Racing Tips: How To Overtake

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October 26, 2021

In my opinion, overtaking starts first and foremost with confidence. You need to have confidence in your bike setup and how it will react when you grab the brakes a little later to try and stop it in a shorter distance.

Overtaking isn’t just all about getting on the brakes late, Andrew Pitt shows us how he gets that perfect overtake down.

You really need to have a good front end feeling and good confidence and feel in the front tyre. This will come only from testing your limits on the braking markers in practice and seeing how late you can actually brake without running off the track. This also will give you a good idea of how your front reacts when you grab the brakes a little harder and a little later. For example if the front dives too hard and fast it will pick the rear up meaning you will have to release the brakes a little to get the rear contact back or the rear will go sideways and try to overtake the front.

Check out our other rider training articles here…

If you have ridden around on your own all the way through practice and maybe cutting fast laps all the time it can be easy to find yourself in trouble in the race when you suddenly have to take a different line into a corner and brake in a different way when you need to overtake. This is why I always tried to run a few hard laps with someone fast and make sure I had made a few passes on the brakes during practice just so I knew how the bike would be and if we were set up properly to race.

Trying out a few different lines in practice can help when you’re forced to take a different line when going for an overtake.

In early 2005 when I was on the new R1 with the Yamaha Italia World Superbike and we were trying to find our base setup and get the right slipper clutch setting overtaking wasn’t really an option. I could get fast laps done in qualifying but I just didn’t have the confidence or feel from the front end to lunge up the inside of someone and confidently know I would pull it off and come out the other side of the corner.

I think for the first three or four rounds of the championship that year I didn’t make any passes on the brakes/front end on any of the faster guys I was racing with. Whereas later in the year and particularly the next year 2006 I could pass anyone on the brakes.

Engine braking plays a huge part in getting the dive right. With the right setup, you should be able to get a linear stop.

When you have that confidence and you are trying to get past someone who also has their bike working well and is braking really late it will take a bit more planning. Sometimes an overtaking move can take a combination of any number of corners to pass someone or even numerous laps to set someone up finally for a decisive pass. If you have identified a corner where you think you can make a pass it may require the perfect exit from a corner five turns before and gathering momentum through every section just to get up alongside someone so that you can get past them.

Even then you both might grab the brakes, at the same time, both on the limit, each rider easing the brakes on and off to stay ahead all the way to the apex when the guy on the outside has to give way because you have taken his line. Then if you have pulled it off try and pull a gap straight away because most people will try to come straight back past.

“Sometimes an overtaking move can take a combination of any number of corners to pass someone or even numerous laps to set someone up finally for a decisive pass.”

If someone had a little more pace than me but I could hang onto them and even pass them but not get away I would continually pass and re-pass to upset their rhythm and hopefully after lots of that I would have a little more tyre left at the end when things got tougher.

Another type of pass is a sort of momentum pass that starts with a good exit out of a turn and gathering that momentum through a series of faster turns and as you are flicking from one side to another under power running it up the inside. I liked to try a pass on the change of direction into the hayshed at Phillip Island.

On lower powered bikes, keeping momentum is everything. Don’t waste it all on one attempt at overtaking, build up to the right moment to strike.

This started though on the exit of Honda and then gaining a little more and getting a little closer on the run into Siberia and picking up the throttle at worst the same time as the rider in front getting your face right into their exhausts up through the left kink and over the bump and while they are keeping it left for the run through the Hayshed you are almost grazing their ducktail with your left shoulder and going straight to the apex and up the inside. The only trick there is making sure you are not out on the grass on the exit and approaching Lukey Heights on the green stuff.

Of course the other way to overtake is on the straight but the real key to that is having horsepower. It can be done with an amazing exit out of say Turn 12 at Phillip Island and catching a slipstream all the way down the straight and popping out as you start to run downhill after the bridge into Turn one.

People will also try the desperate moves that they have no idea if they can pull them off but have a go anyway which sometimes you just have to do. Anyway, if you are racing motorbikes or anything for that matter overtaking is always going to be part of it and the more often you do it the easier it is but you can be sure of one thing there is always going to be someone you want to overtake.

Executing a good passing manoeuvre takes skill and experience… Words: Andrew Pitt.

