Returning to Lombok for a second consecutive year, the riders faced the challenge of back-to-back rounds at the same venue. The purpose-built Selaparang Track is best described as soft and loamy, but it had a rock-hard and choppy base, making it slick and edgy. The layout was fast and flowing with big jumps, and despite hosting its first Grand Prix last year in 2023, it still presented a challenge for the riders because the direction of the track was reversed for the second event, and it is totally unlike anything they can find in Europe.
The riders not only had to contend with Indonesia’s unique dirt but also had to adapt to its tropical climate. The intense heat and humidity were exacerbated by the fact that the man-made circuit was built on the asphalt of an old airfield, which meant there were no trees or shade and there was a lot of heat bouncing off the runway.
Taking the task of racing in such tough conditions in his stride, Monster Energy’s Yamaha Factory MXGP’s Calvin Vlaanderen impressed with back-to-back podium finishes, while Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2’s new recruit Karlis Reisulis made a solid debut as a factory rider.
