Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Valentino Rossi leaves Ducati, heads home to Yamaha]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/valentino-rossi-leaves-ducati-heads-home-to-yamaha/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/valentino-rossi-leaves-ducati-heads-home-to-yamaha/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/valentino-rossi-leaves-ducati-heads-home-to-yamaha/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Valentino Rossi Ducati crash

After an undeniably unsuccessful two-year relationship with Ducati, motorcycle superstar Valentino Rossi has decided to take his talents back to Yamaha, the team he left at the end of the 2010 season for what he hoped would be greener pastures.

The deal signed by Rossi will see him wearing Yamaha blue for two years - the 2013 and 2014 seasons - and teaming up once again with Jorge Lorenzo, the 25-year-old Spanish rider who won the World Championship in 2010 and is currently doing the same for 2012. Though Lorenzo is undoubtedly an extremely gifted rider, Rossi is a fan and sponsor favorite and is sure to help Yamaha bring in some much-needed sponsorship dollars.

As to who will be filling Rossi's vacated saddle at Ducati, rumor has it that the Italian team is most interested in Italian rider Andrea Dovizioso. If that's the case, he will be paired up with American Nicky Hayden, who has been with Ducati since 2009. Dueling press releases, one from Ducati and the other from Yamaha, can be found below. Suffice it to say, the 2013 MotoGP season - even without Casey Stoner - is shaping up to be rather interesting.

Continue reading Valentino Rossi leaves Ducati, heads home to Yamaha

Valentino Rossi leaves Ducati, heads home to Yamaha originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Aug 2012 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrea doviziosoducatijorge lorenzomotogpnicky haydenvalentino rossiyamahaFri, 10 Aug 2012 15:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20298289/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/10/valentino-rossi-leaves-ducati-heads-home-to-yamaha/20298289/article-detail.xml 20298289 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/rossi-ducati-crash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/rossi-ducati-crash.jpg <![CDATA[BMW rolls out new M6 safety car for MotoGP]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/bmw-rolls-out-new-m6-safety-car-for-motogp/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/bmw-rolls-out-new-m6-safety-car-for-motogp/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/bmw-rolls-out-new-m6-safety-car-for-motogp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BMW M6 MotoGP Safety Car

It takes a fast and agile car to keep pace with MotoGP racing bikes. Fortunately the BMW M division is up to the task, providing safety cars (or what we'd call pace cars on this side of the Atlantic) to the race organizers of the top-level motorcycle racing series.

The most recent vehicles to perform the duties have been the 1 Series M Coupe and the X6 M crossover, but now BMW is introducing a the new M6 coupe to the mix. It'll debut in safety car guise as pictured above at the Nürburgring this weekend.

While it's unclear whether any modifications have been made to the 552-horsepower twin-turbo V8, the M6 MotoGP safety car has been upgraded with new spoilers front and rear, special lighting equipment and BMW's traditional blue, blue and red striping on a white body. And if we were betting men, we'd put our money on some upgrades to the brakes, suspension and tires, too.

BMW rolls out new M6 safety car for MotoGP originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 May 2012 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m6bmw m6 motogp safety carm6moto gpmotogppace carsafety carSat, 19 May 2012 18:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240302/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/19/bmw-rolls-out-new-m6-safety-car-for-motogp/20240302/article-detail.xml 20240302 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/m6-motogp-web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/m6-motogp-web.jpg <![CDATA[MotoGP champ Casey Stoner stuns with retirement announcement [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/motogp-champ-casey-stoner-stuns-with-retirement-announcement-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/motogp-champ-casey-stoner-stuns-with-retirement-announcement-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/motogp-champ-casey-stoner-stuns-with-retirement-announcement-w/#commentsFiled under: ,



Reigning MotoGP champion Casey Stoner is just 26 years old, but has been riding in the FIM series since 2001 when he joined the 125cc ranks. Five years later, the Australian was in the headlining formula series with Honda, the year after that, in 2007, he won the title astride a Ducati. Last year, Stoner won it again with Honda, and even battling an issue with his arm this year, he's atop the standings and leading his rivals in practice sessions for this weekend's French GP at Le Mans.

But Stoner used yesterday's GP press conference to announce his retirement at the end of this year. The Australian says the sport had gone in a direction that doesn't interest him and that he simply isn't enjoying it enough to continue the sacrifices necessary to be competitive at the top level. Speculation is that he wants to spend time with his wife and daughter, and perhaps that he plans to drive in the Australian V8 Supercar series.

