Features 13 Sep 2016

Five Questions Why: Zac Levy

R3 Cup points leader on Yamaha's new development category.

The YMF R3 Cup has produced quality racing at selected rounds of the 2016 Yamaha Motor Finance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul Pirelli, featuring a strong mixture of experienced racers and newcomers to the sport. On top of the points table with just one round remaining, we spoke to Queensland talent Zac Levy about his experience in the development category to date.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Why have you enjoyed racing the R3 Cup so much?

Firstly, because the racing’s so close and it’s good competition. It’s a good class because all the bikes are the same and it gives everyone an even playing field.

Why were you able win all three races at Phillip Island’s penultimate round?

I’m not too sure, to be honest. I just put my head down, had a pretty good weekend and it all fell into place for me. Unfortunately for a few others it didn’t, but I capitalised on that.

Why does the YZF-R3 convert to a relatively good race bike?

Because they’re pretty basic and you don’t have to do much to them to get them to race-spec. Bolt on an exhaust and some race suspension, they’re a go ahead. The motor’s pretty strong on them and they seem to be holding up fairly well, so all in all it’s a good package.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Why has your previous road racing experience helped this season?

Definitely it’s helped out, just riding a little bit smarter. You know, I’ve won a few races on the last lap, just foxing with the blokes. They sort of go guns blazing in the first couple of laps and if you sit back behind them, you can watch their weak points and capitalise on your strong points. That little bit more experience helps and it seems to be working.

Why would you suggest people use this class to commence road racing?

It’s a cheap class to get into, the racing’s competitive and you really learn race-craft in it because you’re all on the same bike – you are trying to match every other person’s laptime on equal equipment. It’s basic and for somebody who’s just getting into it, you don’t have to do much at all to go racing.

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