“Everything went smoothly, the commitment of the organisers was fantastic and they faced any problems through the weekend quickly, trying to find solutions as soon as possible. The crowd, the people…every single person involved was happy and always smiling. The fans’ support was incredible, the access to the circuit was fast and they demonstrated that they understood MotoGP – creating a commercial area close to the paddock, giving good exposure to our businesses, investors, sponsors, teams and riders. It’s also significant that a new event in this area – an important region for MotoGP – has achieved this result. It’s a perfect example for other countries to follow and this prize is fully deserved. From my point of view it will be hard for them to improve!”
World Superbike’s Triple-Treat of action launches at Phillip Island
The Phillip Island round of the 2019 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship from February 22-24 will be the first to host three races for the famed production bike series.
Chaz Davies – Image by TBG
Schedule confirmation came in overnight from international organisers, Dorna and the FIM, with the expanded three-race formula (see below for full Phillip Island WSBK Schedule), for the island’s 2019 WorldSBK season opener, backed by Yamaha Finance. The agenda also features world supersport action and the launch of national championships for Australian superbike, supersport and supersport 300 categories.
Thirteen races will be held on Saturday and Sunday, with the extension of the WorldSBK platform for the first time since the title’s inception in 1988 delivering an exciting new frontier for teams and riders – as well as a boon for spectators. For tickets go to www.worldsbk.com.auor Ticketek.
Jonathan Rea – Phillip Island – TBG Image
The two 22-lap WorldSBK battles around the 4.45km circuit will remain – to be held at 3:00pm on Saturday and Sunday – but they will now sandwich a 10-lap sprint race at midday on Sunday.
And unlike the longer WorldSBK races at Phillip Island, where rear tyre conservation is always a major part of the strategic mix, the sprint race will be a no-holds-barred affair where the likes of defending champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki) and WorldSBK rookie Alvaro Bautista (Ducati) will be pushing at 100 per cent from start to finish.
Points will be allocated to the first nine finishers in the Tissot-backed sprint race, while, as per tradition, the top 15 across the line in the 22-lap races will put points in the bank.
WSBK Phillip Island Pits
As for the WorldSBK preliminaries, the number of practice sessions has been reduced from four to three across Friday and Saturday morning, and there will be just one Superpole qualifying session on Saturday afternoon – a structure that will also be replicated in world supersport.
Superpole results in WorldSBK will decide the grid for race one and the sprint. The sharp end of the field in race three will then be determined from the first nine positions in the sprint – and from 10th onwards based on Superpole performances.
Tom Sykes will be on the new BMW S 1000 RR in 2019 after switching over from Kawasaki
Changes to the WorldSBK format will add an electrifying dimension to hostilities for one of the strongest grids in recent memory.
As well as Rea and MotoGP convert Bautista, the snarling pack of four-strokes will also include Chaz Davies (Ducati), Tom Sykes (BMW), Leon Haslam (Kawasaki), Marco Melandri (Ducati), Michael van der Mark (Yamaha), Alex Lowes (Yamaha), Leon Camier (Honda), Ryuichi Kiyonari (Honda), Marcus Reiterberger (BMW), Sandro Cortese (Yamaha), Eugene Laverty (Ducati), Jordi Torres (Kawasaki) and Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Ducati).
WSBK Test Jerez Nov GeeBee Alvaro Bautista Panigale V4 R
Moreover, both BMW and Ducati are fronting at Phillip Island with all-new bikes, while BMW and Honda have recommitted to the championship with factory-backed teams. It all adds up to a crackerjack weekend – and season – of WorldSBK racing!
Meanwhile, the 18-lap world supersport race will be held at 1:15pm on Sunday.
2019 Australian Superbike Championship opener
As well as the four world championship races, the Phillip Island WorldSBK round will also feature nine races across the Australian Superbike, Supersport and Supersport 300 categories – three each across Saturday and Sunday as the seven-round national series kicks off in earnest.
In superbike, that means the return of WorldSBK legend Troy Bayliss, who completed the 2018 domestic title at Phillip Island with some stunning front-running battles against Josh Waters and Wayne Maxwell.
However, it’s Troy Herfoss who’s the reigning Aussie superbike champion, and he’ll be out to kick off his defence in fine style at Phillip Island as well.
Troy Herfoss celebrates winning the final race of 2018 at Phillip Island at MotoGP – TBG Image
Non-stop action
Add all the practice, qualifying and racing elements together and that means a flurry of on-track action at Phillip Island from Friday to Sunday.
On Friday riders take to the track at 9:10am and finish at 4:45pm; on Saturday it’s a 8:45am to 5:45pm affair; and on Sunday the action commences at 8:15am before winding down at 4:45pm.
