2016 Moto GP title race heats up

While the top riders usually win, there are also mishaps that can cause rider and bike to part company and this puts them out of the race, or at least out of contention.

Past world champion Marc Marquez, along with Dani Pedrosa and Jorge Lorenzo have been fighting it out with the 'darling of the track', Valentino Rossi just behind and in striking distance - and he is a record five times world champion.

The rest of the field included experienced riders at the end of their career and young 'up and coming' hopefuls.

Currently the only Australian rider in the GP class is 21 year old Jack Miller.

Last year Jack graduated from Moto 3 after starting competitive riding at an early age and working his way up through the ranks.

In the last 30 years Australians have dominated the top level with Wayne Gardner, Mick Doohan and Casey Stoner getting to the top and staying there until the inevitable wear and tear on their body led them to other forms of motorsport, commentating or just a quieter lifestyle.

Australians love to cheer on their champions but since Casey Stoner retired their interest has waned somewhat. While some only see a bunch of bikes being ridden around in circles on a track, others with some technical understanding are more enthusiastic.

If you're a new spectator to Moto GP, start by looking for error of judgement or an incorrect racing line through turns and chicanes, and the management of the inevitable wear and degradation of the tyres in different weather conditions and on different tracks.

These make for a more interesting appreciation of the skill and judgement required to 'ride a bike around in circles' and be in front when the race ends.