webadmin webadmin

NAZIRUL CONQUERED MANDALIKA

2023, 2023 Round 4, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

It is all about expecting the unexpected in the Underbone 150cc race category. Today, Nazirul Izzat Bahauddin of UMA Racing YAMAHA Maju Motor Asia Team made a fantastic finish when he barged in victoriously in Race 1 of Round 4, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship that was held at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. During the Shoot-Out session earlier this morning, Gupita Kresna of 4S1M EVO YAMAHA Racing Team clocked in fastest at 1’55:116s, giving him the added advantage as the pole man. At second spot on the grid was Akid Aziz of CARDINALS FACTORY RACING TEAM ARRC who marked his best at 1’55:407s while Shafiq Rasol of ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team took the third spot on the grid at 1’55:550s. As soon as the race started, Gupita took lead at the first turn but seconds into the race, the riders exchanged positions before the first lap ended with Wahyu Aji at P1 followed by wildcard rider Aditya at P2 and John at P3. The feisty race category went on with riders, slip-streaming to progress ahead of their nearest contenders. With a wide circuit, the challenge was much greater with more opportunities for riders to strike. By mid-race and between changes of positions among riders, Nazirul Izzat who currently is leading on the overall standings emerged to the lead position followed by Haziq and Lombokian rider, Arai Agaska. While the UB150 race category is undeniably tricky, the most important skill is to maintain position among the front troop. By the end of lap 6, Nazirul emerged at the lead position once again. The Malaysian lad has been smart in his moves as he worked his strategy. With one more lap to go, Aditya took lead but Akid emerged out of nowhere into the front troop. At the last turn, Nazirul moved from the inside and took lead with Akid chasing furiously. Aiming to slip stream, it was a close bet between Nazirul and Akid with both clocking in at 15’36:338s. Commenting on the race, Nazirul said, “I am extremely happy with the win today. It was truly a tough one especially at the last turn, knowing that another rider was close behind. Nevertheless, I am glad that my strategy worked today. It was all about being among the front troop and maintaining the momentum. There is another race to go tomorrow and so we shall see how that goes.” Md Akid Aziz of CARDINALS FACTORY RACING TEAM ARRC took the second spot. At the third place was John Emerson Inguito of 4S1M EVO YAMAHA Racing Team at 15’36:675s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

NAZIRUL CONQUERED MANDALIKA Read More »

JAPANESE VICTORIOUS IN MANDALIKA

2023, 2023 Round 4, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS Asia One Make Championship has never failed to create a fulfilling experience for both its riders and fans. This time around at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, Hiroki Ono of Japan awed his fans and audience when he emerged with a win in Race 1 of Round 4, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. During the qualifying session earlier, Hiroki Ono added on the pole position to his advantage when he clocked in the fastest lap time at 1’45:113s. He said, “I improved a little bit from the FP sessions yesterday because I did some changes to the settings. But let’s see how it goes during the race.” Ramdan Rosli of Malaysia took the second spot on the grid in preparation for the race at 1’45:465s followed by Taiyo Saito of Japan at 1’45:731s. Taking the lead at the very beginning was Hiroki Ono followed by Ramdan at P2. As the race picked up, Ramdan switched positions with Decky for a moment at the end of lap 2. As Hiroki went on to dominate the circuit ahead of the troop, the battle continued between Ramdan and Decky with Vorapong trailing close behind. Muzakkir who started at the ninth spot on the grid closed up the gaps and moved into P5. By mid-race, Hiroki was leading with a 3.8s gap. Meanwhile, Decky overtook Ramdan but the latter furiously chased to close the gaps. Vorapong seemed to have lost his momentum before Taiyo took over P4. With a bold move, Taiyo then sled ahead of Decky and Ramdan from the outside. With another 3 laps to go, Hiroki has drawn up a huge gap with the troop behind while Ramdan found a loop hole from the inside before superseding Taiyo. At the final lap, it was all about keeping up with the momentum for Hiroki as he sailed towards victory. Behind him, the battle continued between Taiyo who by then overtook Ramdan. Vorapong moved into P4. The chase was heated up as Ramdan tried to challenge Taiyo. Taiyo however was resistant to pressure as he picked up speed and raced towards the second spot on the podium. Hiroki celebrated victory at 14’07:383s with a gap of 7.3s. Commenting on the race, Hiroki said, “As the race began, I pushed 100% and in the middle of the race, I made sure that I kept a distance with the troop behind. It was not very easy and I have to keep the tires for Race 2. I foresee that it would be much tougher tomorrow. Overall, I am very happy to be back here and join the team for yet another excellent challenge.” At the second spot was fellow countrymen, Taiyo Saito who clocked in at 14’14:735s. Md Ramdan Rosli of Malaysia took the third place with his best time at 14’14:991s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

