2023 Round 4

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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LEARNING THROUGH THEORY

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

A nerve-wrecking show, the SuperSports 600cc race category has never been more exhilarating and gets more compelling as it goes. Keito Abe of ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team was on fire at his home- ground but what does Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit hold for him in Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship? Quite a performance he pulled-off in Round 3 at the Sugo circuit and now Keito Abe is looking forward to once again injecting pressure and pleasure to the scene of the SS600 race category. The Japanese rider began his endeavours in the Asian road racing mid last season and may have indicated some struggles in adapting to the nature of the championship. However, come this season, Keito Abe has showcased quite an improvement since the beginning and reached its peak in the previous round where he bagged the top spot on the podium in Race 1. In Race 2, Keito Abe’s slick manoeuvring style was the biggest highlight as he went on to guard his position throughout the race only to be defeated at the 11th hour. Speaking of his improved performances, Keito said, “The first few rounds were held at circuits where I already gained experience so that is a big factor in my improvements compared to last year. Apart from that, having raced now for the second season in the ARRC, it has made me stronger mentally and physically. Of course, Sugo being my home circuit was a plus point for me and I have also practiced on the circuit on different conditions during off-season. That was an additional boost for me.” On race 2 of Round 3, he continued, “KIP was better in tire management compared during race 2. I lost because I could not pace up as much as I wanted at the final turn before going up-hill.” On moving forward, Keito said, “I have a lot more to improve. Although my strengths were accentuated at Sugo, I still lack that kind of ability on other circuits. For the upcoming race at Mandalika, it would be tough as I have not raced there. I have visited Mandalika though, once, last year. From videos and the course map, I have the impression that it is a stop-and-go course, similar to Buriram. My feeling at Burriam was not bad but the win and podium at Sugo was an excellent booster to my confidence for the race at Mandalika.” He continued, “So far, I am preparing for the race week just like I always do prior to any race. Since it is a new circuit ground for me, I am learning from theory by watching videos to get an idea of what is ahead of me. I think the team has more confidence in me now too but that also comes with greater expectations which I hope to fulfil. Like any other riders, the goal is always to win. I want to win both raced. Period. To make that happen, I would have to be better-focused in getting the right setup especially for the tires. If I can sustain myself among the leaders during the race, then I am pretty positive that I can win!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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FAST & FIERY

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

Powerful and persistent are the descriptions of riders in the Asia Production 250cc as they continue to unveil hidden moves and enhanced abilities. No exception to this is Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM and Aiki Iyoshi of Motul Sniper Manual Tech who have both displayed spectacular performances in Round 3. Racing in Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit for Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship however may pose two different set of experiences for these riders. Along with his teammates, Herjun has been exemplary in his racing endeavours this season. Although he lost some points in Race 2 of Round 1, his on-going achievements has positioned him at the third spot overall to-date; 1 point shy from his teammate at the second spot. Throughout the races, he was seen relentless in his pursuit for a winning recognition despite the challenges within the race category. Last season, Herjun bagged the third spot overall with two wins and two podiums. Commenting on his achievements, Herjun said, “Last year, I was a rookie in the AP250 race category. However, with the help of my teammates, I am able to scale up to greater heights this season. For the upcoming race at Mandalika, I have a strong feeling that it would be an awesome one. Perhaps, also with the upper hand of having the experiences racing there. I joined the ATC 2021 and raced at Mandalika which gave me some insights to the layout. Briefly, Mandalika circuit has many high-speed corners and also windy points which makes it interesting yet challenging. Not forgetting, having the support of my family and friends which serves as a motivational factor. The team at Astra Honda also gave us the opportunity to do testing as an early preparation. With all these in hand, my target would be to win for both races.” Fighting for the same opportunity and coming out strong in Race 2 of Round 3 was Aiki Iyoshi who managed to untangle himself from the chaos at the last lap before sprinting ahead towards the second spot on the podium. The Japanese lad who strides aboard the striking green Kawasaki Ninja 250 may have somewhat struggled in the first two rounds but round three was definitely the much-needed booster to alleviate him further. Commenting on the race, Aiki said, “This season has been a tough one, frankly. But in race 2 of Round 3, I made it to the podium although I know I could have done better. I wasn’t really satisfied with my performances but all I could do is move forward to achieve better outcomes. Racing in Mandalika would be my first so from the practice sessions onwards, I will have to work on my riding techniques and find the right setup. The goal is to leave a mark during the race therefore, it is going to be a lot of hard work. Speaking about his machine, he went on to say, “I am confident with my machine and it works well at the corners. So, attacking the opponent at the corners would be the best bet to move upwards. I know that closing the gaps with the other riders is a challenging task but my goal is to utilise the strengths of the machine where possible. I foresee a fierce battle at Mandalika but the aim is to be on the podium and I will do everything I can to achieve it from FP up till the end of the race! Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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FROM WEIGHT WATCH TO ACHIEVEMENTS

