THE RS-GP24 IS UNVEILED, THE ITALIAN BIKE FOR BATTLING AT THE TOP LEVELS OF MOTOGP

After its on-track début in the opening tests of Sepang, sporting the temporary but spectacular “full-black” livery, the time has come to present the Aprilia RS-GP24 in its official version. A project with a strong technical identity, proudly Italian and which has now reached full maturity.

After two seasons of constant growth, 2024 represents the year of confirmation for Aprilia. Technical evolution has taken bike and team to an unprecedented level and the racing department from Noale, under the leadership of Romano Albesiano, has taken on this challenge without betraying its DNA. In other words, in an innovative way, with choices that blazed the trail for others and which, in the latest evolution of the RS-GP, find an even more extreme application.

We are definitely talking about aerodynamics - the most visible part - but every detail has been redesigned and advanced. From the V4 engine to the chassis, from the electronics to the strategies, nothing was overlooked whilst still maintaining a clear connection with the already competitive 2023 base.

There will certainly be no lack of data to be analysed at the end of each session, given the fact that, in addition to the super-confirmed duo of Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, Miguel Oliveira will be starting the new season on an RS-GP24. Raúl Fernández, the second Team Trackhouse standard bearer, will be using a 2023-spec bike which will then be upgraded to the most recent version. 

ALEIX ESPARGARÓ
"The growth we have demonstrated in recent seasons has been incredible. I am proud to be part of this project which I have always considered to be my second family. In 2024, we’ll make another step forward. Last year we were lacking the consistency to battle all the way to the end, but we still demonstrated that we are a tough rival for everyone. It won’t be simple because, even if it seemed impossible, the level in MotoGP has increased even more. I feel like I'm ready - physically and mentally - and I believe in the work that the Aprilia staff has carried out."

MAVERICK VIÑALES
"Our 2023 season ended on an upward trend and we want to continue that now. The feeling with the team is outstanding. During the winter break I trained like mad and I have faith in Aprilia Racing’s work. If we continue to set the goal of squeezing the most out of our technical package every weekend, the results will follow naturally. The first tests confirmed the extremely high level of the championship. Practically every rider and every bike on the grid have the potential to battle for the podium. This makes the challenge even more intriguing."

MASSIMO RIVOLA
"Over the last few years, Aprilia Racing has undertaken a constant growth process. First becoming a factory team, and then putting four bikes on the track thanks to the satellite team. In 2024, we’ll raise the bar even higher, since Miguel Oliveira will be starting the season on an RS-GP with the same specs as the factory bikes and Raùl will receive it subsequently. This is a significant effort for the racing department, but it is also a sign of this project’s evolution on all fronts. It has not been simple and the season promises to be even more demanding, but at the same time, I believe in the potential of our team. And I am proud of what we have demonstrated thus far, both from a technical point of view and in terms of dedication and commitment. We want to be protagonists in MotoGP and we have everything we need to be able to make that happen. We have four highly qualified riders like Aleix, Maverick, Miguel, and Raùl, a racing department that is courageous and capable of innovation, not to mention that pinch of Italian pride that never hurts in racing."

ROMANO ALBESIANO
"Our approach to the 2024 season could not stray from the good base that we had already built, especially over the last two seasons. The RS-GP is a mature project, faithful to the Aprilia philosophy, which we have sought to advance in every aspect. The aerodynamic study is perhaps the clearest. We introduced a few concepts that are definitely innovative in order to improve the load and penetration characteristics. But every detail has been revisited, as must be done in a championship which has placed technological research at unprecedented levels. Having three bikes with the same specs on track from the season start will undoubtedly contribute to streamlining our growth process. We’ll have much more information available that we will then need to skilfully analyse and interpret."

He continued: ‘The event industry has changed considerably since the pandemic, with many similar events falling by the wayside due to the ever-increasing costs. Thanks to the prudence of the committee and volunteers, we continue to “strive and survive” to provide one of the best-value family days out in Gloucestershire. What’s more, we’ve frozen the admission prices again for 2024!’
 
The Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza will once again boast a huge array of vintage transport, from buses and coaches, classic cars and motorcycles all the way through to pushbikes, vintage caravans and much more! There are three live arenas that are an integral part of the educational aspect of the show, and feature demonstrations, vehicle parades and commentary.
 
