RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Honda HRC Castrol riders Joan Mir and Luca Marini deepened cultural and community connections in Bali before heading to the next MotoGP round in Brazil. Taking advantage of a break in the racing calendar, they spent March 2-3, 2026, immersing themselves in local traditions and engaging directly with residents and motorcycle communities on the Island of the Gods.

Amid a demanding MotoGP season, Mir described participating in the traditional Kecak dance as a memorable and refreshing experience. The 2020 MotoGP world champion joined around 30 performers, following the rhythmic “cak” chants in unison while interacting with local artists.

“I really enjoyed being here during the MotoGP season. I love the culture, the fascinating dances, and the kindness of the people,” Mir said in Denpasar, Bali, on Tuesday, March 3, as quoted by Antara.

Marini also expressed admiration during a visit to Banjar Kaja Sesetan, where he observed the crafting of ogoh-ogoh -- large, intricately designed effigies prepared ahead of Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence. He said the detail and scale of the works reflected the community’s strong commitment to preserving tradition.

“It’s fantastic to see the traditions they have in Bali. They explained in detail the work they are creating, and it was exciting to share the moment with the bikers. Thank you for the incredible hospitality,” Marini said.

The two riders were accompanied by members of the Astra Honda Racing Team -- Herjun Atna Firdaus, M. Adenanta Putra, Fadillah Arbi Aditama, Rheza Danica Ahrens, and M. Badly Ayatullah -- and also helped artisans complete the ogoh-ogoh structures. They distributed staple food packages to residents observing Ramadan in Kampung Jawa during their visit, underscoring a message of social solidarity.

The Bali program concluded with a gathering involving about 100 members of Honda Community Bali, featuring clubs such as Honda Stylo Club Indonesia, Honda CBR Riders Club, Honda ADV Indonesia, Honda PCX Club Indonesia, and Honda Big Bike Indonesia. Mir and Marini interacted closely with participants and took part in games with local bikers.

Marketing Director of PT Astra Honda Motor, Octavianus Dwi, said that the presence of the Honda HRC Castrol riders reflected harmony and unity -- values that are also embodied in the synchronized Kecak dance performance. The cultural and community activities marked the end of their Bali visit before they resumed preparations for the upcoming MotoGP round in Brazil. ***