Fellow Aussie and MotoGP legen Mick Doohan said he doesn't believe just yet that Stoner will actually ride off into farm life. Even so, the fact that the current World Champion is unhappy enough to publicly announce the end of his career is a shock to the MotoGP world. Have a look below for a video news report on Stoner's announcement.

Continue reading MotoGP champ Casey Stoner stuns with retirement announcement [w/video]

MotoGP champ Casey Stoner stuns with retirement announcement [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2012 13:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey stonercasey stoner retirementcasey stoner retiringmotogpmotorsportsretiringFri, 18 May 2012 13:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240760/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/18/motogp-champ-casey-stoner-stuns-with-retirement-announcement-w/20240760/article-detail.xml 20240760 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/casey-stoner-retires_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/casey-stoner-retires.jpg <![CDATA[SPEED inks multi-year deal to keep 24 Hours of Le Mans broadcast]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/speed-inks-multi-year-deal-to-keep-24-hours-of-le-mans-broadcast/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/speed-inks-multi-year-deal-to-keep-24-hours-of-le-mans-broadcast/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/speed-inks-multi-year-deal-to-keep-24-hours-of-le-mans-broadcast/#commentsFiled under:

Speed TV logoSpeedTV has piped Le Mans racing action to American television sets since 1995, and with the signing of a new multi-year television deal, the annual Frankish displays of 24-hour madness will continue to have a home on the cable network. The length of the deal wasn't disclosed, but it does include expanded digital rights, which we'll hope is network code for "live streaming." Now you know where to turn on June 16.

And in case you didn't know, the channel also signed a deal with World Rally Championship for 30-minute recaps of each day's action this year, starting with this weekend's Rally Argentina. It will also be covering the MotoGP race in Spain this weekend and live-streaming qualifying on Speed2. So double hurray and yay for SpeedTV emerging yet further from its NASCAR shell.

SPEED inks multi-year deal to keep 24 Hours of Le Mans broadcast originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 heures du mans24 hours of le mansle mansmoto gpmotogpmotorsportsspeedtvworld rally championshipwrcThu, 26 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224545/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/speed-inks-multi-year-deal-to-keep-24-hours-of-le-mans-broadcast/20224545/article-detail.xml 20224545 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/speed-tv-emblem_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/speed-tv-emblem.jpg <![CDATA[Misano circuit renamed in honor of Marco Simoncelli]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/misano-circuit-renamed-in-honor-of-marco-simoncelli/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/misano-circuit-renamed-in-honor-of-marco-simoncelli/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/misano-circuit-renamed-in-honor-of-marco-simoncelli/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Marco Simoncelli races at Misano

The race track on Italy's Adriatic coast known to most as Misano World Circuit will adopt a new name in tribute to the late motorcycle racer Marco Simoncelli.

Although Misano isn't where Simoncelli lost his life - that tragedy unfolded at Sepang in Malaysia - he was known and loved as a local hero at the Italian track. That's why its owners have announced that it is being named Marco Simoncelli International Circuit in his honor.

It's a fitting tribute, and follows the recent decision of motorsport constructor Dallara to name its new IndyCar chassis DW12 in honor of the late Dan Wheldon.

Misano circuit renamed in honor of Marco Simoncelli originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marco simoncellimarco simoncelli international circuitmisanomisano world circuitmoto gpmotogpsan marinosimoncelliMon, 07 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20099761/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/07/misano-circuit-renamed-in-honor-of-marco-simoncelli/20099761/article-detail.xml 20099761 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/par2127236_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/par2127236.jpg <![CDATA[MotoGP rider Marco Simoncelli dies in race accident [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/motogp-rider-marco-simoncelli-dies-in-race-accident-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/motogp-rider-marco-simoncelli-dies-in-race-accident-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/motogp-rider-marco-simoncelli-dies-in-race-accident-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Bad news, it seems, does come in threes, as we're grieved to report the passing of Marco Simoncelli. The MotoGP rider succumbed to injuries sustained this weekend at the Malaysian Grand Prix, his death coming barely a week after those of Indy 500 champion Dan Wheldon and Baja racer Rick Huseman.

A promising Italian rider, Simoncelli advanced just last year to the top-tier MotoGP series after making a name for himself in the feeder classes. He was a force to be reckoned with in the Italian Minimoto Championship in the late 90s, won the European championship (as well as several World Championship races) in the 125cc class for Aprilia and took the 250cc World Championship for Gilera in 2008. He advanced to the MotoGP series last season, riding for the Gresini Honda team, for whom he took a second-place finish just last week in Australia.