Tickets now on sale
As an extra bonus at WorldSBK, all three-day ticket holders are gifted free paddock access. For all ticket and racing information go to check below or visit Ticketek.
Morocco testing a ‘morale booster’ for the Australian contender.
Image: Supplied.
Australian Rodney Faggotter is targeting a top 10 finish in the 2019 Dakar Rally, which set to take place from 6-17 January, boasting 5541 kilometres of riding.
The Yamalube Yamaha Rider wound up an impressive 16th at this year’s instalment, and with a week of testing now completed in Morocco, Faggotter believes his morale has been boosted heading into the prestigious off-road event.
“I’m looking forward to the 2019 Dakar,” said Faggotter. “I’ve been racing some Bajas and training hard back home in Australia these last few months. I feel strong physically and also mentally. In the beginning of December we’ve spent a full week testing and training with the team in Morocco and that was a good morale booster for me.
“We have a great spirit within the team and I want to be there for my teammates if they need me. I want to have a good clean run and do my own race. This Dakar might seem shorter, but we all know it’s still going to be a long and demanding race. If it all goes well, I’m confident I can improve my overall result from last year and fight for a spot inside the top 10.”
The Queenslander’s role within the factory Yamaha squad extends beyond being a rider, with his mechanical experience coming into play should a teammate require assistance throughout the almost two-week long affair.
Celebrate the arrival of BMW’s new for 2019 models including the R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT, as well as the R 1250 GS Adventure and F 850 GS Adventure, with special demo days at Springwood BMW Motorrad & Gold Coast BMW Motorrad on the following dates:
2019 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
Saturday 15/12/18 – BMW R 1250 GS & R 1250 RT
Saturday 22/12/18 – BMW R 1250 GSA
Saturday 19/01/19 – BMW F 850 GSA
These test rides are only available at the following two locations:
2019 BMW R 1250 GS & R 1250 GS Adventure
Both the regular R 1250 GS and the Adventure get updated mechanicals including the new ShiftCam version of the Boxer engine but offers a more hardcore off-road package. The latest powerplant also realises a hefty 7 per cent increase in capacity from 1170cc to 1254cc courtesy of both a bigger bore and longer stroke. Power is up from 125 to 136 horsepower while torque is boosted further from 125 to 143 Nm.
2019 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
The new GS Adventure meanwhile is also 15mm longer but is 28mm slimmer between the mirrors than before, however, at 268 kg BMW’s claimed wet weight figure is 8 kg heavier than that quoted for the previous machine. Wheel travel remains 210mm at the front and 220mm at the rear while the latest model benefits from Dynamic ESA ‘Next Generation’ with automatic load compensation. The lowest seat height loadout also decreases to 820mm.
A brilliant new 6.5-inch TFT screen is standard complete with bluetooth connectivity which allows navigation prompts to be displayed on the dash and your music/phone to be controlled via the well sorted BMW Multi-Controller.
R 1250 RT
The new R 1250 RT embodies its exclusive touring character in one basic colour, two style variants and two Option 719 Spezial finishes, alongside the previously mentioned new 1250 ShiftCam Boxer engine.
BMW R 1250 RT
As compared to the predecessor model, the engine spoiler has been newly designed and an additional front spoiler has been added. Another striking visual feature is the pipe ducting of the new exhaust manifold system. Along with these body modifications, there are also three attractive colour and style variants as well as two additional special finishes available for the new R 1250 RT, each creating a powerfully distinctive character
An even higher level of riding safety, performance and comfort is achieved with the BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), now also available as an optional equipment item for the R 1250 RT. Here, the damping automatically adapts to the situation depending on riding state and manoeuvres, and there is also automatic riding position compensation in all load states.
The R 1250 RT is fitted with a large 5.7-inch TFT colour screen. This is supplemented with an analog speedometer and rev counter and controlled by the standard BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller. The RT does not as yet gain all full connectivity features that debut on its R 1250 GS sibling for 2019.
F 850 GS Adventure
Following the unveiling of the recent BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS, the new F 850 GS Adventure expands the BMW Motorrad range in the adventure-touring segment. Like the renowned boxer-engined BMW GS Adventure models, the new F 850 GS Adventures offers a dedicated travel enduro, for off-road oriented touring riders and globetrotters.
A new refined two-cylinder in-line engine with 90-degree crankpin offset and 270/450 degree ignition spacing incudes counterbalance shafts to reduce vibration. A slip-assist clutch provides a discernible reduction in lever effort.
BMW F 850 GS Adventure
The power transmission to the rear wheel comes from the six-speed gearbox with secondary drive that is now positioned on the left-hand side. The new F 850 GS Adventure also offers “Rain” and “Road” riding modes as standard, while the combination of BMW Motorrad ABS and the ASC automatic stability control ensure a high level of safety.
