2023 Round 2

MARKUS, FASTEST IN COMBINED PRACTICE

2023, 2023 Round 2, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

The roaring of the Asia Superbike 1000cc has begun at the Sepang International Circuit as riders gear up for Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). Round 1 saw Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS HARC-PRO.HONDA.PH. making waves on the circuit consequently taking lead in the overall standings. During Practice Session 1 this morning, Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM seem to be more confident when emerged fastest when he marked it at 2’07:092s. Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of HONDA- ASIA DREAM RACING WITH SHOWA made the second fastest at 2’07:407s. At the third fastest, it was Passawit Thitivararak of ASTEMO SI RACING WITH THAI HONDA at 2’08:507s. In Practice 2, Markus kept up to the momentum and made it fastest once again at 2’06:848s. Haruki who took his time to get adjusted to the pace made it second fastest at 2’07:447s. It may not be a significant increase in speed for Zaqhwan however he made it third fastest at 2’07:719s. Markus seemed relentless in making the cut for today and in Practice 3, his pursuit landed him fastest at 2’05:849s. Following up closely was Zaqhwan who made his fastest lap time at 2’07:257s and Passawit at 2’07:327s. As a result, Markus claimed fastest for today’s session followed by Zaqhwan and Passawit in the second and third fastest spot respectively. Commenting on the session, Markus said, “First of all, I am happy to come back to Sepang as I am pretty comfortable with the circuit. The humidity may be a little difficult for me nevertheless, I enjoy riding here. We changed the machine a little compared to Buriram, we improved. In the first and second practice, I was already at the first position but I didn’t feel so good on the machine. We were far away from the lap time in 2020 so we worked on the setting and tested a few times for FP3. While we have made it this far, there are improvements to be done on the grip. We shall see how it will be tomorrow. The weather can be unpredictable so if it rains, it may be different.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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KIP IS KEEPING UP

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The SuperSports 600cc is one of the most anticipated races among Asian fans and it has once again set a rhythm at the Sepang International Circuit in Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. The battle gained quite a traction as Malaysia’s Khairul Idham Pawi of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM and Thailand’s Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of HONDA RACING THAILAND engaged in a heated feat in Round 1. Khairul didn’t seem to waste any time. Familiarity definitely gave him an advantage on the circuit. In Practice Session 1 earlier this morning, he made fastest at 2’10:439s followed by his teammate Md Helmi Azman who clocked in his fastest at 2’10:660s. Nakarin was close behind, third fastest at 2’10:804s. In Practice 2, Khairul went on at an enhanced speed and clocked in fastest at 2’09:864s while teammate Helmi and Azroy managed their fastest lap time at 2’10:652s and 2’10:764s respectively. BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM is definitely powered up for this round and is on a positive roll for the day. As Practice 3 went on, Khairul was completely in control and once again made it fastest. He clocked in at 2’09:894s. His teammates however switched position with Azroy logging in faster at 2’10:359s than Helmi who made his fastest at 2’10:424s. As a result, Khairul made it fastest for day followed by Azroy and Helmi. Commenting on the session, Khairul said, “To be honest, I did not have a very good feeling with the rear as I did not find the grip that I wanted. So, tomorrow, we will have to figure out a lot more on the rear and front to see where we can fine tune further. As for the circuit, it is pretty much the same as in Buriram. I am quite familiar with Sepang for sure especially with the mileage that I have obtained. I am well aware of the corners and the racing line, the braking point to name a few. So, I have a little more advantage here. The weather has been good and I am hoping that it would not rain tomorrow. If it does, it will impact my riding abilities but I will still do my best.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM GEARED UP