Disaster struck, however, on the second lap of the Malaysian Grand Prix today where he lost control of his Honda racing bike and was hit by fellow riders Colin Edwards and Valentino Rossi as he slid across the track. He laid there motionless, his helmet having come off in the incident, until an ambulance brought him to the trackside infirmary where he was subsequently pronounced dead. He was 24.

The tragedy marks the first death in MotoGP since the 2003 Japanese Grand Prix where Daijiro Kato, also of the Gresini team, was killed. However Shoya Tomizawa was killed a little over a year ago in the Moto2 race at San Marino.

Our hearts go out to Simoncelli's family, friends and colleagues. Follow the jump to watch the incident unfold.

Continue reading MotoGP rider Marco Simoncelli dies in race accident [w/video]

MotoGP rider Marco Simoncelli dies in race accident [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdeathmarco simoncellimoto gpmotogpmotorcycleobituaryripsimoncelliSun, 23 Oct 2011 06:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20088261/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/23/motogp-rider-marco-simoncelli-dies-in-race-accident-w-video/20088261/article-detail.xml 20088261 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/marco-simoncelli_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/marco-simoncelli.jpg <![CDATA[Casey Stoner leans his MotoGP bike at 1,000 frames per second]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/casey-stoner-leans-his-motogp-bike-at-1-000-frames-per-second/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/casey-stoner-leans-his-motogp-bike-at-1-000-frames-per-second/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/casey-stoner-leans-his-motogp-bike-at-1-000-frames-per-second/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Casey Stoner in slow motion
Casey Stoner in slow motion - Click above to watch the video after the break

Modern technology offers us some truly amazing experiences that we'd otherwise never be able to comprehend. Take, for instance, cameras. At its beginning, the camera was a novel invention that allowed mankind to capture brief images in time and record memories in a real, physical form.

Now, cameras have taken on a whole new dimension that adds a great deal of interest to everyday life. Especially since imaging went digital, we've managed to create ridiculously impressive devices that can literally slow real-life action to a level that shows details undetectable to the naked eye. Amazing stuff.

Equally as impressive are today's racing motorcycles. Though MotoGP bikes, such as the Repsol-sponsored Honda ridden by Casey Stoner, aren't exactly accessible to the Average Joe, when combined with the kinds of cameras we were just considering... well, a whole new world of seemingly incomprehensible action is opened up.

To see what we mean, we suggest you check out the video after the break. Our sincere thanks goes out to Red Bull for offering up this otherworldly clip.

Continue reading Casey Stoner leans his MotoGP bike at 1,000 frames per second

Casey Stoner leans his MotoGP bike at 1,000 frames per second originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey stonercasey stoner hondahondamotogpmotogp slow motionred bullrepsol hondaslow motionslow motion racingWed, 13 Jul 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19990380/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/13/casey-stoner-leans-his-motogp-bike-at-1-000-frames-per-second/19990380/article-detail.xml 19990380 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/casey-stoner-slowmo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/casey-stoner-slowmo.jpg <![CDATA[MotoGP expands with six new teams]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/17/motogp-expands-with-six-new-teams/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/17/motogp-expands-with-six-new-teams/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/17/motogp-expands-with-six-new-teams/#commentsFiled under: ,

MotoGP

When Formula One admitted four new teams a couple of years ago (and subsequently eliminated one before the season even started) it was a revolutionary expansion. Now its two-wheeled equivalent is looking to follow a similar path.

The MotoGP series - widely viewed as the pinnacle of motorcycle racing - has reportedly granted license for six teams currently in the second-tier Moto2 feeder series to join the premier MotoGP grid for next season.

The teams are Kiefer Racing, BQR/Blusens, Forward Racing, Marc VDS Racing, Interwetten Paddock GP and Speed Master. Each will be allowed one bike, as opposed to the two fielded by existing teams.

Now, unless you're the most hard-core motorcycle racing fan, chances are you haven't heard of any of these teams, but you may be familiar with names like Aprilia, Norton, Kawasaki and BMW. Each of these are touted as potential newcomers to the MotoGP grid next season as the new 1000cc regulations kick in. This ought to be interesting.