JAPANESE VICTORIOUS IN MANDALIKA Read More »

MARKUS CONFIDENT FOR RACE

2023, 2023 Round 4, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

Captivating yet nerve-wrecking, the Asia Superbike 1000cc has always been one of the favourites among the ardent fans of high-powered machines. Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship began with the free practice sessions as riders geared up for another exciting feat at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit this morning and Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team emerged fastest for the day. Earlier this morning during FP1, Markus of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team was all out to seize the moment and made it fastest at 1’36:108s. At the second fastest was teammates, Indonesian rider, Andi Farid Izdihar and Malaysian, Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA at 1’36:676s and 1’38:111s respectively. In FP2, Markus once again hit it at the top at 1’35:907s. Andi Farid marked second fastest at 1’36:606s followed by Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team at 1’36:703s. In FP3, once again, Markus flexed his muscles as he went on to score the best lap time at 1’35:204s. Zaqhwan came in second fastest at 1’36:555 followed by Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc- Pro.Honda.Ph. For three consecutive rounds, Markus has showcased excellence in his showmanship. While Mandalika may be new, his experiences are amplified as he went on to secure the fastest lap time in all three practice sessions today making him the fastest for the day with his best lap time at 1’35:204s. Commenting on the session, Markus said, “I have never been here before so I tried really hard from the very first lap. The circuit is wide and flat so there were lots of space. I really enjoyed as we improved session by session. Suspension and electronics wise, we are already in a good shape and I still can improve on some parts. Nevertheless, for first day, this is quite satisfactory for me. I had some issues with the rear tires and had to stop to find a solution and hopefully it will be good for tomorrow’s race. For my side, I am comfortable and confident with the machine except for the rear tires. I am ready. But I have to bear in mind that there are really good riders in the race category especially Andi and Zaqhwan. Haruki may have not been showcasing much in the beginning but I believe he will come out strong during the race. Not forgetting Azlan for sure. So, let’s see how it goes.” At the second fastest was Zaqhwan Zaidi with his best at 1’36:555s followed by teammate Andi Farid at 1’36:606s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

MARKUS CONFIDENT FOR RACE Read More »

