Ben's house here in Dallas. I actually watched it get built, not knowing for whom, but saw an Elbowz license plate on a CLS parked out front a few days ago. His Mini was out front too, which he was driving when I caught him over coffee a few months back.
Rossi has been in the premier class for 12 years, 13th is in process.
He's won the premier championship 7 times.
Nicky is one of 4 people that have defeated Rossi in the premier championship during that time.
The others:
Roberts jr 2000
Lorenzo 2010, 2012
Stoner 2007, 2011
So, IMO, he's in pretty elite company.
Especially since he's *never* been the "#1" rider on the team.
Quote from: Jester on July 17, 2013, 07:24:33 PM
I'm not exactly sure what caliber Nicky is being referred to, but he hasn't won a race in 7 years and has not once been the lead rider, despite being on factory teams for 11 years. Say what you want about 06', but the guy was testing parts for a rookie who will be remembered as a far better rider than Nicky ever was even if the Turd doesn't win a championship. Nicky cracked 200 pts twice in his career. The fact he's kept a factory seat is a minor miracle aside from the fact he's probably employed just to sell Americans their motorcycles.
I don't blame Ducati for finally dropping him in GP. He needs to go to SBK and rip it up. There is way too much talent around for Nicky to hold a spot going forward. Honestly, Colin and Ben should go to SBK with him and form the Texas triangle *insert bike manufacturer* racing team.
you also don't give credit to the parts testing and development he has done as a #2 and the fact that his hard ethic of workhorse to churn out laps in progression is incredible...before the testing limitations kicked in, he was always known to put in at least 20% more total laps than anyone else...and while under contract was always polite and representative of his sponsored ride in the most positive of manners....even when he was getting obviously make the beast with two backsed by Honda in those last 2 seasons with them, he spoke no ill words...and while really being shafted during his stint with Ducati over the last few, just hasn't been a source of anything negative ( until the last couple of rounds as of recent when he has spoken more about "some" level of disatisfaction with the bike) for the factory or the team overall. He is a banner posterchild of how you want to represent yourself as a member of a team and factory.
Quote from: Jester on July 17, 2013, 09:19:24 PM
I got a bit too excited there and tunnel visioned Colin/Ben. On another note. I found Ben's house here in Dallas. I actually watched it get built, not knowing for whom, but saw an Elbowz license plate on a CLS parked out front a few days ago. His Mini was out front too, which he was driving when I caught him over coffee a few months back.
Yeppers, he lives right down the street from my brother in law. Used to see him all the time on Lovers Lane driving to Central Market in the off season. If I still rode my road bicycle I bet I would have crossed paths with on the the White Rock Lake loop.
Mmmm... make me want a Stackhouse burger and some fried string onion rings for lunch! [drool] Since he isn't riding right now maybe I'll catch him busing tables! ;)
Quote from: derby on July 17, 2013, 08:12:24 PM
how do you do that with three guys when one is from kentucky?
Wellllllll, as I recall, technically Spies is from Tennessee or somewhere… no? [roll]
Quote from: tufty on July 18, 2013, 10:27:50 AM
Wellllllll, as I recall, technically Spies is from Tennessee or somewhere… no? [roll]
born there, but grew up in longview, tx.
Quote from: Jester on July 17, 2013, 09:19:24 PM
.....I found Ben's house here in Dallas. I actually watched it get built, not knowing for whom, but saw an Elbowz license plate on a CLS parked out front a few days ago. His Mini was out front too, which he was driving when I caught him over coffee a few months back.
Aren't there are laws against that sort of thing.....in Texas? [leo] ;D
Quote from: OT on July 18, 2013, 01:49:26 PM
Aren't there are laws against that sort of thing.....in Texas? [leo] ;D
Hah. Its on a street corner I pass in the morning. Yeah, thats my story. ;)
Quote from: Jester on July 17, 2013, 07:24:33 PM
Say what you want about 06', but the guy was testing parts for a rookie who will be remembered as a far better rider than Nicky ever was even if the Turd doesn't win a championship.
I actually kinda like Pedro...he's a tough little elf, but I'm not so sure I agree if he doesn't ever win a championship. He'll very likely be viewed as a talented rider that never quite lived up to his talent, despite being on the "best" machinery his entire career.
Pedro has more of everything in GP than Hayden...except the one thing that really matters, a
World Championship. Say what you want about '06, but when the stars aligned for him (bike, injuries (his & others), etc) Hayden capitalized...something Pedro has failed to do. He seemingly had his chance the last couple races with JLo injured/out, MM banged up, and Rossi struggling with set-up. What did he do? Crashed and injured himself. We'll see how the rest of the season plays out though. I actually hope he can pull it off this year.
I bet Pedro would give up most of his podiums to get what Hayden has...just like most sports stars when it comes to championships.
It's official, no Nicky on the MotoGP Ducs in 2014.
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/13071869out.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/13071869out.htm)
<loudspeaker>
Mr. Crutchlow, Mr. Cal Crutchlow!
Your mineshaft is waiting!
</loudspeaker>
:'(
Quote from: Speeddog on July 18, 2013, 03:52:31 PM
It's official, no Nicky on the MotoGP Ducs in 2014.
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/13071869out.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/13071869out.htm)
<loudspeaker>
Mr. Crutchlow, Mr. Cal Crutchlow!
Your mineshaft is waiting!
</loudspeaker>
:'(
I can understand Cal wanting the money from a factory contract.
That said, he's be an
idiot to take the Duc ride.
Are you listening Cal?
I could see them keeping Ben if he comes back and putting Redding in the junior team
Quote from: ducpainter on July 18, 2013, 03:57:27 PM
I can understand Cal wanting the money from a factory contract.
That said, he's be an idiot to take the Duc ride.
Are you listening Cal?
+1 Cal seems to only want to get factory money, cause if he really just wants to win, I would not go to Ducati until they can show that Audi $$$ is being put to good use.
I'm by far not a Nicky fan. The kid is a great ambassador for the brand, but that does not outweigh the need for podiums. I'm not surprised Ducati has kept him around. They can't design a MotoGP bike worth a damn, but they know that to sell in the US you need a brand name, ala Harley, and an American riding the turd. If Nicky was not from the US. I'm positive that people outside the US have been wondering for years why Ducati keeps employing Nicky. I doubt the #69 fan club is big in Europe. Bottom line, Nicky has been instrumental in helping Ducati sell in their biggest market. Now Audi wants to see results in MotoGP and the writing is on the wall. Frankly I would not renew Dovi either. If anything I would be looking at Redding and Ioanone (sp?) and build a bike around them.
