World Superbikes 2023

[justracing]

Looked like he was pushing just a bit hard on the opening lap asking too much of the front tyre, it washed out beneath him but I think there is a an element if truth in what you say Gordon. I think he wanted to get away in the lead and open up a sizeable gap rather than rely on his usual fast pace in the closing laps to take the win. J Rae and Toprak absolutely rode the wheels off which must have been totally exhausting, how fit are these guys! it was certainly entertaining after a lack lustre weekend at Brands!

[S griffin]

So Bautista finally makes a mistake and opens it up for the others in R3. However he’s still got a good lead in the championship. Great weekend for Toprak, his persistence paid off. Rea picking up good points

[gomick]

How disappointing is Rinaldi on the 2nd Duke, good result for Bassani...

[S griffin]

Yes, Rinaldi has been a bit of a disappointment this year. I expected more from him, but he's just not getting the results.

[cg7aa]

Originally Posted by justracing

...Toprak absolutely rode the wheels off...

He was simply incredible in the superpole race! His bike control was just jaw-dropping, one of the most incredible rides I've ever seen in the 25yrs or so I've been watching superbikes. Otherworldly.

[merak1974]

The championship is not over yet! Will be a fantastic battle for the title between Alvaro and Toprak over the remaining three rounds at the Aragon, Portimao, and Jerez race circuits.

[justracing]

Originally Posted by merak1974

The championship is not over yet! Will be a fantastic battle for the title between Alvaro and Toprak over the remaining three rounds at the Aragon, Portimao, and Jerez race circuits.

It really has become a ferocious battle at the top and JRea hasn't given up either despite the surprise move for next year, I fear Scot R has blotted his copybook for the BMW ride next year.

[GORDON STREETER]

Originally Posted by justracing

It really has become a ferocious battle at the top and J Rea hasn't given up either despite the surprise move for next year, I fear Scot R has blotted his copybook for the BMW ride next year.

Yes it appears that Yamaha & Kawasaki have upped their game (but not enough) if Bautista can keep a clear head it's his to win again I would say. Although I must admit it makes compulsive viewing

[justracing]

JRea and Toprak don't show any lack of commitment despite their team moves for next year, those first 2 races at Aragon were stunning. Are the Ducati works riders under instructions to provide extra entertainment whilst leading the championship, Bautista on his bum and Bagnia last week in motogp?

[merak1974]

Originally Posted by justracing

JRea and Toprak don't show any lack of commitment despite their team moves for next year, those first 2 races at Aragon were stunning. Are the Ducati works riders under instructions to provide extra entertainment whilst leading the championship, Bautista on his bum and Bagnia last week in motogp?

Originally Posted by GORDON STREETER

Yes it appears that Yamaha & Kawasaki have upped their game (but not enough) if Bautista can keep a clear head it's his to win again I would say. Although I must admit it makes compulsive viewing

Absolutely agree, but surely Bautista will take the championship, no...?

[E.B]

Originally Posted by merak1974

Absolutely agree, but surely Bautista will take the championship, no...?

He is trying hard not to (win it)

[N Martin]

Race 2 was an awesome race. I don't think Toprak could have done anymore. He seemed totally dejected in the post race interview though. An absolute classic. Two riders at the top of their game going at it. I was on the edge of my seat and that really doesn't happen often. Brilliant stuff. It doesn't get much better than that.

[justracing]

Originally Posted by N Martin

Race 2 was an awesome race. I don't think Toprak could have done anymore. He seemed totally dejected in the post race interview though. An absolute classic. Two riders at the top of their game going at it. I was on the edge of my seat and that really doesn't happen often. Brilliant stuff. It doesn't get much better than that.

Totally agree, both riders on their absolute limit - superb racing. Evidently Toprak smashed his windscreen in frustration at one point, talk about give it their all. What a shame Rea wasn't in the mix in the last race.

[GORDON STREETER]

Well whatever you do don't miss this last race, talk about heroes ! talk about an edge of the sofa job ! And a big surprise at the end.

[justracing]

Given that the title was already decided and their racing seats for '24 assured that level of commitment to get the win is incredible! I lost count of the number of overtakes after the first few laps, brilliant racing

[GORDON STREETER]

Originally Posted by justracing

Given that the title was already decided and their racing seats for '24 assured that level of commitment to get the win is incredible! I lost count of the number of overtakes after the first few laps, brilliant racing

I know "rules are rules" but you would have thought that the powers that be would have let Toprac have it to end the season?

[justracing]

Bautista was the 2022 champion surely? This year is his double.

[GORDON STREETER]

I have started a new 2024 WSB thread