MALAYSIAN DUO BUCKING UP FOR RACE

2023, 2023 Round 4, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

It was a great start for the riders of the SuperSports 600cc as they launched their action-packed moves in preparation of the race weekend. Khairul Idham Pawi of Boon Siew Honda Racing Team made a stunning impression once again with his remarkable lap time at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. During the FP1, Malaysian teammates, Azroy Hakeem Anuar and Helmi Azman of Boon Siew Honda Racing Team made the two fastest time at 1’39:735 and 1’39:934s respectively. At third fastest was Soichiro Minamimoto of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN with his fastest at 1’40:140s. In FP2, Khairul who wasn’t feeling too well in the morning, upped his performance and made it fastest at 1’38:985s followed by teammate, Azroy at 1’39:010s. At third was Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of Honda Racing Thailand at 1’39:487s. In the FP3, Khairul once again emerged fastest for with his best lap time at 1’38:626s while Azroy made it second fastest at 1’38:853s. Galang Hendra of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia made it third fastest at 1’39:068s. It seemed like Malaysian duo were relentless in their pursuit to maintain their overall momentum this season at the top three spots. Today was a good day for the Boon Siew Honda Racing Team with both Khairul and Azroy charting the top two fastest lap time, combined. Fighting on par with them were Japanese, Thai and Indonesia riders who are sure to put on a greater force tomorrow. Commenting on the session, Khairul said, “I just completed the Suzuka 8-Hour race last week and it was a very tough one for me as it was my first time. It was a very good experience however I was brought down by fever in the last two days. I did not feel very good and when I woke up this morning, I felt dizzy and weak. That affected my performance in FP1 as I couldn’t concentrate but thankfully, my body got better as the day went by. I managed to do better in FP2 and FP3 although I was not feeling fully well. This is my first time at this circuit and I truly enjoyed the high-speed corners. Mandalika is definitely a very beautiful circuit. I would like to maintain my position in the front row tomorrow during the qualifying. For now, the machine is in a good condition. I am just a little worried with the tires because I faced some issues with the tires in FP2 when my tire went flat and in FP3 when my tire began bloating up. But I hope that all will go well tomorrow.” At third fastest was Galang Hendra. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

MALAYSIAN DUO BUCKING UP FOR RACE Read More »

INDONESIANS CAME PREPARED

2023, 2023 Round 4, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

Moving swiftly today at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit were the Asia Production 250cc riders in the free practice sessions. Rheza Danica Ahrens of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM made some impressive moves when he marked the fastest lap time for Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. In the FP1 session earlier this morning, Indonesians once again emerged at the top three fastest list with teammates Rheza and Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM marking their best at 1’47:734s and 1’47:804s respectively. At third, fellow rider of Motul Sniper Manual Tech, Irfan Ardiansyah clocked in at 1’48:339s. In FP2, Herjun scaled up in performance and clocked in fastest at 1’48:079s followed by Muhammad Faerozi of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia at 1’48:444s and Muklada Sarapuech of Honda Racing Thailand at 1’48:481s. In FP3, Rheza Danica once again made fastest at 1’47:149s followed by Faerozi at 1’47:508s and Herjun Atna at 1’47:606s. While is it not surprising that Rheza made it the fastest in the practice sessions, combined, Faerozi definitely seemed to have upped his performances this round, landing himself at the second fastest spot for the day while Herjun took the third fastest spot. While confidence on home-ground is an added booster for the day, this is just the beginning to a challenging feat ahead. Commenting on the session, Rheza said, “Racing on home-circuit gives a different feel, even more so in the presence of my friends and family members. It is more exciting and there is a rush of adrenaline that pushes you to do better and move faster. With that, undoubtedly comes the pressure – the pressure to maintain my overall momentum for the season as well as to make sure I achieve the best for my fans and family. I am lucky that with my team, I have the opportunity to clock in more training hours on the machine. Apart from that, the condition of the machine has been perfect thus far which gives me an added advantage. I hope to be the pole man tomorrow so that it gives me the boost I need for the race.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

INDONESIANS CAME PREPARED Read More »

