The official 2011 season MotoGP thread!

Rest in peace, Marco. The grid will have a big empty void from now on, we'll miss you dearly. :cry:
 
http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/174335/1/valentino_rossi_simoncelli_was_like_a_brother.html

Valentino Rossi has paid tribute to close friend and fellow Italian MotoGP star Marco Simoncelli, who lost his life in an accident involving both riders in Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang.

Simoncelli lowsided from his Gresini Honda while holding fourth place on lap 2 of the grand prix. Simoncelli's bike then regained grip and veered sharply across the track in front of Colin Edwards and Rossi - dragging Simoncelli with it.

Edwards and Rossi could do nothing to avoid hitting the fallen 24-year-old, who suffered 'very serious trauma' to the head, neck and chest.

Edwards sustained a dislocated shoulder, while the impact pushed Rossi off track, before he regained control and returned to the pits.

Visibly shaken, the seven-time MotoGP champion then joined the rest of the paddock in anxiously waiting for further news.

Tragically, Simoncelli's death was announced at 16:56 local time. The race had already been cancelled so that medical staff could concentrate all their efforts on trying to save the former 250cc world champion's life.

In the early hours of Monday morning, Malaysian time, Rossi made his first public comment via his official Twitter account (@ValeYellow46) saying simply:

"Sic for me was like a youngest brother. So strong on track and so sweet in the normal life. I will miss him a lot."
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I wouldn't be surprised if Rossi decides to call it a day after Valencia.
 
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http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/174325/1/tributes_paid_to_motogp_star_marco_simoncelli.html

Casey Stoner:
"I'm so shocked and saddened by the loss of Marco. When things like this happen it reminds you how precious life is, it makes me feel sick inside. All I can say is how sorry I am for Marco's whole family I can't imagine what they are all going through and our thoughts and wishes are with them at this time. I hope they all stay close and pull through this tragedy together."

Dani Pedrosa:
"In a tragedy like this there is not much to say. I just want to give my condolences to his family and all the people who love him. I've been with his father and all we could do was to hug, nothing else matters. It was a fatal accident and everybody in the paddock remains in shock. Many times we ourselves forget how dangerous this sport can be and when you lose people on the way nothing has any meaning. It's clear that we all do what we like, what we love, but on days like today nothing matters".

Andrea Dovizioso:
"In these circumstances, words don't seem to be appropriate. I think of Marco's family and all the people dear to him, in particular his father and mother. I also have a child and what happened today is the hardest situation you can imagine. I watched the images and I'm shocked: in a race you fight and push hard and disaster is often around the corner. Marco was a strong rider and he always pushed hard. We raced together since we were kids, I saw him always pushing to the maximum, he crashed many times, but without major injuries, he was seemed invincible. What happened today seems impossible".

Nicky Hayden:
"Sometimes life just don't make sense... RIP #58 your were a star on & off track we all going to miss you."

Ben Spies:
"Super Sic rest easy..."

Cal Crutchlow:
"RIP Marco Simoncelli! A great rider and all round nice guy. My thoughts are with all his family & friends. I will never forget today... #58"

Hector Barbera:
"I am in shock. We are bike riders and we are aware that there are risks involved with what we do, but we also know that every day our safety is looked after more and more by the organisers. These past few years have seen a huge amount of work done to try and make our job even safer.

"Despite this, there are moments in which misfortune can lead to tragedy -and we saw this happen today with Marco Simoncelli. Today is another tough day for motorcycle racing. We have lost a great companion, and I will remember Marco as a great rival with whom I had some fantastic battles in the past."

Karel Abraham:
"The Cardion AB Motoracing team extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Marco Simoncelli, who succumbed to injuries he received in the race at the Sepang International Circuit."

Jorge Lorenzo:
"I don't know what to say... Only that you will be missed. Rest in peace Marco."

John Hopkins:
"God Speed #58 Simoncelli... Your fighting spirit will live on forever!"

Mark Webber:
"R.I.P Marco A special talent that will be missed... Thinking of your loved ones, and all the motogp paddock..mark"

Jenson Button:
"R.I.P Marco... Such an exciting talent lost. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone involved in MotoGP. Sometimes Motorsport can be so cruel..."

Lewis Hamilton:
"RIP Marco Simoncelli. My thoughts are with his family, friends and team at this extremely sad time. Another tragic loss at such an early age."

Jonathan Rea:
"Rest in peace Marco Simoncelli! A true inspiration, amazing rider and gentleman! Your legacy will never be forgotten!"