MotoGP expands with six new teams originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 motogpapriliabmwbmw motorradkawasakimoto gpmoto2motogpnortonFri, 17 Jun 2011 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19968640/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/17/motogp-expands-with-six-new-teams/19968640/article-detail.xml 19968640 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/motogp6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/motogp6.jpg <![CDATA[Texans irked about lawmakers spending $25M to woo F1 while teachers are dismissed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/texans-irked-about-lawmakers-spending-25m-to-woo-f1-while-teach/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/texans-irked-about-lawmakers-spending-25m-to-woo-f1-while-teach/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/texans-irked-about-lawmakers-spending-25m-to-woo-f1-while-teach/#commentsFiled under:

circuit of the americas

Texas motorsports enthusiasts are no doubt excited about the Circuit of the Americas. Formula One racing, along with MotoGP, will have a new home in Austin, and the United States Grand Prix is sure to attract fans and fan money. Some, however, are not thrilled at the spending decisions being made by Texan lawmakers, as they apparently feel though the money being spent to bring racing to the state could otherwise be used to help teachers keep their jobs.

How much has Texas pledged to bring F1 racing to Austin? According to Bloomberg, Texas Comptroller Susan Combs has signed off to shell out $25 million per year through 2022. That's a massive chunk of change, and some are not too thrilled at this idea as at the same time, 100,000 teachers could be losing their jobs.

That $25 million per year figure would not be enough to save 100,000 jobs. However, it could save the jobs of 500 teachers earning $48,000 per year. While CotA is bound to bring serious tourist and racing-fan money to the Austin area, should Texas be spending $25 million when teachers across the state are likely to find themselves out of work soon? Have your say in Comments.

Texans irked about lawmakers spending $25M to woo F1 while teachers are dismissed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 May 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austinaustin f1circuit of the americascotaf1formula 1formula onemotogpsusan combstexasThu, 12 May 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19937892/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/12/texans-irked-about-lawmakers-spending-25m-to-woo-f1-while-teach/19937892/article-detail.xml 19937892 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cota-temp-banner-usf1-site_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cota-temp-banner-usf1-site.jpg <![CDATA[Ducati's Nicky Hayden stops by AMG headquarters for a new CLS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/22/ducatis-nicky-hayden-stops-by-amg-headquarters-for-a-new-cls/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/22/ducatis-nicky-hayden-stops-by-amg-headquarters-for-a-new-cls/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/22/ducatis-nicky-hayden-stops-by-amg-headquarters-for-a-new-cls/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Nick Hayden and the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG
Nicky Hayden takes delivery of his new Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

Membership, they say, has its privileges. Just ask Fernando Alonso, who's landed himself a free Ferrari 458 Italia, Maserati GranCabrio and Abarth 695 since moving to Maranello. That's a heck of a garage, but it's fairly standard for F1 drivers to get comp'd on free cars from the automakers that support them. But while MotoGP riders can probably get their hands on any bike their hearts desire, when it comes to a new car, the nature of their profession leaves them in the same position (albeit likely a better paid one) as the rest of us.

That's where AMG's partnership with Ducati comes in. (Well, that and a special edition Cigarette speedboat.) Since the Mercedes-Benz performance division sponsors the Italian bike racing team, they invited star rider Nicky Hayden down to the headquarters for a quick visit. And while he was there, the 2006 world champion picked out for himself a set of (four) new wheels. In Hayden's case, he took home a new CLS63 AMG, complete with the AMG Performance Package and the Edition One trim with matte grey paintjob.

Nice work if you can get it, and we bet his teammate Valentino Rossi will be stopping by for his own new ride in due course. He may have to pass Hayden in the standings to get there, though.


Gallery: Nicky Hayden at Mercedes AMG headquarters


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Ducati's Nicky Hayden stops by AMG headquarters for a new CLS

Ducati's Nicky Hayden stops by AMG headquarters for a new CLS originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clscls amgducatimercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz cls 63 amgmercedes-benz cls63 amgmotogpnicky haydenFri, 22 Apr 2011 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19918996/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/22/ducatis-nicky-hayden-stops-by-amg-headquarters-for-a-new-cls/19918996/article-detail.xml 19918996 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-hayden-amg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-hayden-amg.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Austin's Circuit of the Americas woos with promo clip]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/video-austins-circuit-of-the-americas-woos-with-promo-clip/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/video-austins-circuit-of-the-americas-woos-with-promo-clip/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/video-austins-circuit-of-the-americas-woos-with-promo-clip/#commentsFiled under: ,

circuit of the americas promo video screenshot
Circuit of the Americas brings F1 racing to Austin - Click above to watch video after the jump

Austin's Circuit of the Americas race track has motorsports fans (and local business owners) dreaming big. The folks behind the circuit have put together a promotional video highlighting the many potential positives that CotA will bring to Austin, including new construction jobs and lots of race fans with cash to spend.

