Asia Superbike 1000

It was a statement of excellence and extraordinary sportsmanship among riders in the Asia Superbike 1000cc as they went on yet another feat in Race 1 of Round 5, FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) at Zhuhai International Circuit. Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team once again took the limelight with a win. Earlier today, the riders accelerated at their best capacities to secure their comfort zones on the grid in the qualifying session. Markus of ONEXOX BWM TKKR Team seemed to have found moves that worked well for him on the circuit. He took the pole position when he clocked in fastest at 1’32:265s. Teammates, Andi Farid and Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA took the second and third spot on the grid when the concluded with their best lap time at 1’32:714s and 1’32:575s. It was a fantastic start for Zaqhwan who went right ahead to take lead with duo of TKKR trailing behind. Seconds into the race, Kasma lost control and collided with Lachlan. At P4, Andi Farid kept well to the momentum. Before lap 2 ended, Markus made his move ahead of Zaqhwan and at turn 1 of lap 3, Azlan took a slide ahead of Zaqhwan from the inside. By the 4th lap, Markus worked on eliminating pressure but Azlan kept up with his pace. Meanwhile, Zaqhwan maintained a close distance with Azlan as Andi kept his cool at P4. With seven more laps to go, Markus tried to widen the gap with his teammate while Andi attempted to close the gap with his teammate. By the end of lap 8, Markus was 1.176s away from Azlan. The positions among the top four riders did not change up until then. Yuki was 14.098s away at P5. With each lap, Markus pulled himself further away from the trio trailing him. With three more laps to go, Azlan lost his pace. Zaqhwan immediately took advantage and paced up at P2 but Azlan went on to pressure his contender. At the final lap, Markus shot ahead towards victory at 20’16:469s. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “It was a tough race. Like I have expected, the test on the brakes were really very strong. But I was not 100% sure if I could speed away because the others were also very strong and fast. To me, in order to do the lap time, I have to push harder. In the middle of the race, I managed to draw some gap but I hit the track limits twice. I wasn’t very sure but someone showed me two track limits but I wasn’t sure. I kept calm till the end and luckily it was not track limits. I am really happy and there is another race tomorrow. I will do my best!” Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA maintained the momentum and avoided Azlan before landing himself second at 20’19:674s. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team followed suit for the third position at 20’19:717s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Taking their moves to the next level and steadfast in their commitment to achieve their goals, the riders of the Asia Superbike 1000cc once again got their hands dirty on the scenes of Round 5, FIM Asia Road Racing Championship beginning with the free practice sessions at the Zhuhai International Circuit. Making the fastest cut for the day in the sessions combined was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team. It was an excellent morning as the riders went on their first FP session. Zaqhwan of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA made the fastest lap time at 1’34:028s. Markus of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team clocked in second fastest at 1’34:289 followed by Kasma Daniel of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN with his best lap time at 1’34:571s. During the FP2, Markus geared up and hit the fastest lap time with his best at 1’33:880s. Zaqhwan on the other hand made it second fastest with his best at 1’34:387s. His teammate Andi Farid made some improvements and scored the third fastest at 1’34:553s. In FP3, Markus seemed to have mastered the circuit as he went on at a blistering speed to score a better lap time. He clocked in his best at 1’33:048s. Markus currently leads the overall charts with a total of 155.5 points. The rider may not have had a colourful start in the season opener but has been acing since then and is in contention for winning the championship title on the grounds of Zhuhai. Commenting on the sessions, Markus said, “This is my first time here in ZIC. I did go around the circuit, on a walk and realised that this circuit is really different, for example compared to Mandalika. The other circuits were wider compare to ZIC which is way narrower. The tarmac was a little rough I suppose. But the layout was easy to learn and after a few laps, I was already on top of the chart. The machine is in an excellent condition as always and the team has been working tirelessly to maintain that. The electronics are good, maybe some minor adjustments. Initially, I had some issues at certain areas but I guess we managed to overcome that. It definitely needs a lot of acceleration especially with the others who are much smaller in size, they have better advantage here. I struggled a bit to make the gap wider but I am good at braking, so more or less, I think I will do good. My goal for is to make it at least 1 second better for the qualifying tomorrow and take the championship win here.” Taking the second fastest spot for the day was Zaqhwan Zaidi after FP3 with his best lap time at 1’33:626s. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team made it third fastest at 1’33:765s after FP3. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Electrifying and nerve-wrecking, the Asia Superbike 1000cc is all set for another round of white knuckle ride at the Zhuhai International Circuit, China this weekend since its last appearance in 2019.  