"Devastated to hear of the death of Marco Simoncelli, one of the best of our generation. Thoughts go out to his family. RIP Marco."

Marco Melandri:
"Have a safe trip Sic. Words can not explain the suffering."

Chaz Davies:
"RIP Marco. Our sport has lost a great rider and all round great guy. My thoughts are with his family.
"I was fortunate enough to be team mate to Marco in 2002. He was a genuinely fun guy and taught me my first unrepeatable Italian!"

Wayne Gardner:
"Stunned. Devastated. Huge huge loss for MotoGP and the world."

Carl Fogarty:
"Devastated to hear that Marco Simoncelli has died... the guy was a breath of fresh air in MotoGP.. Can't believe it."

Tommy Hill:
"So so sad! Absolutely terrible and heart breaking when this happens in our sport! All my regards to MS family and close friends :("

Juan Pablo Montoya:
"RIP Marco Simoncelli. he was such a nice guy. My thoughts and prayers to his family and all his friends."

Ben Bostrom:
"Quality vs Quantity in life. We could all learn a lesson here. Live w/the passion Simo raced. Never know when your # is pulled. Ciao Sic"

Taka Horio - General Manager, Bridgestone Motorsport Department:
?Today we are left devastated. Our thoughts and prayers are with Marco's family at this terrible, terrible time, and with his team. Words can do no justice to the emotion we are all feeling. The MotoGP family has lost one of its bright stars, a genuine character whose larger-than-life persona, charisma and unstoppable spirit were infectious, and we've all lost a great friend.

"We worked closely with Marco for his first two years in MotoGP and it was clear that he was a true racer, something he proved again and again this season. Determined to the end, and a great showman. His ascent through the field in just two seasons has been fantastic to watch, testament to his raw talent, ability and dedication to the sport he so loved. We remember fondly the tenacity and spirit with which he raced, and he will be sorely, sorely missed.?

Shuhei Nakamoto - HRC Executive Vice President:
"I just don't know what to say, words escape me. Marco was a very nice guy and a very talented rider. Sometimes I was a little harsh with him, for example after his first MotoGP podium in Brno when I told him: "Lucky podium!" and he was so angry... but I wanted to motivate him as I knew he was able to do even more. I was thinking that when he won his first race we would have been able to celebrate together... Now I just want to say thank you to Marco, for what you gave me and pass my sincere condolences to his family and this very sad time".

Monster Yamaha Tech 3:
"The Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team and Tech 3 Racing Moto2 team extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Marco Simoncelli, who succumbed to injuries he received in this afternoon's Malaysian Grand Prix.

"Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider Colin Edwards was involved in the second lap incident and he suffered a dislocated left shoulder. The American has left the Sepang International Circuit to begin his recovery at home in America and his thoughts and prayers are with Simoncelli and the Gresini Honda family.

"RIP Super Sic - A much-loved star on and off the track."

Ducati Team:
"Ducati, its team and its riders are deeply affected by the tragedy that struck the MotoGP world today, and they gather around the family, friends and team of Marco Simoncelli, who lost his life in a terrible accident during the Malaysian Grand Prix. "We will always remember Marco for his smile, his enthusiasm, his big heart and for the incredible emotions he allowed us to experience in recent years. He was one of us."

Factory Yamaha Team:
"Yamaha wish to convey the deepest heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Marco Simoncelli following the tragic accident today at the Grand Prix of Malaysia. Marco was a worthy competitor and rising star of MotoGP who will be deeply missed by all."

Rizla Suzuki MotoGP:
"All at Rizla Suzuki are deeply affected by today's tragic events and send their deepest condolences to Marco's family and friends during this time of great loss.

"R.I.P Marco Simoncelli, 20 January 1987 ? 23 October 2011 - A true competitor."

LCR Honda:
"Toni Elias, Lucio Cecchinello and the whole LCR Honda MotoGP Team thoughts go to Marco Simoncelli's family, friends and the whole Gresini Racing Team in this tragic moment."

Luca di Montezemolo - Ferrari President:
"I am very sad to hear of the death of Marco Simoncelli," Montezemolo told Ferrari.com. "I was very impressed by his speed, talent and the determination he showed this year. His qualities reminded me of Gilles Villeneuve and now, fate has chosen to link them in this tragic fashion. On behalf of everyone at Ferrari, I offer all our condolences to Marco's family for their loss.?

Michael Bartholemy- Team Manager, Marc VDS Moto2:
"It is difficult to know what to say. We were all devastated by the news that Marco Simoncelli had lost his fight for life and had passed away this afternoon. Sometimes we forget that competing in this sport that we love is not without risk, only to have it driven home by a tragedy like this. Marco was a larger than life character who will be truly missed by all those that knew him. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends."