New, bodywork emphasises the F 850 GS Adventure’s more modern looks, with a larger adjustable windshield and hand-guards. In addition to the basic version, the new F 850 GS Adventure is available in Exclusive and Rallye style variations.
Clout, a former MX2 champion, was highly-impressive throughout the year as he established himself as a future championship threat, collecting a number of podiums and a race win along the way.
“Being at Serco Yamaha a few years ago, I always looked at CDR Yamaha as the next step in my career but there wasn’t a spot available for me at the time, which I completely understand,” Clout stated. “It may have taken me an extra few years to get here, but I’m so happy and proud to be racing for CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team in 2019 and I can’t wait to get stuck into testing and the new season.
“It’s no fluke that CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team win as often as they do as they use the best products and have the best technical staff in Australia. My plan is to fully commit to their program and buy into the CDR Yamaha way as it has been so successful for so many riders over time.
“I took a couple of weeks off to recover and rest from the 2018 season and now I’m feeling good and excited about what the year will bring. It’s now its wide open into 2019 where I hope that I can get more championship success under my belt and represent the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team and brand well.”
The talented New South Welshman has been on the radar for a significant amount of time according to team owner Craig Dack, who believes the popular number four enters 2019 as title favourite across both disciplines.
“The fight Luke showed in the opening few rounds of supercross is what really stood out for me,” Dack stated. “He wasn’t afraid to take to Justin Brayton or any other big name rider and was the only Australian based rider to really want to get in there and get his hands dirty, so to speak.
“On top of that, he already has a strong Yamaha history and when discussing our arrangements for 2019, he asked the right questions and was certainly focused on getting the best results possible. So his motivation is right. Luke will contest both motocross and supercross for us and I believe he is a genuine championship contender in both series as he rides both disciplines equally well.
“I think pairing Luke and with Kirk will make for a great team and the pair already have a good working relationship and having two new riders to the team keeps everything fresh and everyone on their toes. We look forward to working with both riders and assisting them to achieve their goals.”
Clout was ranked third in MX Nationals MX1 standings, while he pushed through injury in supercross to wind up sixth. His first official outing aboard the 2019 Yamaha YZ450F will be at next month’s Coffs Harbour Stadium MX, scheduled for 12 January.
Buckley’s departure from BCperformance concludes a five-year partnership with the outfit, which saw him emerge through the Supersport 300, Supersport and Superbike categories with the New South Wales-based operation.
The number 83, who was ranked 12th in the 2018 ASBK championship standings, remains hopeful of landing an opportunity in the main game despite acknowledging there are a limited number of seats available.
“At the moment I don’t have anything solid, I’m just looking around – there’s a little bit happening, but I’m still just looking at this stage,” Buckley explained to CycleOnline.com.au. “It’s disappointing to leave the team, but it’s the way it is and I wish them the best for 2019.
“I’ve stepped back into 300s from 600s in the past, but it’s not something I want to do again. If nothing comes up, I suppose I’ll hang up the boots. I still think I’m fast enough to be in the game, but unfortunately it didn’t work out with BCperformance – there’s not much out there and it’s pretty cut-throat. I’m just sitting back and hoping an opportunity opens up.”
Date shifted one week prior due to local election.
Image: Supplied.
Confirmed as the opening round of the 2019 MXGP World Championship last week, Patagonia Argentina has now been rescheduled to take place one week earlier than initially planned on 2-3 March.
The previous schedule was selected before a local government election was announced causing the change, the change in schedule coming due to a local law which prohibits public events from coinciding with such elections.
The new anticipated date will however better suit the interest of both riders and fans as the best athletes in the world return to MXGP racing following winter preparation.
The 2019 MXGP World Championship will span over 20 rounds, starting in March before winding up in September at Imola in Italy.
Earlier this year I had the opportunity to photograph the Collezione Moto Poggi, located just outside Bologna in Villanova di Castenaso.
Collezione Moto Poggi
The current home to Pierluigi Poggi’s collection was opened in 2012 and houses the largest gathering of racing Yamahas in Europe, as well as bikes from many other marques.
Collezione Moto Poggi
While the vast majority of the bikes on display are Pierluigi’s, a number are on loan from other collectors and Yamaha Europe.
Collezione Moto Poggi
The bikes are displayed in four main halls with an additional room that houses the Minarelli family’s own collection.
Collezione Moto Poggi
Hall 1 has over fifty racing Yamahas, ranging from the company’s first production racer – the 1959 250cc Clubman Racer (also known as the YDS1R), to 990cc M1 MotoGP bikes.
Hall 2 contains many pre WW II racing machines including examples from DKW, F.B. Mondial, MV Agusta, etc. Hall 3 has mainly post WW II bikes such as Rumi, CM, Montessa & Yamaha.
