So many reasons to tune in to MotoGP this weekend!
It’s a weekend that is iconic for all Motorcyclists, and this weekend it’s on our shores as the 2016 Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix hits Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit this 21-23.
This weekend, amongst the regular Australian’s Remy Gardiner and Jack Miller competing in the MotoGP main events, Australia’s finest road racers will compete in both the Australian Superbike and Australian Supersport support races.
Not to mention this weekend will also see Australian Moto 3 rider Matt Barton compete on board his Suus machine in the Moto 3 main event from this Friday as a Wild Card entry. Keep reading below for reason why you should tune in to the MotoGP this weekend whether your track side, or on your backside at home.
New faces on new bikes:
After contesting the recent Grand Prix of Japan replacing regular rider Hector Barbera on the Avintia Ducati team finishing in 18th position, Mike Jones will again ride under the Avintia Ducati team banner at the Australian round this weekend.
Leaving his factory DesmoSport Ducati seat vacant to compete in both internationally renowned events at Japan and now in Australia, Jones has been replaced by 2016’s Yamaha Factory Racing team rider Cru Halliday in the Australian Superbike support event.
Halliday will mount the factory 1299 Panigale S at Phillip Island as a one off appearance with the Troy Bayliss and Ben Henry backed team. Finishing fourth in this years’ Australian Superbike Championship Halliday will be looking to put on a spectacular performance after recently being informed he won’t be resigned with YRT for the 2017 season.
Herfoss’ first appearance after ASBK Championship win:
Crankt Protien Honda Racing Team’s Troy Herfoss recently put on a stunning performance to walk away with the 2016 Australian Superbike Championship over two grueling races at Winton Motor Raceway.
After taking the prestigious title at Winton the 2016 Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will mark his first outing since newly being crowned. Mounting his Crankt Protein Honda CBR1000RRSP Herfoss will run his iconic number 17 for the events formalities.
Matt Barton is the Moto3 Wildcard:
Suus Custom’s rider Matt Barton will contest his second Moto 3 wildcard for the second year running after a less than ideal finish to 2015’s events. Unfortunately for Barton a crash in qualifying and a blown tyre in the race forced him retire. But looking to turn things around this year Barton will once again waive the Aussie flag in the international Moto 3 race.
Competing in sporadic Australian Superbike events and in the Motul Pirelli Victorian Road Racing series Barton is equipped to take to Phillip Island circuit in another attempt to gain international exposure and compete against the world’s best Moto 3 riders.
If you are going to be in town, or are looking for a family fun weekend away head down to Phillip Island and support our Aussies racing on the International stage. For more information head to http://www.motogp.com.au/.
All the action will be broadcast from Friday October 21st on Channel 502 – Fox Sports 2 for anyone wishing to tune in from home.
To stay up to date with the latest news and entertainment head to www.ma.org.au, like the MA Facebook page and follow @motorcyclingaustralia on Facebook.
