The 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix was the best one yet.
Instrumental to the greatness was Shell Malaysia’s involvement as title sponsor.
They were the title sponsor since 2009.
The 2019 motorycle grand prix season is coming to an end with this weekend’s race at Valencia. It only makes the memories at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix even more memorable since Malaysia is the last of the flyaway rounds and the penultimate race on the calendar.
While the race action on the track was the main highlight, it’s the overall atmosphere and events leading up to the race which added even greater emphasis on the greatest race on Malaysian soil.
For example, Shell Malaysia took the race to another level since being the title sponsor for 10 years since 2009. Back then, there was an enormous worry when tobacco companies were forced to withdraw their sponsorship from MotoGP. But it was Shell Malaysia who picked up the ball and ran with it. They certainly ran the entire marathon — look at the state of the Malaysian MotoGP now!
Let’s look at the activities Shell Malaysia organised this year alone.
It all began with meet and greet sessions at Shell petrol stations. The first was at the one near KLIA. The event also celebrated Ducati Corse’s (in MotoGP and WorldSBK) partnership with Shell since 1999.
Mission Winnows Ducati factory team riders Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci met Ducati owners and fans alike during the session, signing autographs on everything the fans brought, including on motorcycles.
Then Shell opened up the Shell Hillstand at the Sepang International Circuit.
Situated outside Turns 13 and 14, spectators witnessed just how fast and especially how low modern race machines could lean. Seeing it on TV was one thing, see it in real life was a different experience altogether.
The Hillstand also saw the first “Sunset at Hillstand” event where the fans met any MotoGP rider of their choice for photography (i.e. selfies) and autographs.
That’s not all. The Shell Hillstand area was a “mini MotoGP village” on its own with a Ducati booth at the entrance, two giant LED screens showing “live” footages of the race, food and beverage stands (including deli2go, Tea Live, Costa Coffee, food trucks, Monster Energy); plus a MotoGP PS4 Challenge, “Guess the Quantity” and “Super Sepak” games.
At the Welcome Centre, a mock up Ducati pit was set up complete with Ducatis and petrol pump islands.
Those who rode to the 2019 Shell Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix didn’t need to worry about parking as they are entitled to free parking with the purchase of Shell Advance lubricant at the Shell Advance Ride Thru Service. What’s more, the parking lot was guarded so there’s no worry about items getting stolen (some riders even left their helmets there).
So, while the 2019 season ends, the 2020 season beckons. We couldn’t wait!
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia organised a paddock walkabout to witness Moto2 operations during the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
It’s in conjunction with Triumph’s role as exclusive engine supplier.
Moto2 operations is hectic yet a little bit more laid back compared to MotoGP.
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia organised a paddock walkabout to witness Moto2 operations during the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
As many are aware now, Triumph is the official engine supplier to the Moto2 championship. Unlike Moto3 and MotoGP classes, all Moto2 teams use the same engine, albeit different frames. This is why we see outfits such as Kalex and Speed Up — they build the frames around the engine. Similarly, manufacturers such as KTM and MV Agusta build their own frames around the Triumph engine.
Dorna Sports and the FIM wanted to build a series based on a single engine to emphasise rider skill, resulting in close racing.
The Engine
Triumph’s three-cylinder 765cc engine (based on the Street Triple RS) produces lots more torque and linear power band compared to the previous Honda CBR600RR-based inline-Four engine. Whereas the inline-Four needed to be kept within a narrow powerband, riders can utilise the triple’s power and torque almost anywhere in the powerband.
Having a narrow powerband forces riders to take one specific line around corners, making overtaking a risky affair. Besides that, a rider could not catch back up when he made a mistake. Consequently, racing was spread out.
Conversely, a linear powerband means that riders could choose different lines — especially when overtaking — and still have the grunt to accelerate. Consequently, riders aren’t afraid to overtake, resulting in close racing.
Having more grunt off the corners, especially the slow ones will results in higher speeds down the straights, contributing to faster lap times.
Lap Records
Alex Marquez in the 2019 Malaysian GP – Photo credit MotoGP.com
The Moto2 class has seen some phenomenal lap times and top speeds since the Triumph engine was introduced. Lap times and fastest top speed records tumbled all season long.
Mugello saw a Moto2 bike hit 300 km/h for the first time the series was introduced in 2010. But by FP3 at the Sepang International Circuit, four riders went faster than 300 km/h.