2021 Australian Senior And Junior Dirt Track Championships Cancelled

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October 26, 2021

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Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and border restrictions the North Brisbane Junior Motorcycle Club, in consultation with Motorcycling Australia have made the difficult decision to cancel the running of the 2021 Australian Senior Dirt Track and Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships.

Due to on-going boarder closures and changing COVID-19 lockdown rules, the championships have been canceled for 2021.

Both Championships, which were to be held at Mick Doohan Raceway, Banyo, Queensland had been rescheduled earlier this year due to COVID-19, but with the ongoing border restrictions and no clarity provided by State Governments around the timing for the opening of state borders, the tough decision to cancel both Championship events has been made. The championships will hopefully be back in 2022, when lockdowns are lifted and riders can travel inter-state once again.

“Both Championships, which were to be held at Mick Doohan Raceway, Queensland had been rescheduled earlier this year due to COVID-19.” However, they have both been canceled.

Motorcycling Australia say they support the decision of the North Brisbane Junior MCC as with State border restrictions it makes it impossible for interstate riders and teams, officials and fans to attend the Championships. We hope to see the racing back on track again!

New Products: HJC RPHA Carbon Range

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October 26, 2021

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HJC have just released their new range of helmets, designed with all of their most advanced technology. The HJC RPHA Carbon Range comes in a Premium Modular, Premium Sports Touring and a Premium Sports helmet, so theres something to suit most styles!

The 90s is HJC’s most compact modular helmet yet, packed with plenty of features to keep you comfortable and safe.

The reinvented RPHA 90S Carbon is the most compact modular helmet, resembling a full-face helmet through weight and appearance, yet functioning as a modular helmet.

Intake and exhaust vents keep your head cool.

HJC say the carbon outer shell is extremely light weight and is a compact shell construction. The helmet also features a premium Integrated Matrix / P.I.M. Plus: Reinforcement materials, including Carbon and Carbon-Glass Hybrid fabric, provide enhanced Shock-Resistant performance, more comfort, and lightness of helmet (6 layers)

A flip down sun visor will keep the sun out of your eyes at the flick of a switch, making changing conditions a breeze.

The Maximised air vent with easy slide operation has been partnered with tailored EPS air channel design provides cool air through the interior of the helmet. Along with this is a multicool interior with advanced anti-bacteria fabric provides enhanced moisture wicking and quicker drying function than previous generations.

Click here to find out more info on the HJC RPHA 90s Modular, available now from your local motorcycle dealership or online for an RRP of $999.90 in a solid colour or $1049.90 in a Carbon Graphic outer design.

The HJC RPHA 11 comes equiped with a smoked visor and plenty of other comfort features!

The HJC RPHA 11 is the Premium Sports helmet of the range. Much like the 90s, the 11 features a Carbon Fibre outer shell which is extremely light weight and aerodynamic design for outstanding air flow ventilation and extreme performance.

A rear defuser adds aerodynamic properties.

The 11 also features the P.I.M and has a Max airflow top vent six-stage variable airflow is adjusted by glove-friendly dials on each intake vent with an “Advanced Channeling Ventilation System” which gives a full front-to-back airflow, flushing heat and humidity out of the interior. Other features include built in communication speaker pockets, an extra Dark Smoke visor, the Multicool interior with anti-bateria fabric and a eye and sun glasses friendly EPS design.

You can pick up a HJC RPHA 11 in store now for an RRP of $899.90 in sizes XS up to 2XL.

Click here to find out more info on the HJC RPHA 11, available now from your local motorcycle dealership or online for an RRP of $899.90.

The HJC RPHA 70 is a helmet made for touring, it puts all the best properties of the range into a comfortable helmet.

The final helmet in the line-up is the HJC RPHA 70. Marketed as the Premium Sports Touring helmet, it has a lot of the same features as the 11 but with a less aggressive and more street appealing style.

A double rear vent helps expel hot air from the helmet.

Using the RPHA Carbon shell, its a tough helmet designed to keep you safe out on the road. Your head will stay cool with their dual-purposed top vent which has an intake and exhaust which operate simultaneously for maximum air circulation.

You can pick up the HJC RPHA 70 for an RRP of $899.90 in sizes XS to 2XL as well.

