Valentino Rossi of Ducati Team welcomes CRT machines – MotoGP news
The nine times world champion Valentino Rossi of Ducati Team has supported the idea of the new Claim Rule Team category.
The Italian rider says he will accept an offer to ride a CRT machine.
He feels that the lowering numbers of riders on the MotoGP grid is worsening the image of the premier class. The cost effective category of MotoGP bikes will be a great boost to the paddock.
While talking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Rossi said, “With the withdrawal of Suzuki, MotoGP will have only 12 bikes. It’s a little sad and it’s clear that we must use less expensive bikes and if this is the only way I wouldn’t have problems riding a CRT,
although no one is excited by this.”
As the new CRT category was introduced many teams and riders tended to heavily criticise the addition. It was claimed that the CRT category would drop the competition level in the premier class, as factory invested huge amount to develop the latest technologies.
In contrast to the criticism, Dorna chief, Carmelo Ezpeleta reckoned it to the future of the MotoGP class. He added that it is not only a competition, it is also mean of entertainment and sponsors need attraction.
It will feature production-based engines tuned to extensive level of performance. The bikes will be developed with custom made chassis and a strong production model engine.
The withdrawal of Suzuki has reconfirmed that the cost to run factory MotoGP project has skied high. Previously the Kawasaki factory team stepped out of the competition leaving only four manufacturers in the class. After Suzuki’s halt only three manufacturers
Honda, Yamaha and Ducati are left behind.
At the same time, Moto3 classification was also introduced, replacing the current 125cc two-stroke machines with 250cc four stroke bikes.
The Italian added, “It's probably been, actually it's definitely been, the worst season of my career. What would I like Father Christmas to bring me? A competitive GP12.”
It is expected that the CRT classed teams will help to increase the number of riders on the MotoGP grid. Currently only 17 riders participated in 2011 season and it will swell to about 22 riders in 2012.
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