2023, 2023 Round 2, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

The Asia Production 250cc is always an eye-catcher in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. In Round 1, Rheza Danica Ahrens of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM set a benchmark of excellence as he strode to a double victory despite the rising temperature. What would Sepang International Circuit hold for him? It was a great start for the ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM boys as all three lined up ahead of the rest when they made the top three fastest during the Practice Session 1 this morning. Herjun Atna hit it at 2’24:072s followed by Rheza at 2’24:687s. The youngest in the team, Vega Eda Pratama made it third fastest at 2’25:338s proving that he is slick in his moves. In Practice Session 2, Herjun maintained his composure and made fastest with an improved lap time at 2’23:465s. However, at second fastest, Irfan Ardiansyah of MOTUL SNIPER MANUAL TECH clocked in at 2’23:505s. Rheza seemed to be still finding his pace nevertheless marked a slightly better time compared to the earlier session at 2’24:472s. By Practice 3, ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM seemed to have established an interesting pattern. Herjun once again made it fastest at 2’22:578s, followed by Rheza at 2’22:732s and Veda Ega at 2’23:240s. That wraps up for the day in the AP250 with Herjun at the top followed by Rheza and Veda in the combined result. Commenting on the race, Herjun said, “Compared to Round 1, I have taken the approach to enjoy the race better. With the new settings as well, it gives me greater confidence when I am riding it. This is a manageable circuit and I have raced here a couple of times. The weather here is not that hot compared to Buriram hence I am hoping for a better outcome. However, I know that the weather can be quite unpredictable here in Malaysia. Rain or shine, I will give my best and enjoy the moments as much as I can.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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AKID CONFIDENT FOR RACE

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc has picked up its pace for Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship and being held at Sepang International Circuit, it may be of greater advantage to the Malaysian riders especially Hafiza Rofa of ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM, currently at the lead position. Nevertheless, the end result is often unforeseeable until it’s over. Looked like the Yamaha YZ15 ZR riders were on full form as they went on with the first free practice session for the day with Nazirul Izzat Bahauddin of UMA RACING YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR ASIA TEAM making it the fastest at 2’33:660s followed by Ahmad Fazli Sham of ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM at 2’34:108s and Md Akid Aziz of CARDINALS FACTORY RACING TEAM ARRC at 2’34:155s. In Practice 2, Akid emerged fastest when he clocked in his best time at 2’32:927s. Nazirul on the other hand made second fastest at 2’33:331s. At third fastest spot for the evening was Murobbil Vittoni of LPN H. PUTRA. 969 INDONESIA RACING TEAM who marked his best at 2’33:698s. As a conclusion, Akid made the fastest in the combined result followed by Nazirul and Murobbil at the second and third spot respectively. Commenting on the race, Akid said, “Today’s session has been really good compared to Round 1. In terms of engine, we have made quite a significant improvement, at least about 50%. I feel more confident with the handling now. For Super Pole, I don’t have high hopes but for the race, I am definitely hoping to be on the podium.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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MUZAKKIR OPTIMISTIC FOR RACE

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS Asia One Make Championship is on once again for Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship which is being held at Sepang International Circuit. Round 1 posed adrenaline rush and exhilaration as riders with solid experience and background took the scene by a storm. Vorapong Malahuan of Thailand however was determined to take lead and made it when he emerged with a double triumph. In the Free Practice 1 session earlier this morning, home-boy Ramdan Rosli made the fastest at 2’21:905s. Piyawat Patoomyos of Thailand made it second fastest at 2’21:972 followed by Md Muzakkir Mohamed of Malaysia at 2’22:299s. During Practice 2, Muzakkir made fastest at 2’21:880s. Piyawat once again came up as the second fastest at 2’22:261s while Ramdan who was stronger in the earlier session made it third fastest at 2’22:445s. In the combined result, Muzakir clocked in the fastest followed by fellow countryman, Ramdan who took the second fastest spot and Piyawat at the third spot. Commenting on the session, Muzakkir said, “This round, I have been careful in terms of strategy especially in managing the tires. In Buriram, I was not aware that we were only allocated with two sets of tires. Therefore, I avoided long-run this time around by reducing the number of laps. Of course, I had to find the right setup as soon as possible for that purpose.” “In the 1st session, I figured out quite quickly on what needs to be done for the machine which resulted in a good outcome in practice 2. I managed to get a good lap time within three laps. For the race, my target would be to be at the podium but I want to be optimistic and I am confident that I can take the win. Having said that though, it also depends on the weather so keeping my fingers crossed, all will go well.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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THIRST FOR VICTORY