Not just a venue for Formula One and MotoGP racing, this Texas track will be used for business functions, full-size concerts and even a trauma training facility for area medical students. 'Course, if you don't really care about corporate retreats or a Kings of Leon concert, the F1 cars are scheduled to hit this track for the 2012 U.S. Grand Prix.

Click past the jump to check out the Circuit of the Americas promo video.

[Source: YouTube via Asphalt and Rubber]

Continue reading Video: Austin's Circuit of the Americas woos with promo clip

Video: Austin's Circuit of the Americas woos with promo clip originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austinaustin f1austin texascircuit of the americascotaf1formula onemotogpunited states grand prixvideoFri, 15 Apr 2011 12:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19913741/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/15/video-austins-circuit-of-the-americas-woos-with-promo-clip/19913741/article-detail.xml 19913741 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/circuit-of-the-americas_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/circuit-of-the-americas.jpg <![CDATA[Austin U.S. F1 track to officially be called Circuit of the Americas, also play host to MotoGP]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/12/austin-u-s-f1-track-to-officially-be-called-circuit-of-the-amer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/12/austin-u-s-f1-track-to-officially-be-called-circuit-of-the-amer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/12/austin-u-s-f1-track-to-officially-be-called-circuit-of-the-amer/#commentsFiled under:

circuit of the americas

We've all known that Formula One racing is coming to Austin, Texas. Now we know what to call the track that will play host to the 2012 U.S. Grand Prix. Called the Circuit of the Americas, this 3.4-mile racetrack features 20 turns, 133 feet of elevation change and a 10-year F1 contract.

Circuit of the Americas won't simply play host to four-wheeled machines, though. The two-wheeled action of MotoGP will also be coming to the Texas track. Beginning in 2013, CotA starts a 10-year contract with the motorcycle racing series.

[Source: Autoweek]

Austin U.S. F1 track to officially be called Circuit of the Americas, also play host to MotoGP originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 us gran prixaustinaustin f1austin texascircuit of the americascotaf1formula onemotogpunited states gran prixTue, 12 Apr 2011 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19911060/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/12/austin-u-s-f1-track-to-officially-be-called-circuit-of-the-amer/19911060/article-detail.xml 19911060 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cota-temp-banner-usf1-site_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cota-temp-banner-usf1-site.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: BMW 1 M MotoGP safety car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/18/pics-aplenty-bmw-1-m-motogp-safety-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/18/pics-aplenty-bmw-1-m-motogp-safety-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/18/pics-aplenty-bmw-1-m-motogp-safety-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

bmw 1 m motogp safety car
BMW 1 M MotoGP Safety Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

The new BMW 1 M is a sports coupe we've all been waiting for the Roundel-badged German automaker. Sure, it could be lighter or a little cheaper, but by all accounts, it has the driving-sensation meter bouncing off "Awesome." To tout its new performance machine, BMW has tarted one up in classic red, white and blue ///M livery, and turned it into a safety car for MotoGP.

This is more than just a paint job, however, as only the engine and transmission from the production car have been carried over. More weight has been shaved thanks to the use of carbon fiber and polycarbonate, while a titanium exhaust setup takes the place of the standard noisemaker. Out back, an adjustable rear wing sits on the trunk.

On the inside, the BMW 1 M Safety Car is fitted with a roll cage, a pair of racing buckets and a six-point harness. Underneath the skin, BMW has revamped the suspension and beefed up the brakes. The result is a truly track-ready 1 M that might just draw some attention away from the insane riders of the MotoGP series.