An Integrated Sunshield will help keep the sun out of your eyes, the anti-fog coated smoke tinted sunshield deploys quickly and easily by bottom positioned new operation system.

Click here to find out more info on the HJC RPHA 70, available now from your local motorcycle dealership or online for an RRP of $899.90.

Kyle Webster Crowned 2021 ProMX MX2 Champion

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October 26, 2021

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Honda Factory Racing’s Kyle Webster has been crowned the Pirelli MX2 class Champion in the Penrite ProMX Championship presented by AMX Superstores (ProMX), after a dominant display of riding that saw Webster finish off the #1 position in only one race throughout the season.

Behind Webster, the Yamaha duo of Serco Yamaha’s Jesse Dobson would finish 2nd overall in the Championship with Yamalube Yamaha’s Rhys Budd in 3rd.

In a career year for the young rider based in Victoria, Webster displayed incredible speed and fitness that put him on another level over his competition for the majority of the time the Pirelli MX2 class spent on track in 2021. Being able to secure a coveted spot under the team truck in MX1 for 2022 was also a major achievement for Webster, as he is now confirmed to graduate into THOR MX1 under the Factory Honda Racing effort.

“It’s been a lot of hard work to get to this point. I relocated to Victoria to be closer to the team, my coach and physical trainer. We really capitalised on the down time last year to fix my body and some old injuries I had to get back on track. We worked on all the small stuff that added up to big gains this year” commented Webster at the Press Conference.

It was a fairy tale ending for Kyle Webster after the past two seasons have been cut short due to COVID-19.

In a feel good story, Serco Yamaha’s Jesse Dobson would claim his career best 2nd in the Pirelli MX2 Championship, after the last few years as a privateer and an injury at the start of the 2021 season, Dobson showed incredible strength and determination to fight back onto the podium.

“It was my goal to be on the podium even after the injury I had before round 2. Our bike is so strong and I love the team environment at Serco Yamaha,I have good people around me now and it has played a big part in my results this year” said Jesse Dobson.

Yamaha were strong all year, with two of their riders, Rhys Budd and Jesse Dobson, finishing in the top three.

Rhys Budd would also take a massive step forward in his career, capitalising on a recent manufacturer switch to start the season on the Yamalube Yamaha team. Landing on the Championship podium was a massive step forward for the young rider from NSW.

“Consistency was a big goal of mine coming into this season with so many great riders in the MX2 class. We achieved that consistency and although I would have liked more individual podiums throughout the season, I’m thrilled to land on the Championship podium. It wouldn’t have been possible without the whole Yamalube Yamaha team and all our partners and my personal sponsors, thank you” commented Budd.

“Consistency was a big goal of mine coming into this season with so many great riders in the MX2 class…” Said Rhys Budd.

Stay tuned for ProMX highlight clips from the end of season press conference on their website in the coming days.

Energica to conclude era as single MotoE manufacturer

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October 26, 2021

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"Following the provisional calendar announcement, which sees the championship travel to seven different countries, the provisional Entry List for the 2022 FIM Enel MotoE World Cup has been announced."

Dorna Sports have recently announced the departure of Energica Motor Company as the single manufacturer for the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup, with 2022 confirmed as the marque’s final season.

Energica has been the sole supplier to MotoE™ since the Cup’s inception in 2019, with 2022 now set to mark the last chapter of a four-year journey full of evolution, excitement and adrenaline. Energica has been a key part of making MotoE™ a must-watch showcase for both electric mobility and close competition, with the Cup racing at some of the world’s most iconic circuits.

The Energica Ego Corsa has proved to be fast, extremely reliable and well-appreciated by the riders who have taken part in the Cup, and will doubtless continue to impress next season before the collaboration between Energica and MotoE™ then concludes. The work done both at the track and at company headquarters has seen constant innovation and new solutions drive MotoE™ to the incredible level it is at now, with Energica showing an ability to react quickly to challenges and different technical requests in record time.

MotoE has proved to be an extremely exciting series, with Energica being the driving force behind it.

The joint effort between all parties has been key developing a competition that will now move into a new era built on a foundation all involved can take immense pride in having constructed together. Dorna Sports said they would like to thank Energica for their immeasurable contribution to the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup and wishes the company the best of success in their future endeavours after 2022.