Quote from: duccarlos on July 19, 2013, 06:03:38 AM
+1 Cal seems to only want to get factory money, cause if he really just wants to win, I would not go to Ducati until they can show that Audi $$$ is being put to good use.
I'm by far not a Nicky fan. The kid is a great ambassador for the brand, but that does not outweigh the need for podiums. I'm not surprised Ducati has kept him around. They can't design a MotoGP bike worth a damn, but they know that to sell in the US you need a brand name, ala Harley, and an American riding the turd. If Nicky was not from the US. I'm positive that people outside the US have been wondering for years why Ducati keeps employing Nicky. I doubt the #69 fan club is big in Europe. Bottom line, Nicky has been instrumental in helping Ducati sell in their biggest market. Now Audi wants to see results in MotoGP and the writing is on the wall. Frankly I would not renew Dovi either. If anything I would be looking at Redding and Ioanone (sp?) and build a bike around them.
Only one problem with Ducati building a bike around anyone.
It seems they don't understand the tires, and until they do they will not succeed again in GP.
Really curious to see how many bikes were actually sold because Nicky rode for ducati. How many people here actually bought a bike because Nicky was riding it? Really dont believe it is the cash cow its being made out to be. But i cant explain why else would they keep him on a factory ride (work horse? No one better? Ducati has been loyal to keep him on this long?). I'd say your average rider/ducati owner doesn't follow motogp. How many members of the DMF and how many post in the GP threads? I mean, i like ben spies, but im not going to go out and buy a yamaha. <stirring the pot>
Maybe Cal is the next golden child like stoner. That bike has been shit since (maybe always) 2007 but seems stoner could win on it, when it has killed careers. Can Cal be the chosen one that the oracle has spoken of? :P Hope he gets a Honda or Yamaha factory ride while he's at his prime. Afraid he'll end up like Melandri, he was kicking ass then got screwed with the ducati.
Quote from: DanTheMan on July 19, 2013, 06:34:11 AM
I mean, i like ben spies, but im not going to go out and buy a yamaha. <stirring the pot>
you do know he rides a Ducati now right? ;)
Quote from: zooom on July 19, 2013, 06:53:55 AM
you do know he rides a Ducati now right? ;)
Actually...
the Duc hurt him.
He's not riding at all. :P
Bear in mind that i am not a Nicky hayden fan per say. I like the guy and he has shown great patience.
But some food for thought...
The *only* time-frame in his tenure at Ducati where he wasn't at least competitive on a regular basis with his teammate was the Stoner years.
With Rossi (who we know can be competitive on a decent bike) and Dovi (who showed some brilliance on his Repsol Honda), Hayden has consistently finished in front of or right behind his counterpart on the team. (The finishes are available on the MotoGP site and I am too lazy to copy and paste the stats)
We also know that the last time that he was on a competitive bike (that was being developed for another rider), he was consitently competitive.
This makes it arguable in his favor that if given a competitive bike again, he could be competitive. Maybe not top 5 but constantly battling for 4th and 5th with periodic podiums.
And while he is not a household name to the average rider, there is no denying his impact in the US market for Ducati. If you look at their sales numbers, in the years that there is an American on their bikes, whether it be in MotoGP, WSBK or AMA, they have slightly higher sales figures. Obviously not a make or break number increase but definitely noticeable.
He also is quite a draw in Europe. Arguably as big of a draw as some of the "locals" because he is a very likeable character.
All of that being said, marketing draw isn't so much of a big deal if you aren't winning races or getting podiums.
Nicky's future is most likely not going to be in MotoGP. Too many young rockstars are coming up in moto2. Redding, Pol, Hell...the Spanish Champ Torres put on a clinic of how to win the Sausage Ring last weekend. WBSK is going to be his best option. AMA Pro Roadracing is in an abysmal state with DMG making efforts to destroy the series almost weekly instead of re-igniting it.
For those who want him to take on the triple crown, he still has some big dollar potential in WSBK and I doubt he would risk injury in a home-grown series like AMA Flat-track until he has a few years in WSBK behind him. Too much to risk for so little gain right now.
Quote from: zooom on July 19, 2013, 06:53:55 AM
you do know he rides a Ducati now right? ;)
Quote from: ducpainter on July 19, 2013, 06:55:20 AM
Actually...
the Duc hurt him.
He's not riding at all. :P
I didn't say what Ducati he is riding...he is right now just riding a Ducati Paycheck that put a Ducati chair underneath his arse...
Ducati should scrap the entire program and start anew.
New motor (it's too large and stiff of a structure to allow chassis flex)
New chassis (go back to what they know, trellis)
New riders (Redding, Sykes ;))
Quote from: zooom on July 19, 2013, 06:53:55 AM
you do know he rides a Ducati now right? ;)
Actually i forgot cause he's been out
Quote from: ZILBERT on July 19, 2013, 06:58:46 AM
But some food for thought...
The *only* time-frame in his tenure at Ducati where he wasn't at least competitive on a regular basis with his teammate was the Stoner years.
With Rossi (who we know can be competitive on a decent bike) and Dovi (who showed some brilliance on his Repsol Honda), Hayden has consistently finished in front of or right behind his counterpart on the team. (The finishes are available on the MotoGP site and I am too lazy to copy and paste the stats)
We also know that the last time that he was on a competitive bike (that was being developed for another rider), he was consitently competitive.
This makes it arguable in his favor that if given a competitive bike again, he could be competitive. Maybe not top 5 but constantly battling for 4th and 5th with periodic podiums.
ok true, he has been the top finisher for them
[/quote]
And while he is not a household name to the average rider, there is no denying his impact in the US market for Ducati. If you look at their sales numbers, in the years that there is an American on their bikes, whether it be in MotoGP, WSBK or AMA, they have slightly higher sales figures. Obviously not a make or break number increase but definitely noticeable.
