2023

IMPRESSIVE INDONESIAN

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

It was a highly competitive feat, the Asia Production 250cc race category with aggressive riders moving on full force to gain victory. Nevertheless, the mark of excellence is meant for only one and it belonged to Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM in Race 1 of Round 4, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship which was held at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. During the qualifying session that was held earlier this morning, Herjun Atna of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM took pole position at 1’47:258s. Aiki Iyoshi of Motul Sniper Manual Tech Team made it to the second spot on the grid at 1’47:479s followed by Aldi Satya Mahendra of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia took the third spot on the grid at 1’47:561s. It was a great start for Herjun before Aldi overtook him at turn one. At P3 was Kawasaki Ninja rider, Aiki Iyoshi, appearing strongly before superseding the duo ahead of him into P1. Herjun seemed to have lost his momentum for a moment but find his footing once again before taking lead towards the end of lap 2 with Faerozi close behind and Aldi at P3. By the end of lap 3, Herjun has picked up speed and drawn a gap of 0.9 seconds. As Herjun went on to create an impossible gap, Aldi overtook Faerozi. At P4, Wahyu tried to close the gaps with Faerozi as Rheza moved into P5. The current championship lead, while he managed to move into P4 from P7, he seemed to be struggling with his momentum as Wahyu inched closer, placing immense pressure. With another four laps to go, Herjun was speeding way ahead of the troop. In that moment, Rheza found the opportunity to strike and he crossed the two riders ahead into P2. By then, Rheza was seen picking up speed and he went on a chase to close the gaps with his teammate. The three robust Yamaha riders behind him went on to pump in pressure. With two more laps to go, the ASTRA HONDA riders were determined to make the best in their home- ground. Rheza embraced the continuous pressure as he guarded his position. At the final lap, Herjun was on his way towards victory but his teammate began feeling the intensity. At the last turn, Rheza gave in to the challenge as the two Yamaha riders moved ahead into P2 and P3 before claiming the spots on the podium. Herjun Atna Firdaus madfe an impressive finish at 17’59:708s. Commenting on the race, Herjun said, “In the beginning of the race, I tried to manage my tire but at the same time, I enjoyed the race and went on a good speed to ensure that there is a comfortable gap between me and the rider behind me. It was a good race to be honest, taking the win at my home- circuit. There is another race tomorrow so, will keep my fingers crossed.” Teammates Aldi Satya Mahendra and Wahyu Nugroho of YAMAHA Racing Indonesian made it second and third at 18’00:278s and 18’00:762s respectively. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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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

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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

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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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