Mark Fattore: Bikesales Network editor
Man: Carlos Checa. He’s always had the talent, but in 2011 he removed the erratic part of his ‘game’ to blaze an also perfect trail in world Superbike. Honourable mention: Casey Stoner. Natural gifts, an enormous work ethic, and a beautiful blend of defence and offence are a lethal combination.Women: Laia Sanz. The irrepressible 26-year-old from Catalan added another world trials title in 2011 – her 11th! That even puts the venerable Dougie Lampkin to shame! And her pre-eminence doesn’t show any signs of abating yet.
Feann Torr: Bikesales Network staff journalist
Marco Simoncelli. Rest in peace mate, you were destined for greatness and you'll be remembered fondly for all the excitement you brought to MotoGP.
Rod Chapman: Bikesales Network contributor
Man: While Casey Stoner would be the obvious one, instead I’m giving the nod to Greg Hancock – not just for taking out the Speedway World Championship, but for claiming the crown at the age of 41, some 14 years after winning it the first time around.Woman: Spain’s Elena Rosell, who made a few appearances in Moto2 in 2011. It’s fantastic to see a woman competing on the world stage, and there’s talk she may be signing on for a full season in 2012.
Martin Child: Bikesales Network contributor
Marco Simoncelli. His death has taken the spark away from a dying championship.