Taking a bold stance in their performances this season is duo of ONEXOX BWM TKKR Team, Markus  Reiterberger and Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman who are ready to rock the scenes in Round 5 of the FIM  Asia Road Racing Championship.   High on a streak of glorifying achievements, Markus has become a household name among the  community of ARRC this season. Returning to the championship after a long hiatus, he was not only  quick to find his equipoise but also in maintaining a fantastic momentum that has served to up his ante at the forefront of victory. The German born lad has certainly been around the block of the motorcycle  racing domain, undoubtedly and his return to ARRC has not only spiced up the level of competitiveness  but has also tickled the nerves of other riders in the race category.  Commenting on the season, Markus said, “The start was not too good for me, to be honest. At Buriram  specifically but we picked up along the way and it has been great so far. I am pretty satisfied with my  achievements, frankly and it has served the expectations of our team well. We have won many races.  We can already win the championship for sure if we maintain this momentum. The machine is  awesome in the braking area and I think this is the best part of the machine which I love most.  Compared to the other machines, this is an upside for us and I have improved tremendously on that.  Apart from that, the power of the machine is also amazing. We do have our downside especially on  the exit, the line wise, we have to take a wider space at times but we can take up speed which is really  good.”  “The team has been great in ensuring that the machine is always in a good condition. Although it can  be said that we are on our way to making it champion this season, there is no playing safe. We will not  change our strategy but move along with the idea of giving our best shot, to give my 100% in each lap  while enjoying every bit of the moment. At the end of the day, the goal is to win the races and the  championship. To be honest, I have no idea about the Zhuhai circuit because I have never been there.  I watch a couple of on-board races to identify the brake points, gears and layout, to hear the engine  sound. Normally, I am quite fast in picking it up so by the second and third session, I think I will roughly  be able to gauge the performance level. Of course, the challenge would be riding with those who  already know the layout but I am daring, so it should be ok. Azlan has been quite a teammate and he  has helped me to identify the foreseeable challenges for the coming race, so let’s see how it goes!”  Star of 2019, Azlan Shah is not quite bad himself this season. After a tough and frustrating season last  year, Azlan Shah returned to prove his mettle in the ASB1000 race category. The Malaysian rider has  shown remarkable improvements in his riding techniques that not only complemented the qualities of  the machine but also accentuated its visibility with his ability to optimise its strengths. Azlan Shah has  definitely brought his A-game to the circuit scenes this season but it would be steep climb uphill to  make his cut at the top.  Commenting on the season, Azlan Shah said, “Overall, this season has been a good one for me.  Considering the decline in my level of performances last season. So, this year has definitely been a  one-up for me. I think one of the significant achievements for me this season would be making it all  the way up from the back of the grid and finishing podium. That was an awesome achievement for me.  Overall, the machine this season has seen a major transformation. I am able to handle it better and it  comes with greater power which makes acceleration and fighting among the front troop possible.  Personally, my most difficult time was at Sugo. It was a difficult circuit for me and I couldn’t find my  comfort and momentum there.”  “My goal this season would be to try and secure the second position overall. There are four more races  to go and I am currently at the fifth position overall. I still have a fighting chance considering the point  difference which is not that big. If I can work towards finishing the podium in the coming races, there  is a high chance for me to make it to the podium in the overall standings. For the upcoming race, to be  honest, I am not a fan of the Zhuhai circuit. I have raced there many times since my 600cc years. It has  always been the same problem with the tarmac and reduced traction. But I am hoping that it would be different this time around, so let’s see. Markus is a good kid and he is a fast learner. I have learnt a  lot from him and hopefully, we can both be on the podium for the end of the season.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Dated 17th August 2023, in honour of Haruki Noguchi’s family and team who have requested for a moment of privacy to mourn their loss. It is with great sadness that we report the demise of Haruki Noguchi after three days of intensive treatment at the Public Hospital of Nusa Tenggara Barat. During Round 4 of the FIM Asia Road Championship, 2023 that was held at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, Haruki was critically injured following an incident at Turn 10, Lap 4 of the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category. The 22-year-old rider immediately received medical attention at the circuit’s Medical Centre before being transferred to the local hospital. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, Haruki sadly succumbed to his injuries on 16 August 2023 at 1740H. The FIM Asia President and its Board of Directors, Two Wheels Motor Racing and the FIM Asia Road Racing family extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Haruki Noguchi. – FIM Asia