[/quote]
also during this time they have introduced a lot of new models. streetfighter, new multi, new monster's, 848, 1098, 1198, hypermotard (sport classic? not that it was a big winner). And come to think of it they take apple's business model. Introduce a new bike, then a small upgrade of the same a year later. Intro the big Hyper, then later the smaller hyper...Iphone 16Gb then year later Iphone 32 or 64 GB...
Personally, as much as I like & admire Nicky ( except for the stupid, flat billed hats that are too big for him [laugh] ) he has never influenced me one way or the other with regards to any Ducati purchases I've made. Can't speak for others and how would anyone even quantify this? Does Ducati survey customers with Hayden specific questions?
Hayden influence on a buying decision? Well, if I found a low mileage Hayden version RC-51............ [Dolph]
Quote from: MacDuck on July 19, 2013, 09:30:22 AM
Personally, as much as I like & admire Nicky ( except for the stupid, flat billed hats that are too big for him [laugh] ) he has never influenced me one way or the other with regards to any Ducati purchases I've made.
+1
Quote from: MacDuck on July 19, 2013, 09:30:22 AM
Well, if I found a low mileage Hayden version RC-51............ [Dolph]
http://raresportbikesforsale.com/2004-honda-rc51-nicky-hayden-with-less-than-2000-miles/ (http://raresportbikesforsale.com/2004-honda-rc51-nicky-hayden-with-less-than-2000-miles/)
guess: bradl gets nicky's bike, cal gets the LCR and then pedro's bike in 2015.
Quote from: gm2 on July 19, 2013, 10:47:12 AM
guess: bradl gets nicky's bike, cal gets the LCR and then pedro's bike in 2015.
8) -> http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130719ed.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130719ed.htm)
maybe it's a good guess =)
Quote from: gm2 on July 19, 2013, 10:47:12 AM
guess: bradl gets nicky's bike, cal gets the LCR and then pedro's bike in 2015.
make zee Germans happy with a German on the Eye-talian stallion....
exactly. an italian rider and a german rider. das gud.
So does Nicky go to SBK on the BMW or the Duc?
Quote from: ducpainter on July 19, 2013, 12:28:02 PM
So does Nicky go to SBK on the BMW or the Duc?
I keep hoping he'll get Alvaro's seat on the Gresini Honda.
Quote from: Speeddog on July 19, 2013, 01:32:37 PM
I keep hoping he'll get Alvaro's seat on the Gresini Honda.
Has Honda ever had a rider do another stint after leaving for another brand?
Quote from: ducpainter on July 19, 2013, 02:08:45 PM
Has Honda ever had a rider do another stint after leaving for another brand?
Hmmm.
Stoner did a satellite Honda with LCR prior to his Ducati gig, then went Factory Honda.
But that's not really what you're thinking...
Where's Derby?
i don't think they have.
however i don't think that'll happen. i think he goes to sbk. he needs results.
ooo could you imagine
Stoner and Hayden on the 1199 in WSBK next year.
Stoner will never race WSBK. In his words they're "tarted up street bikes".
Has anyone hear stoner say he is coming back or is it all European media speculation? Me, I'm a lover of stoner and want him back.
As a side note, I have a friend close to the V8 super car series, and apparently he hasn't made to many friends. He's a good steerer but won't make it to the top tier of the series. Apparently he's a arrogant prick. Lol
Quote from: The Don on July 19, 2013, 07:31:59 PM
Apparently he's a arrogant prick. Lol
Shocker!! [laugh]
I'd like to see him back in GP too.
Quote from: Speeddog on July 19, 2013, 01:32:37 PM
I keep hoping he'll get Alvaro's seat on the Gresini Honda.
I believe Crutchlow would have a better chance.
Quote from: Jester on July 20, 2013, 09:06:09 PM
I believe Crutchlow would have a better chance.
Don't be silly, Crutchy's getting Bradl's seat on the LCR.
[cheeky]
I think Bradl is having other thoughts on that
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130722b.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130722b.htm)
Marlboro to give up footing the Ducati bill?!?!?!
Quote from: zooom on July 22, 2013, 02:37:52 PM
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130722b.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Jul/130722b.htm)
Marlboro to give up footing the Ducati bill?!?!?!
Well, they could not really advertise and Ducati did not seem to be in any hurry to right the ship.
If I were Marlboro I'd feel the same way. Why go middle of the pack dog when they have enough money to get a front runner if they wanted.
They used to sponsor Honda in F1
This just in.....http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/motogp/23536326 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/motogp/23536326)
and thus endeth the spotlight/career of Cal....
Quote from: zooom on August 01, 2013, 09:20:27 AM
and thus endeth the spotlight/career of Cal....
No shit sherlock. Too bad for the guy. Maybe it's a money thing 'cause he sure as anything has got to know that the machinery just isn't there.
Yeah, I ran into the story on my FB from MCN.
Now he sits along side Dovi on an Italian team. he thought it was bad in Tech 3? The shitty bike will frustrate the shit out of him unless his buddy Casey can train him into not caring about what the bike is doing underneath him.
Philip Morris has cancelled Wrooom.
“The costs of the event are no longer sustainable,†said Philip Morris vice president Maurizio Arrivabene.
Guess we'll all just have expect some other type of livery for the 6th and 7th place machines for the upcoming season. Wonder if the Duc would ever be another color?
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Aug/130801b.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Aug/130801b.htm)
Dovi's comments....
Just bad timing to be in MotoGp, probably the only shot at a factory ride hell have in his carrear, cause the 4 aliens will occupy the other four seats for the foreseeable future. Rossi is probably the closest to vacating his seat with retirement, but thats not a sure thing. Good luck Cal
$$$ Show Me the MONEY!!! $$$ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBS0OWGUidc#)
'cept Cal is on the phone...
The way I see it is, that ducati were rude and arrogant to god and haven't won since he left for Honda. This is there punishment. Now if they say three Hail Mary, apologise and ask for forgiveness they may start to win, or at least, get a podium. ;).
Good luck Cal
Feck.
Another good rider down the mineshaft.
:'(
Bye, Cal. It's been fun watching you. Really fun. (Psst . . . shoulda got yerself on a Honda).
Ducati needs to throw in the towel. This is silly. And not "silly season" silly, but rather "that bike is and always will be a useless POS" silly.
And we all thought he crashed alot on the Yamaha.
I hope through some quirk of bike and riding style it works out for Crusty.
He's already on the phone to Stoner.