“We are extremely happy at Energica to have provided our invaluable contribution to make MotoE the success it is today. We’re confident that our initiative and efforts have generated plenty of interest from the big OEMs to follow the path we started a decade ago. Being pioneers of electric mobility on two wheels, we have opened up the way to a whole new strata of sustainable and exciting motorcycle racing and – as we have always done – we now aim at testing ourselves with new challenges. This is why we are looking forward to the next big thing to come! We would like to thank Dorna Sports for the great opportunity to showcase our technology and we are looking forward to wrapping up our journey together in style.” Said Livia Cevolini, CEO of Energica Motor Company.

Fans are looking forward to seeing where the series progresses to after the 2022 season.

“The first three seasons of the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup have delivered an incredible show despite all the unforeseen external challenges that have been thrown at us. It wasn’t an easy task to undertake and one very new in many aspects, but we did it and this was thanks to a joint effort between all parties involved. From the very beginning, Energica has brought its know-how to the track in a way we couldn’t be happier with, delivering a package that has proved to be extremely competitive, showing impressive maximum speed (exceeding 260km/h in Barcelona in 2021), and lap-times that on some occasion were in line with other classes – despite the much shorter history of electric motorcycles.” Said Nicolas Goubert, Executive Director of the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup.

“Maybe even more impressive than the on-track performance was the bike reliability, as none of the 18 riders ever encountered any mechanical failure during any of the races we enjoyed in the three seasons. Their ability to respond quickly and effectively to our requests and the ones coming from the riders and teams are proof of all the expertise and passion they brought to the series. All sides are committed to continuing giving their maximum effort into 2022, for what will be another spectacular year of racing. I would really like to thank Energica for the quality of their innovative products and their engagement in the MotoE series.”

New Product: O’Neal Split Chest Protector LITE

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October 26, 2021

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O’Neal have just released their latest chest protector, the Split Chest Protector LITE lives up to its name with a light weight yet highly protective construction to keep you comfortable and safe while out on the dirt, available through Cassons!

Cassons have got the latest stock of O’Neal chest protectors including the new Split Chest Protector Lite!

O’Neal say they believe in optimal protection, high comfort and innovation – and their brand-new SPLIT Chest Protector is no different. As the name suggests, the LITE version relies on lightweight parts, offering EN14021 protection with maximum comfort and great freedom-of-movement.

The injected plastic parts ensures that the chest protector stays at an absolute minimum weight while the bio-foam padding offers high levels of comfort. Multiple size adjustments on shoulder pads and waist closure ensure it’s a perfect fit for almost all riders.

Protection and comfort are further ensured with the neck brace compatible design, front/ back part for multiple combination options thats been designed for optimum ventilation and slim design to be worn under or over the jersey!

Pick up your new O’Neal Split Chest Protect Lite for $189.95 through your local motorcycle supply store with the part number ON0459100 or contact Cassons directly regarding availability. If you only want the front protection plate then a strap kit can be purchased as well for $19.95 (ON0459900).

GYTR YJR Team Sees a Triple Triumph In Tasmania

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October 26, 2021

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The GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing Team took home three state championships after the final round of the Tasmanian Motocross Championships took place two weeks ago. Another great weekend for the YJR as they continue to impress with amazing results across the board.

Jay Jennings took home the double number 1’s for GYTR YJR with victory in the 9-11 years 85cc and the 10-12 years 65cc while Angus Pearce owned the 13-15 years Lites division.

The fifth and final round took place at the St Helens circuit and perfect winter weather greeted the riders. With Jennings and Pearce both holding a comfortable lead in the championship points chase, a smart and safe weekend was all that was needed to secure more state championships for the GYTR- YJR team.

Pearce wasn’t about just mailing the last round in and entered the weekend determined to stamp his authority in the 13-15 years Lites class. He dominated proceedings on his YZ250F and took the perfect three race wins from three starts to snare the round and the championship victory by 72 points.

Despite some injuries during the year, Pearce has had a great season and excited to finish it off on a positive note.