The Moto2 teams had just completed FP3 when we visited the paddock. David Dew, Triumph’s PR guy showed us the lap time printouts. We were shocked. The top four riders were under the 2018 all time lap record of 2:05.629 set by Alex Marquez. Brad Binder smashed the old record with a time of 2:04.769 which was almost a whole second faster. And it’s not even qualifying yet!
Alex Marquez would go on to capture pole position with a time of 2:05.244. In the race, he put in the fastest lap of 2:05.860 on Lap 2, breaking Miguel Oliveira’s 2017 record of 2:06.952. That’s nearly 1.1 seconds faster.
1 second may not sound much of a big deal to the layman but consider this: Competitors from 1st to 15th were covered by 1 second in qualifying.
Speed Up Paddock Visit
Only five persons were allowed to visit the pit in each session. It may be a carnival to fans but each MotoGP round is work time for the teams.
I had picked the afternoon session after lunch and was joined by four others who were Triumph owners. Such a paddock walkabout programme is great them as it adds immeasurable value and experience to their ownership.
It was a new experience for me, as well, because this was the first time I’ve visited and seen Moto2 operations up close although I’ve covered MotoGP continuously for the past five years. Whereas MotoGP teams are stationed in the main paddock building, Moto2 and Moto3 teams are sequestered in either the South Paddock or tents. Besides that, no Moto2 team had ever provided passes to visit them, compared to those in MotoGP.
Our first stop was the Beta Tools Speed Up garage.
The team was readying the bikes for qualifying. One bike was all dressed up and ready to go and were allowed to shoot photographs of it.
As Moto2 teams run only one bike per rider, there wasn’t many bike components lying about, except for a few pieces of bodywork placed on top of a shelf.
Instead there were rows of tyres wrapped in warmers. We could feel the heat from half a metre away, since they’re kept at around 90 degree Celsius. There were tags on the warmers showing the state of each tyre i.e. how laps it’s gone through or if it’s new, etc. The wet weather tyres at the bottom rack weren’t wrapped in warmers.
It was also apparent that all Moto2 bikes use steel brake discs rather than carbon. Dorna Sports wanted to keep racing costs down to allow more teams to join the series.
Dunlop Paddock
Dunlop is the exclusive tyre supplier to the Moto2 and Moto3 championships.
The first thing we saw were racks of tyres being cooled by industrial fans. The tyres were delivered in four shipping containers months before and were now being aired out.
There were multiple work benches here complete with hydraulic tyre removers.
David showed us a rear tyre. The largest size was 180 when the series began but it’s grown to 200/75-R17 now. The higher aspect ratio allows the crown of the tyre to wrap around in a smoother fashion, giving a wider contact patch.
Each new tyre was barcoded and earmarked for individual teams. The teams will push in the racks we saw in the Speed Up garage and the Dunlop crew will fill them up with tyres mounted on wheels and inflated to the correct tyre pressures.
Used tyres were stacked in a large pile before being shipped back to headquarters. There, each tyre’s bead (the part which attaches the tyre to the wheel) will be cut out, rendering it useless for vehicle use. They are then recycled for children’s playgrounds.
Track Side
A visit to Extern Pro was planned but was unfortunately cancelled as Q1 had begun by the time we finished our visit to Dunlop. Extern Pro is the party responsible in modifying the 765cc street engine to race spec, and maintaining them afterwards.
We were brought to the area just next to the main paddock building. Here, one can see bikes going past on their pit lane speed limiter, sounding like the pod racers from Star Wars: The Phantom Menace. They disengaged the limiter after crossing the pit lane exit and slammed open the throttle, serenading us with a warble and roar very much different to an inline-Four’s howl.
David then bade us goodbye after an eye-opening experience for everyone, this hack included. Prior to that, he said that he hopes such paddock walkabouts will continue in the future and might be expended to all tracks in the GP calendar.
So, get your Triumph and get ready for next year’s event!
We visited the Aprilia MotoGP pit thanks to Aprilia Malaysian and Aprilia Racing Team Gresini.
Our visit coincided with the start of FP3.
Aprilia is still struggling but has shown large improvements in 2019.
Motorcycle Grand Prix racing was never, isn’t and will ever be easy. Just ask Aprilia Racing Team Gresini.
The now infamous Italian motorcycle brand exploded into motorcycling history and became a household name through their passion for motorsports. It’s safe to say that many don’t know that Aprilia was founded immediately after World War 2 in 1945 when they built bicycles until 1968 when the founder’s son Ivano Beggio took over.
