Aprilia has always made sublime race machines but this season, well, it is making a statement. Often overshadowed by the bigger Italian brand, Aprilia have been doing the homework. They have been given an A + for that homework with the latest MotoGP round of racing at Le Mans seeing an Aprilia lockout on the podium for the first time. Yep, first, second and third to the chequers were all on Aprilias. Needless to say, the teams were in party mode afterwards. Pleasingly, to us anyway, was the total and absolute lack of team orders within that glorious battle. With Jorge Martin back to his best after an injury, many thought he might cede to teammate, Marco Bezzecchi. Ah, no. Just... no. Martin delivered a masterclass in the art of overtaking and sharing a pit did not mean he would settle for second place, not for anyone. It was one of the best two-wheeled 340km / h dances for a long time. It was fantastic to watch and scoring his maiden podium in third was the super talented Ai Ogura. Maybe it is the Kiwi mentality that loves it when an underdog wins. Sure, Aprilia has a proud history in racing but economically it is a minnow in the pond with the big manufacturers. They are minnows no more. That weekend was totally awesome.