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The title battle continues at the Mazda Speedway Laguna Seca

In Conversation with Casey Stoner

Reigning MotoGP world champion, Casey Stoner is probably the fastest man in the world on two wheels right now. And he doesn't mince words...

At 27 years of age, Casey Stoner already has two MotoGP world championships (2007 and 2011) to his name and there is a very good chance that he’ll win the 2012 MotoGP world championship as well. Recently, Man’s World magazine had an opportunity to put a few questions to the reigning MotoGP world champion, which he answered with remarkable candour. Here are a few excerpts from what Casey had to say…

On frequent changes in MotoGP technical regulations, pertaining to engine size

“I strongly believe that the management in this sport should define a clear set of rules and then stick to them for a guaranteed period of time. The constant changing of the rules is deterring manufacturers and privateer teams from entering. If you keep the rules stable for a few years then other teams looking to join the Championship know the benchmark and can join with confidence that the rules will not change and that they could become competitive. If they join without this assurance, then it is a huge gamble, as if rules change and they must adapt then they simply may not have the budget which means they exit from the sport.”

On allowing production-based engines in MotoGP and whether CRT teams are a step in the right direction

“For me, no. The MotoGP class is the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, with prototype machines. To allow CRT bikes, which are production based machines, is cheapening the class and to mix them in with the prototype machines is not only confusing to the fans and viewers of the sport but also dangerous in my opinion. We can see that the lap times of these CRT bikes are very similar to the Moto2 bikes (600cc) and this for me is a big problem.”

On his rivals, against whom he enjoys racing

“Honestly, I really enjoy racing with Dani Pedrosa, my team mate in the Honda factory team, and Jorge Lorenzo. We’ve seen some very close racing between the three of us so far this season and when we are on track and that close to each other, I have confidence riding with them. I hope they feel the same, but for me, to know that it’s them I am fighting with is very comforting as they both have track maturity and are totally aware of their immediate surroundings.”

On why he thinks seven-time MotoGP world champion, Valentino Rossi hasn’t been able to do well with Ducati

“I think it’s difficult to say without seeing him on a Yamaha or Honda. What Valentino has achieved in the sport is very impressive and I’m sorry to see them struggling now at Ducati. However, they were very quick to judge the situation from the outside when I was there and commented that they could fix the bike in 80 seconds. Well it’s been 17 months now, numerous chassis’ and millions of Euros spent and it seems that they are further back from the bike they inherited in Valencia 2010. Satellite riders have been finishing higher than Valentino and Nicky Hayden has had some very good sessions. There is no doubt that it’s a very different style of bike to ride from the Japanese bikes and I’m not sure what they will try next.”

On how the mid-1990s Honda NSR500 compares with the current RC213V MotoGP racebike

“Unfortunately, I haven’t ridden one, but I’d really like to ride Honda’s two-stroke NSR500s! They may be around 80 horsepower less than the bikes we ride now, but without any traction control I’m pretty sure they’d be a lot of fun to ride.”

On the prospect of riding very powerful sportsbikes on the street

“I was fortunate to ride the Honda Fireblade in Australia last year and I was very impressed. I was shocked that it didn’t have traction control as it was so good to ride! On public roads, you’d have to be stupid to ride like you’re on a track, this is something I’ll never understand. As a means of transport to get around, I don’t use my bike so much as now we are three people so a car is so much more convenient. When I want to get out to clear my head though, there is nothing like a nice ride. I have a Honda CB1000R, it’s a very comfortable bike to ride with a lot of power, but I save my speed for the track.”

   
It seems quite likely that Casey will win his third MotoGP world championship this year

On his motorcycling hero

“Of course, Mick Doohan. He’s always been my idol, I used to watch all his races as a kid and what he achieved is something really impressive. To come back from the injuries he sustained and to then win Championships is incredible. To ride in the Repsol Honda, the Honda factory Team, in the same livery as he raced in is something I’m very proud of. I’ve been fortunate to become friends with Mick and he comes to a few races each year which is really nice.”

On the party scene in MotoGP and the countries he enjoys visiting

“Ha ha. I’m not really a party guy, I enjoy having dinner with my friends and being in their company and having a good time, but not so much partying. I’d say that my favourite circuits are probably Phillip Island, Brno and Mugello as they are simply fun to ride at! During the season, I really enjoy racing in Phillip Island as it provides me with an opportunity to get home and see some friends and family and spend time in Australia. I also like going to America for the two races over there, there is such diversity in America and I enjoy travelling around and spending time in the mountains or by the ocean, I hope to spend more time there in the future.”

