How To Promote Motorcycle Sports?

[5thRider]

What keeps our sport from growing faster? Is it cost alone that keeps riders from competitions? Probably completely pointless?

[sleepingnemo]

i think money is the main concern lah.... but if road riders get a chance

to learn from some of our local racers it should be good. so that can build

up their confident...

in another way if more ppl take part in the races i believe more bike shop

maybe involve in sponsor our local racers...

[sq6060]

May I suggest SMSA conduct some racer program for beginners; cheap race-craft courses for members, followed by a non-competitive 5 laps race for a taste of racing. Or reduce newbie's membership fees for the first year to get more riders to join? Or get tire companies to subsidise tires for active racers? Also maybe split the field into novices and experts.

[ambasnakeman]

i think its financial burden to start up in the first place. very seldom people want to sponsor unless u some big name, or some bette rider recommend. without sponsor, it costs so much just to get the bike done up to race specs, and racing license/insurance another bomb, plus expandable wear and tear stuff like engine oil, plugs and tyres are a killer.

 

should have a race program where tyres are available cheaper for track regulars. some kind of affiliate programme.

[rhema83]

We will need support from the public, too. Motorsports in Singapore (both auto and moto) have less-than-desirable public images - often associated with reckless drivers / riders, accidents, fatalities, and delinquency. Our first step must be to garner public support like the European countries. And to do that, we need public service events like charity rides, community service events and the like.

 

Whether you like it or not, you need to do some community service if you want to improve the image of bikers and get funding. It might take years, but we have to start somewhere. I think I've mentioned this almost 2 years ago, but despite everyone agreeing, nothing has been done.

[myxilplix]

Location location location. It's difficult for motorsports to grow beyond a certain point if you don't have a permanent facility for it.

[5thRider]

Originally posted by ambasnakeman@Oct 24 2005, 12:29 AM

i think its financial burden to start up in the first place. very seldom people want to sponsor unless u some big name, or some bette rider recommend. without sponsor, it costs so much just to get the bike done up to race specs, and racing license/insurance another bomb, plus expandable wear and tear stuff like engine oil, plugs and tyres are a killer.

 

should have a race program where tyres are available cheaper for track regulars. some kind of affiliate programme.

I agreee it's an expensive sport... which is really a drag for all of us.. BUt regarding "racing spec" is where the real problem lies,or as imagined by most riders. If by that, you mean engine work and full suspension work... I know it sounds crazy, but it's really not neccessary.. Just a decent pipe (whether LTA approved or not, with or without Power Commander), brake lines, sprocket settings and tyres(You are 100% correct! which are really the real killer).. we can also use the stock suspension, no engine work neccessary,(even 600s)no problem.

 

Engine oil as well,competition bikes have oil changes every race so we help the engine out in every possible way.

 

Race insurance are part of the game, nobody wants to crash.. but if you do(even during unofficial free practice), at least you know you are covered.. A good way to bear the pain in the pocket is to think... $300 for 12months, that's $25 a month? NOt so bad, but still cost.. I know.

[5thRider]

Originally posted by ambasnakeman@Oct 24 2005, 12:29 AM

very seldom people want to sponsor unless u some big name, or some better rider recommend.

I have spoken to many bike shops and they are all for helping out the local scene.

But they have come back to me saying they want to see the riders have commitment first, many have raced just one event and given up for whatever reason--most common reason bike shops tell me is, rider got no fire,competition too tough, so their rider give up...

 

Nobody starts out as a "somebody" with heavy backing from bikeshops. All the top riders I know started out on their own, with their own money and on tight budgets too, racing standard machines,down to the brake pads! BUt if we show commitment, we do improve and I guarantee somebody WIll come along and help us.(as in with costs..) Already established riders will notice newer guys and surely it's not too much they put in a good word for the diligent right?

 

We dont have to win in our first outing... Basically, ride well, get noticed. The bad times dont last too long..