Jay Jennings was in a similar position in both of his classes, holding a safe margin over his rivals as the final round started. Jennings put together another rock-solid day with consistency across all his motos to finish with 2-1-2 results on his YZ65 to take second for the round and 2-2-2 results on his YZ85 for another second place.

“The boys did a great job on the weekend, as they have done all year, and it was a rewarding day to see both riders standing on top of the podium at the end of the championship,” explains Team Manager, Brody Jennings. “Every round the riders put in and their consistency has been a high point this season. Thanks to Yamaha and all the sponsors in GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing and we look forward to more success in the future.”

The Western Australian team also wanted in on the podium action as they contested the second last round of their state championship at the always challenging Wanneroo circuit, just north of Perth.

Jake Rumens was in no mood for messing around and took victory in the 12-15 years 85cc class on the back of his 1-1-2 results. The big points haul on the day now sees him on top of the championship table by six points and it’s all on the line at the final round. Rumens also backed that up with a solid day on his YZ125 finishing in fifth. He sits fourth in the 13-15 years 125cc class with one round remaining.

Deegan Fort had a tough day in the sand pit but still cleft with good results in the 10-12years 65cc and the 9-11 years 85cc divisions. Fort finished with 2-2-2 results on his 65 to take second for the round, while he managed 4-7-5 finishes for fifth on the 85. He now sits second and third in each category.

“Deegan Fort had a tough day in the sand pit but still cleft with good results in the 10-12 65cc and the 9-11 85cc divisions.”

“Wanneroo has deep sand and very difficult to master but both riders applied themselves well and the day turned out to be a good one for the team,” says Peter Strickland.

“Jake had a strong day and won the round but more importantly, took over the championship lead with the final round at his home track in Bunbury. Deegan had a good day on his 65 but found things a little tougher on his 85 but is well placed on both bikes in terms of the overall championship. We have one to go and I’m sure the riders and families will give it all they have to finish the season out on a high note.”

Chaz Davies To Retire From WorldSBK At The End Of 2021

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October 26, 2021

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An illustrious MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship career will come to an end at the close of season 2021 with Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) announcing his retirement from WorldSBK ahead of this weekend’s round ten at Spain’s Jerez circuit, closing a decade long career in WorldSBK.

Household WorldSBK name, Chaz Davies, has announced his retirement scheduled after this years Jerez round.

Davies has finished runner-up in WorldSBK on three occasions, in 2015, 2017 and 2018 and third placed on another two occasions as he often fought for the title throughout his career. The British rider also had two full seasons in WorldSSP and won the title in 2011 by 50 points over his nearest rival, ensuring he will go down in history as a WorldSSP world champion. In that 2011 campaign with Yamaha ParkinGo, Davies claimed six wins and eight podiums on his way to the title and earning a 2012 WorldSBK seat onboard Aprilia machinery.

His debut season started a run of ten consecutive seasons scoring podiums in WorldSBK while he has taken victories in all but two of his campaigns. For 2013, Davies switched to BMW machinery which featured a win on BMW’s home turf at the Nurburgring before switching to Ducati for 2014 for this third manufacturer in three years. He remained with the factory Ducati team until the end of the 2020 season, taking them close to the title on numerous occasions throughout an illustrious career. For his last campaign in WorldSBK, Davies had been competing on the independent Ducati outfit, Team GoEleven, taking one podium at the start of the season.

An emotional Davies announced at Jerez that the 2021 season would be his last, saying: “I just wanted to say that unfortunately in some ways, and fortunately in others, this will be my last season in WorldSBK. It’s obviously a decision that has not come easily, it’s taken a lot of thought because I’m a strong believer in when you’re done, you’re done. To me, the timing seemed right to make this decision. Like I said, very difficult and a lot of deliberation especially being here at the circuit again! It even felt different walking in a couple of hours ago to make this announcement.”

“You need to change something in your head. Here we are. There’s a lot of reasons behind it and like I said, a lot of deliberation and wondering whether it’s the right move but I’m very confident and I’m both happy and sad at the same time that it is the right decision. Ready to turn the page and open up the next chapter.”

