« Reply #4 on: June 02, 2013, 09:35:40 AM »
RE: Single Moto. They've been wanting to do this since the '70's. Having to "score" the 2 moto race does not make good TV viewing and looses the casual viewer. Just look how confusing it is in America whith the first moto on NBC Sports and the second on Fuel TV. Single moto format will follow the other "made for TV" motorcycle sports like Supercross and Supermotard. The only thing is, the GP's don't have full gates now. How do they expect to provide a full day of racing (at $1500 per entry) if qualifying is automatic?
Changing engine displacements was as initiative of the FIM. When the 500 class gates dwindled to nothing (like the 450's are today) and the 250's were loads faster, the FIM changed the "primier" class to the 250. With the rejuvination of the 4-strokes, they cut the engine size back to 450 (in the 250 class until it was officially designated the 450 class that allows 250 2T). KTM built the 350 because the FIM was threatening it and it was proof of concept. I would think the manufacturers would get behind it for a couple of reasons: 1) Make all those 450's obsolete - now you gotta buy a new bike. 2) The 350 will have to work harder so it will be like the 250 and blow up - alot - thus requiring replacement (more sales!). I don't see them making the 250 class the "premier" class (again) because they didn't think ahead and develope a 125 2T class at the pro level as a stepping stone (like the 250 is to the 450).
« Last Edit: December 31, 1969, 04:00:00 PM by ' »
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