ROAD NEWS

HRC, and also the fifth on the trot for Takumi Takahashi – his eighth in total … now that, ladies and gentlemen, is a stunning thing in its own right. Take a bow, Takumi. Teamed up with Takahashi was Jonathan Rea. It was planned to also have Somkiat Chantra but that didn’ t pan out. So it was the two‘ veterans’ who kitted up and did it as a twoman effort, a daunting task. Then there was the weather … Rea has had a tough few seasons and was stoked to not only win but get the fastest lap and pole position, enjoying the feeling of knowing he is fast. Takahashi has to be the most consistent and safe rider racing at Suzuka. Tidy, rapid, relentless. Jack Miller was chasing hard at the end but the race was called when the heavens opened and a safety car deployed, calling time on an interesting race in constantly changing conditions. Rea and Takahashi looked up to the job of maintaining their lead anyway but it is always a shame when the end comes early. For the other teams there will be that‘ if only’ taste for another year. And always remember, the Suzuka 8 Hour is a massive deal in Japan, massive. To the crowds, the industry and the racers. The Suzuka 8 Hour always shines a light on the difference between a leading WSBK machine and what endurance racing is all about. Sure, the CBR hasn’ t featured in the short circuit clashes but the results over the years at Suzuka show just how fast and robust the motorcycle is. Which is more relevant to you or I? Always a great cookie, that debate.

KIWI RIDER 75