INDONESIANS STRONG ON HOME-GROUND

2023, 2023 Round 4, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

Always a mind-blowing race category, the Underbone 150cc is back once again for another round at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. In today’s free practice session, Wawan Wello of Pitsbike JRT Tech 2 OneWay Racing Team made the fastest cut for Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Earlier this morning in the FP1 session, Indonesian rider Wahyu Aji Trilaksana of RACETECH SIXTY Racing clocked in fastest at 1’54:585s followed by his countrymen, Wawan Wello of Pitsbike JRT Tech 2 OneWay Racing Team at 1’54:978s and Gupita Kresna of 4S1M EVO YAMAHA Racing Team at 1’55:239s. The riders fused with enthusiasm racing on their home-ground after 5 years since 2018 have definitely showcased great potentials in preparation for the weekend. In the FP2, Wawan Wello moving one notch up, marked fastest at 1’54:362s. Murrobil Vittoni of LFN H. Putra 969 Indonesia Racing Team made it second fastest at 1’55:885s followed by Gupita Kresna once again with slightly enhanced performance at 1’55:045s. The Indonesian riders have definitely marked their territories today in both the free practice sessions. with Wawan Wello making it fastest in the combined results at 1’54:362s. Commenting on the practice sessions, Wawan said, “Today’s result is attributed to the fact that this is my home-ground. I am further motivated to do better even more so for my many fans who are based here. Apart from that, I was also able to work on the machine’s setup to make sure that it is fully optimised. Adding on to that, I must say that my initial experience in the Mandalika Racing Series gives me the added advantage as I am more familiar with the circuit compared to most of the other riders in the race category. For tomorrow, I will do my best during the qualifying as well as the Super Pole session. My goal is for sure to win on my home-circuit.” At the second fastest spot was Wahyu Aji Trilaksana with his best time combined at 1’54:585s. Murrobil Vittoni marked third fastest combined at 1’55:045s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

INDONESIANS STRONG ON HOME-GROUND Read More »

HIROKI DETERMINED TO MAKE HIS MARK AT MANDALIKA

2023, 2023 Round 4, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS Asia One Make Championship has never been stronger with its robust riders managing their pace to make it to the top. In the free practice session of Round 4, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, Hiroki Ono of Japan was all out and claimed the fastest lap time at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. In today’s FP1 session, Japanese rider Hiroki Ono is back to continue his mark of excellence when he clocked in fastest at 1’46:480s. Malaysian rider, Ramdan Rosli took the second fastest spot at 1’47:318s followed by Thai rider, Vorapong who logged in at 1’47:958s. During the FP2 session, Hiroko Ono was relentless in his pursuit as he went on to score the fastest at 1’46:369s. At second fastest was Taiyo Saito of Japan with his best at 1’46:572s. Ramdan picked up speed as well and with an enhanced performance, clocked in his best for the day at 1’46:572s. With that, Hiroko Ono concluded today’s session, fastest with his best lap time at 1’46:369s. Although Hiroki did not participate in the first two rounds for the season, he showcased impressive performances at Sugo. Luck may not have been on his side in Race 2 nevertheless, he is determined to get the best out of ARRC. Commenting on the session, Hiroki said, “This is my first-time riding at this circuit therefore, it was difficult to get a consistent lap time. I am not too sure if it is good or bad but tomorrow, I have to work on my concentration. The TVS machine, just like any other machines requires skills more than anything else. Even when I do well, I keep pushing the next time around so that I can continue to progress.” At second fastest spot was Ramdan Rosli of Malaysia clocking his best at 1’46:572s and Piyawat Patoomyos of Thailand at 1’47:102s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

HIROKI DETERMINED TO MAKE HIS MARK AT MANDALIKA Read More »