Quote from: koko64 on August 01, 2013, 02:22:10 PM
He's already on the phone to Stoner.
Stoner will say: "No special 'stones with everyone else on failing michelin rubber or dunlop, no rocketship engine anymore in comparison, still can't corner worth a damn, trellis is gone, and I'm gone." Enjoy the money Cal.
That being said I'm looking forward to Cal on that bike. Even if he can't tame it, he'll let us know what he thinks about it on a weekly basis. That's worth my GP subscription alone.
In a complete surprise to no one, Espargaro to Tech3.
http://www.motomatters.com/press_release/2013/08/02/tech_3_press_release_espargaro_and_smith.html (http://www.motomatters.com/press_release/2013/08/02/tech_3_press_release_espargaro_and_smith.html)
Factory money or not, Cal's not gonna feel awesome when Pol is beating the shit out of him on his bike.
you may all be correct but personally i can't wait to see what he does on that thing.
cal, not pol.
I hope he does not end up like Nicki and Dovi [popcorn]
(http://www.hoosierhooligans.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=4524.0;attach=2673;image)
He'd have better luck 2-up on that scooter.
Quote from: Spidey on August 02, 2013, 12:30:03 PM
He'd have better luck 2-up on that scooter.
yep!
Ducati, where riders go between real contracts for real motorcycle companies.
I hope they're giving him some real money.
Quote from: Uncle Mofo on August 02, 2013, 12:06:05 PM
I hope he does not end up like Nicki and Dovi [popcorn]
or about 8 other riders.
I think Lin Jarvis said it best that he's at a time in his career where its time to make his money. Unfortunately none of the good rides are available, but if you were Cal you'd probably take the money and the Ducati contract as well. Its not as if he's jeopardizing anything. He may be fast, but he's never won, sat bike or not. I think its the best position and if Audi can help make the bike competitive by his second year he may have a factory ride for the next 2-6 years.
I to wish Cal had got a ride on a Honda satellite team, but only for my own gratification. We should remember these guys have a limited shelf life and they ain't risking life and limb for the fun of it.
Like it or not Cal has proved himself the 4th or 5th best rider on the grid in the last couple of years and should be paid accordingly. Dorna isn't pushing Yam and Honda to hire non-Spaniards or Italians and Cal still deserves a pay day.
I'm sure the Duc will still suck with him riding it, but at least he'll get to not worry about his retirement. Life goes on.
I think for Cal, he did the best he could and maximized on his earning potential with the Ducati deal. At 27, Cal has won 3 races at WSBK and got on the podium a few times a year at GP. Granted, he's on a lesser bike but he isn't taking over the scene by a storm either. His recent results have gotten him enough bargaining chips to land a factory ride with a fat paycheck. I think he's done well with what he was given.
I will still be making less in a year then he will in a week, finish in 7th place
http://www.visordown.com/motorcycle-racing-news-moto-gp/rea-confirms-talks-in-motogp/23233.html (http://www.visordown.com/motorcycle-racing-news-moto-gp/rea-confirms-talks-in-motogp/23233.html)
Johnny Rea to MotoGP? So much win.
Quote from: tufty on August 13, 2013, 07:24:05 AM
http://www.visordown.com/motorcycle-racing-news-moto-gp/rea-confirms-talks-in-motogp/23233.html (http://www.visordown.com/motorcycle-racing-news-moto-gp/rea-confirms-talks-in-motogp/23233.html)
Johnny Rea to MotoGP? So much win.
Agreed, but it would be nice to see him make the jump and land on a top notch ride rather than just jumping to get there.
Satellite Honda? he's been getting results on the old ass Fireblade. They might set him up on the "production" Honda for a few years, then bring him up to the satellite next year.
Maybe I should read the article before commenting. Apparently the sats are accounted for.
he's been "in talks for motogp" for several years
Quote from: gm2 on August 13, 2013, 12:44:53 PM
he's been "in talks for motogp" for several years
I know that, don't kill it for me. ;)
http://motomatters.com/news/2013/08/15/stefan_bradl_extends_contract_with_lcr_h.html (http://motomatters.com/news/2013/08/15/stefan_bradl_extends_contract_with_lcr_h.html)
http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/2013/Crutchlow+faces+the+media+over+Ducati+move (http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/2013/Crutchlow+faces+the+media+over+Ducati+move)
'I like the colour'. ;D
Quote from: ducpainter on August 15, 2013, 05:24:14 PM
http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/2013/Crutchlow+faces+the+media+over+Ducati+move (http://www.motogp.com/en/videos/2013/Crutchlow+faces+the+media+over+Ducati+move)
'I like the colour'. ;D
Cal is exactly what MotoGP needs and it sucks that the only factory ride he could find was the Ducaturd.
more Dorna rule changes....
http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/08/28/the_2014_motogp_rules_a_minor_modificati.html (http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/08/28/the_2014_motogp_rules_a_minor_modificati.html)
http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/08/27/analyzing_the_details_of_the_2014_world_.html (http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/08/27/analyzing_the_details_of_the_2014_world_.html)
Purportedly Aleix and Colin at Forward:
http://www.speedweek.com/motogp/news/44935/Forward-2014-mit-Aleix-Espargaro-und-Colin-Edwards.html (http://www.speedweek.com/motogp/news/44935/Forward-2014-mit-Aleix-Espargaro-und-Colin-Edwards.html)
Gobmeier says in latest CycleNews that Ducati will have some new bits for Valencia test, and a new bike for next year.
Is there anything in english?
Some stuff on Espargaro and tidbits on Hayden
http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/195993/1/espargaro_edging_closer_to_forward_racing_deal.html (http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/195993/1/espargaro_edging_closer_to_forward_racing_deal.html)
So it's not a done deal, but it sounds like Nicky will be on an Ape next year.
Nicky will be on the Ape next year.
http://motomatters.com/news/2013/09/21/motogp_silly_season_nearly_done_hayden_l.html (http://motomatters.com/news/2013/09/21/motogp_silly_season_nearly_done_hayden_l.html)
Confirms Nicky on the Aspar Ape, likely teammate is Eugene Laverty.