Their winning tradition began in 1977 with the 125cc and 250cc Italian motocross titles. They ventured in Grand Prix racing in 1985 and won their first 125cc race in 1991. Aprilia won the riders’ championship title the very next year and began their dominance in 125cc and 250cc GP racing. Starting from 1992 and ending in 2011, the manufacturer netted ten 125cc and nine 250cc riders’ titles. They had also won as many constructor’s (manufacturer’s) championships during that time.
Max Biaggi in 1995 – Courtesy of motogeo.com
Aprilia then ventured into 500cc GP racing with a two-stroke, three-cylinder bike but met little success.
But they did achieve great success in World Superbike racing when Max Biaggi won the 2010 and 2012 titles, while Sylvain Guintoli added another in 2014. They also won the manufacturers’ titles in 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2014.
Aprilia rejoined the premiere class now called MotoGP in 2012 in the Claiming Rules Team (CRT) class by supplying modified SBK-spec RSV4 engines to the ART team. They were the best CRT team in 2012 and 2013.
Aprilia began their full factory effort in 2015 under the name of Aprilia Racing Team Gresini with the 1000cc V-Four RS-GP.
With such a storied past in motorsports, you’d think Aprilia would return to challenging the front end of the pack within a couple of seasons. Such aspirations have borne fruits lately, but not yet with consistency.
But it also shows just how tough MotoGP is. It’s not that bikes in mid-pack and the tail end of the field did not progress, instead everyone else also progressed at the same time. It’s all relative.
Looking at the points tally, the 2019 season is Aprilia’s best season so far.
Leading up to the 2019 Shell Malaysia MotoGP, Aleix Espargaro scored a total of 44 points and finished 17th in 2018. He has collected 53 points in 17 races and currently lies in 14th with two races to go this year.
Espargaro’s 2018 teammate Scott Redding picked up 20 points and finished in 21st. His current teammate, Andrea Iannone now has 43 points and standing in 16th with two races remaining.
In the constructor’s championship, Aprilia ended 6th and last with 59 points in 2018. Conversely, they’ve collected 78 points thus far in 2019.
The results certainly point to improvements. Espargaro finished 4th in Philip Island before heading to Malaysia.
Anyway, thanks to Aprilia Malaysia and Aprilia Racing Team Gresini, we were granted a short visit to the team’s pit just as FP3 was about to begin.
MotoGP teams now hoard up even the rear entrance to their pits, so outsiders could only see the respective team’s name and logo. Aprilia brand ambassador Max Biaggi was hanging outside with a couple of mechanics.
We were met by a large and burly man who looked like one of the guys from ZZ Top. He had told us to not shoot pictures of the bikes if the fairing was off, and to not shove a camera in the riders’ faces. Fair enough. Those close ups of bikes and riders from the front were shot with telephoto lenses from the pitlane and wall.
The hoarding also covered the back-end operations part of the paddock. Where we used to be able to see a row of guys crunching data on their laptops, engines, parts and such but it’s all covered up npw, leaving a narrow corridor to the front where the bikes and riders are. Even the rows of tyres being warmed up were hidden away.
We stopped in a small area cordoned off from the rest of the pit. Up in front were the two RS-GP bikes — Iannone’s to the left and Espargaro’s to the right. Right behind them were low racks where sets of carbon brake discs and Brembo front brake calipers sat.
A few mechanics were working feverishly on the bikes, readying them for the riders. Just then, Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola walked in, hair neatly styled in place and headphones in his hands. He had joined Aprilia from the Ferrari Formula 1 team this year.
A mechanic walked to Iannone’s bike with the starter. The bike started up with an explosion. I fully expected the sudden explosion of noise (having experienced them all the time), but the other two guys (Aprilia owners) didn’t and they actually jumped with fright.
Iannone walked a few paces to the machine and blasted away from the paddock, as other bikes also passed by, serenading us with their thundering soundtracks.
I noticed that the current RS-GP definitely has a much more aggressive exhaust note, compared to when Aprilia began racing in the MotoGP class. The engine back then was based on Aprilia RSV4 road bike, while the full-race engine was installed three years ago.
Now they fired up Espargaro’s bike to another explosion. The two guys jumped again.
Just like Iannone, Esparago looked as if he ran toward the RS-GP and lunged at it. With a blip of the throttle he was gone leaving behind a roar that reverberated through the paddock.