On the prospect of MotoGP going to India in 2013

“I’ve never been to India. I read a lot about the F1 race there last year and obviously watched it and I would be interested to see the circuit for sure. I think that MotoGP needs to visit more areas and we currently have four races in Spain, which is too many. MotoGP is the F1 of bikes, if we want to attract a larger following and new sponsors etc, then we must take the show to new markets.”

On his favourite music

“I pretty much listen to everything, I don’t have a favourite band as I never know who I’m listening to! I just like what I hear.”

On what he’s searching for, in life

“I guess the same as most people, I always wanted my own family and now with the birth of my daughter Alessandra in February, this dream has become a reality. I’d like more children in the future and to spend more time back home in Australia.”

On the bike he wanted most, as a teenager

“Probably Mick Doohan’s Repsol Honda!”

On his dream car

“I love a lot of cars, but I’m not the kind of person that would waste money on them. I guess I’d love to drive a few Lamborghinis or a Zonda, but I probably wouldn’t buy one.”

On his favourite place to go on a holiday

“I’d say America, but I’d also like to see more of Australia. I’ve been looking at the Caribbean a lot recently as I know the fishing over there is pretty good!”

On his favourite films and the Hollywood actress he likes most

“Meg Ryan has always been my favourite actress. For films, I appreciate clever films with a twist but recently I’ve been getting into my Westerns and especially Clint Eastwood movies.”

On whether he prefers formal or casual clothes

“I’m a casual dresser as I like to be outdoors, especially when at the farm but also cycling and fishing. So a suit wouldn’t really be practical. I have a few bespoke suits that I’ve had made, it’s nice to wear them for special occasions but in general I’m happiest in a pair of jeans and a tee shirt.”

This interview with Casey Stoner has been published here on Faster and Faster with permission from Man’s World magazine

          

Finally victory at Jerez!

Hello again from Madrid airport!

I'm still smiling after our win in Jerez yesterday. After the Friday and Saturday we had, I really didn't expect it and then in the race I realised we had more pace than I thought. the bike felt much more comfortable and although the arm pump did return, it wasn't as bad as Qatar. 

So I'm totally chuffed to have won in Spain and now I'm heading back home for a few days with my girls before leaving again on Thursday for Estoril. I'll be home this afternoon and then have tomorrow and Wednesday to relax and see my trainer, do some work on my arm and spend time with Ally.

Thanks for all your kind messages on Twitter - they really meant a lot.

See you in Estoril, I hope we can have a drier weekend there as the track is not so forgiving under the conditions we saw in Jerez!

Bye!

.................................................................. Info from CASEY STONER HIS PERSONAL BLOG

World SBK – Jonathan Rea Overcomes Hand Injury To Score Popular Assen Win

A great ride from Jonathan Rea (Honda World Superbike Team) saw him overcome the pain of a hand injury suffered earlier in the day to win his first race of the year, at his team’s home track. He also scored the first win for Honda in 2012.

Race one winner Sylvain Guintoli (Team Effenbert Liberty Racing Ducati) was second after his team-mate Jakub Smrz dropped back from his long time race two lead after choosing a wet front tyre. Smrz eventually crashed while trying to pass a lapped rider.

The battle for third went to Eugene Laverty (Aprilia Racing) his first podium of 2012.

His team-mate Max Biaggi is now leading the championship after finishing eighth in race two, one point ahead of Carlos Checa (Althea Racing). Checa gambled on rain tyres but as the track dried and the rain stayed away, he had to come into change his tyres and he ended up 17th – out of the points. Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Racing Team) dropped back from a potential podium finish to go sixth, and stay third in the overall championship fight, 13 points from Biaggi.

World SBK – Update On Brett McCormick’s Condition

Recent clinical investigations have shown that in addition to the fracture of the 5 th and 6 th cervical vertebra, Brett has also reported a lumbar fracture, so for few weeks he will have to wear a collar and back brace to immobilize the affected areas.

The situation is positive, there aren’t any spinal damage, as it was  already excluded after the first analysis, on Sunday.

The young Canadian, currently still hospitalized at Assen Hospital, continues the medical treatment  with great serenity, but obviously he is suffering big pain.

Brett is in good mood; he has the desire to return to ride his bike, he is very confident, above all he hasn’t lost his usual smile that always characterizes him, and this positive mood is very important for him to deal with his rehabilitation.

With all probability Brett will leave to Canada by tomorrow, with a special trip that will include ambulance transport and a private plane, organized specifically, because the rider has to remain lying not to stress the fractures during the long flight itinerary.

It is still early to fix the time of his full recovery, however it could be in about two / three months.