Espargaro on the NGM Forward M1, likely teammate Colin.
http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/10/08/silly_season_s_key_figure_gigi_dall_igna.html (http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/10/08/silly_season_s_key_figure_gigi_dall_igna.html)
interesting bits with Gigi and Aspar/AmericanHonda/HRC
I'm sure HRC would love to see Nicky on the customer bike, just for US marketing reasons
dean talked to gigi at laguna: http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131008Gigi.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131008Gigi.htm)
CycleNews Hayden interview:
http://cyclenews.uberflip.com/i/188118/50 (http://cyclenews.uberflip.com/i/188118/50)
Q: Are you glad you're not his (Marquez's) teammate?
A: I'd probably take my chances to be on that bike (Repsol Honda) right now.
Pure gold. [clap]
the question I would have about the Gigi/Ducati thing, is if or how long would it take for Gigi to get his program instituted in his way....
Looking more and more likely that Gigi Dall'Igna has been captured by Ducati.
Good for Ducati, IMO, but I'm not happy that it's at the expense of Aprilia.
here is where I put down my preference for Gigi to go to Ducati...and Nicky to ride an HRC customer RC1000V ( or whatever they are going to call it) machine for either Aspar or LCR.
Quote from: Speeddog on October 09, 2013, 01:22:51 PM
Good for Ducati, IMO, but I'm not happy that it's at the expense of Aprilia.
+1
Collateral damage isn't really the best phrase, but that's kinda what will happen.
Aspar drops Aprilia for:
A) Ducati "customer bike" i.e. GP13 with spec electronics and spec software. I hope Martinez is smarter than that, tho.
It'd be a hopeless package, and Nicky would run far away.
B) Customer Honda.
Alstare *doesn't* drop Ducati in WSBK, Batta has been very unhappy this year.
http://www.motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html (http://www.motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html)
deal done....Gigi Ducati....now lets see what happens with Aspar's dominoes and Hayden...
Quote from: zooom on October 10, 2013, 04:12:09 AM
http://www.motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html (http://www.motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html)
deal done....Gigi Ducati....now lets see what happens with Aspar's dominoes and Hayden...
Nicky will still end up at Aspar, but what will he be riding...
Quote from: duccarlos on October 10, 2013, 06:53:29 AM
Nicky will still end up at Aspar, but what will he be riding...
my hope is an RCV1000R
Quote from: zooom on October 10, 2013, 07:12:24 AM
my hope is an RCV1000R
Why, so he can continue to circulate in 8th place?
I hope it's on the Aprilia, which should go full factory in 2015. At least then he'll have a chance.
do you honestly think the ART bike is going to be ahead of the RCV1KR ?!?!?
I don't....
I think it'll likely be right there with it in 2014. If they go full factory in 2015 (as expected) then I think it will be ahead of it. No matter how you look at it the RCV1000 is a 3rd tier bike...behind the factory bikes, and behind the satellite bikes.
I'll just be glad to see Hayden off of the Duc...but I don't think he'll gain any positions on the RCV from where he's been his whole time at Ducati.
Quote from: zooom on October 10, 2013, 08:43:15 AM
do you honestly think the ART bike is going to be ahead of the RCV1KR ?!?!?
I don't....
the new ART bike, with pneumatic valves, more motor, and a seamless transmission? possibly, yes.
http://motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html (http://motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html)
gigi to ducati, hayden on a rcv?
he'll be taking out the ducs next year all season long i think.
Quote from: thought on October 10, 2013, 03:01:17 PM
http://motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html (http://motomatters.com/press_release/2013/10/10/ducati_press_release_gigi_dall_igna_to_r.html)
gigi to ducati, hayden on a rcv?
he'll be taking out the ducs next year all season long i think.
derby
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=63533.msg1208510#msg1208510 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=63533.msg1208510#msg1208510)
http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/10/15/aspar_decides_nicky_hayden_to_ride_a_hon.html (http://www.motomatters.com/news/2013/10/15/aspar_decides_nicky_hayden_to_ride_a_hon.html)
official....Nicky on an Aspar Honda
I like Nicky but I don't ever see him at the front....or Ben.
Quote from: Randy@StradaFab on October 16, 2013, 01:32:49 PM
I like Nicky but I don't ever see him at the front....or Ben.
I see him in front of where he currently is....and THAT is the important thing.
Quote
I see him in front of where he currently is....and THAT is the important thing.
;D +1
Does this mean Honda will be selling a Hayden Bike along with the Stoner Bike next year?
http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131017691.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131017691.htm)
Quote from: gm2 on October 17, 2013, 02:39:16 PM
http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131017691.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131017691.htm)
Great marketing...
but it's a make the beast with two backsing stretch for me. ;)
Quote from: ducpainter on October 17, 2013, 05:38:05 PM
Great marketing...
but it's a make the beast with two backsing stretch for me. ;)
but you meet the nicest people on a Honda ;)
I don't get it. Hayden calls the Honda a "production bike". Aspar calls it a "customer bike". Is he riding something like what Bautista and Bradl ride ? ???
Edit: Soup just posted this.
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131018crtdead.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131018crtdead.htm)
honda's production racer. satellite bikes have so far still been prototypes, just a little behind the factory bikes. this is something new; no one's ridden it yet outside of testing.
Rumor that NGM Forward has asked Edwards to fund the acquisition of Aleix Espargaro by riding for free in 2014.
Y'all can predict Colin's answer.
More rumors that Ben will retire due to FUBARed shoulder(s).
Quote from: Speeddog on October 24, 2013, 08:57:00 AM
Rumor that NGM Forward has asked Edwards to fund the acquisition of Aleix Espargaro by riding for free in 2014.
Y'all can predict Colin's answer.
More rumors that Ben will retire due to FUBARed shoulder(s).
The motogp announcers said rumors Ben will go back to wsbk to finish out Ducati contract.
Quote from: DanTheMan on October 24, 2013, 09:15:54 AM
The motogp announcers said rumors Ben will go back to wsbk to finish out Ducati contract.
While the WSBK announcers didn't mention word one about this. Hehe.
I would like to see him in WBSK over retiring but I am not holding out a whole lot of hope for him...too many young rockstars coming down the pipe right now that haven't missed the whole season due to injury...
Quote from: DanTheMan on October 24, 2013, 09:15:54 AM
The motogp announcers said rumors Ben will go back to wsbk to finish out Ducati contract.