Indianapolis Motor Speedway:
"We are deeply saddened at the passing of Marco Simoncelli. He was one of the most charismatic figures in the World Championship and had a fantastic future ahead of him in MotoGP. Marco was one of the most popular riders at the MotoGP event at Indianapolis, as his talent on the motorcycle and his ability to connect with fans both were very special. We extend our sincere sympathies to his family, team and fans."

Stefano Domenicali - Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team Principal
?It's hard to express in words the pain felt at the loss of such a cheery character like Marco Simoncelli. Events such as these and the equally tragic loss of Dan Wheldon a week ago in the Las Vegas Indy Car race, remind us how all those who take part in motor sport are always exposed to these risks. One must never drop one's guard, aware that there is nothing one can do against fate.

"Now, the thoughts of all of us men and women at Ferrari and those at the Mugello circuit go out to Marco's family and friends and his team. I am really close to Fausto Gresini, a dear friend who comes from my home town, Imola, who is going through a particularly fraught time right now.?

Vodafone McLaren Mercedes:
"RIP Marco Simoncelli. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the MotoGP paddock at this sad time."

AT&T WilliamsF1:
"Thoughts with Marco Simoncelli's family & friends today after the MotoGP rider succumbed to his injuries after terrible crash this morning."
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ahh man what a horrible week for motorsport, i was watching the race live and was in tears when i saw this.

The tributes in the previous post brought a tear to my eyes.

R.I.P Marco, you will be missed
 
Oh man... it's been such a week for motorsports, first Indy now Moto GP gets struck, I'm sure I won't be the only one watching the Indian GP next week with a clinched stomach hoping it doesn't carry on... R.I.P, you won't be forgotten
 
mpicco said:
Oh man... it's been such a week for motorsports, first Indy now Moto GP gets struck, I'm sure I won't be the only one watching the Indian GP next week with a clinched stomach hoping it doesn't carry on... R.I.P, you won't be forgotten
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My feelings exactly. I couldn't believe when I heard about Marco. He was so exciting to watch and had such potential.
 
i heard someone claim that traction controll cost him his life...

is there any truth in that claim?


and it got me thinking...how does traction control on a bike work? on a car a sensor sensors if a wheel is spinning fast than the other, not realy possible on a bike. only 1 rear wheel, and if it uses the front wheel...it should kick in the moment the front wheel lifts...which i can imagine you don't want
 
Bikes have 2 wheels, they measure the speed between the front wheel and rear wheel.
Motogp-riders have complained about the TC causing a crash when normally they could have powered out of it.
 
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bone said:
i heard someone claim that traction controll cost him his life...

is there any truth in that claim?


and it got me thinking...how does traction control on a bike work? on a car a sensor sensors if a wheel is spinning fast than the other, not realy possible on a bike. only 1 rear wheel, and if it uses the front wheel...it should kick in the moment the front wheel lifts...which i can imagine you don't want
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Very complicated, uses multiple inputs. Your "lean angle" (for the lack of better word), speed, throttle opening and pretty much anything that might has an effect on the available traction. IIRC the speed isn't measured at the front wheel or the TC had a way of ignoring it for the very reason you mentioned (wheelies). About what Karoug said, I don't understand how that could work out. The TC allows for quite a bit of wheelspin (optimum acceleration is reached when the rear wheel spins around 15% faster than the front IIRC) and you can get a tighter line out of a corner in a small slide like everyone does these days. I don't see any situation where you'd want to have more wheelspin than the TC allows unless we're talking some ancient TC prototypes here or your name is Garry McCoy.


From what I could see (from Bautista's onboard) and what Mika Kallio said it looked like, Simoncelli lost his front and was about to go down on his right side when his front wheel suddenly regained traction and made him turn steep to the right. Nothing he could do since he was just hanging on to the bars at this point. Just a lot of bad luck at the same time...
 
crookie said:
About what Karoug said, I don't understand how that could work out...
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I called an old neighbor who works as a technician on Colin Edwards bike. The TC is obviously adjustable and there are more things going on. But he said that the two most important things in the TC on a MotoGP bike is the front/rear comparison and the rear-brake stopping unwanted wheelspin.
 
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Karoug said:
I called an old neighbor who works as a technician on Colin Edwards bike. The TC is obviously adjustable and there are more things going on. But he said that the two most important things in the TC on a MotoGP bike is the front/rear comparison and the rear-brake stopping unwanted wheelspin.
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I worded myself badly, what I meant is I can't imagine a situation where you'd want any more wheelspin than the TC can provide as you mentioned riders commenting that they crashed because the TC didn't give enough power.