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS Asia One Make Championship never ceased to make an impression on the scenes of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship with Asia’s best taking strides for greater excellence. Vorapong Malahuan of Thailand, carved an outstanding victory in its debut season and went on a great defence move with a double-win in Round 1. He is more than ready for Round 2 at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend. While Vorapong fought a good fight in the debut season, this year poses a different kind of challenge for him especially with the likes of many robust riders in the race category. The pressure is certainly mounting for Vorapong and was evident in the races of Round 1. Nevertheless, Vorapong who had the upper-hand at his home-ground circuit and the years of experience managed to overcome the brewing intensity with a swift finish. Commenting on the race, Vorapong said, “This season has been very difficult. Round 1 gave me more insights as to how this season would turn out by the end of the year. We have so many highly competitive riders and it definitely looks like everyone is determined to win. Who will become the winner in the next round is going to be a tough guess but I am equipping myself with the best of my knowledge and experiences and hope that it would help in my performances.” In Round 1, the threats from other riders upon Vorapong were evident. The TVS Asia race category has definitely injected adrenaline rush and thrill into the scene with the selection of highly capable riders. This also means, a new kind of experience for its existing riders. Vorapong continued, “The race in Round 1 was sort of an eye opener to all of us as to how this season would go on. I believe that the riders will be better geared for Round 2 and will return with more aggressive moves. I foresee more riders in a side-by-side challenge but this is where the fun is. It means, working extra harder to push further towards excellence.” On racing at Sepang Circuit, Vorapong said, “Sepang is similar to my home-ground circuit. I am confident with my riding techniques and machine setup for the circuit. I had good memories there. Out of the two rounds last year that was held at Sepang, I took one win. The rest were second and third spot. The goal now is to win. I am aware that Malaysia is home to exceptional riders participating this season whom I am sure have more experience and higher chances of winning there. But I am all in for the challenge.” “It is the thirst for victory that keeps me going. It magnifies the will and determination to do better. Therefore, I will keep doing my best with the aim of guarding the championship title.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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TECHNICAL MASTERY SETS THE TONE