With their work done, the mechanics joined Rivola and Biaggi, and craned their necks upwards to watch the proceedings on two monitors embedded in a makeshift arch.
The mechanics’ body languages belie their anxiety. One bit his fingernails, another swung his upper body side to side, a few jacked themselves up and down like they needed to run to the bathroom. Yet, Rivola was the island of calm in the middle of all this.
On the screen Espargaro was visibly uncomfortable and struggling on his bike. Indeed, he blasted back into the paddock a lap later, again surprising the two guys next to me. The rider was agitated and didn’t hide his displeasure, gesturing plaintively and we could hear his loud, muffled complaining through the helmet.
His bike was pushed backwards into the paddock. Mechanics jumped into action immediately, pulling both tyres off. Two minutes later, the bike was wearing shiny new tyres. Indeed, Espargaro would later complain to the media about lack of grip from used tyres.
Off he went again and the mechanics returned to their nervous ticks.
A murmur went up when Espargaro was 10th fastest. If he kept this position, it would be an automatic admission to Q2. The nervous ticks increased. But just as the flag came down, he was pushed down to 11th by just 0.029 second from Cal Crutchlow.
The team went “Aaarghhhhhhh.” But Rivola was still cool, a finger tapped his pursed lips.
Andrea Iannone meanwhile, managed on 18th fastest.
Both bikes entered the pit in quick succession and the roller shutter was dropped. It signalled that it was the time for us to get out.
It’s too bad that we couldn’t take more pictures. But it was a great experience for the two Aprilia owners as they whooped and cheered when we left.
Espargaro would go on to finish the race in 13th place, while Iannone crashed out on Lap 10.
Lget’s hope Aprilia progresses further up the field next year. They may just do that, given their proud racing heritage.
The PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team won the 2019 Independent Team title at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
Franco Morbidelli finished in sixth ahead of Quarataro in seventh.
It was the perfect venue to win the title.
The PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team won the 2019 Independent Team title at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
Team riders Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Quartararo’s results at the Malaysian round meant that the team heads the independent teams (better known as “satellite teams”) standings with a 77-point lead over the nearest challenger. The points lead is unassailable with just one more round to go.
The patriotic Malaysian crowd showed their all-out support not only for the MotoGP team, but for the riders in all three classes. However, hopes were high for Quaratararo’s first MotoGP victory as he had demolished the fastest lap record that had stood for four years. There were also great hopes for Morbidelli to capture another podium finish since he began the race in third position.
Alas, it was not to be.
Morbidelli finished sixth ahead of Quaratararo who was in seventh.
The former struggled with lack of acceleration with a bike in race trim, and was forced to make up time by braking harder for each turn. “We can’t complain,” he later said and was happy to finish in sixth, plus his teammate’s seventh to close out the independent teams title.
The latter lamented, “It was a really tough race, and I struggled a lot. My first lap was a disaster and I couldn’t stop the bike – which is an issue we haven’t had all weekend.”
The pair are now looking forward to scoring great results again at the closing race in Valencia.
Afridza Munandar, an Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup (IATC) rider passed away moments ago.
He sustained mortal injuries in a crash at Turn 10 on Lap 1 at the Sepang International Circuit.
Munandar was set to challenge for the IATC title this weekend.
We are saddened to learn and share that Afridza Munandar, an Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup (IATC) rider passed away moments ago.
20-year-old Munandar was involved in accident at Turn 10 on Lap 1 of the race. The race was immediately red-flagged. Spectators saw the medical emergency helicopter land near the corner thereafter. The helicopter flew the stricken rider to the Kuala Lumpur Hospital.
Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries later despite the valiant efforts of the medical staff at the circuit and in the hospital to save his life.
Munandar was one of the hottest talents in the championship this year and was set to duel for the title this weekend at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix, held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). He has won two races, finished second twice and third also twice this season.
The FIM, FIM Asia, Dorna Sports and all involved in the IATC extended their condolences to Munandar’s family, friends and loved ones.
BikesRepublic.com calls for a minute of silence for the fallen rider and his grieving loved one.
Fabio Quartararo of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team smashed the lap record he set yesterday to secure pole position ahead of tomorrow’s 2019 Shell Malaysia MotoGP.
Maverick Vinalez overhauled Franco Morbidelli for second fastest.
Marc Marquez high-sided out of the session and finished 11th.
Rookie sensation Fabio Quartararo of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team smashed the lap record he set yesterday to secure pole position ahead of tomorrow’s 2019 Shell Malaysia MotoGP.