To keep beating an out & long dead horse you could put forth that Ducati's record this year in WSBK was worse than their MotoGP effort. There must be a nicer way out of a contract. Just sayin'.
http://www.benspies.com/2013/10/26/ben-spies-retires-from-racing/ (http://www.benspies.com/2013/10/26/ben-spies-retires-from-racing/)
Quote from: derby on October 26, 2013, 04:36:13 AM
http://www.benspies.com/2013/10/26/ben-spies-retires-from-racing/ (http://www.benspies.com/2013/10/26/ben-spies-retires-from-racing/)
No real surprise...
still sucks.
i'm really hoping that this is just a one year "retirement" to enable ducati get an able-bodied racer on their bike for 2014 and give ben time to fully rehab/get back to 100%.
He's young enough.
If that's the case why not announce that though?
Quote from: ducpainter on October 26, 2013, 06:12:16 AM
He's young enough.
If that's the case why not announce that though?
my guess (hope) is language in his current two year contract.
i guess we'll know for sure at the end of 2014.
either way, he's won championship(s) against some of the best racers in the world. that's nothing to be ashamed of. ;D
Posted it on the Ben Spies thread. Probably a way for all parties to close the contract. He probably knows he won't be fit for most of the year.
Quote from: derby on October 26, 2013, 08:19:32 AM
"Wanna say thanks to everyone for the support on this decision. It was a hard one, but now I understand when they say you know when the time has come. I always dreamed of getting paid to race a motorcycle for a living. Everything else along the way was a bonus, racing gave me so many friends and experiences of traveling the world. I hope I was able to contribute something back to the sport and will continue to do so. Thanks everyone" - Ben Spies
Ducati WSBK Hires Davies & Giugliano For 2014
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131028a.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131028a.htm)
Quote from: gm2 on October 28, 2013, 12:21:31 PM
Ducati WSBK Hires Davies & Giugliano For 2014
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131028a.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131028a.htm)
SHIT! Was hoping Davide would end up on a factory Priller. [roll]
Quote from: ZILBERT on October 28, 2013, 01:25:47 PM
SHIT! Was hoping Davide would end up on a factory Priller. [roll]
there may be some questions about how good an idea that continues to be..
Nearly ironclad confirmation that Edwards and A. Espargaro will be on privateer M1 bikes at Forward Racing.
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131031ce2.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Oct/131031ce2.htm)
Quote from: gm2 on October 28, 2013, 01:38:26 PM
there may be some questions about how good an idea that continues to be..
While the loss of Gigi was a helluva a big deal, he didn't do it all alone...
Now if a chunk of the engineering folks go over with Gigi...well then I completely agree with you.
this was apparently a picture posted on Twitter by Nick Hayden of his helmet for the post season Valencia test on the Aspar Honda RCV1000R...
(http://www.superbikeplanet.com/image/archive/reset69.jpg)
I think it is just the energy and enthusiasm that Nicky is known for and will more than likely use, and frames perfectly his motivation !!!
I have no doubt that Nicky wants to bloody Ducati's nose by riding the wheels off that RCV...
And I hope he really does.
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Nov/131106burgess.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Nov/131106burgess.htm)
Quote from: zooom on November 06, 2013, 12:59:22 PM
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Nov/131106burgess.htm (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2013/Nov/131106burgess.htm)
That's gonna crimp Rossi's style.
Who could he get as a replacement?
Quote from: Speeddog on November 06, 2013, 02:32:08 PM
Who could he get as a replacement?
whoever CEII is working with (duh)
Quote from: gm2 on November 06, 2013, 04:14:09 PM
whoever CEII is working with (duh)
Whut ??? Oh I get the joke [laugh]
Maybe Guy Coulon from Tech3?
Quote from: Speeddog on November 06, 2013, 04:36:18 PM
Whut ??? Oh I get the joke [laugh]
Maybe Guy Coulon from Tech3?
;D
Nicky's new ride.
http://www.superbikeplanet.com/showPic (http://www.superbikeplanet.com/showPic)
(http://www.superbikeplanet.com/image/archive/customerrc21311.jpg)
Word on the street is that Rossi confirmed he was replacing Burgess, in the Valencia Press Conference.
I'm stunned.
Quote from: Speeddog on November 07, 2013, 09:22:54 AM
Word on the street is that Rossi confirmed he was replacing Burgess, in the Valencia Press Conference.
I'm stunned.
Confirmed in interview. Rossi wants new direction, as he's trying to get one more Yamaha contract, but needs to be more competitive.
He's been with JB for 14 years and 7 world titles, and JB has 13 world titles in all.
I'm trying to imagine how he could improve upon that.
Granted, a large percentage of the game at that level is mental, so Rossi could use the change to boost his own psych.
But if the hardware isn't right, he's not going to do better.
Its good to have fresh and perhaps younger perspective with a change in Chief. Rossi has flashes of speed to challenge, but either father time, his size, or bike setup is preventing those last few tenths he needs to hang around with the front guys. You can't change the first two, but you can perhaps change the last part. He might as well go for it during his last year(s) in the championship. He and Burgess had a hell of a career together.
Quote from: Jester on November 07, 2013, 05:51:32 PM
He and Burgess had a hell of a career together.
burgess has had a hell of a career, period.
Quote from: Speeddog on November 07, 2013, 01:51:55 PM
He's been with JB for 14 years and 7 world titles, and JB has 13 world titles in all.
I'm trying to imagine how he could improve upon that.
Granted, a large percentage of the game at that level is mental, so Rossi could use the change to boost his own psych.
But if the hardware isn't right, he's not going to do better.
I'm thinking that these days with Rossi it's mostly between the ears. He punished those other guys for a few years and made them work like hell to get faster. Now they are. ;D Just that little bit. I'd love to see him step it up next year. Oh, yeah.
http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/burgess+on+split+after+valencia+race (http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2013/burgess+on+split+after+valencia+race)
http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Nov/131108mnsc.htm (http://superbikeplanet.com/2013/Nov/131108mnsc.htm)
About the same age as JB…if I'd been running all over the world, living in hotels, on my knees/elbows/back, etc., etc., for the past 40 years - I'd be ready to retire, too…..Rossi's doing him a favor [wine] [thumbsup]
then there's the wife with cancer thing.
Quote from: gm2 on November 09, 2013, 03:07:09 PM
then there's the wife with cancer thing.