MANDALIKA CIRCUIT, CHALLENGING YET INTERESTING

2023, 2023 Round 4, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

It has been a striking show with the Asia Superbike riders in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship this season. This time around, the roaring of machines will echo through the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Andi Farid Izdihar of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA may be a debutante in the race category but he has moves and he is ready to flaunt it at his home-ground. Last season was a fantastic time for the Indonesian lad when he rose to fame as the championship for the SuperSports 600cc race category. While many would have expected a slow-rise for Andi this season, he nevertheless beat the odds and showcased consistency throughout three rounds. It is undeniable that the top three positions in the ASB1000 race category are guarded heavily by the mastery of highly-competitive riders but taking the fourth spot overall is quite an achievement to note. In the last round at Sugo circuit, Andi was quick to find his footing on the highly technical circuit. He landed himself at the fourth spot in Race 1 and took the second spot in Race 2. Some may say, it was luck on his side and some may say that he was quick to adapt. But according to him, “It was a difficult situation for me especially in Race 1 with the rain condition where we had to race with the rain tires and before the race ended, the surface became too dry to pick up speed. In Race 2, it was a completely dry situation and I could manage the race better although I did not have a very good start. I lost many positions but I kept pushing. With a number of riders crashing, it opened the pathway for me to finish at P2. That was my first podium for the season and I was really grateful for that memory.” On his move to ASB1000, Andi said, “The move has been quite a challenge for me. Completely different from the SS600 race category, in ASB1000 race category, more physical strength is needed to manage the heavier machine. It requires 100% concentration and quick thinking. I have learnt a lot this season and this learning curve is really important for better performances. I need to understand the machine and manage it better. Apart from that, being tip top physical wise is equally crucial to be a part of the ASB1000 race category.” On racing at his home-ground, Andi said, “I have not raced at Mandalika but I have had the privilege of practicing there a couple of times. The circuit is interesting with many high-speed corners. But along with it is the weather which is usually hot so it would be a nice to race there and since it is my home- ground, it is really important for me to win both the races. I know it is not going to be an easy feat but I faith in my team and I believe that they would do their best to achieve the same goal. Most importantly, the points – maximum points. It is the most I could do for my country.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

MANDALIKA CIRCUIT, CHALLENGING YET INTERESTING Read More »

NO EXPERIENCE, NO PROBLEM – MARKUS REITERBERGER ACED IN SUGO, MANDALIKA NEXT IN LINE

Real Life /

The return of Markus Reiterberger of the ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM to the Asia, in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) and this time, with the aim to fight for the championship title that he missed out on 3 years ago. Half way into the season, Markus has showcased a sensational performance in the last three rounds, adding in his exceptional performance in Sportsland International Sugo Racing course into the list. The circuit not only gifted the 29-year-old with the experience but also rewarded him with a victory. “I’m really happy with  the race in Sugo because that was my first tie  there, by only watching the videos, I made it to the podium in both Race 1 and 2. At first, it wasn’t easy but I managed to learn fast during qualifying. Right now, I love that circuit. It’s a technical circuit yet interesting. The team has put a lot effort and hardwork to make sure my machine was in perfect shape.” “Initially I was excpecting just one win during the last round, as I was not familiar with the circuit and also it was my main contender, Haruki’s home ground. He had all the advatanges there. So, I studied the lap time from Noguchi as he was the strongest rider in the last season. I noticed that I could do few laps very quickly and then I stabilised my lap time. So, I followed through with my plan and it happened.” “Not only Haruki, Kasma, Azlan and Zaqhwan are tough competitors as well. It wasn’t an easy race but I’m really happy and satisfied with my lap times especially and taking over the lead position in the ASB1000cc.” Commenting further on the performance in Sugo, Markus admitted that the experience gained throughout these years has helped him to learn fast about the circuit.” “If you ask me if it’s merely luck or my experience that gave me the victory, I would say it’s the maturity and the ability to decide or plan fast that made me touch the finish line with a win in my hand. It never came easy to me. It took years of bumpy roads, failures and my efforts to be here. I’m still learning and progressing through each rounds. In every race, there’s something new to learn from the race itself and also the other riders.” While Markus leads the standing with a total of 118 points to date, Haruki is 26 points behind meanwhile Zaqhwan is at the third place with 84 points. Though the cards look brighter on Markus side, the German lad wouldn’t want to have high hopes but still sticking to the goal to bag the Asia title. “It seems good so far, Next in Mandalika, another circuit to explore and devour! Ha ha ha… It would be definitely amazing if I am able to make it to the podium in Indonesia. And I must say this, the Indonesian motorsport fans are crazy. They are so amazing, the crowd will be great.” “As usual I am gonna give my 100% to this race while enjoying it at the same time. I don’t wanna pressure myself by looking at the title now, but the vision is there and I am taking one step at one time. I believe I will reach where I need to be.”