Interesting stuff though, I never knew they control wheelspin with the rear brake as well. What I (and bone) meant is that on bikes the front/rear control isn't that simple, because the TC would kick in every time the front wheel came off the ground (and slowed down in the process). So if the front wheel speed is still used as a measure, there has to be a secondary input (from the engine I assume) so they can tell the difference from wheelies and the front wheel being on the ground.
 
Terrible week for motorsport, so very sad. I hadn't seen as much of MotoGP this year as I'd have liked to, but Simoncelli was still one of my favourites. I looked forward to next year to see him in the thick of the action with a bigger field of bikes.

My driver biases aside, all I hope for this weekend at the Grand Prix is a safe event. Let's hope the saying "bad things comes in threes" doesn't turn out to be true...
 
http://www.speedcafe.com/2011/11/01/noisy-memorial-suggested-for-simoncelli/

The father of deceased MotoGP star Marco Simoncelli has suggested a ?minute of noise? be held at this weekend?s final round of the championship at Valencia in Spain.

Paolo Simoncelli has requested a loud memorial event rather than the traditional minute?s silence.

Simoncelli died on just the second lap of the Malaysian Grand Prix when he fell in the path of the following bikes of Colin Edwards and Valentino Rossi.

?Next Sunday during the Valencia GP, instead of there being a minute?s silence to honour Marco, I would prefer that there was a minute of total chaos with all the engines of the bikes of MotoGP, Moto2 and 125 all on and roaring together,? Paolo Simoncelli said during an interview on television program Domenica Cinque.

Simoncelli?s father added that he continued to be comforted by the affection shown by fans and colleagues in the wake of his son?s death.

?People have come from all over Italy and from abroad to say goodbye to Marco,? he said.

?They cry and it?s me who has to console them. Sometimes I think that Marco was an angel. All this affection makes me feel better and it is helping all of us. I think that the key to all this affection is his smile.?

The idea of remembering an athlete with noise instead of silence is not new. Amongst the events remembered in Australia is that of Super Rugby team the ACT Brumbies, which held a ?Minute of Applause? for player Shawn Mackay in Canberra prior to a match in 2009 after the forward had passed away from injuries sustained after he was hit by a car in South Africa.

After initially stating that it would not race in Catalunya, Simoncelli?s Gresini Racing team has confirmed it will be at the track this weekend.

?The decision to participate was not an easy one, but we have made this choice as it is what Marco would have wanted,? team owner Fausto Gresini told MotoGP?s official website.

?Going out on track at Valencia is definitely the best way to honour him by doing what he most loved to do: Ride and experience the world of MotoGP,? said Gresini.

?This is why I believe that the best show of affection that we can make to Marco is by lining up our teams and riders for this race.?

??Super Sic? will be present in the hearts of Hiroshi Aoyama, Michele Pirro and Yuki Takahashi, and I am sure that they will give him a most fitting tribute with their performances on Sunday,? Gresini concluded.

Japanese rider Hiroshi Aoyama will start in the MotoGP race with Michele Pirro and Yuki Takahashi competing in Moto2.
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http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03112011/58/misano-named-simoncelli.html

Misano to be named after Simoncelli

The Misano circuit in Italy will be renamed in honour of the late Marco Simoncelli.

Luca Colaiacovo, president of the circuit's board of directors, said that the renaming of the track, currently know as Misano World Circuit, was a fitting tribute to Simoncelli, who grew up and lived in nearby Cattolica.

"We owe it to Sic's memory, to his family, to the hundreds of thousands of fans that admired his courage and humanity, to the many sports and media personalities that led this spontaneous and touching people's movement," he told Italian media.

"We are therefore happy and proud to associate the Misano structure to Marco Simoncelli, a world-beater in sport and life.

"In the next hours I will meet the family in order to announce our decision and to thank them for both their helpfulness towards us and for the love they've been able to communicate to all of us at this terrible time. I will tell them that Marco will carry on being with us forever, also thanks to the initiatives that together we'll assume over the upcoming months.

"In fact today sees the start of a work that will have to turn the decision taken into concrete initiatives: a task we want to carry out together with the Simoncelli family and the newly born Foundation created in the name of the rider. We want this task to be as widely participated as possible through the involvement of fan clubs and followers."

Colaiacovo added that Santa Moniac SpA, the company that manages the track, does not intend to use Simoncelli's name for any potential commercial benefits in the future.
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