MotoGP | 2020 | Round 14 | Portugal | Portimao | Nov 20-22

I can't remember where we were discussing winter testing…

The only downside to KTM's success this season is that, having lost technical concessions, Petrucci now has to wait until Sepang in February to make his RC16 debut.

 

Yep I think only Aprilia has concessions? Where is Joe? Been a busy couple days here...

 

https://www.autosport.com/motogp/news/153744/roberts-explains-decision-to-turn-down-aprilia

 

Did not sign with them. They're keeping the same riders from this year, including Smith. Whoever goes faster during testing will get to race. The other will remain the test rider.

 

I'm glad to hear that, as much as I would have loved to root for Joe in MotoGP next year. Terrific outfit he has aligned himself with.

 

It will be nice to know he is on a winning machine and has a good chance every race to win.

 

What's with all the noobs making the jump to the premier class expecting offers from top 3 teams?

90% of riders do time on satellite teams transitioning from Moto2, learn the pace and the opposition, and then get the nod from a factory team when space is available. Unless there's something he's holding back, turning down a factory ride after a 7th place finish in Moto2 doesn't seem wise?

 

That second seat at Aprilia has some seriously bad juju attached to it. Just look at what it did to Sam Lowes and Scott Redding. The only way I would have been comfortable with Joe making that leap is if he got a rock solid 2 year deal with a guarantee of equal equipment to Aleix. I doubt Aprilia's offer included either of those conditions.

 

And you forgot lots of $$$$$

~sent from mobile

 

This is a nice visual on the standings from each race

https://twitter.com/wearetherace/status/1330879475551178752

 

That's pretty cool. Would like to see it stacked against a similar animation for last season.