[5thRider]

Originally posted by sq6060@Oct 23 2005, 11:25 PM

May I suggest SMSA conduct some racer program for beginners; cheap race-craft courses for members, followed by a non-competitive 5 laps race for a taste of racing. Or reduce newbie's membership fees for the first year to get more riders to join? Or get tire companies to subsidise tires for active racers? Also maybe split the field into novices and experts.

Currently, the field is split into novice and expert. NOvices are upgraded based on laptimes and number of podiums.

 

Actually, tyre companies do get behind the riders, even tho bike shops do most of the sponsoring and handing out of subsidies. As i said, they want to see commitment first, and by results i dont mean wins, completing and improving is a result enough.

 

Unfortunatly, race craft comes with experience, riding itself can be taught and tight situations can be highlighted, but to deal with the issue THERE AND THEN, experience.

 

An advanced riding program is currently being planned but response is always an issue. SMSA had one a couple of years back and it was quite well received. Hopefully, this time will be better. Anyone interested please PM me ASAP!

 

5lap race is a good idea! Hopefully they are hooked!

[5thRider]

Originally posted by myxilplix@Oct 24 2005, 07:03 PM

Location location location. It's difficult for motorsports to grow beyond a certain point if you don't have a permanent facility for it.

Bummer huh? BUt it's singapore right? Wish SMSA had a solution for that... But if we really want to ride, who's gonna stop us? Luckily, J. Circuit is so near..(kind of lah..)

[ambasnakeman]

one suggestion. SMSA can use marina south like TT race. else its only gonna be motard and cub prix here for the next few years.

 

also, why racing need seperate insurance if riders are covered by their own other insurance policies?

[maik]

Originally posted by 5thRider@Oct 25 2005, 12:44 AM

Bummer huh? BUt it's singapore right? Wish SMSA had a solution for that... But if we really want to ride, who's gonna stop us? Luckily, J. Circuit is so near..(kind of lah..)

brother,

 

now you become the ambassador for motorcycle sports already issit?? why leh? you going to organise race ha? i race can or not? hehe...

 

congrates on your recent 39.... glad that you broke the 40 barrier.... let me know when you sending the bike...

[Kleivard525]

Originally posted by ambasnakeman@Oct 25 2005, 01:56 AM

one suggestion. SMSA can use marina south like TT race. else its only gonna be motard and cub prix here for the next few years.

 

also, why racing need seperate insurance if riders are covered by their own other insurance policies?

most personal accident insurance don't cover Racing.. tat y u need another insurance specially for racing or motorcycling

[number17]

My vote goes to none of the choices in the poll..

 

IMO, to really promote motorsports seriously we must first have a racetrack. Then followed by funding to initiate whatever programme we can think of.

 

In any sport sponsorship is fundamental to widespread success, taking the S-League and other major sports events as an example. I'm looking at the wide picture here, not just individually. JCircuit is nearby but there will be no major sponsorship from Singapore coz there is no mileage.

 

SMSA is doing all it can to even consider a full race series there.. Better than nothing, but if you're talking about producing world class riders it's an up-mountain battle.

[jrpl39]

Originally posted by 5thRider@Oct 23 2005, 09:42 PM

What keeps our sport from growing faster? Is it cost alone that keeps riders from competitions? Probably completely pointless?

Hello 5th Rider. It is not so much of the cost. Is more like face problem. They feel that if they stand no chance to win, they will not race. You think like me meh, know cannot win, still participate to fill in the blanks and enjoy it. So when you want to let me try your bike to see I still can do 1.40 or not for first trial.

[jrpl39]

Originally posted by number17@Oct 26 2005, 03:28 AM

My vote goes to none of the choices in the poll..

 

IMO, to really promote motorsports seriously we must first have a racetrack. Then followed by funding to initiate whatever programme we can think of.

 

In any sport sponsorship is fundamental to widespread success, taking the S-League and other major sports events as an example. I'm looking at the wide picture here, not just individually. JCircuit is nearby but there will be no major sponsorship from Singapore coz there is no mileage.

