Joined Aug 2007
11K Posts | 3K+
Pomona NY
I felt the same about FQ. Like riders being allowed to ride when not adequately recovered from injuries, we see another situation where FQ is allowed to ride multiple laps at full speed with his leathers open and his chest plate off. This should have been an immediate black flag. Although we know it isn't safe out there, there are safety regulations (both sporting and technical) to make riders as safe as possible.
Olivier rode a hell of a race. Hats off to him. A great ride from Zarco as well.
Honda's situation reminds me of McLaren when they were blaming Honda power units for their lack of performance. It was not until they switched power unit suppliers that their other problems became clear. Honda seems to have been pinning all their hopes etc. on MM's return. Now that he has returned, the extent of their issues which have been largely neglected, are now in sharp focus. It's becoming more and more clear that it's not MM's lack of fitness that is responsible for his poor results race after race.
It’s not as if he opened his leathers for capricious reasons. His airbag malfunctioned and he literally couldn’t breath.
In the event - it was a great race. Olivera was on fire. Zarco looked great. Mir had a shot. Apparently KTM have finally done the practical thing and dumped the tube/cradle frame. Fine for street bikes, but not in the premiere class. I wonder if the change was influenced by Red Bull. They’re a company that is used to getting their way - and winning.
Especially hated to see Espargaro go down on the Aprilia. An exciting time for racing with KTM, Aprilia and Suzuki all innovating their way onto the podium.
Between the malfunctioning air-bag and Marquez way far back and still unable to finish three races, there’s more than a bit of egg on the faces of Alpine Stars and HRC.
Wonderful BTW - to see Dani looking truly happy and at ease in his work. A good guy.
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