2004 Suzuki Gsx1300r Hayabusa on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Suzuki Confirms MotoGP Departure – Hope of 2014 Return

As expected, Suzuki has officially announced its withdrawal from MotoGP racing, though the Japanese manufacturer says it plans to return to the world championship in 2014. Suzuki cites the recession, the value of the Japanese Yen and a series of natural disasters as reasons for suspending its MotoGP program for at least two years. Reports of Suzuki’s withdrawal began circulating earlier this week with some staff members reportedly receiving notice late last week, but signs of Suzuki’s impending withdrawal have been around for over a year.

Sidecar Racer Sandor Pohl Dies in Assen Race

Sidecar racing passenger Sandor Pohl succumbed to injuries suffered in an accident at a Sidecar World Championship race at the TT Assen in the Netherlands. Pohl and pilot Stefan Kiser were rounding a corner when the rear of their Suzuki-powered LCR sidecar began to slide. The sidecar began to spin before the momentum caused the machine to flip over.

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.