He had already set a blistering time of 1m 59.027s in FP1 on Friday, which was just 0.004 second slower than the outright lap record set by Dani Pedrosa in 2015. In FP2, he flew to a new record of 1m 58.576s.
But he was determined to put the target out of his rivals’ reach today and set an almost unbelievable 1m 58.303s lap to be fully certain.
The Q2 session was run under overcast skies and cooler conditions. Consequently, virtually all riders improved on their earlier times and the top 15 dipped below the 2m 00.000s mark.
Quartararo’s teammate Franco Morbidelli had been strong through all practice sessions but was overhauled by factory Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP rider Maverick Vinalez. The latter’s time of 1m 58.432s was 0.103 second slower than the pole sitter and merely 0.26 second faster than Morbidelli.
Jack Miller put in another strong qualifying effort, ending up fourth on the grid at 1m 58.725s. LCR Honda rider Cal Crutchlow moved up five spots after finishing FP3 in 10th. Valentino Rossi will start his career 401st race in sixth after posting 1m 59.000s. Alex Rins ended in seventh, while Danilo Petrucci moved up through Q1 to finish eighth.
Johann Marco continues to impress on the other LCR Honda by getting straight into Q2 after F3. A crash on Friday and another one earlier today didn’t deter him to score ninth on the grid.
Rounding out the top ten is Andrea Dovizioso who posted a time of 1m 59.173s.
2019 World Champion Marc Marquez high-sided out of the session at Turn 2 and ended up as being eleventh fastest — his lowest starting position of the season.
Qualifying was incredibly close as the top fifteen qualifiers were covered by less than 1 second.
The 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix will be the best yet.
Some 180,000 to 200,000 spectators are expected.
Here are some of what you could expect to see there.
The 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix is going to be the biggest Malaysia MotoGP yet. Some 180,000 to 200,000 spectators are expected to descend upon the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) over the three-day weekend.
We’ve put together a pictorial of what you can expect to see this year.
The Racing
The main highlight is of course the action on the track. The Moto2 series is still open with just this and another race to go. Still, you can expect to witness close in battles in the MotoGP and Moto3 classes as riders have nothing to loseand everything to gain in terms of personal glory now.
Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team finished 1st and 2nd fastest in FP1 and FP2 giving Malaysian fans plenty to cheer about. The former even smashed the lap record — despite nursing an injured ankle.
The Vendors
Ah, the vendors truly breathe in an atmosphere of festivities at the track. One could sometimes find rare items that aren’t sold or promotions outside of MotoGP. Virtually all vendors are crowded into the mall area as spectators enter SIC.
The Shell Advance Ride Thru pavilion is set in PA1 parking lot opposite the main entrance to the track’s mall area. Here, motorcyclists only have spend a minimum of RM 30 to enjoy free parking while train mechanics change your bike’s engine oil.
2019 sees the return of Aprilia Malaysia under new management. Apart from the usual meet and greet sessions with riders, they’ve also unveiled the 2019 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory. However, the focal point of the booth is the RSV4 1100 Factory.
Triumph Malaysia is also back, since this is the first year that the brand is supplying engines to Moto2 teams. They’ve just launched the 2020 Street Triple RS on Friday afternoon. You’d find some special deals for Triumph merchandises here. Apart from that, the booth also incorporates an Arai showcase and items from Cardo, X-Mount and Five Gloves. Do check out the special edition Bonneville Bobber placed in a box like a 1:1 scale model. Don’t miss the 765cc triple Moto2 replica engine.
Further in is the Shell pavilion which consists of racing simulators, special activities and games. One could stand to win some nice prizes here.
Pass the arch and the first thing you’d see on your right is red. As in GIVI’s signature red. This is an important year for the brand as they celebrate the 25th anniversary in Malaysia. GIVI’s pavilion is as large and grand as ever. Look out for the new Vista open-face helmets that will be launched in January 2020. Other items on display are a small range of motorcycle luggages and rain suits GIVI is famous for. There are also bikes dressed up in GIVI cases and accessories.
But the biggest and most awe-inspiring pavilion definitely belongs to PETRONAS. It’s a building onto itself! It showcases the Malaysian petroleum giant’s involvement in motorsports and the many products offered.
Directly opposite are Yamaha and ENEOS. ENEOS is the technical partner to the factory Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Team. Not as many bikes on display this year but the main draw is the Yamaha T7/Tenere 700 adventure bike. When will come to Malaysia? There’s also a Niken resplendent in Yamalube colours. You can also find original Yamaha merchandise here.
Next is Honda. The manufacturer is celebrating their 25th constructor’s title from Marc Marquez’s win at Motegi besides 60 years of Grand Prix racing. Displayed on the main stage are the RC171 from 1959, the current RC213V and NSR500. Honda’s latest bikes to the sides and behind this stage. There is also an RC213V “lean machine” staged in front of green background. Participants need to strike their best poses like Marquez cornering at 70 degress. There are also official Honda merchandise on sale.
KYT and Suomy helmets display two giant helmets outside their booth. Inside are the racers’ replica helmets placed in transparent cases. Other colourful helmets grace the walls.
The Kawasaki booth is as impressive as ever. Focal point are the Ninja ZX-10RR and Ninja ZX-10R in KRT (Kawasaki Racing Team in WorldSBK) colours. Jonathan Rea and the manufacturer have just won their fifth WorldSBK title in a row. Also on display is the H2SX SE supercharged sport-tourer.
Hodaka Motorworld’s pavillon was extra busy when we visited yesterday, especially in the Scorpion helmets section. Fans stopped by to check out Fabio Quartararo’s replica race helmet. The mega distributor carried 60-plus brands including RS Taichi, TCX boots, Komine, UClear, Oxford and Vrooam lubricants. You can see Hafizh Syahrin’s actual RS Taichi race suit here.
There’s one booth which sells licensed VR46 products. We speculate that it’ll be very busy soon!
KTM Malaysia displayed their latest road and off-road bikes. The new Six Day Portugal EX-C/F enduro is there, as well as the 790 Duke, 790 Adventure, 1290 Super Duke GT, and more. Adiva and Zontes were next door. A new adventure-ready Z310-T complete with wire-spoked wheels is on display, as well as the new Z310-X and Z310-R with single-sided swingarm.
There’s a new concept for BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s pavilion this year with the launch of the 2019 S 1000RR superbike. Inside, there’s a mini pit lane complete with mini rolling shutter doors to store the S 1000 RR. On display are also the newly launched 2019 R 1250 RS and R 1250 R, among other models such as the R 1250 GS, K 1600 GT, R 1250 RT, R nine T and many more.
The SHARK Helmets and Furygan booth was doing brisk business today. Look our for great deals for the professional-grade helmets and beautiful Furygan riding gear.
HJC Helmets Malaysia has a much bigger booth today. The graphics and design of the Korean helmets have definitely picked up over the last few years. The Marvel Comics and Star Wars tie-in helmets are also on display. HJC Helmets Malaysia has a special deal over MotoGP weekend.
There are many more exhibitors on both sides of the mall. They are of well-known brands such as Idemitsu, GoPro, Tissot, NGK, Motul, Maxxis, Shoei and Alpinestars, Benelli and SYM, Suzuki, Red Bull, and many many more.
The Shell Hillstand is on the right side of the main entrance, overlooking Turns 12, 13 and 14. As advertised, this huge expanse is served by many vendors including Ducati, Kedai Ayamas, Baskin Robbins, Costa Coffee, Tealive, Desmo Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM), and so forth. There are also suraus. The Monster Energy pavilion is here, staffed by truly hot models. At the end of the long walk is the huge stage and Shell VIP Lounge.
Conclusion
These are only some of the attractions you’ll find at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix. The vendors are too many to list, similarly the activities and games, promotions. You need to attend to soak in the atmosphere.
Lest we forget, you can also hop onto a Rapid KL shuttle bus to get there and back. It’ll save you time and expensive parking fees.
The items included computer, parts and tools for Moto3.
Losses are estimated between € 40,000 to € 50,000.
As the excitement builds up to the 2019 Shell Malaysia MotoGP, we received alarming and sad news that thieves had broken into the pits belonging to Angel Nieto team and stole valuable items.
The pits of these teams are not allocated in the two paddock areas due to lack of space. As such, they are located in tents that attached to parking area PA1.
Team Manager Gino Borsoi described the items missing as Moto3 shock absorbers, calipers, brake discs, computers, tools, tyre heaters (tyre warmers), fork springs. He called the heist a “break-in job.” They have since spoken IRTA (International Road-Racing Teams Association) and are awaiting Sepang International Circuit’s response.
Borsoi also stated that the thieves were targeting Moto3 components as the Moto2 parts were left almost untouched. “The opened the spare parts drawers but didn’t take Moto2 items except for specific things. They were tools for dismantling wheels and disc screws of street motorcycle brakes.And tyre warmers.”
Thankfully, they found support from SKY VR46 team — Valentino Rossi’s team but led by Angel Nieto’s son Pablo Nieto. “We have extra two complete WP shock absorbers. How can I not help them if the team bears my father’s name?” The shocks are valued at nearly € 3,000 (RM 13,951) each.
It wasn’t the first time such theft occurred. Three computers were stolen three years ago. The loss this time was estimated between € 40,000 to € 50,000 for parts, tools and computers.
The team managed to assemble the bikes and completed their runs on the track. The team will have a problem in more serious crashes.
Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team will receive A-Spec Yamaha YZR-M1 bikes for the 2020 season.
The deal was struck at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
Both riders rewarded Malaysian fans with 1-2 fastest lap times in FP1 and FP2.
Both Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (PETRONAS Yamaha SRT) will receive A-Spec Yamaha YZR-M1 bikes for the 2020 season.
The team is currently running factory bikes. However, one is A-Spec and the other B-Spec machine. The arrangement is without doubt due to the stellar performances shown by both riders this season.
Although the spotlight had mostly been on Quartararo, Morbidelli has also performed well to score front row starts as well as important points for the team. He was only unlucky to have been taken out a number of times by other riders.
As such, PETRONAS Yamaha SRT is currently lying fourth in the Teams Championship. They are also leading the Independent Teams scoreboard with 58 points clear over the next team.
Running an extra pair of A-Spec bikes is also a positive move for the factory team, consisting of Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinalez. Yamaha will have extra data to speed up development of the factory team, which will also benefit the satellite team.
It’s a homecoming race for the PETRONAS teams (including the PETRONAS Sprinta Racing Teams in Moto2 and Moto3) and the partisan Malaysian fans will definitely support them over the weekend.
They weren’t disappointed. Both riders recorded the fastest times in both FP1 and FP2.
Quartararo was the fastest of the pair. First, he set a blistering time of 1m 59.027s in FP1, which was just 0m 00.004s off Dani Pedrosa’s outright lap record of 1m 59.023 set in 2015. Proceeding to FP2, he destroyed the record with a time of 1m 58.576s. The Frenchman could’ve gone faster but appeared to have been held up by Hafizh Syahrin on the next lap.
Quartararo’s feat was even more impressive considering that he’s still recovering from the ankle injury he sustained at Philip Island, Australia last week.
Aprilia Malaysia unveiled the 2019 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory at their booth at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix today.
The Tuono V4 1100 has a firm standing in the supernaked segment.
The engine punches out 175 bhp and 121 Nm of torque.
As promised, Aprilia Malaysia unveiled the 2019 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory at their booth at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix today.
The Aprilia Tuono has always basked in the reputation as one of the original supernaked sportbike. In fact, a new name has been coined, called “hypernaked.” It provides pure 4-Four perfromance: Mountain-high torque, a soul-piercing V-Four soundtrack and handling that’ll make other bikes cry.
Some highlights:
The Tuono got bigger as the engine is derived from its RSV4 1100 brother.
The Tuono V4 1100 Factory is the more exclusive version.
It’s fitted with the most advanced semi-active electronic suspension from Öhlins.
It’s not a plug-’n’-play kit, but was developed and tuned through close cooperation between Aprilia and Öhlins.
The Smart EC 2.0 suspension system has a dedicated ECU to handle suspension functions.
Using the OBTi (Objective Based Tuning Interface), rider can tune the suspension to how it reacts in different situations when riding.
For example, more low-speed compression in the forks under hard braking and vice versa in the rear shock when accelerating.
Suspension settings are calibrated via a switch on the handlebar.
The rider can set the suspension manually, as well.
The steering damping works in tandem with the suspension settings.
Aprilia was one of the first manufacturers to incorporate a holistic approach to traction control in their APRC (Aprilia Performance Riding Control) electronics suite. In fact, it was Aprilia who first introduced a gyro-controlled anti-wheelie and rear-wheel lift mitigation way before IMU-based technology became a common place.
For the 2019 Tuono V4 1100 Factory, it remains unchanged as Aprilia deemed that it was the best in the class, already.
Functions include Aprilia Traction Control (ATC), Aprilia Wheelie Control (AWC), Aprilia Launch Control (ALC), Aprilia Quickshift (AQS), Aprilia Pit Limiter (APL), Aprilia Cruise Control (ACC).
