Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix Track Action

On-track at Laguna.

Photography by Chris Cantle

Nothing can take the place of experiencing a MotoGP race live. The sound of screaming engines, cheering crowds, the sweet smell of race gas and molten rubber add to the visual landscape of the twisting pavement, brightly colored leathers and of course, exotic, one-off racebikes.

But here’s the next best thing; photos from our hard-working lensman Chris Cantle.

John Hopkins collided with Nicky Hayden in Turn 2 of lap 1, ending his hopes for a strong finish at his home GP.

Italian Loris Capirossi?s day was cut short by a mechanical problem with his Ducati.

The Texas Tornado, Colin Edwards, carrying the flag for the Lone Star State.

Vermeulen announced at Laguna that he will be back with the Rizla Suzuki squad next season.

Photographer Cantle catches Stoner in the shadow of the bridge as the Aussie heads for Rainey Curve.

Stoner has extended his deal with Ducati for one more year.

Fiat Yamaha?s Valentino Rossi, fourth at Laguna, was the top-finishing Michelin rider.

Kawasaki wild card Roger Lee Hayden was the top finishing American at Laguna.

Casey Stoner and Ducati ended Nicky Hayden?s stranglehold on the USGP.

Chris Vermeulen qualified third, finished second.

Nicky Hayden bombs through Turn 5.