I miss big Dazza and Barry doing the commentary on the bikes. I know it can't happen again since Sheene's passing and with Eastlake being in a nursing home, but they shit all over the commentators we cop these days in Oz when watching on ONE or Ten.
Such great racing. I'd like to see the current crop of riders on the 500's when they weren't 'tame', like in the late 80's, early 90's. It would definately sort out the men from the boys. :)
How right you are, take away all that electronic gubbins and see how they get on, however I suspect Rossi would soon get the idea and master the handling very quickly as he undoubtedly is a Meister at judging traction.
I believe that the blue flag has only been around for the last ~10 yrs. and it wasn't even enforced, it was more of a courtesy. Enforcement only came into effect in the last 7-8 yrs. (?) tops. (edit: if you go watch the '88 Swedish race at 35.00 secs. they are waving a blue flag). Sheeze, I raced in the early 2000's and don't remember any talk of blue flags!?! And we were racing multiple classes with staggered starts so there could be 60 - 80 riders out there!
Very thirsty beasts, but the performance, smoothness and sound make up for it. my 1989 RG500 CH best ever achieved probably 30mpg, worst don't ask. Can eat rear tyres with zest. However for a 'Race Replica' can be amazingly comfortable to ride long distances. Once did Lauterbrunnen (Switzerland) back home in one go (plus ferry) 675 miles. Under 7000 rpm docile as a kitten. At 70mph you were revving (ticking over) at just under 5,000 rpm (Rev counter doesn't start until 3,000) and as smooth as the proverbial 'baby's !
