MotoGP's fastest track set to get faster

Phillip Island gets new racing surface ahead of 2013 season.

14 Dec 2012

Lorenzo leads, Australian MotoGP 2012
© Gold and Goose

MotoGP's fastest circuit, Phillip Island, should get even quicker in 2013 following resurfacing of the Australian racetrack.

The full 4.445km layout was replaced earlier this week, for the first time in 14 years, at a cost of three million dollars.

Andrew Fox of circuit owners Linfox Property Group said: "This [new] surface is as smooth as a baby's bum, and I've got five kids, so I know!"

In addition to the resurfacing, new asphalt run-off areas are being created at Doohan corner (turn one) and turn four, with 1.3km of kerbing also replaced.

With the 2013 Australian MotoGP round not until October 20, there should be plenty of time for the new asphalt to 'mature'. WSBK will be the first major series to use the surface, on February 24.

Home hero Casey Stoner set the fastest lap at this year's Australian MotoGP with an average speed of 177.5km/h (110.3mph). The official 'Island lap record is still held by Nicky Hayden from 2008 (177.8km/h).

Mugello, Silverstone and Assen offer slightly slower average lap speeds. In terms of top speed, the lengthy Mugello home straight produces the peak figures.