Miquel Gelabert (TrialGP) and Mattia Spreafico (Trial2) emerged as the standout Vertigo riders at this weekend’s TrialGP of Japan, held at the Motegi circuit complex.
Miquel Gelabert, riding a Vertigo Nitro RS2, kicked off his Trial World Championship campaign with a strong push to secure a spot in the top five. Nevertheless, the disadvantage of being one of the initial riders to navigate the sections without ample references proved to be a significant hurdle. The Motegi circuit, known for its demanding layout, posed even greater challenges this time due to the rain in the days leading up to the event, resulting in some muddy sections. However, on Sunday, the sections were notably drier; nevertheless, the organisers opted to modify the layout of some sections to increase their level of difficulty. Gelabert finished the two days of competition in eighth place, although narrowly missing out on a top five place in the trial.
In the Trial2 category, four Vertigo riders competed, with Italian rider Mattia Spreafico emerging as the best of the bunch at the conclusion of the season’s first GP. Despite feeling at ease on the track, Spreafico found himself in the midst of the podium battle. Nonetheless, errors in several sections proved costly, relegating him to sixth place on both days, falling short of the podium.
Pau Martinez, riding the Vertigo Nitro Works, stayed on the attack throughout the event, despite encountering some setbacks that dropped him out of the top ten. Unfortunately, on Sunday, fatigue began to take its toll, resulting in a slide down the order. Alfie Lampkin, venturing into the TR2 category for the first time, is keenly aware of the learning curve ahead. The Briton showed some nerves at the beginning of the day to finish 24th. Belgian champion Emile Mattheeuws encountered some setbacks during the race, preventing him from achieving his desired position. Additionally, the high-level performances demonstrated by the majority of riders posed another challenge, making it difficult to stand out in the trial.
10 years of Vertigo Motors in the World Championship
2024 marks the 10th anniversary of Vertigo Motors’ first participation in the TrialGP World Championship, as the elite trial category also celebrates 50 years. Over this decade, Vertigo has consistently proven its worth, with a range of motorcycles that excel at the highest levels of competition. This includes securing the 125cc world title, achieving one victory, and clinching twenty-one podium finishes in the top class. Additionally, Vertigo earned a commendable runner-up position in the overall world championship standings.
The next date on the calendar for the TrialGP World Championship riders is in Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra, on 7, 8 and 9 June.