During Round 4 of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, an incident occurred at turn 10 involving rider, Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro. Honda. Ph. Following that, the Asia Superbike 1000cc has been cancelled to prioritise the medical situation of the rider involved. The rider was treated at the track medical centre and stabilised. He has been transferred to the local hospital for further treatment. Haruki’s situation will be updated accordingly in due course. We wish for your kind support and prayers for the speedy recovery of our rider! FIM Asia Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The Asia Superbike 1000cc has always been an awe-factor that awakens the nerves. This time around, taking on a full spirit on Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team who emerged victorious with a remarkable win in Race 1 of Round 4, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. During the qualifying session, Markus of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team marked the fastest at 1’34:619s consequently claimed the pole position. Andi Farid of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA made it to the second spot on the grid at 1’35:916s. Kasma Danial of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN who has been quiet in the FP sessions yesterday took the third spot on the grid at 1’36:200s. The race flagged off to the heat of 47 degrees in temperature. As Markus took speed, Zaqhwan made a surprising move ahead at turn one. By the end of lap 2, Zaqhwan maintained his position with Azlan at P2 and Kasma at P3. The pole man seemed to be taking a relaxed position then at P4 while Haruki managed his pace at P5. As the race picked up, so did Zaqhwan’s speed but Markus began making his moves at the end of the third lap. Haruki on the other hand bypassed Andi into P3 while Kasma lost his pace and fell behind into P5. With seven laps to go, it was all about managing the speed while maintaining the condition of the tires on the heated asphalt. Before the end of the lap 4, Markus made a slingshot move ahead of Zaqhwan. The Honda rider went on to inject pressure on Markus while his teammate, Andi made a slide from the inside into P3. By mid-race, Markus drew a 0.8s gap with Zaqhwan. With another four laps to go, the ONEXOX rider was far ahead. Meanwhile at P6, Lachlan pushed further and superseded Yuki Ito. Kasma on the other hand played catch up and tried to close the gaps with Haruki. Azlan who lost his momentum in the beginning of the race quickly recovered as he took speed and closed the gaps with the riders ahead of him. With two laps to go, he worked his moves from P7 as he chased and squeezed Lachlan out furiously. Into the final lap, it was impossible for Zaqhwan at P2 to compete with Markus who was way ahead however, Andi began making his moves from the back waiting to strike. At the last turn, Markus fled towards victory logging in at 16’05:242s while Andi swiped past Zaqhwan into P2. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “My start was not so good. Anyway, it still arrived at the first position at the first corner. I braked at a latest possible point and suddenly and I saw the red Honda passing by from the inside and realised, oh, it was late and it definitely destroyed my rhythm a little bit. I nearly crashed at turn three but I tried to manage it as much as possible. I felt amazing on the machine and I didn’t push too much. I tried to do a constant smooth flow till the end. The machine was very fast and I thank my team for such an awesome machine. At the moment, it is easy to ride but like I said, the plans can change very quickly. We have to keep an eye open for the race tomorrow.” Teammates, Andi Farid Izdihar and Zaqhwan Zaidi made it to the second and third spot on the podium at 16’10:150s and 16’10:228s respectively. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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

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

Asia Superbike 1000cc is an intriguing race category which encapsulates not only the speed of the machine but also the ability to weigh between riding techniques and calculated moves. In Race 2, Round 3 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship that was held at Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course, Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team showcased exemplary attributes that rewarded him with a victory. Taking a moment to reflect upon Race 1, Japanese rider Takume was off to a majestic start but soon started facing challenges of worn-out tires. Malaysian rider, Kasma used that to his advantage as he picked up pace la-by-lap before attacking him at the right time, with the right strategies in mind. German rider, Markus reduced his pace for a moment before jumping right back into the game. Japanese rider, Keisuke who was off the limelight for the first 17 laps emerged at the last lap to bag the third spot. Today, the race went on a high-speed chase once again with Markus taking lead in the first lap followed by Haruki at P2, Takume at P3 and Azlan Shah at P4. By the end of lap 2, the four riders in the front troop drew up a gap with the riders of the back troop. As TKKR rider, Markus glided confidently ahead, Takume was injecting pressure on Haruki. By the end of lap 3, Azlan was back into the pit. Meanwhile, the back troop was led by Kota Arakawa, followed