A major star of the show is the magnificent steam section, which is packed with 30 miniature steam engines, 70 stationary engines and 60 full-size steam engines of all descriptions. For many visitors, seeing the fabulous line-up of showmans’ engines, with their gleaming, twisted brass, really is a highlight. The ‘Demonstration Arena’ puts the mighty machines to the test, and there’s even the opportunity to drive one. Also, don’t miss the grand parade of miniature steam in the Alec Tanner arena, and be sure to check out the steamrollers in action.

Every mode of vintage transport is represented, and in motion – from a huge display of heavy haulage commercial and industrial trucks, mixed with classic plant and machinery, to more than 160 military machines, American auto trucks and ex-emergency services vehicles. You might even get a bit wet from the fire-tender demonstrations!
 
The tractor display is second to none, with many clubs choosing South Cerney as their national event. The display is filled with more than 200 tractors, showcasing a wonderful selection of agricultural machinery. 
 
But the event isn’t just about vintage transport…
 
The Animal and Countryside Arena – From ferret racing, rare breeds, shire horses and horse-logging to beehive-making – it’s all here among the rural displays and educational demonstrations. The popular dog show will make its return, with all money raised going to Teckels animal shelter – and with 2024 being the International Year of Camelids, ‘Camels through the Ages’ will be making its event debut. This entertaining show features fabulous costumes and informative commentary, to provide an insight into the long history of camel use and culture.

Kids of all ages will love it too – Don’t forget the vintage fairground attractions, some of which are powered by the steam engines. Take a ride on the steam-driven ‘gallopers’, Waltzers or The Yachts – the white-knuckle ride of the 1920s. Drive on the dodgems, see the fair from the air on the Carnival Big Wheel, or have a go on the traditional penny arcade games. You can take a sedate ride on the beautiful Carousel while listening to the fairground organs playing melodies from yesteryear, or board a 10¼in scale steam locomotive or ‘Chuffy the train’ for a passenger ride. Professor Collywobbles returns with his traditional Punch and Judy Show, and the model tent is a ‘must do’. Step into the world of miniature engineering with its models and diorama displays.
 
New for 2024: Swinging you back in time – Be sure to visit the new vintage entertainment tent, featuring live music, lindy hop dancing, vintage hair, and fashion through the eras. Why not dress up in your vintage finery and enter the ‘Best Dressed’ competition? Guest musicians include one of the premier Big Bands in the South West: The Midwest Big Band. This 18-piece Big Band has within its ranks some of the very best local talent – including professional conductor Bob Cutting (ex-Herb Miller band) – and will perform music from Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and golden tracks from the legends of swing.
 
Massive trade stand zone – Featuring more than 100 curiosity stalls and an autojumble to rummage around, it’s a great opportunity to find a bargain. Or visit the huge craft marquee housing a range of rural crafts and artisan small stalls. Meet the experts and learn about the skills and pastimes that have survived for generations, and continue to thrive today.

Food & drink – There are plenty of food and drink ‘pit stops’ across the showground. A firm favourite is the We’ll Meet Again Tea Room, a vintage-themed tea room set in the 1940s with vintage crockery, props and live music. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere and relax with a cuppa and delicious homemade cake.
 
FREE vintage bus rides – These operate around the perimeter of the show site, and to and from Cirencester town centre and Kemble railway station to the showground. The vintage bus service connects with selected First Great Western trains including Stroud, Gloucester and Cheltenham. Please check the timetable on the website.

Advance tickets available until Thursday 1 August. Visit: www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk

In the year of its 70^th anniversary, OLI, a leading company in Southern Europe in the production of flush cisterns and components for the sanitary industry, with a presence in more than 80 countries around the world, confirms its commitment in the premier class alongside Gresini Racing MotoGP, and will be at the starting blocks with Marc and Alex Márquez. 

After five successful seasons, OLI will be present on the riders’ leathers as well as on the Desmosedici machines, but also on the team pit-box panels, trucks and uniforms – increasing its global visibility in the process. 
 