Out of Davies’ 32 WorldSBK victories, 28 of them came onboard Ducati machinery as he finished runner-up in the Championship on three occasions while 89 of his 99 podiums came with the Bologna-based manufacturer. After eight seasons riding Ducati’s bikes, where he took the record for most starts for the manufacturer with 211, Davies created lots of good memories for both himself and the manufacturer and he reflected on those during his press conference.

“I’ve had so many good times and I think the, for me, one of the most special things I’ve experienced in all these years was winning races on Italian soil,” said Davies. “Especially at Imola, just down the road from Bologna, and I can genuinely say there’s no feeling like it. It’s just pinch yourself city. All the Ducatisti are there in force. It really does feel like something special. I can reflect on it now, but in the moment, I was like ‘you’ve got to remember this because these are the days that are beyond sweet’. A lot of good times, a lot of good people.”

Kobe Drew Adds To YJR Championship Tally

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October 26, 2021

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Kobe Drew has made it eight state motocross championships for the GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing Team in 2021 after collecting two Queensland Championships as the final round of racing was wrapped up at Coolum over the weekend.

Since moving to Yamaha and the GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing program in 2021, Drew has gone on a winning rampage and can now add two more number one plates to go with his Sunshine State Series success earlier in the year.

The two round Queensland Motocross Championship saw rounds held in Mackay and Coolum with Drew taking all before him. He simply dominated proceedings in the 13-14 years 250cc class winning every race he entered at both rounds to score maximum points. He proved equally skilled in the hard pack dirt and ruts of Mackay as he was in the deep and energy sapping sand of Coolum. He was a cut above his opposition with his speed and fitness unmatched.

He also claimed the 13-15 years 125cc championship as well, taking four race wins and two seconds from the six races contested. He dominated in Mackay and then had to work hard for his results in Coolum but still showed the poise and class to take the championship win. He now sits alongside other GYTR-YJR state championship winners in 2021; Jay Jennings, Angus Pearce, Jobe Dunne and Ryder Kingsford.

A very successful day all round for most of the YJR riders. However, there were some injuries.

Unfortunately, things didn’t go as well for team-mate Jake Cannon. Cannon was in line to rack up another championship on his YZ85 and take it up to Drew on the 125 but fell in the first 125 race after colliding with another rider and broke his wrist. He was unable to compete for the rest of the weekend and was clearly disappointed in not being able to compete on his home track.

In the senior divisions, Yamaha was well represented in the MX2 category as the Serco Yamaha and Yamalube Yamaha Racing teams were on hand. Both Jesse Dobson and Levi Rogers had competed in the opening round at Mackay, while Nathan Crawford and Jay Wilson joined the fun at Coolum.

Levi Rogers took home fourth place for the race weekend, just ahead of fellow Yamaha rider Nathan Crawford.

Dobson continued his good form to take second on the day at Coolum and finish second in the championship behind Todd Waters. Third for the day was Jay Wilson just ahead of Levi Rogers while Nathan Crawford was inside the top five before withdrawing from the last moto.

The action in the MX2 class was top shelf as the top five raced at high intensity and in close range of each other. The opening laps saw riders continually jostle for position and it a frantic pace that kept on lookers engaged.

Rogers was able to make it a Yamaha 2-3 in the championship as he finished third behind Dobson in the overall points.

The Queensland racing season now slows for the year with only a few regional based events left for the year. Stay up to date with all of the Yamaha Racing Team news here.

WorldSBK: Race Reports From RD11 At Portimao

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October 26, 2021

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Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) raced to victory, his first in WorldSBK at the Algarve circuit in Portimao and his 11th of the year, whilst Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) crashed at speed from the lead of the race at turn 15.

In what was one of the most intense opening five laps of the season, neither Razgatlioglu or Rea wanted to give an inch as they duelled hard. On lap two, Rea put a superb pass on Razgatlioglu at turn 11 but Toprak held on at turn 12, firing his Yamaha back through. Rea tried again at turn 13 but ran slightly wide, whilst Razgatlioglu scythed back through, colliding with Rea. The fight continued as Rea had a huge moment at turn one on lap five before getting under Razgatlioglu again at turn 11, whilst race leader Scott Redding ran wide at turn 13, with Rea coming back through to the lead. Then, disaster, as Rea tucked the front at turn 15, his Kawasaki ZX-10 RR barrelling through the gravel.