'No news' is good news, I suppose…
Can't wait for JB's MotoGP book to come out (just wishing/thinking ahead ;D)
Quote from: OT on November 10, 2013, 10:52:06 AM
'No news' is good news, I suppose…
Can't wait for JB's MotoGP book to come out (just wishing/thinking ahead ;D)
ironic mentions on both counts...
he says his wife is about to have more surgery but is generally doing fine. and he talked specifically about a book, didn't commit to it but it sounds pretty likely.
Both Rossi and Cal commented that JLo is the only one who can ride the current M1. It makes sense, seeing as it was "his" for the last 3-4 years. With the STUPID fuel consumption regulations that no one wants besides Honda (who go around bullying the other factories) JLo's size/weight, body position inside the bubble more, smooth style and early, light braking are the only ways to go fast(est) on that bike. If you're aggressive like Cal and Rossi (and especially Rossi's comparatively big size) the bike will run out of fuel so they have to dial it back to last til the end.
Now that electronics play such an important role, having a masterful "old school" crew chief isn't going to be cutting edge. Rossi needs someone to shake things up and challenge him. Not to rub salt in the wound but Jerey made the comment that in 2 weeks (what was the exact comment?) he could fix Stoner's Ducati front end issues. 2 years of misery and not a single solution. Then a year back on Rossi's favorite bike and steady P4 still with no confidence in the front end. I think it was a good run but Rossi needs to try someone new.
Not taking anything away from him, I've got a massive respect and admiration for JB and always will.
Doesn't mean all that much, as it's his best lap vs. race pace, but still interesting that Cal was able to lap faster on the Duc today than he did in the race yesterday on the Yamaha.
Crutchlow’s 1'32.054 quickest time compared favorably to his best race lap from Sunday on the Tech3 Yamaha (1'32.369) and was just over one tenth of a second slower than the efforts of Dovizioso and Andrea Iannone (Energy T.I. Pramac Racing).
Didn't he crash out of the race relatively early? (I don't remember) Cuz that's when he struggles with fuel load on the Yammie, and then he picks up speed. Besides, the Ducati is a way more developed platform than that POS career-killing Yamaha.
Quote from: Spidey on November 11, 2013, 04:36:56 PM
Didn't he crash out of the race relatively early? (I don't remember) Cuz that's when he struggles with fuel load on the Yammie, and then he picks up speed. Besides, the Ducati is a way more developed platform than that POS career-killing Yamaha.
I've done a bit of number crunching, and his best time of 1:32.054 on the Duc today was a hair over 0.2 sec slower than the average of each of his best laps on the Yamaha in FP1-FP4.
So not horrible, actually a glimmer of light.
We'll see how much more he can get.
Quote from: Speeddog on November 11, 2013, 05:07:48 PM
I've done a bit of number crunching, and his best time of 1:32.054 on the Duc today was a hair over 0.2 sec slower than the average of each of his best laps on the Yamaha in FP1-FP4.
So not horrible, actually a glimmer of light.
We'll see how much more he can get.
You're really going after that glimmer aren't yah? ;D
David Emmett had a pretty good overview of Cal's Duc Debut & the rest of the Monday testing at MotoMatters, and I'd say he was giving it a bit more than a glimmer - maybe not a solar explosion, but at least an LED flashlight's worth of hope for Ducatisti.
http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/11/12/2013_valencia_post_race_test_day_1_round.html (http://www.motomatters.com/analysis/2013/11/12/2013_valencia_post_race_test_day_1_round.html)
At least as interesting were Gigi Dall'Igna's remarks about fixing the organization of Ducati's racing effort before he could even begin to address the technical problems.
Looking forward to David Emmett's Tuesday report. Now to settle in and wait for next spring. [popcorn]
Quote from: triangleforge on November 11, 2013, 07:06:59 PM
At least as interesting were Gigi Dall'Igna's remarks about fixing the organization of Ducati's racing effort before he could even begin to address the technical problems.
Sounds more like a corporate creature preparing to justify his existence and to start building a little, personal kingdom ….
Quote from: OT on November 12, 2013, 03:45:11 PM
Sounds more like a corporate creature preparing to justify his existence and to start building a little, personal kingdom ….
I don't think so. Ducati Corse being more connected to the race teams can only be a good thing. That was his main goal.
Pedrosa is already signed for 2014...right? :P
Regarding Pedrosa’s season, Suppo concluded, "Unfortunately Dani has been very unlucky, as with almost no crashes this season but he got injured in one of the few in Sachsenring, when he was leading the Championship, and then due to no fault of his own he had the DNF in Aragón. Without these two races where I believe he could have won, or at worst finished second, it’s easy to see he would have also been fighting for the title in Valencia. Still his potential remains very high and we are sure that next year he will remain in the title fight.
Well, if Lorenzo would not have missed those races, he would have won the championship. It's obvious that there are only 3 Aliens right now. Injuries decide championships.
Quote from: duccarlos on November 14, 2013, 08:29:28 AM
Well, if Lorenzo would not have missed those races, he would have won the championship. It's obvious that there are only 3 Aliens right now. Injuries decide championships.
I agree on the importance of injuries, but JLo only missed 1 race. He still scored points in the other 2.
He was far from 100%
Agreed!
Quote from: duccarlos on November 14, 2013, 10:41:19 AM
He was far from 100%
True,
but at his worst still finished 4th IIRC.
Marquez had 2 non-scoring rounds.
That's correct. I have no doubt that he would have won this year if it wasn't for the injury. Even at the "Honda" tracks, he was pretty much in control.
Quote from: ducpainter on November 14, 2013, 11:54:29 AM
True,
but at his worst still finished 4th IIRC.
Marquez had 2 non-scoring rounds.
JLo finished off the podium 4 times: DNS (Germany), 7th (France), 5th (Assen) & 6th (Laguna)
MM had 2 DNFs, but never missed the podium otherwise.
I'm not convinced that MM wouldn't have won it regardless. JLo would have had more points without his injury...but MM's team may not have been in such a gambling mood at Phillip Island if the points were closer.
Also the last few races. Mm was not in a must win situation. So he didn't have to kill himself to be there.
True. He clearly backed off the last 2 races.
Just imagine the last coupla rounds if MM had been 15 pts behind with 3 rounds to go. WOOHOOO!!!!!
