SR75 Molson Racing Suzuki had a roller coaster ride at rounds two and three of the Monster Energy Arenacross Tour, powered by Ford Ranger, at the SSE Hydro Arena in Glasgow over the weekend with Frenchman Cyrille Coulon racing to second place on Sunday.
Saturday’s racing was very physical and after comfortable qualification sessions for Coulon and team-mate Thomas Ramette aboard their Suzuki RM-Z450s, the pair lined-up for the heat races.
Coulon stayed out of trouble to progress to the Main Event in the top spot but Ramette struggled with first and second turn incidents before going to the line for the final in fifth place.
Ramette showed great speed in the first couple of laps, making a succession of clean passes as he moved to within striking distance of the podium. Unfortunately, a mistimed move by another rider took him down, and after remounting, the defending AXUK champion could only recover to ninth.
Coulon pushed incredibly hard to move from a mid-pack position in the early stages to challenge for third on the final lap, but as as he lined up a pass, his front wheel washed-out in a left-hand turn and he slipped off but he kept his head to quickly recover for fourth position.
Sunday’s qualification saw Ramette take Pole with Coulon sixth – who then put on a masterclass in the heats to run 2-2 but Ramette crashed while leading his first heat and eventually came home sixth.
A solid third in his second heat ensured Ramette made it through to the Main and the pair ran at the front in the early stages as the top four set an incredible pace. In the final turn on the last lap Coulon made a pass stick to snatch second with Ramette fourth.
“My weekend was strong with my team and I am very happy,” said Coulon. “I made some good races with the guys in the front and on Sunday I had a beautiful race with Thomas, Fabien [Izoird] and Josh [Hansen]. These guys are full racers and I had fun. Thanks to my team and all our sponsors for their help.”
Thomas Ramette commented: “My weekend was at times difficult. I know my speed is good and I like to race but sometimes others have some effect; but I will work hard to make great results through this championship.
“Sunday’s race was amazing and I was asked for a solid result by my team so I took no risks and rode with the front guys. I cannot wait for Belfast, we are all very excited for this race. Thanks to my team and of course all the team partners who give so much to support us.”
Summing up the weekend Team Owner, Geoff Walker said: “Sunday’s Main Event showed the world what this amazing sport is all about with top-class bar-to-bar racing with the leaders showing ultimate respect for each other.
“I am incredibly proud of Thomas and Cyrille in their attitude and skill to turn a difficult day one into an amazing set of results on day two. I would like to congratulate Fabien and Josh on their victories as we know what it takes to win one of these Main Events this year.”
2016 Monster Energy Arenacross Championship Standings – Pro Class
1. Cedric Soubeyras, 58 points
2. Fabien Izoird, 57
3. Cyrille Coulon, 50
4. Thomas Ramette, 47
5. Josh Hansen, 46
6. Jack Brunell, 42
7. Adam Chatfield, 37
8. Florent Richier, 32
9. Matt Bayliss, 32
10. Angelo Pellegrini, 29
2016 Monster Energy Arenacross Championship Standings – Team Championship
1. SR75 Molson Racing Suzuki, 97
3. SJR Kawasaki, 92
1. LPE Kawasaki, 87
4. Buildbase Honda, 66
5. Geartec Yamaha, 59
6. Wooldridge Demolition Honda, 41
8. Hitachi Revo Husqvarna, 24
7. Xbladez Husqvarna, 20
9. Shocktech Honda, 4
10. MVRD Fuel Husqvarna, 2