 

SMSA is doing all it can to even consider a full race series there.. Better than nothing, but if you're talking about producing world class riders it's an up-mountain battle.

Hi number 17. I totally agree with you. No local sponsors will do it across the causeway(J circuit) and there isn't any mileage or benefit to them. For the time being, any motosports event that happen in singapore, we should do our best to support it and hopefully one fine day the sports will be regonised and spotted by our goverment. Like example, there will be a track for motorcross very soon. SMSA has been working on it for many years and eventually they got it. So please do not give up the sports and keep moving guys!!!! Cheers

[5thRider]

Originally posted by jrpl39@Oct 29 2005, 01:55 PM

So when you want to let me try your bike to see I still can do 1.40 or not for first trial.

for you sure can, you know that what...Anyway you ride any 600 also can do 1.40 lah..

[fzmz]

Originally posted by ambasnakeman@Oct 25 2005, 01:56 AM

also, why racing need seperate insurance if riders are covered by their own other insurance policies?

You better check your "other" policy again.

 

Most, if not all, excludes coverage the moment you ride on a track, racing or not.

[fzmz]

Originally posted by rhema83@Oct 24 2005, 04:34 AM

We will need support from the public, too. Motorsports in Singapore (both auto and moto) have less-than-desirable public images - often associated with reckless drivers / riders, accidents, fatalities, and delinquency. Our first step must be to garner public support like the European countries.

Its the same everywhere.

 

The first step is not charity rides and stuff but for people to take "racing" off the roads and to the track.

[fzmz]

Originally posted by myxilplix@Oct 24 2005, 07:03 PM

Location location location. It's difficult for motorsports to grow beyond a certain point if you don't have a permanent facility for it.

Am in Sydney, alot of facilities right? But do you know I have to travel around 40km to the nearest track? So what is PG from Singapore? I've even had to travel almost 200km once just to participate in a event.

 

Its nothing to do with location. If you want to, you will...stop making excuses.

[edwinnth]

Originally posted by 5thRider@Oct 30 2005, 07:45 PM

for you sure can, you know that what...Anyway you ride any 600 also can do 1.40 lah..

Not if he rides TKT's F4.

[5thRider]

Originally posted by edwinnth@Oct 31 2005, 08:43 PM

Not if he rides TKT's F4.

Hahahaa!!!!! very funny... Dont be so sure... maybe the fella try till balls all wet...

[edwinnth]

Originally posted by 5thRider@Nov 1 2005, 08:38 PM

Hahahaa!!!!! very funny... Dont be so sure... maybe the fella try till balls all wet...

Can't be...after he saw me ride.....he told me,....TKT ah....this bike cannot lah. Not serious, how to race?

[lvin]

Originally posted by fzmz@Oct 31 2005, 07:09 PM

Am in Sydney, alot of facilities right? But do you know I have to travel around 40km to the nearest track? So what is PG from Singapore? I've even had to travel almost 200km once just to participate in a event.

 

singapore to pg is around that distance...

[myxilplix]

Originally posted by fzmz@Oct 31 2005, 07:09 PM

Am in Sydney, alot of facilities right? But do you know I have to travel around 40km to the nearest track? So what is PG from Singapore? I've even had to travel almost 200km once just to participate in a event.

 

Its nothing to do with location. If you want to, you will...stop making excuses.

I have no problem with travelling to PG. In fact although i stay 5 minutes from the causeway i always go and come back by 2nd link.

 

The problem is the public and sponsors, the 2 important factors for promoting motorsports locally, are not willing to go into another country. How many people (apart from those involved with the teams/riders) are willing to go to PG just to watch races? 100? 200 people?

 

Without the fans why would the sponsors want to spend money in m'sia, when their target market is here in singapore?

 

Compare the turnout of singaporeans at PG with those races held at kallang. Hell, it's the same for the car events as well.

 

With a track built locally, we'll get better attendance numbers which will draw in more sponsors. We will also see more people going for trackdays, probably riding courses on a regular basis and more people getting interested in taking part in races.

 

That's how motorsports will grow.