At the front, Scott Redding was leading the way until Toprak took back the lead at turn 1 with just less than four laps to go, and whilst Redding continued to try and retaliate, he couldn’t keep Toprak at bay. Razgatlioglu delivered Yamaha a first Portimao win since Marco Melandri in 2011.

The fight for third was an ongoing affair throughout the 20-lap encounter with Leon Haslam (Team HRC) starting from third place holding onto that position until around the mid-way point of the race before he dropped positions, with Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) working his way up to third place on lap 12. There was plenty of action between the six riders in contention for a podium, with Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK), Haslam and Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) all running wide at turn one at various points of the race.

As the race progressed, Bautista was unable to pull out a gap to the chasing pack with Loris Baz (Team GoEleven) and Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) chasing Bautista, Baz making the move at turn one before van der Mark and Locatelli, still chasing third, made contact at turn five with Locatelli retiring and van der Mark bringing his bike back to the pits; the incident will be investigated after the race by the FIM WorldSBK stewards. With the pair out of contention for the podium, Baz and Bautista battled for third place with the Spaniard coming out on top. At turn 15 on the final lap, Bautista crashed out of the race with Baz inheriting third place.

Rinaldi finished the race in fourth place after the incredible battle for third place, with Haslam eventually coming home in fifth place after starting from the front row. Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) claimed a solid sixth place, just three tenths behind Haslam in fifth place.

Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) continued his strong rookie campaign with seventh place ahead of Argentinean star Leandro Mercado (MIE Racing Honda) claiming eighth place – his best result of the 2021 campaign. Eugene Laverty (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) battled up for ninth with Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha).

Isaac Viñales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) missed out on the top ten by just over half-a-second but came home in 11th place, just ahead of Italian Samuele Cavalieri (Barni Racing Team); Cavalieri just a second behind Viñales. 2014 Moto2™ World Champion Tito Rabat (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) scored points on his first WorldSBK race onboard Kawasaki machinery, with Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) and Jonas Folger (Bonovo MGM Racing) rounding out the points.

Lachlan Epis, retired from the race, while Gabriele Ruiu (B-Max Racing Team) was also a retirement from the race, along with Rea, Locatelli, van der Mark and Bautista.

Race One Podium (Full Results Here)

1 Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK)
2 Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.691s
3 Loris Baz (Team GoEleven) +10.628s

Tissot Sprint Race
Almost 3,000 days since their last win in 2013 (Nürburgring), BMW claimed WorldSBK victory as Michael van der Mark mastered tricky conditions at the Algarve circuit at Portugal’s Portimao to take the flag in the Tissot Superpole Sprint, while title contender Kawasaki’s Jonathan Rea crashed out.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) got the better start of the xhampionship’s lead trio but soon found himself under pressure from Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) and Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), with six-time world champion Rea taking the lead on the opening lap.

As the leaders approached turn 13, Rea lost the front of his machine and went off the track, the crash forcing him out of the race for the second consecutive race after his race one crash on Saturday, meaning Rea will start from tenth for race two Sunday afternoon. Razgatlioglu and Redding were the lead duo, but things soon changed in the 10-lap race as Razgatlioglu dropped down through the order while Redding remained clear at the front.

\With all the drama out in front, van der Mark was working his way through the field and moved into the lead of the race on lap 4 after taking advantage of Redding running wide at the left-hander hairpin; BMW leading a race for the first time since Phillip Island 2020. He will therefore start race two from first on the grid, ahead of Redding in second.

Loris Baz (Team GoEleven) claimed third place after withstanding the challenge from Leon Haslam (Team HRC), although Haslam did briefly pass Baz before crashing out on lap 8. A second crash for Haslam on lap 9 meant he brought his machine back to the pits, promoting Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) into fourth place.

Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) was another beneficiary from his teammate’s misfortune to move into fifth place, ahead of championship leader Razgatlioglu in sixth; the Turkish star able to limit his damage in the race after dropping down the order rapidly in the early stages, with Bautista and Razgatlioglu completing the second row alongside Locatelli.

Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) continued his streak of top-ten finishes since his podium finish in Catalunya with seventh place, withstanding a charge from Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) with the American star just 0.068s behind Bassani. Irish rider Eugene Laverty (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was almost two seconds back from Gerloff with ninth as he starts from the third row.

