Don Contreras: Moto3 Class Opened For Entries

The major changes to the MotoGP series starting in 2012 are beginning to take shape. Today, the application process opened for the new Moto3 class, which replaces the 125cc two-strokes from next season as the entry-level class in the MotoGP series. The class will see 250cc single-cylinder four-stroke engines take the place of the two strokes, the most competitive of which - the Honda NSF250R - was unveiled officially at Barcelona this weekend.

Entries for the new Moto3 class will come mainly from the current 125cc field, but a few more teams could also enter the fray. Several former 125cc teams - such as Molenaar, which raced last year with Randy Krummenacher and Luis Salom - are looking at their options for returning to the series, and some new teams are also expected to apply. The grid will likely be capped at 40 again, just as happened with Moto2 when the class was first introduced.