The consequences of Brett’s disastrous crash are less serious than might be expected, especially watching with clear mind the video of the crash’s dynamics, it should be underlined, however, that the perfect Brett’s physical condition, guaranteed from his constant and hard training, was certainly helpful to avoid much more serious damage.

“I lived very bad moments after Brett’s accident, the joy of the previous hours, with our first win in SBK, has been completely set aside by the great fear for the health of Brett – declared the team Owner Mario Bertuccio – With all my of riders there is not only a simple sporting relationship, but also a sincere friendship. We’re all a big family, we enjoy together and suffer together! I’m close to him and his family and I’ll wait patiently for his recovery”.

The Effenbert Liberty Racing Team would like to thank all the people who are showing their solidarity to Brett McCormick and our team, and who are waiting with us for the return of “The Kid”.

MotoGP - Jerez hosts the second round.

            After the first race in Qatar MotoGP, the premier class riders arrives this weekend in Europe for the Spanish Grand Prix, at Jerez de la Frontera. This second round of the 2012 season promises a great show because Jerez is one of the races that attract the most viewers and that the circuit is hosting this year's 26th consecutive Grand Prix.

            Winner to wear in Qatar where he won for the first time in MotoGP, Jorge Lorenzo (Yamaha Factory Racing) will be one of the favorites this weekend at Jerez, where he won the last two years.

            Casey Stoner (Repsol Honda), the reigning World Champion, has never imposed in Jerez with the premier class and want to finish ahead of Lorenzo after losing end of the race in Qatar.

            Teammate Dani Pedrosa will race on home soil and on a track where he esttoujours the podium MotoGP. Confident after his second place in Qatar, the Catalan will participate this weekend in his 100th Grand Prix in the premier class.            Cal Crutchlow (Monster Yamaha Tech 3), after equaling his entrusting meilleurrésultat MotoGP Qatar (fourth) attempt to stay on his launched this weekend. Ditto for his teammate Andrea Dovizioso continues to adapt to the Yamaha M1 which was finished just behind Crutchlow at Losail.             On the podium at Jerez in 2011, Nicky Hayden (Ducati) was at Mugello this week last to catch up during the preseason but could not really run because of bad weather.

            Teammate and ninefold World Champion Valentino Rossi meanwhile will want to catch up after a disappointing tenth place in Qatar. The Italian is the pilot who has the best record in the Andalusian circuit since it is imposed eight times, six times premier-class. Rossi continues to register and become a legend on Sunday, the third driver to reach 200 Grands Prix in the premier class World Championship.

            Alvaro Bautista (San Carlo Honda Gresini) finished seventh in Qatar and will continue to make progress on an event he had not played last year because of an injury to his left leg.

            Impressive in Qatar for his first MotoGP race (eighth), Stefan Bradl continue his apprenticeship with LCR Honda while Ben Spies (Yamaha Factory Racing) will necessarily find a place at the forefront after a disappointing race in Qatar, where he finished in eleventh position.              Colin Edwards (NGM Mobile Forward Racing) leading drivers CRT (Claiming Rule Team) will have this weekend a new electronic system for its Suter-BMW. The American attempt to keep the driver in front of French rider Randy de Puniet (Power Electronics Aspar), who hoped to do a little better in Qatar (thirteenth).             The first practice session for the Spanish Grand Prix takes place Friday morning at 10:10 .