Gallery: BMW 1 M MotoGP Safety Car


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: BMW 1 M MotoGP safety car

Pics Aplenty: BMW 1 M MotoGP safety car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m1 series1mbmwbmw 1 mbmw 1 series mmoto gpmotogpmotorcycle racingpace carsafety carFri, 18 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19884283/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/18/pics-aplenty-bmw-1-m-motogp-safety-car/19884283/article-detail.xml 19884283 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/018-bmw-1-m-motogp-safety-car-1300469080_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/018-bmw-1-m-motogp-safety-car-1300469080.jpg <![CDATA[MotoGP Japan postponed, Tokyo Motorcyle Show canceled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/motogp-japan-postponed-tokyo-motorcyle-show-canceled/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/motogp-japan-postponed-tokyo-motorcyle-show-canceled/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/motogp-japan-postponed-tokyo-motorcyle-show-canceled/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MotoGP Japan Motegi canceled 2011

As a result of the devastation left behind by the recent earthquake and tsunami activity in Japan, the organizers of MotoGP have moved the Motegi round to October 2. The race was originally scheduled for next month, but widespread damage to the road system between Tokyo and Mito is not expected to be fixed in time. Additionally, Visordown reports that both the track surface and grand stands at Motegi suffered damage in the earthquake. MotoGP Japan will now fall between the Spanish and Australian grand prix races.

Additionally, the 2011 Tokyo Motorcycle Show has been outright canceled. The two-wheeled gathering was initially set to take place on March 25, but Tokyo is facing a number of challenges that make the event all but impossible. Power shortages, transportation woes and the full tragedy of the disaster have forced organizers to shutter the show. Those who already have tickets will be offered a full refund.

[Source: Visordown]

MotoGP Japan postponed, Tokyo Motorcyle Show canceled originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthquakejapanmotegimotegi ringmotogpmotogp japanmotogp motegitokyo motorcycle showtsunamiThu, 17 Mar 2011 08:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19881729/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/17/motogp-japan-postponed-tokyo-motorcyle-show-canceled/19881729/article-detail.xml 19881729 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/motogp-japan-09_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/motogp-japan-09.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 1M Coupe MotoGP safety car lit up and ready to roll]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/bmw-1m-motogp-safety-car-lit-up-and-ready-to-roll/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/bmw-1m-motogp-safety-car-lit-up-and-ready-to-roll/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/bmw-1m-motogp-safety-car-lit-up-and-ready-to-roll/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2011 BMW 1M Coupe MotoGP safety car

The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe is serving duty as one of the safety cars for the 2011 MotoGP Championship, which kicks off this weekend at the Grand Prix of Qatar. The 1M Coupe that will be handling safety car duties has been smartened up a little from stock, starting with an Akrapovic sport exhaust.

BMW also added a big rear wing, a chin spoiler and BMW Motorsport's fabled tri-color paint scheme. To cap the look off, BMW has finished the wheels and exhaust tips in black. No word yet on whether the accessories on the MotoGP pace car will be made available to the public, or if this car is a one-shot deal. Check out more pics of the safety car by visiting our friends at 1Addicts (link below).

[Source: 1Addicts | Image: 1Addicts]

BMW 1M Coupe MotoGP safety car lit up and ready to roll originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupe1 series1-series1m coupe2011 bmw 1m coupebmwmoto gpmotogpqatarWed, 16 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19880261/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/16/bmw-1m-motogp-safety-car-lit-up-and-ready-to-roll/19880261/article-detail.xml 19880261 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2011-1m-motogp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2011-1m-motogp.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat and Yamaha officially part ways for 2011 MotoGP season]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/04/fiat-and-yamaha-officially-part-ways-for-2011-motogp-season/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/04/fiat-and-yamaha-officially-part-ways-for-2011-motogp-season/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/04/fiat-and-yamaha-officially-part-ways-for-2011-motogp-season/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fiat-Yamaha

All good things must come to an end. Although the Fiat-Yamaha MotoGP collaboration has seemingly brought a great deal of success to both manufacturers since Fiat's sponsorship of the Yamaha team first began in 2007, the time has come for the two outfits to go their separate ways.

The biggest single reason why Italian automaker Fiat is pulling its support seems to stem from the lack of an Italian rider on the Yamaha factory squad now that Valentino Rossi is firmly entrenched in the Ducati paddock. Apparently, winning, as Yamaha convincingly did in 2010 with Spanish rider Jorge Lorenzo in the lead, isn't all it's cracked up to be without that little extra bit of home-country star power.

At this point, it appears that Yamaha will begin the 2011 race season without a title sponsor, with Lorenzo and American teammate Ben Spies racing under its own banner. No hard feelings, of course.