Quote from: Spidey on November 14, 2013, 07:55:18 PM
Just imagine the last coupla rounds if MM had been 15 pts behind with 3 rounds to go. WOOHOOO!!!!!
That would be epic!
Maybe we'll be lucky and get that in 2014. [beer]
These are the riders provisionally entered for participation in the 2014 MotoGPâ,,¢ World Championship season:
4 ANDREA DOVIZIOSO - ITALIAN - DUCATI TEAM - DUCATI *
5 COLIN EDWARDS - USA - NGM MOBILE FORWARD RACING - FTR YAMAHA
6 STEFAN BRADL - GERMAN - LCR HONDA MotoGP - HONDA *
7 HIROSHI AOYAMA - JAPANESE - POWER ELECTRONICS ASPAR - HONDA
8 HECTOR BARBERA - SPANISH - AVINTIA BLUSENS - FTR
9 DANILO PETRUCCI - ITALIAN - IODARACING PROJECT - TBA
17 KAREL ABRAHAM - CZECH - CARDION AB MOTORACING - HONDA
19 ALVARO BAUTISTA - SPANISH - GO&FUN HONDA GRESINI - HONDA *
26 DANI PEDROSA - SPANISH - REPSOL HONDA TEAM - HONDA *
29 ANDREA IANNONE - ITALIAN - PRAMAC RACING - DUCATI *
35 CAL CRUTCHLOW - BRITISH - DUCATI TEAM - DUCATI *
38 BRADLEY SMITH - BRITISH - MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3 - YAMAHA *
41 ALEIX ESPARGARO - SPANISH - NGM MOBILE FORWARD RACING - FTR
YAMAHA
44 POL ESPARGARO - SPANISH - MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3 - YAMAHA *
45 SCOTT REDDING - BRITISH - GO&FUN HONDA GRESINI - HONDA
46 VALENTINO ROSSI - ITALIAN - YAMAHA FACTORY RACING - YAMAHA *
63 MIKE DI MEGLIO - FRENCH - AVINTIA BLUSENS - FTR
68 YONNY HERNANDEZ - COLOMBIAN - PRAMAC RACING - DUCATI
69 NICKY HAYDEN - USA - POWER ELECTRONICS ASPAR - HONDA
70 MICHAEL LAVERTY - BRITISH - PAUL BIRD MOTORSPORT - PBM/ART
93 MARC MARQUEZ - SPANISH - REPSOL HONDA TEAM - HONDA *
99 JORGE LORENZO - SPANISH - YAMAHA FACTORY RACING - YAMAHA *
TO BE CONFIRMED - IODARACING PROJECT - TBA
TO BE CONFIRMED - PAUL BIRD MOTORSPORT - PBM/ART
The asterisks indicate factory option bikes.
Interesting to note Hernandez will be on a Duc with the spec ecu.
Quote from: ducpainter on November 21, 2013, 12:41:30 PM
Interesting to note Hernandez will be on a Duc with the spec ecu.
From what I understood, it's the same factory bike that will be delivered in Sepang, but with the spec ECU, and hence, the extra fuel.
Preparing for the inevitable?
Quote from: ducpainter on November 21, 2013, 12:55:02 PM
Preparing for the inevitable?
yup...test mule rider pregnant dog
They're doing pretty much the same as Yamaha and Honda, gathering enough data for 2015.
Can some one fill me in on how race numbers are assigned? I know how the #1 plate is dealt (and why, as smart merchandisers with opposing interests, Marquez doesn't want it on his bike, while Honda does), but how does Dovi wind up with #4, and Colin #5, etc.?
Is it just that riders choose numbers from the champion on down, and pick from whatever is left? So if it was still available & he had the chutzpah to do it, Edwards could have picked #1?*
*For the record, I don't think even Colin Edwards has that much chutzpah.
AFAIK, only #1 is reserved for the reigning champion.
All the others are first-come first-served.
most guys try and stick with the same number for as long as they can in their career. It seems to almost gets to a point of superstition, which we know how that goes for the elite racers with their routines and whatnot.
if you came out of the puig machine, or CEV, there's some logic to it. why pedro is 26 and stoner was 27.
otherwise you generally get a number early on and try to keep it. spies was always 11 but had to use 19 in wsbk since corser had 11. then he went back to 11 in GP. lorenzo was i-forget before he had 'the fans' pick 99. pedro has always been 26 but one year ran 2 because it was available and he finished 2nd in points the year prior. etc.
jorge was 48, iirc.
Quote from: derby on November 25, 2013, 02:43:29 PM
jorge was 48, iirc.
walking friggen encyclopedia.... [laugh] [laugh]
[laugh]
yep i think that was it. too visually close to 46.
he knows pedrosa's inseam as well.
derbypedia?
I claim all rights to that word. :P
^ good one, could be word of the year. ;)
Quote from: ducpainter on November 25, 2013, 05:38:06 PM
derbypedia?
I claim all rights to that word. :P
nuh uh! i said that a long time ago!
=)
Quote from: gm2 on November 27, 2013, 01:26:28 PM
nuh uh! i said that a long time ago!
=)
Yes...yes you did.
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=11841.0 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=11841.0)
Maybe I'm really late to the party, but Buell is supposedly entered in WSBK (Hero/EBR)
Quote from: stopintime on December 06, 2013, 04:15:36 PM
Maybe I'm really late to the party, but Buell is supposedly entered in WSBK (Hero/EBR)
sponsored by 3M?
Ya gotta wonder what makes them tick…
http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/racing/ama-resolves-scheduling-conflict-midohio-laguna-seca-world-superbike/ (http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/racing/ama-resolves-scheduling-conflict-midohio-laguna-seca-world-superbike/)
Quote from: OT on December 19, 2013, 02:44:54 PM
Ya gotta wonder what makes them tick…
http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/racing/ama-resolves-scheduling-conflict-midohio-laguna-seca-world-superbike/ (http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/racing/ama-resolves-scheduling-conflict-midohio-laguna-seca-world-superbike/)
There is no word yet that AMA Pro Racing will seize the opportunity to race at Laguna Seca, though the most basic of assumptions would suggest that is the logical reason behind Mid-Ohio’s event swap. Even AMA Pro Racing can’t screw this up, right? [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh]