2008 Suzuki Gsxr 750 Low Miles on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Oh hi there Mobil!

There was a time when Grand Prix racing was a lucrative affair, with the bikes and their riders resembling the fag packets that sponsored them. However, two unfortunate and costly blows hit the paddock; the banning of tobacco advertising in 2005 followed by the global economic crisis. The off-shoot saw grid numbers drastically dwindle with staple teams, like Kenny Roberts' outfit, and manufacturers, Kawasaki and Suzuki, succumbing to the events and disappearing.

Looking after number 1

There was a time when a rider’s number indicated his position from the previous season, with the ultimate accolade being the number 1 emblazoned on the front of the champion's bike. The rise of branding in MotoGP and a rider wanting to market themselves, born from Barry Sheene and his retention of no.7, saw riders decide against displaying their finish from the year before. Rossi, who on winning his numerous championships, stuck with his famous #46 in defence of his titles, instead of stamping a great number 1 on his bikes.

VIR Pulls Itself from 2011 AMA Pro Racing Schedule

In a surprising move, Virginia International Raceway announced it would not host its scheduled AMA Pro Racing round, just a month before the event was to take place. The Alton, Va., circuit was set to host AMA Pro Racing on Aug. 12-14 but VIR officials have now decided against hosting or promoting the event.