Of course, the bike is equipped with cornering ABS, but of the advanced multimap variety. Developed with Bosch, the 9.1MP system monitors everything from motorcycle lean angle to how much lever pressure is applied and how it is being applied, to determine the best braking solution even when cranked gruesomely over into a corner. The Cornering ABS function also works in tandem with the selected ride mode.
Now over to the engine. As in engine power.
Highlights:
Only naked powered by a 65-degree V-Four engine.
The 65-degree Vee-angle was chosen for its compactness.
Exhaust system with exhaust valve and two oxygen sensors.
DLC (Diamond-like Coating) treatment for cylinder walls.
The engine displaces 1077cc and creates arm-yanking 175 bhp at 11,000 RPM and 121 Nm of torque.
There are much more to the 2019 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory that will take an entire article to explore. You can view the bike at Aprilia Malaysia’s booth at SIC.
The 2020 Triumph Street Triple RS was launched today at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
It features many revisions and updates.
It is now lighter and more powerful.
The much-awaited 2020 Triumph Street Triple RS was launched today at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
The 2017 models was the most fun motorcycle we’ve ever tested and we wondered even back then how could Triumph possible make it even better. So kudos to the Hinckley based manufacturer in finding ways to make an already great bike greater.
Some of the lessons learned in Moto2 as exclusive engine suppliers were applied to the 2020 ST RS. As we’ve published before, the Triumph Moto2 engines were derived from the standard engine from the 2017 ST RS. From there it was developed only very lightly by Extern Pro.
The results were staggering. Records fell one by one and a Triumph-engined Moto2 bike hit more than 300 km/h at Mugello earlier this year. It was the first a Moto2 bike ever to hit the triple-ton. Then another three bikes went more than 300 km/h at Philip Island, Australia.
Championship organiser and promoter Dorna had wanted a series with closer racing and Triumph’s Moto2 engine delivered the show. The 2019 Moto2 championship is still open with two races to go.
Highlights of the 2020 Triumph Street Triple RS:
Revisions to the engine boost power by 9%, despite having 2 catalytic converters.
Power is up to 121 bhp and 77.3 Nm of torque, up from 116 bhp and 76 Nm.
Engine response tuned to provide fatter mid-range power and torque.
More responsive throttle.
Smoother powerband results from new exhaust cam.
High-precision machining of the crankshaft, clutch and counterbalancer.
Bi-directional quickshift for up and down shifts.
41 mm fully-adjustable Showa forks and Öhlins rear mono shock retained.
Braking handled by the awesome Brembo monobloc calipers up front, with revised master cylinder.
New TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity for phone and multimedia functions.
TFT screen can also pair with and control GoPro action camera.
5 riding modes are provided: Track, Sport, Road, Rain and rider customizable.
New bodywork (or lack of it) — everything unneeded was pared away.
New “eagle-eyed” LED headlamps with Daylight Running Lights (DRL).
New design rear seat.
The result of the revisions results in a bike that weights just 166 kg dry.
That’s the best power-to-weight ration in its category.
No price was given at the moment, as the bike will only be available from January 2020 onwards. But you can already view at Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia.
Ten motorcycle mechanics who qualified for the 2019 Shell Advance Masterclass competition received awards from Ducati MotoGP rider Andrea Dovizioso.
They will represent Malaysia on 4th November against 5 other Asian countries.
They were chosen from 750 others who competed.
Ten very lucky mechanics from across Malaysia had the rare opportunity of receiving awards from Ducati’s MotoGP rider, Andrea Dovizioso. They’ll be representing Malaysia at the 2019 Shell Advance Masterclass competition on 4 November 2019 against other elite mechanics from India, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.
Around 750 motorcycle mechanics and workshop owners from around Malaysia took part in this special training program organised by Shell Malaysia in collaboration with Ducati Malaysia as an initiative to further enhance their skills in motorcycle repairs and maintenance. They’ve also developed online videos to help educate fellow mechanics around the nation on proper bike maintenance.
These individuals were awarded at an exclusive ‘meet the fans’ session (also organised by Shell Malaysia) in conjunction with the 2019 Shell Malaysia MotoGP weekend that’s just around the corner. Shell Malaysia Trading’s Managing Director, Mr Shairan Huzani Husain was also present to award these fine bike mechanics ahead of their global competition next week. Also present was Shell Advance Malaysia’s brand ambassador, Fattah Amin.