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

The Underbone 150cc race category is not only captivating with its long stretch of line during the race but also the trick of riders in their pursuit to take dominance. Gupita Kresna Wardhana of 4S1M EVO YAMAHA Racing Team is just like any of his counterparts will continue to find the right opportunities to strike in Round 4 of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship that will be held at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit this weekend. The Indonesian rider may have struggled quite a bit with his positions last season but this year, he has made quite remarkable improvements with three podiums to-date. Taking the third spot in the overall standings, it may still be early to predict the outcome of his standings but what is evident would be his accomplishments thus far with the possibility of him raking it better on the charts at his home-ground circuit. Riding aboard the Yamaha Sniper 150, the UB150 race category is not so much about the speed of the machine but rather the ability to manage the manoeuvring techniques coupled with the ability to strike while the iron is hot. Gupita has certainly showcased those qualities. Commenting on his performances, Gupita said, “I’ve been performing quite well this season and it feels good, scaling to a better position with the accumulation of points. This season, it is all about conditioning myself physically, especially my diet. I have been working towards my weight goals that would complement my riding style. For Round 3, I was really grateful to be on the podium. The feeling was overwhelming. I had many chances to win but it was definitely not easy. Getting a place on the podium was already a great achievement and a blessing for me.” Speaking about the Mandalika circuit, Gupita said, “The Mandalika circuit is like the European circuit. It is very special. The weather while is nice can be challenging with the unpredictability of wind as it is near the sea. The layout is also a tricky one which would require time to adapt. Nevertheless, my team and I will work towards ensuring consistency in our achievements for this season. Usually, there is no pre-race preparations and the team will start working on our machines when we arrive at the track during the race week which is our regular routine each round. On my part, it is more of staying committed to physical enhancement routines.” Gupita looks forward to yet another podium this weekend. According to him, “I am motivated by the fact that I am in the top 5 right now. This is a good chance for me to prove to the ARRC community that I still have it in me to succeed. The machine is also more powerful than before which gives me the upperrhand to fight competitively. The mechanics and the 4S1M team have also been doing a great job since their enrolment into ARRC. Frankly, I am much boosted this time around with a team of members who have been supportive in every aspect. Therefore, I look forward to either win or be on the podium in both races of Round 4 so that I can be in the running towards becoming a champion this season.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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RIDING THE TVS RHYTHM

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

The TVS Asia One Make Championship has fulfilled a pleasurable yet provoking challenge since its  debut in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship and foresees continuous excitement for its  fans as it grows. Raking the charts to topple the lead are Md Muzakkir Mohamed of Malaysia and  Decky Tiarno Aldy of Indonesia who will compete once again in Round 4 which will be held at the  Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit this weekend.  While debutante, Muzakkir made victorious moves at Sepang circuit in Round 2, second-year rider,  Decky put on a fiery battle at Sugo circuit in Round 3 – both with a vision to claim the highest spot on  the chart with a four-point difference. For a newbie in the race category, Muzakkir has definitely come  a long way in quickly picking up the art of riding aboard the TVS Apache 310 machine while Decky  implemented his learning curves for a better position than the season before.   Commenting on his performances, Muzakkir said, “It has been quite an exciting season so far. I have  been able to get adapted to the machine really well and fight for a spot on the podium. Winning and  obtaining a double podium at Sepang was one of the best things that has happened to me this season.  Of course, I have been training a lot especially with the machine and I was also able to prepare myself  better, mentally. In Round 3 however, I faced some issues with the machine. There were a lot of  clattering on the front but could not find the real issue with it.”  “For Round 4 though, I am quite sure of the direction and with the rights steps, I am sure that I would  be able to manage it well there. Mandalika circuit is the much-anticipated circuit for most riders. The  layout is beautiful and requires absolute speed to stay on par with the competitive riders. I think it will  be a close race for every race category. I have already studied the layout and have done training on a  similar track here in Malaysia. So, I hope that I will be 100% prepared when I get there. So far, the TVS  Apache RR310 machine has been serving me really well and for the coming round, I will just have to  find the perfect setup like gearing and bike fitting that matches my riding style on the circuit.”  Having improved this season, Decky said, “The difference this season compared to before is the entry  list that entails more competitive riders. This season, I paid attention to my past mistakes and flaws to  find ways in making the necessary amendments. For me, the fact that there are highly credible riders  gives me greater motivation to continue training and improve my performances. For the coming race,  it would be my first at Mandalika so it is important to learn the layout and identify where I can be  stronger and minimise my weaknesses. I believe that with hard work and persistence, I would be able  to dominate the circuit. Whatever that I have learnt, I will make full good use of it.”  On TVS team, Decky said, “TVS team has helped me tremendously in achieving my goals last season  as well as for this season. Throughout the year and a half that I have been part of TVS’ aspirations and  mission, I have grown to understand and enjoy the machine better, even more so with the upgrades  for this season. My goal for the coming round would be the inject some fun for the audience while  making sure that I am at my best.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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