#PortugueseGP Sprint Race. We like to play with the movie theme, and today’s movie was one that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end. It is only a sprint race, but it is also the best-ever result so far for Marc Marquez in this special Saturday format. A second place with big significance, especially as it came from a perfect start from row three. The fourth place in the championship standings is consolidated and the gap to Bagnaia at the top is only 10 points. 
 
For Alex Marquez, this was a Saturday to forget with an unfortunate Q2 and a Sprint Race with no glory, which he still finished in 13^th place. Better to reset and think about the Sunday, full-distance race, with the top ten being the goal in order to gain fresh confidence on his Ducati #73. 

2^nd - MARC MARQUEZ #93
“The day didn’t start the best way with a mistake in Q2. Then we had a great start and it was a good race. To be back overtaking and having the speed is surely a good feeling. I battled with the best and despite a few mistakes I can say it was a ‘different movie’ compared to the past. Let’s keep working and think about the warm up because there’s still a very important race to tackle.”
 
13^th - ALEX MARQUEZ #73
“It wasn’t our best Saturday. We made it through Q2 with ease but then everything went the wrong way. A human mistake did not allow us to get a good start and it was all uphill since then. I didn’t start well and the Sprint Race is hard without a good start. We’ll try to turn the tide tomorrow: the full race can help us and the goal is to score as many points as we can.”

Personalising your motorbike is a thrilling endeavour that allows you to express your individuality and create a ride that reflects your style and personality. From custom paint jobs to performance upgrades, there are endless ways to transform your bike into a unique statement of self-expression.

Read this guide to explore various ways to personalise your motorbike, from aesthetic enhancements to functional modifications, so you can ride in style and make your mark on the road.

1. Custom Paint and Graphics  

One of the most impactful ways to personalise your motorbike is through custom paint and graphics. Consider working with a professional painter or graphic designer to create a custom paint scheme that reflects your personal style and vision. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant colours, sleek monochrome designs, or intricate airbrushed graphics, a custom paint job can transform your bike into a true work of art.

2. Aftermarket Accessories and Add-Ons

Enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your motorbike with aftermarket accessories and add-ons. From chrome accents and decorative trim to performance upgrades and ergonomic enhancements, there are countless options to customise your ride.

Consider adding a custom exhaust system, LED lighting, upgraded handlebars or grips, and a sleek windscreen or fairing to enhance both the appearance and performance of your bike.

3. Custom Seat and Upholstery

Upgrade your motorbike's comfort and style with a custom seat and upholstery. Work with a skilled upholsterer to design a seat that provides optimal support and comfort while complementing your bike's overall aesthetic.

Choose from a wide range of materials, colours, and textures to create a seat that's as stylish as it is comfortable – whether you prefer classic leather, modern suede, or exotic animal prints.

4. Personalised Decals and Emblems

Add a personal touch to your motorbike with personalised decals and emblems. Design custom decals featuring your name, initials, or favourite symbols, and apply them to various parts of your bike for a unique and eye-catching look.

You can also create custom emblems or badges to replace factory logos and add a touch of exclusivity to your ride. Many people like to have a unique number plate which is a great option, just make sure you know the number plate rules in your area.

5. Performance Tuning and Engine Modifications

Take your motorbike to the next level with performance tuning and engine modifications. Work with a reputable mechanic or performance shop to optimise your bike's horsepower, torque, and handling characteristics.

Consider upgrading your engine components, suspension system, brakes, and tyres to enhance performance and responsiveness on the road or track.

6. Custom Lighting and Electronics

Illuminate your motorbike in style with custom lighting and electronics. Install LED accent lights, underglow kits, or halo headlights to add a touch of flair and visibility to your ride.

You can also upgrade your bike's electronics with a custom audio system, GPS navigation, or smartphone integration for added convenience and entertainment on the road.

7. Signature Accessories and Personalised Gear

Complete your personalised motorbike set-up with signature accessories and personalised gear. Invest in custom-designed helmets, riding jackets, gloves, and boots that reflect your personal style and provide maximum protection and comfort while riding.

You can also accessorise your bike with custom number plate frames, keychains, and other accessories that showcase your love for the open road.

Conclusion

Personalising your motorbike is a rewarding journey that allows you to make a statement and stand out from the crowd. Whether you choose to customise your bike with a custom paint job, aftermarket accessories, performance upgrades, or personalised gear, the possibilities for personalisation are endless. With a little creativity and imagination, you can create a motorbike that's as unique and distinctive as you are, turning heads wherever you ride. 

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The first European outing for the 2024 MotoGP season saw Marc Marquez’s star shining bright. With far-from-ideal track conditions, the #93, for the first time aboard the Desmosedici machine around the Portimão track, was able to top the timesheets in the morning free practice before securing the direct seed for Q2 with the third-quickest time in the final session of the day. Ahead of him only Bastianini and Miller.
 
1’38.210 was today’s best lap for the eight-time world champion, still far from the outright lap record of 1’37.2 he set last year on a Honda. He also had the first crash of the season, a simple low side without consequences. 
 