2023, 2023 Round 2, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

The Asia Superbike 1000cc of the idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship left fans in awe when Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro.Honda.Ph braced the unforeseen challenges of the season with mastery, defeating the rising rebellion of his contenders and coming out stronger than ever. Round 1 was just tipping point to what the season holds and is about to get scorched. Moves to win is all that is in the cards for Haruki and since his debut in Season 2022, the Japanese- born lad has been fiercely marking his territories with mind-blowing performances on the circuit. Towards the end of last season, Haruki was on his way to claiming victory but his endeavours were brought to a halt when he succumbed to injuries following an accident. While the downside was taking a step back from the scenes of ARRC, the upside was returning with a greater willpower to succeed. “My passion overrides circumstances and I am truly grateful to be back in the scenes of ARRC to pursue my ambition of succeeding at the top. My fans and supporters are my biggest motivational factor and I am further driven to make sure that my performances are constantly above par. Make no mistakes is something that I adhere to.” In the season kick-off, Haruki initially displayed a low profile however came out with a striking manoeuvring gesture in both races that earned him a double-win. It was undoubtedly a heated battle of fiery machines, coupled with the scorch of the heat wave. Nevertheless, Haruki was drilled to succeed and worked his machine to his advantage. Commenting on the race, “During the practice and qualifying sessions, I could not make a good lap time. I had problem adapting to new tires. But the team and I are of the opinion that we should always use new tires during high temperature like the one we faced at Buriram. This is different from the other riders.” The Asia Superbike 1000cc of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship left fans in awe when Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro.Honda.Ph braced the unforeseen challenges of the season with mastery, defeating the rising rebellion of his contenders and coming out stronger than ever. Round 1 was just tipping point to what the season holds and is about to get scorched. Moves to win is all that is in the cards for Haruki and since his debut in Season 2022, the Japanese- born lad has been fiercely marking his territories with mind-blowing performances on the circuit. Towards the end of last season, Haruki was on his way to claiming victory but his endeavours were brought to a halt when he succumbed to injuries following an accident. While the downside was taking a step back from the scenes of ARRC, the upside was returning with a greater willpower to succeed. “My passion overrides circumstances and I am truly grateful to be back in the scenes of ARRC to pursue my ambition of succeeding at the top. My fans and supporters are my biggest motivational factor and I am further driven to make sure that my performances are constantly above par. Make no mistakes is something that I adhere to.” In the season kick-off, Haruki initially displayed a low profile however came out with a striking manoeuvring gesture in both races that earned him a double-win. It was undoubtedly a heated battle of fiery machines, coupled with the scorch of the heat wave. Nevertheless, Haruki was drilled to succeed and worked his machine to his advantage. Commenting on the race, “During the practice and qualifying sessions, I could not make a good lap time. I had problem adapting to new tires. But the team and I are of the opinion that we should always use new tires during high temperature like the one we faced at Buriram. This is different from the other riders.” “Personally, I struggled on the long-straight. Definitely, the BMW came back with a much-developed speed and was quite fast. Smooth too. With riders like Zaqhwan who also tested in Buriram and found good setting of the machine, there were definitely some disadvantages on our side. Nevertheless, our strong point was on the technical bit and that definitely superseded the minor setbacks.” Moving forward to Round 2 that will be held at Sepang International Circuit, Haruki is prepping to re- create history. Last season, Haruki made it second on the podium in Race 1 and took the win in Race 2. The robust rider does not seem like he would settle for anything less and is confident to stride alongside homegrown rivals. “The Sepang circuit is quite technical. This would definitely be an interesting race to cross-check the level of mastery. Chances are, the race may not see the formation of a big group but it would definitely be an interesting fight at the last lap when someone makes it into the group.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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WHO HOLDS THE TRUMP CARD?

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The battle between Malaysia’s Super KIP and Thailand’s Chip Nakarin was evident in Round 1 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Taking their turns to flex their muscles and dominate the circuit with their well-rounded expertise, the season foresees exciting scenes as they go on full- throttle to conquer. Circumstances may not have been favourable to KIP in last season but this year is all about making up for the loss, and he flew to a great start. His flawless lap time consequently his win in Race 1 may not have come as a surprise but for Chip, it was about learning his contender’s moves and using his home- ground circuit to his advantage to strike back in Race 2. With HONDA RACING THAILAND and BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM gloating upon equal points, the next challenge would be the drive to dominate the chart. Commenting on the Round 1, Chip said, “There are differences in our riding styles and tactics. Riding alongside my rivals help me understand that better and be more aware. That is important as it helps me adapt to the situation throughout the race. Round 1 was an incredible race. Of course, apart from the rivalry, it was also the heat however that’s the challenge we have to overcome.” As for KIP, he said, “Last year was a struggle for me as I was out of the racing scene for about a year prior to that. So, while I took time to gain back the confidence and pick up on my riding abilities, it helped me project the possibilities clearer. Race 1 was an ultimate boost to get back into the momentum. Now, it is all about being ahead and fighting from here on.” Sepang circuit will definitely be an added advantage for Khairul however Nakarin seemed to have upped his game this season and is in to take up the forthcoming hurdles ahead. The Honda riders may have the machines for speed but what fuels excitement into the game is the amalgamation of engine capacities with manoeuvring techniques. Khairul said, “I love Sepang circuit. It is my home-ground and I have celebrated many success stories there. Nevertheless, key to the success is also the condition of the machine. As such, team work is crucial as they are the backbone to the development of a machine that is near perfect for the race.” As for Nakarin, he said, “The motivation in Sepang would be to have Thailand flag on the podium, preferably on the top spot which is not going to be easy. Riding there would require the skill in braking at the corners and a proper riding plan. I lack skills when cornering hence need more work on that. Furthermore, with Malaysian riders on the circuit ground, it is bound to get fiery!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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NO ROOM FOR ERROR