2012 Ducati Desmosedici GP12 Specs - Valentino Rossi MotoGP Bike

On march 19th, Ducati MotoGP team has presented the all new 2012 Ducati Desmosedici GP12 bike, and today the new Ducati Desmosedici GP12 specs also has shown at Ducati official site. Today, let see the new Ducati bike design and specs, it has made for Valentino Rossi ride (also for Hayden of course) on MotoGP 2012 season. As we know, a few days ago the 1st MotoGP race has been held, and Rossi not yet showing a fantastic performance so far, even Hayden has give a better race performance than Rossi, is there any problem with 2012 Ducati Desmosedici GP12 motorcycle? or Rossi can't do more with this bike? I don't know why but I thing there is something from with Rossi or Ducati, I hope both of Rossi and Ducati will give more interactive race show and can fight more with Honda also Yamaha in the next race of MotoGP race.  Basically, 2012 Ducati Desmosedici GP12 has been born with a fantastic engine specs and features, this bike powered by 1000cc of engine capacity, Desmodromic DOCH engine, 4-valve/cylinder and produces more than 230hp of maximum power, what about the maximum speed of Desmosedici GP12? well 330 km/h is not bad for MotoGP bikes right? Here is the full specifications of 2012 Ducati Desmosedici GP12.   Ducati Desmosedici GP12 Specs 1000cc, Liquid-cooled, 90 degree V4 four-stroke, Desmodromic DOHC, four valves per cylinder Maximum power : More than 230hp Maximum speed : In excess of 330 km/h (205 mph) Transmission : Ducati Seamless Transmission. Chain final drive Carburation : Indirect Magneti Marelli electronic injection, four throttle bodies with injectors above butterfly valves. Throttles operated by EVO TCF (Throttle Control & Feedback) system Fuel : Shell Racing V-Power Lubrificant : Shell Advance Ultra 4 Ignition : Magneti Marelli Exhaust : Termignoni Final Drive : D.I.D Chain Frame : Aluminum Suspension : Öhlins inverted 48mm fork and Öhlins shock absorber, adjustable for pre-load, compression and rebound damping Tires : Bridgestone 16.5" front and rear Brakes : Brembo, two 320mm carbon front discs with four-piston calipers. Single stainless steel rear disc with two-piston caliper Dry Weight : 157 kg (specs, pics reference visit : ducati.com/racing/motogp/)   New looks  new style, but we always can meet the original Rossi colors, shiny/bright green colors on the front side/number, Desmosedici GP12 also comes with many of colors combination such as Red, White, Black and Green. Well, I hope they will give a real performance in the next race, caused if I have to tell the truth, I haven't satisfied about this team and of course Ducati GP12 bike when the 1st MotoGP race in action, the performance problem between Rossi and Ducati actually can we see in the 2011, but it's looks Ducati and Rossi need more times to handle their problem until today. Good luck for Ducati and teams, and please fight back your rivals in MotoGP. Enjoy.

Brembo: MotoGP vs F1, and the future of braking

MotoGP riders do it with one or two fingers, while F1 drivers need a whole leg...
  

What goes, must also stop. And we suppose what goes hard must stop harder, if anything. Which is where Brembo come in – their braking systems are responsible for stopping duties on fast machines in various kinds of motorsport, including F1, WRC, World Superbikes andMotoGP. In their May 2012 issue Fast Bikes magazine have taken an in-depth look at Brembo and the high-tech engineering that goes into building some of the best, most advanced braking systems in the world. Especially interesting is a snippet of Fast Bikes’ conversation with Roberto Pellegrini, Retail and Road Performance Motorbike Market Manager, Brembo Racing, where Pellegrini talks about the differences between braking set-ups in F1 and MotoGP. Here are some excerpts from what he had to say:

‘The Brembo calipers used in MotoGP and F1 are actually very similar – the only major difference is that the bikes use four pistons and the cars, six pistons per caliper. Both calipers are constructed from a lithium-aluminium alloy in a one-piece monobloc design, with titanium pistons, and both are radially mounted. I can’t tell you the sizes of the pistons – that’s a secret – but they are pretty similar. The big differences are the pressure and the clamping forces created,’ says Pellegrini.

‘A MotoGP bike can reach maybe 40 Bar, an F1 car can hit 100 Bar of pressure, which is 5,000 kilos of clamping force to generate minus-5 g-force of deceleration! We have seen an F1 disc hit 900 degrees Celsius, MotoGP has no downforce so the braking is far softer and requires more lever feel so there is less chance of this kind of heat being generated,’ says Pellegrini. ‘ The brake fluids are slightly different – in F1 you have to use one with a very high boiling point, with MotoGP you don’t. This is due to the way F1 drivers use their brakes – they are very much on/off, while a MotoGP rider needs feel. We see 90kg of pressure on the F1 brake pedal – F1 drivers need strong legs! MotoGP riders use one or two fingers,’ he adds.

And while they continue to work on improving and fine-tuning their braking systems forMotoGP and F1, Brembo are also thinking about the future of braking on streetbikes. ‘On the road, the main improvement will be with weight saving. We could be ready to make carbon-ceramic brakes for road bikes but the market isn’t ready for them yet,’ says Roberto Lavezzi, Technical Director – Motorcycle Business Unit, Brembo. ‘ The performance isn’t a problem, carbon-ceramic discs at work at low temperatures, it’s a cost issue – the price of a carbon-ceramic brake set-up would be a big issue – it would cost a lot more than a standard disc. The caliper isn’t that different, the cost is in the disc itself but the weight saving is tremendous – about 50% lighter than a conventional disc,’ he adds.

‘In the future, I think we can get maybe 10% more performance using a conventional set-up. At the moment we are looking at how to save weight by thinking of the wheel/brake/caliper as a whole, not separate items – something we can do, as we also own Marchesini. We are testing something – it is not a perimeter brake system, we tested that and it didn’t work very well – but I can’t say exactly what we are testing…,’ says Lavezzi.

Source: Fast Bikes