Alex Marquez also had a tumble, which “only” affect his overall performance for today. The #73 finished half a second away from his brother, but the forced return to the pits in the decisive minutes of the afternoon practice resulted in a 12^th place finish – and a mandatory participation to Q1. 

3^rd - MARC MARQUEZ (1’38.210s)
“It was a positive day, despite the crash. It’s all part of the learning curve and we’re doing well. We know where we’re losing time, and we know why. T4 has never been by strongest part of the track, I have never managed to get the last two right-handers the perfect way. The crash happened because of the heavy traffic on track and the Ducati is harder to manage in someone else’s slipstream. Still, it was my mistake, but it’s good anyway: it was a matter of time before my first crash and everything helps.”
 
12^th - ALEX MARQUEZ (1’38.809s)
“The crashed ruined our plans a little and once I got back to the track, I wasn’t feeling fully comfortable with the soft tyre, and I still was doing a not-so-bad lap. Then I found some traffic, with Mir following Pecco. I managed to overtake him, but still lost some time. Q1 is always a big price to pay, but we did everything to be competitive. Right now, we only need to focus on Q1, then we’ll turn our heads on the sprint race and the full-distance Sunday encounter – qualifying is now key.”

• Ben Ball 2024 to take place on 11th December at Old Billingsgate Market
• Tickets on sale now and sponsorship opportunities available
• Raising funds to support those who are struggling or in crisis

Automotive industry charity, Ben, has launched ticket sales for Ben Ball which will take place at Old Billingsgate Market on 11th December and has a new theme for 2024. Those working in the automotive industry are now officially invited to celebrate Christmas with their friends and colleagues at Ben Ball 2024, supported by Auto Trader.

This year, the event will embrace the era of the roaring ’20s, so guests will experience a night of glitz, glamour, vintage charm and timeless elegance. It’s set to be another amazing night of celebration, awe-inspiring entertainment, networking opportunities and fantastic food.

Ben Ball 2023 was a sell-out with just under 500 automotive industry figures in attendance, so Ben is encouraging the automotive community to book now to avoid missing out on this annual black tie event…

Book tickets now!

Matt Wigginton, Director of Partnerships, Engagement & Income at Ben, said: “We’re inviting our automotive family to join us at Ben Ball 2024 which is set to be another fantastic evening of celebration and entertainment. This year, we’re excited to be stepping back into the iconic era of the 1920s so you can expect a night to remember, full of style and sophistication.

“We continue to support a record number of automotive people due to the cost-of-living crisis which is having a big impact on their health and wellbeing. Ben Ball is a critical fundraising event as it brings in vital donations to change lives and support those who are struggling, while also enabling us to recognise those who have helped us achieve so much during the year. We can’t wait to welcome you to Old Billingsgate Market again this December for the flagship automotive event of the year!”

Ian Plummer, Auto Trader’s Commercial Director, commented: “Once again it’s a huge privilege to be sponsoring the Ball, which not only raises critical funds for those who are most in need of help, but also drives awareness of the incredible work Ben does day in day out. It’s humbling to see so many businesses and individuals from across the industry come together every year, to dig deep, and to support such a vital charity which provides invaluable services to so many of our industry colleagues and friends. The cost-of-living crisis means more people than ever are relying on Ben, so support from across the industry needs to grow even further to match the increased demand. I have no doubt that 2024 will be another huge success.”

To book your tickets now or find out more about becoming a Ben Ball sponsor, click here.

When any member of our automotive family is struggling or in crisis, we all rally to support them.

The Norton twin-engined machine that dominated motorcycle drag racing back in the 1970's is to feature at this year’s Dragstalgia event at Santa Pod in July, 5th-7th.

A small group of seasoned drag racing motorcyclists wanted to recognise the huge contribution that US rider Tom ‘TC’ Christenson, and engineer and tuner John Gregory, made to the sport of motorcycle drag racing. It is especially relevant following Tom Christenson's passing in 2023.

Today’s announcement appropriately comes on the day that John Gregory celebrates his 90th birthday. Photojournalist Keith Lee has kept in touch with John for over 50 years, and has passed on very useful information from him to help run the bike. John commented: “It is great that you guys are doing this. I just wish I was there to see it run again.”

From a kernel of an idea, Neil Baskerville, son of Ray, who was a respected builder and rider back in the day, approached Chris Illman to ask what were the chances of approaching the National Motorcycle Museum to see if we could borrow Hogslayer to display at Dragstalgia as a fitting tribute to Christenson and Gregory.

Chris, who has a long standing relationship with the National Motorcycle Museum, approached Museum Director James Hewing, to ask if he would grant permission for Hogslayer to be released for display at Dragstalgia. Not only did he readily agree, but suggested: “If you can get it running again and ridden, that would be a real bonus!”

That was an offer not to be refused, and hopefully a long held dream turned into a reality. What more encouragement do we need?

Having been on static display at the National Motorcycle Museum for some 20 years since coming from the USA in 2004, it was clear that a considerable amount of work would be required. Plans are currently in place to relocate the machine to secure premises in Hertfordshire, where recommissioning will be carried out.

The prospect of seeing and hearing Hogslayer’s mighty roar again at Santa Pod will make this year’s Dragstalgia an event not to be missed.

Watch this space!