NO EXPERIENCE, NO PROBLEM – MARKUS REITERBERGER ACED IN SUGO, MANDALIKA NEXT IN LINE Read More »

JUGGLING BETWEEN RACES, SUPERKIP KEEPING IT COOL

Real Life /

Malaysian rider, Khairul Idham Pawi, or fondly known as SuperKIP, made it into the top 20 positions in the Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race in Japan, last weekend and will now move forward with his riding goals in Round 4 of Asian Road Racing Championship 2023 before heading back to his home-ground for another battle in the season opener of the Malaysia Superbike Championship, MSBK, 2023 which will commence on 18th August 2023. Riding under Honda Sofukai Suzuka Racing Team, KIP teamed up with Japan’s Yuki Sugiyama and Hane Takumi on his first appearance in the 8 hour race at the Land of Sunrise and finished at the 18th place out of 50 participants. The 25-year-old who was no stranger to the world of motorsports while he was a Moto3 rider back in 2017 had quite a dramatic journey till he announced his retirement at the age of 22 back in 2020 and decided to make a comeback in 2021. KIP explained his decision to quit motorsports for good. This move was explained in a cool and calm manner where he declared the need to be done for his own happiness as well as his loved ones around him. Truth be told, it has been a difficult couple of seasons for the young Malaysian rider. He created history back in 2016 as the first Malaysian rider to win a race in the MotoGP 250cc class not once, but twice in a season. Things moved a little too quickly for the motorsports superstar with a promotion into Moto2 before being signed with the Petronas Sprinta Racing team. His downfall led him to a long-term injury that resulted in the amputation of one of his fingers early of 2020, but the opportunity to prove himself worthy of competing with the best Moto3 riders once he recovered was not granted. The announcement of retirement was a bit of a frustration, yet, The Champ came out of it real quick! Kudos! Last season can be described as a warm up for the break he had as he was still struggling to get his pace back and this season, he has been all out in proving his worthiness since the season opener in March. Coming back to the current racing scene, across the weekend’s three races, with two more to go KIP keeping it super cool claiming that back-to-back races kept his momentum on track though it can be exhausting in the coming weekends. “ As a professional rider, this is how our life is or should be. Yes, the races are back-to-back and adding on to the strain, the travelling. So, it’s not only about the race, it’s a package. Three different countries with three different vehicles in three weeks. It will be exhausting and I’m not gonna deny or sugarcoat it. Regardless, I am all geared up for these racers.” “And also it’s about the experience I gained. For example, I have raced in Moto3 and Moto2, World Championship, but the Suzuka 8H, never been. My very first experience there in Suzuka, but I felt I got my momentum back which I never had in last few years. Now it feels like I am back to my old self when I was competing in World Championship.” “I could have done better in Suzuka but I am happy with the performances and next I’ll be heading to Mandalika, my neighbour country. Every circuit is a playground that we riders explore continuously, no matter the times we have raced there. I always give my full commitment to every races. Same goes to this one.” In the last round at Sugo, KIP of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM definitely made an impression with steady and strong finish aboard the Honda CBR600RR as he strode swiftly ahead to bag number 1. Currently dominating the SuperSport 600cc class with 118 points which is comfortably 27 points ahead of Japanese, Keito Abe.” Would KIP be able to grab the title for this season? Possibilities are high! “As for now I do not want to pressure myself by thinking of title, but somehow we are half way there. It seems possible but this is race. Anything can happen and anybody can win. So, for now I am going to enjoy the race and collect as much points as I can. Podium in every other rounds and let’s see. Que Sera Sera!”

JUGGLING BETWEEN RACES, SUPERKIP KEEPING IT COOL Read More »