“I have that up my sleeve for this year”
Nicky Hayden wrapped up his intense testing programme last weekend in Jerez, where he finished sixth on the time sheets.
The American rider is now responsible for the development of the RC211V and therefore had to multiply the laps to try and get the new bike ready for the first race of the season. But the Honda is still not at the peak of its potential and Hayden`s assessment of the pre- season testing is not completely satisfying.

Before enjoying a short break, Nicky Hayden answered some questions for Moto-Live.com, explaining what the problems with the 2006 RC211V are and what will be needed to improve its handling before the first rounds of the season.

Nicky, how do you feel now that the winter testing is over? Cautious but optimistic all the same?
Nicky Hayden : “Yeah, I mean I wish I could say everything has been a 100% smooth, but I am excited. Racing is the fun part and what I live for. The team is all behind me so much and working hard. We are going to bring all we got for when the lights go out at round 1...!!”

What exactly are the problems with the new bike?
NH : “The rear of the bike is where we have some areas to fix, especially with the traction. Plus a little too much wheelie, but we`ll work out the problems and get to the bottom of it.”

In the last days of testing, have you been able to prepare yourself for the next race?
NH : “Yeah, we did some long runs and some race simulations. We`ve used every available minute and never rested up once.”

Do you think you`re less prepared than last year?
NH : “No, because I think I learned so much last season and I have that up my sleeve for this year!”

How would you evaluate your level today?
NH : “I always believe in my skills and ability and believe that, as soon as the bike is right, I can show that we are the best in the world.”

During the winter, you appeared to feel better on the wet, is it true? Is it due to the stability of the bike or to your experience?
NH : “I had no choice but to learn to ride in the rain. Coming from AMA I had almost no rain experience. This winter I had chance to do lots of rain laps and I can`t afford just give away the rain races. I`m looking forward to the first rain race.”

Since the end of last season, you`ve made a huge number of laps to develop the new bike. Does your new responsibility in the team affect your work approach?
NH : “No, I just do my job and to the best of my ability. When the team or Michelin has something to test, then I will do my part of the job with 100% commitment. There are no shortcuts!”

Have you modified your training to adapt to this testing program?
NH : “Yes, I work with my trainer full time and I take it really seriously. I enjoy the training part. Anything I think will help me racing, then I`ll do it.”

What about your new hairdo? Is it more aerodynamic?!
NH : “Yeah that`s it!! Na I was in Malaysia and told the chick I needed a haircut and this is what I got! So I guess maybe I should have been a little more specific or maybe she didn`t understand my English too well. It`s all good, even though my mom doesn`t like it. If all the chicks agree with my mom, then I`ll have to start wearing a hat!”

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