[Source: Fiat-Yamaha via Asphalt & Rubber | Photo: Drew Phillips]

Fiat and Yamaha officially part ways for 2011 MotoGP season originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben spiesfiatfiat-yamahajorge lorenzomotogpvalentino rossiyamahaTue, 04 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19785025/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/04/fiat-and-yamaha-officially-part-ways-for-2011-motogp-season/19785025/article-detail.xml 19785025 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/fiat-yamaha-team_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/fiat-yamaha-team.jpg <![CDATA[No, We're Not Kidding: Paris Hilton starts her own MotoGP team]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/15/no-were-not-kidding-paris-hilton-starts-her-own-motogp-team/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/15/no-were-not-kidding-paris-hilton-starts-her-own-motogp-team/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/15/no-were-not-kidding-paris-hilton-starts-her-own-motogp-team/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We wish we were kidding. We really do. It's not anywhere near April 1st yet, and the reports seem to be true: Paris Hilton - yes, that Paris Hilton - is launching her own motorcycle racing team.

How on Earth did we arrive at such a situation, you ask? The deal apparently stems from a - sigh - "dance party series" (whatever the heck that is) called SuperMartxé VIP. She of the constant "wardrobe malfunctions" lends her name and likeness to the series, which has now embarked on title sponsorship of a MotoGP team. According to reports, when the celebrity heiress was approached with a licensing agreement, she got so excited that she bought into the team to become a part owner.

Fortunately, Hilton won't be riding the racing bikes herself. Or actually running the team, for that matter. Those tasks fall to the hands of By Queroseno Racing, its technical director Ricard Jové and its riders Sergio Gadea and Maverick Viñales. Paris will, however, be appearing at five of the MotoGP 125cc races in which the team will be competing in the upcoming season. Seriously, we're couldn't make this stuff up.

[Source: MotoGP via The New York Times | Image: Michael Tran/FilmMagic.com]

No, We're Not Kidding: Paris Hilton starts her own MotoGP team originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>by queroseno racingmotogpparis hiltonSuperMartxé VIPSuperMartxé VIP by Paris HiltonWed, 15 Dec 2010 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19760607/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/15/no-were-not-kidding-paris-hilton-starts-her-own-motogp-team/19760607/article-detail.xml 19760607 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/parishiltonamtran62529278_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/parishiltonamtran62529278.jpg <![CDATA[AMG and Ducati announce partnership, will sponsor MotoGP effort]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/17/mercedes-benz-amg-ducati-announce-partnership/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/17/mercedes-benz-amg-ducati-announce-partnership/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/17/mercedes-benz-amg-ducati-announce-partnership/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Nicky Hayden at AMG event at LA Auto Show

It's a good time to jump on the Ducati MotoGP bandwagon. Sure, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer always fields a highly competitive juggernaut of a racing team, despite being a small fraction of the size of its chief rivals. But, with the recent signing of fan-favorite and nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi, it would seem that the focus will never be more, um, focused on the bright red racers.

Plus, let's not forget about Nicky Hayden, who carries around his own fair share of fans, particularly in the United States, which is surely a crucial market for both Ducati and Mercedes-Benz. As such, it's not exactly shocking to hear that the German automaker, and more specifically its AMG performance division, has tossed its support and most assuredly a few bucket-loads of cash in the direction of the Bologna-based Ducati MotoGP team.

At this point, it's too early to know how far the partnership will extend, but the automaker brought along the previously mentioned Kentucky Kid to the 2010 LA Auto Show to announce that it has entered into a marketing partnership with Ducati and will provide support along with serving as the brand's Official Car Partner starting with the 2011 race season. As such, AMG machines will be available for test drives at selected Ducati events and vice versa.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz | Image: TwitPic]

AMG and Ducati announce partnership, will sponsor MotoGP effort originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 la auto showamgamg ducatiamg motogpducatiducati amgducati motogpla auto showmercedes-benzmotogpWed, 17 Nov 2010 15:50:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19722425/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/17/mercedes-benz-amg-ducati-announce-partnership/19722425/article-detail.xml 19722425 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/ducati-amg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/ducati-amg.jpg <![CDATA[MotoGP 2010 Phillip Island: Sometimes it's lonely at the top [Spoilers]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/18/motogp-2010-phillip-island-sometimes-its-lonely-at-the-top-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/18/motogp-2010-phillip-island-sometimes-its-lonely-at-the-top-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/18/motogp-2010-phillip-island-sometimes-its-lonely-at-the-top-sp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Proving that the power of hometown heroics should never be underestimated, Casey Stoner not only put on a great show for his fellow countrymen but once again proved to be dominant at the Australian GP. The starting grid at Phillip Island was the last time Stoner would be seen by competitors, as he converted pole-position to victory with a gap of nearly nine seconds. But was this really a fair fight?