Collezione Moto Poggi
Hall 4 is home to an impressive line up of Yamaha WSBK racers and is also used for temporary exhibitions. During the the time I was there Frankie Chili was dropping in items for an exhibition to celebrate his 24 years in racing and graciously posed for a few shots.
Collezione Moto Poggi
Hall 1
As can been seen there is no shortage of air-cooled TDs and water-cooled TZs here! From a 8.3hp TZ50 to the mighty TZ750.
A notable inclusion is one of Carlos Lavado’s 1986 World Championship winning YZR250/OW82s.
The mezzanine in Hall 2 has a display of about 50 micro motors (under 50cc). From Atala to Zurcher, via Benelli, Ceccato, Cimatti, DEMM, DKW, Ducati, Garelli, Grillo, JLO, Ibis, Imex, Itom, Malanca, Morini, Mondial, MV Agusta and Tomos.
Collezione Moto Poggi
Hall 3
Race and road bikes galore!
Collezione Moto Poggi
The oldest bike in the collection is this 1899 200cc Keller Donrion. Output 1.75hp!
Collezione Moto Poggi
At the other end of the spectrum – a 1993 Yamaha V-Max.
Collezione Moto PoggiCollezione Moto Poggi
Two examples of the little known Binassi brand. A 125cc Competizone and 175 Sport. Both from 1971.
Now retired banker Nerio Pancaldi has been creating unique bikes since 1963. Typically using an unassuming small capacity Italian bike as the base, he designs and engineers major engine changes such as converting an OHV to a DOHC.
Or fitting his own desmo heads. A water-cooled 125cc gear-driven DOHC parallel twin is a completely original design.
Hall 4
Collezione Moto Poggi
Noriyouki Haga’s 2000 YZF-R7 OW-02 heads this row of WSBK racers. After a problematic debut of the new design in 1999, Haga had a much more successful time the following year, finishing 2nd to Colin Edwards, with 4 wins. 2000 was also the R7’s last year, as Yamaha withdrew from WSBK at the end of that season.
Collezione Moto PoggiCollezione Moto Poggi
Pierfrancesco “Frankie” Chili poses with his first racing motorcycle, a Malanca he rode in 1982, during the setting up of a special exhibition to celebrate his 24 year racing career. The 4th Hall is used for such special events, including being the control point for historic races passing through Bologna.
Minarelli Room
Collezione Moto Poggi
One room on the first floor houses ten of the Minarelli family’s competition bikes plus dozens of production and prototype motors. The No3 streamliner set five 175cc world records in 1971 and two more in 1975.
Collezione Moto Poggi
The No1 bike set two 100cc records in 1971 and two in 1973. Successful 75 and 50cc bikes are also seen. One prototype motor on display is a 4-stroke 1954 DOHC 175cc unit. 067
Collezione Moto Poggi
Angel Nieto’s 1981 125cc title winning Minarelli twin. Nieto had also won the ’79 title on an earlier version, then with Minarelli passing the design onto Garelli for the 1982 season, he won in ’82, ’83 & ‘84 on the basically unchanged machine. With only small changes Fausto Gresini then took the title in ’85 & ’86 and Luca Cadalora in ’87. The Constructor’s trophy and certificate accompany the bike.
Slowly but surely, motorcyclists are getting traction against being profiled.
Begin press release:
The American Motorcyclist Association expresses its deep appreciation to the U.S. Senate, which adopted a resolution Tuesday promoting awareness of motorcyclist profiling and encouraging collaboration and communication with the motorcycling community and law enforcement officials to prevent instances of profiling.
Senate Res. 154 also urges state law enforcement officials to condemn motorcyclist profiling in their policies and training materials.
Senate resolutions do not have the force of law.
“In 2015, Congress wisely acted to ban federal highway funding for motorcycle-only checkpoints, recognizing that federal funds are better spent on promoting highway safety for all vehicles and drivers,” said AMA Vice President of Government Relations Wayne Allard. “Now, the Senate has taken a big step further to help end the discriminatory and ineffective practice of profiling motorcyclists.”
The bipartisan resolution, sponsored by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), was cosponsored by Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael D. Crapo (R-Idaho), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Angus King (I-Maine), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska).
As adopted, the resolution recognizes the significant increase in motorcycle registrations during the past 20 years, and points out that half of motorcyclists surveyed believe they have been profiled by law enforcement at least once. The resolution also acknowledges that motorcyclist profiling occurs across the nation.
Profiling means the illegal use of the fact that a person rides a motorcycle or wears motorcycle-related apparel as a factor when law enforcement officers decide to stop and question, take enforcement action, arrest or search a person or vehicle with or without a legal basis.
The AMA continues to recommend law enforcement and highway officials focus their efforts on encouraging highway safety in ways that make America’s roads safer for everyone.
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