With two pre-season MotoGP tests down and one to go, Repsol Honda’s Andrea Dovizioso talks about preparations for the season ahead… and his other new responsibilities.
First of all, congratulations on becoming a father… how do you live at 300kph knowing that little Sara is waiting for you at home?
It is something that I thought about when I heard the news, but I'm young and very focused on what I want to achieve, so I didn't think that it was going to change me, and that's how it's been. To be honest, it's an experience that can only go well for me.
Are you satisfied with the work that Honda have done over the winter?
I'm very happy, because they have worked really hard and it was important for the factory to understand the modifications that had to be made, and, above all, because it's been confirmed that this work has been well done. It's also true that we can't stop at what has been done and that we must improve more, because we aren't fast enough – but I'm happy.
'With these changes, we are heading in what we think is the right direction'
Did you ask Honda Racing for a lot of changes after the first test in Sepang?
Yes, many things, because there wasn't enough time in the first test to check everything. They have made changes, even my position on the machine, which seems trivial, but it can change the performance a lot. With these changes, we are heading in what we think is the right direction. Problems arise, but that's normal, and we are trying to resolve them.
What lies ahead for the Qatar test [from March 17–19]?
I don't know yet, because we have to talk to the team. The Qatar Circuit is very special and, therefore, what happens there will not be very indicative, but we want to do better than here. We will do the tests and see our potential because we have had two tests in Sepang on a track that I like, and we'll need to see our level there.
What are the strong points of the Honda RC212V 2010 and what needs improving?
It's easier to ride than last year's machine, which is most important. It is more balanced and a little easier to control, but that is still its weakest point because it's not easy enough. The 800cc MotoGP machines need to be easy to ride to the limit, not like the 990cc, which were so powerful and heavy that you skidded and that was normal. These machines need you to be very accurate and must be easy to control in order to maintain the pace.
Interview courtesy of Repsol Media Service
Keep pace with Dovi and his Repsol Honda team at www.repsol.com
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