Proceedings will get underway on the March 8-10 weekend in Qatar, followed closely by Portugal for what will be the first European Grand Prix at the `Autódromo Internacional do Algarve’ (March 22-24)

ANTONIO RICARDO OLIVEIRA – OLI MEMBER OF THE BOARD
"We're entering our sixth season in MotoGP and are excited about the signing of Marc Márquez, an eight-time world champion, who has raised the expectations of good results on the track. It's a winning bet for Gresini Racing, which further reinforces the values of persistence and courage by doing what seemed impossible, but also family values by bringing the two Márquez brothers together in the same team. These are values that OLI and Gresini share and that define our collaboration. This is a different year for OLI, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary, and being able to offer our partners the experience in the paddock will be even more special”.

CARLO MERLINI – GRESINI RACING COMMERCIAL AND MARKETING DIRECTOR
“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate together the 70^th anniversary of this great institution named OLI. First of all I would like to thank Federica Niboli and Antonio Oliveira for the trust placed in our projects; we will start our six year together and it’s going to be a special year for us, too. The arrival of Marc and the confirmation of Alex after an excellent debut season with Ducati give us great hope for the upcoming season.”

by Chris Macwilliam, Partner & Head of Litigation, Clough & Willis Solicitors

Motorcycle riders are among the most vulnerable road users and, when accidents occur, the results can be severe. When you are involved in an accident, there are several procedures you should follow in the immediate aftermath to maximise your chances at recovery. If the accident was not your fault, you may also be entitled to compensation that can not only account for your pain and suffering, but act to minimise any financial losses.

Compensation can help to make your recovery more comfortable, account for the costs of any damaged equipment and ensure you receive the best available treatment. Here, the team at Clough & Willis Solicitors explains the steps you should take if you have been injured in a road traffic accident to support your recovery and give yourself the best chance of securing compensation.

Seek medical attention

The first step you should take following a road traffic accident is to seek medical attention. Naturally, you should seek emergency care if you have been seriously injured, but this is important even if you do not feel that you have been injured, especially if you were riding a motorbike. Some injuries are hard to detect immediately but can have serious lasting consequences that emerge later, and motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable to these types of injuries. A doctor will know what to look out for in terms of symptoms based on the nature of your accident, and may be able to diagnose and treat conditions that you would otherwise have been unaware of. 

The other important reason to consult a medical professional is that your medical records can be used as evidence. Your doctor will make notes about any conditions or injuries they find, and this can be used to show a clear link between your accident and any symptoms that later arise. This can form a fundamental piece of evidence to support a claim, if you decide to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Collect evidence

If you are able, you should collect evidence at the scene of the accident. This usually includes the contact details of any eyewitnesses who saw the accident take place, but may also mean taking photographs and writing down any details you can remember, which can support your account later.

You should take photographs of any elements that may have contributed to the accident (such as evidence of potholes or other poor road conditions) and any vehicles involved. If the accident was not your fault, you may be able to secure compensation not only for your injuries, but also for damage to your vehicle or equipment. As such, you should also document this damage and, if you can, find photographs of your belongings before the accident, which can help to show that the accident was the cause of the damage in question.

This step applies to all road traffic accidents, not only those involving other vehicles. For example, if you are injured when your motorcycle collides with a pothole, you may still be entitled to make a claim. This is because local authorities are responsible for maintaining roads in UK towns and cities, and must ensure that conditions are as safe as possible. Generally, the only preconditions you must meet to make a claim are that you have been injured, and that someone else was responsible for your accident.

The final type of evidence you should gather is receipts for any expenses related to your accident. This includes if you need to pay for private healthcare, any travel arrangements to and from medical appointments, and any lost earnings if you are forced to take time off from work to recover from your injury. With these receipts, you may be able to claim back these costs when making a compensation claim.

Speak to a solicitor Once you have collected as much evidence as you can, speak to an expert personal injury solicitor. They will be able to advise you on whether or not you can claim, and help you to build your case - for example, by collecting witness statements or arranging for independent medical examinations. Where necessary, they can even advise you and help you to secure the best possible treatment for your injury. In most cases, any costs for private medical treatment can be included in your compensation claim, along with any expenses associated with travelling to and from appointments.

A road traffic accident solicitor can begin the process of filing a claim on your behalf. There are strict deadlines associated with personal injury claims - any claims must be initiated within three years of the date of the accident, or they will usually be unable to proceed. If you have been injured in an accident and are unsure what to do, speak to a solicitor today to find out what your next steps should be.

Article by Chris Macwilliam, Partner & Head of Litigation, Clough & Willis Solicitors