Isaac Viñales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) claimed the first top ten of his WorldSBK career as he finished in tenth place, as the top Kawasaki rider, two seconds clear of Leandro Mercado (MIE Racing Honda Team) in 11th; although both riders will start from their Superpole result as they missed out on a top-nine spot.

Tissot Superpole Podium (Full Results Here)

1 Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team)
2 Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +4.140s
3 Loris Baz (Team GoEleven) +5.479s

Race Two
The start was delayed due to a technical issue when the riders were lining up on the grid, with the delay meaning the race distanced was reduced one lap to 19 laps. Starting from tenth place, Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was on the move from the get-go and was second by the end of the opener, while Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) moved into third place.

Rea made his move for the lead through the fast turn nine left-hander on lap two on Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), relegating the British rider who had led from the start. At the start of lap two, Razgatlioglu passed Rea into turn one before the six-time world champion responded. The trio were battling throughout the opening laps, with both Razgatlioglu and Rea able to take advantage of Redding running wide at turns five and ten on the same lap.

Razgatlioglu made a move on Rea down the start-and-finish straight to move into the right-hander of turn one at the start of lap seven, before Rea responded at turn ten. At the end of lap ten, Razgatlioglu crashed at turn 15, the same place Rea did in race one, forcing the championship leader out of the race. Rea went on to take the 110th win and the 210th podium of his career, narrowing the gap in the championship to 24 points. Rea’s victory means both he and Razgatlioglu have scored 25 podiums this season, the first time it has happened in WorldSBK history. The top two in the Championship are also tied with 25 podiums and 11 wins each.

At the start of lap 13, Loris Baz (Team GoEleven) moved up into podium contention after his third-place start in race two after overtaking Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) into turn one; Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) had tried to pass both of them but Baz was wise to it, cutting back on the Spanish rider to re-take third place. Two laps later and Bautista looked to make a move through the opening couple of corners with Baz defending and keeping the position.

On lap 18, Bautista looked to make a move on Baz into the turn five hairpin, with Bautista running wide and Baz looking to reclaim the place. Through the exit of the corner, the pair made contact with Bautista coming off his bike and retiring from the race. Baz held on to cross the line in third place, while Locatelli came home in fourth place after withstanding a late surge from fellow Yamaha rider Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in fifth place. After the race, Baz was sanctioned with a one place position drop, demoting him to fourth place and promoting Locatelli to third; the Italian’s fourth podium of his campaign.

Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was sixth after starting from first place, five seconds clear of Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) with the Italian suffering from a right ankle sprain and contusion and a right hip contusion following his Tissot Superpole Race crash. He battled with Leon Haslam (Team HRC) throughout the race with the pair separated by just three tenths at the end of the 19-lap encounter.

Italian rookie Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) continued his strong form with ninth place, after battling with Rea during the open lap of the race, eventually finishing two tenths clear of Eugene Laverty (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) as he scored points again as he continues to stand in for Tom Sykes.

Laverty finished five seconds clear of Leandro Mercado (MIE Racing Honda Team) in 11th place, who was also clear of Spanish rider Isaac Viñales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) in 12th place. Japanese rookie Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was 13th, just over a second behind Viñales, with Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha) and Jonas Folger (Bonovo MGM Action) rounding out the points. Samuele Cavalieri (Barni Racing Team) was the last of the classified runners in 16th place.

Loris Cresson (OUTDO TPR Team Pedercini Racing) was the first retirement of the race after a crash at the start of lap three, with the Belgian rookie taken to the medical centre for a check-up following the incident. Cresson was diagnosed with a concussion and a left knee injury and will be transported to Portimao Hospital for further assessments. Cresson’s teammate, Lachlan Epis, also retired from the race while Tito Rabat (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) suffered from technical issues during the early running and brought his bike back to the pits. Wildcard Gabriele Ruiu (B-Max Racing Team) was also a retirement from race two after completing 10 laps.

Race Two Podium (Full Results Here)

1 Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)
2 Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +5.425s
3 Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) +12.289s

Championship Standings After Round 11 (Full Standings Here)

1 Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) 478 points
2 Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) 454
3 Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 424

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