With the championship already decided and little left to prove, we wondered if Jorge Lorenzo would merely cruise through the remainder of the season uninspired, leaving the risk to those who were still applying for a job for next season. In reality, the new champ didn't just sit back. Lorenzo rode rode well in Australia, claiming a lonely second place position almost ten seconds ahead of his teammate Valentino Rossi, who closed out the podium in style.

Nicky Hayden surely thought he had sewn up the final podium position when he made the move for third stick late in the race, but he did not count on the Rossi Factor, and his future teammate returned the favor on the last lap taking third by a very slim .038-second margin. If the rumors are true, we may even see the Doctor aboard a red bike before the end of the season, as it seems Ducati just can't wait for this whole "perfect Italian thing" to happen. Ben Spies rounded out the top five, marking the eighth time this season the young American has finished fifth or better, which secured him the Rookie of the Year title for 2010.

Click the jump for the top ten, and don't forget to check out the final two rounds, as the best things usually happen when we least expect it!

[Source: MotoGP.com | Image: AP Photo/Andrew Brownbill]

Continue reading MotoGP 2010 Phillip Island: Sometimes it's lonely at the top [Spoilers]

MotoGP 2010 Phillip Island: Sometimes it's lonely at the top [Spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaaustralianaustralian grand prixCasey StonerducatiMotogpMotoGP 2010motogp2010motorcyclemotorcycle racingmotorcyclesPhillip Islandvalentino rossivalentino rossi ducatiMon, 18 Oct 2010 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19678258/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/18/motogp-2010-phillip-island-sometimes-its-lonely-at-the-top-sp/19678258/article-detail.xml 19678258 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/motogp-australia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/motogp-australia.jpg <![CDATA[MotoGP 2010 Sepang: A tale of two champions [Spoilers]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/motogp-2010-sepang-a-tale-of-two-champions-spoilers/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/motogp-2010-sepang-a-tale-of-two-champions-spoilers/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/motogp-2010-sepang-a-tale-of-two-champions-spoilers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MotoGP Sepang Turn 1

Starting from pole position certainly has its advantages in GP racing, especially if you take to the track with the goal of potentially clinching your first World Championship and playing it safe is the name of the game. Just the opposite would be true when staring from the second row, entering turn one in the middle of the pack and racing like you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Such was the case with two very divergent Yamaha riders.

For Jorge Lorenzo, the goal of winning his first ever premier-class World Championship was on the line at Sepang. The Spaniard and his crew came to the race with a plan to run safe and clinch the title. As Lorenzo put it, "There was a possibility of injuring myself. So we had to make the race, make 20 laps, and finish it." He would admit that the fall from pole position to eventually finishing in third was not his best performance, however nerves and conflict avoidance both played a part in his uninspiring ride. In any case, as the checkers waved, Jorge Lorenzo became the 2010 MotoGP World Champion at the age of 23.

The day started off differently for The Doctor, as he came to Sepang with a completely different aim than teammate Lorenzo. Valentino Rossi was out for nothing short of victory, which would mark his 46th career win. If you must ask why this is so significant to the legendary Italian, well, just start by looking at he front of his motorcycle. As he was entering the first turn in 11th position, Valentino certainly had his work cut out for him! With the precision of a surgeon, The Doctor sliced through the pack with a very inspiring ride that he would later call "one of the best of my career" and landing himself square at the top of the podium. Rossi never ceases to amaze.

So goes the tale of MotoGP Champions past and present. And yes, there were other riders in Malaysia, like Ben Spies and Andrea Dovizioso, who both finished in the top five. You can make the jump for the complete list of top-ten finishers. Now lets see if anyone other than Casey Stoner shows up in Australia.

[Image: AP Photo/Ching Kien Huo]

Continue reading MotoGP 2010 Sepang: A tale of two champions [Spoilers]

MotoGP 2010 Sepang: A tale of two champions [Spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben Spiesducatijorge lorenzomalaysiaMalaysianMotogpMotoGP 2010motogp2010motorcyclesepangThe Doctorvalentino rossivalentino rossi ducatiValentino-RossiValentinoRossiworld championyamahaYamaha R1Mon, 11 Oct 2010 18:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19669082/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/11/motogp-2010-sepang-a-tale-of-two-champions-spoilers/19669082/article-detail.xml 19669082 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/motogp-sepang_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/motogp-sepang.jpg -1 2