2023, 2023 Round 2, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

Beating it at first turn and fleeing ahead, drawing gap with each lap, enough to keep his contenders at bay summarises Rheza Danica Ahrens’ winning moves in Race 1 and Race 2 of Round 1 of the Asia Production 250cc race category, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. The ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM star rider will be back for Round 2 at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend. Rheza missed his golden opportunity of taking the championship title last season but he is fuelled with determination and willpower to turn his disappointment into victorious strategy. During the races at Buriram, his strategy worked when he bolted ahead and worked magic with his machine towards a double-win. He paced up so quickly, leaving the trail of riders behind him to fend for themselves. Commenting on the race, Rheza said, “We had excellent speed in the last round and of course, I managed my consistency throughout the race at Buriram. Although I was ahead of the others, it was still important that I maintained that momentum to ensure that I made no mistakes or provide an opportunity for an attack from the back. One of the challenges that I faced during Round 1 was with the tires. With new tires, it was difficult to find the best setup for the race.” Rheza is no stranger at the Sepang circuit. In fact, the Indonesian lad has carved some memorable achievements at the circuit. Last season, he took the podium twice in Round 2 after putting up a good fight with the Kawasaki riders. He may have failed to live up to his mark in Round 4 but with confidence and performance data in hand, it’s time to step up his game and make his mark. “Our strength relies on the data we have obtained from last season as it would help us prepare and improve for the upcoming race. I have an important role to play which is to understand the circuit better. In the AP250 race category, power of the machines is equivalent as the dexterity of the riders themselves. Therefore, everyone in the top 7 has the potential to win. Most importantly is to maximise our capacities and ensuring zero-error.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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RIGHT RHYTHM AND CONSISTENCY, KEY IN UB150

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc race category of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship has always been an intriguing ride especially with highly driven Asian riders in long lines, fighting to catch up in a bid to bag the limelight. Wawan Wello of PitsBike JRT Tech 2 OneWay Racing Team has showcased excellent showmanship in Round 1 and will return for greater challenges in Round 2 at Sepang International Circuit. The 25-year-old Indonesian rider is not a stranger in his homeland and has a huge database of fans and followers. That is undeniably an attribution to his successes in the motorcycle racing scene. Wawan made his debut in ARRC in year 2018 in the last two rounds before coming back for more in year 2019 where he made it second on the podium three times. It was not an easy year for him especially with technical issues surrounding his machine nevertheless, he put on quite a show and landed himself 7th overall. Coming back this season after a long-hiatus on his end is a big move and despite that, Wawan has already made waves on the circuit. “I am quite happy and satisfied with my achievements and the team work in Round 1, more so since I have not raced in the Asian racing scene for over 2 years. My experiences in the years before have definitely been a huge guide in helping me with my riding abilities. The machines in the UB150 race category are almost similar in power and capacities hence practicing on my skills are important to make the cut.” Wawan was fiery in Round 1 where he took lead in most laps. His ability to withstand the pressure trailing him kept him grounded with a steady pace. Commenting on the ride, Wawan said, “This category paves a winning pathway for all riders. Key to this category would be finding the right rhythm that would provide consistency throughout the ride. Consistency can only be achieved if mistakes are minimised.” “The machines in the category are fine-tuned to achieve its maximum capacity. The mechanics are excellent in providing a setup that would work for the circuit. As a rider, my job is to up my performances, aligned with the performances of the machine. For the race at Sepang, I would have to get adapted to the setup of the machine as quick as possible so that I can make my way to the podium.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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