by Rei Toshima, and Kasma. Among them, Kasma was seen moving fiercely forward and before the end of lap 4, he took over Rei Toshima’s position. Meanwhile, among the front troop, Takume took a slide ahead of Haruki. But, German rider, Markus was picking up speed with a gap of 1’452s. Down to 12 laps, Haruki took a slide from the inside ahead of Takume while Kasma pushed himself into P4. There was a huge gap between Takume and Kasma but the Yamaha rider was focused on closing the gap. With another 8 laps to go, Haruki crashed at turn one instantly opening the pathway for Kasma into P3. But luck was not on his side too when Kasma took a fall at turn one. With that, Markus was free of threats with a 5’074s away from Takume who was at P2. Meanwhile, taking P3 was Kota Arakawa followed by Andi Farid and Zaqhwan at P4 and P5 respectively. The two teammates worked towards closing the gap with the Japanese rider ahead. Kota Arakawa however does not intend to give up his position just yet. But Andi kept on with the pressure and finally overtook him. For Markus, it is all about maintaining his momentum and avoiding mistake. It was almost impossible then for Takume to bypass Markus. Unfortunately, Takume too took a fall. Andi moved into P2 and Zaqhwan took P3. At the final lap, Markus was on his way towards victory. Teammates Andi and Zaqhwan were leaning towards second and third position. With no mistakes made, the trio made it to the podium. Markus made an impressive 17’860s gap ahead when he clocked in at 26’42:374s. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “My weekend was almost perfect apart from the second place yesterday. I was still happy with the outcome yesterday but I can’t imagine a better race than today. It was really good. I could push from the very beginning as I have planned. I also studied the lap time from Noguchi as he was the strongest rider. I noticed that I could do a few laps very quick and then stabilise my lap time. So, I followed through with my plan and it happened. When I don’t hear the sound of machine and when I noticed the gaps, I relaxed a little so that I could keep it together till the end. Suddenly, I saw it was more than 17s since many riders crashed too. I thank my team for the machine.” Teammates Andi Farid Izdihar and Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA took the second and third spot at 27’00:223s and 27’00:558s respectively. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The riders of the Asia Superbike 1000cc went on a blistering speed in their attempt to conquer the Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course in Race 1 of Round 3, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship and emerging ahead to claim victory was Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN. Earlier today, during the Qualifying Session, Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro. Honda. Ph. flaunted his mastery when he made a striking lap time at 1’27:610s which gave him an added advantage at the pole position. He was awarded with the “Pole Position Award” brought to you by SDG – Showa Denki Group and was presented by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kensaku Kashiwagi. Second fastest was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team who clocked in at 1’27:780s followed by Takume Kunimine of TOHO Racing at the third spot with his best lap time at 1’27:972s. As the weather condition settled, the riders of ASB1000 were off to a great start with Takume at the lead position and Kota Arakawa at P2. Markus took P3. There was no wasting time with Takume as he went on a blistering speed ahead, drawing an almost 1 sec gap by the end of the first lap. Meanwhile, Malaysian rider, Azlan Shah was trying to catch up at P4. Pressured by Murayama, Azlan went on with impressive manoeuvring techniques to guard his position. At P6, Kasma was picking up speed in a bid to close the gap with rider ahead of him. Kota Arakawa on the other hand was getting closer to Takume and as intensity built up, Azlan managed to bypass his teammate, Markus. In an interesting twist, Kasma found his way ahead of Markus and went on to attack Azlan before finally striking from the inside. From P3, Kasma was on fire as he went on full steam to bring Kota Arakawa down and he did it. By then, Markus picked up speed and superseded Azlan. By mid-lap, Kasma began breathing down Takume’s neck. The gap was closing up and with 8 laps to go, Kasma worked his moves from the outside to take lead. Meanwhile, behind him, Markus sped up into P3 while Haruki worked on his strategies into P4. While Kasma went on to draw a wide gap, Markus inched closer towards Takume and from the inside, made it into P2. With 4 more laps to go, Andi trailed Takume diligently, finding ways to strike. He did, before speeding of ahead for another 2 laps. At the final lap, Kasma who managed to maintain his momentum was off towards a gleaming victory while Markus maintained at P2. At P3 though, Keisuke emerged ahead of Andi and concluded the race at the third spot. Kasma clocked in at 29’37:392s Commenting on the race, Kasma said, “In the beginning, I did not feel confident but I kept my eyes on the front group. I realised then that I had the potential to move forward therefore I tried to close the gaps lap-by-lap. My strategy worked and I am so thankful for my first win this season. There is another race tomorrow and I am keeping my fingers crossed to repeat the success.” Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team made it second at 20’39:529s. Keisuke Maeda of Team GYTR took the third spot at 29’42:993s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com