When I started riding motorcycles, it was even legal to ride without a helmet. Depending on the class, there was basically only one type of motorcycle license.
Even after I started racing, the hardware has continued to change dramatically. The pace of evolution is so fast that it’s almost impossible to keep up. But there is one thing that hasn’t changed: humans!
Let’s not talk about the future too much. It would only make things less interesting.
From next year, MotoGP will reduce engine capacity in an effort to slow down lap times. On the other hand, production-based racing classes seem to be moving toward larger engine capacities. Will the CBR eventually become a 1200cc bike?
It’s not easy for the circuits either. Lap times keep getting faster, but the escape zones don’t get any bigger.
If racing at Suzuka were designed around lap times of about 2 minutes 10 seconds, I think there would be enough potential for manufacturers and private teams to compete on a much more level playing field.
Imagine the final lap of the Suzuka 8 Hours, with four or five bikes fighting for the lead and charging into the final corner together!
Wouldn’t that kind of race get everyone excited?

The photo shows the wire harness for the rough sensor that was damaged during the recent test. This was caused by human error, too. The harness routing was poor!! Let’s fix it before the next test.