MotoGP Interview: Nicky Hayden
Here we are, the 2010 MotoGP season is getting prepared for its very first round in Qatar this weekend.
Even though the time of the race still needs to be 
confirmed due to a humidity related issue that occurred during the last testing session, of one thing we are pretty sure: it’s going to be an awesome season.
The level of the riders in the pre-season tests was already impressive and we are just waiting to get them into an actual race; it’s going to be fun folks. One of the best performances and pleasant outcomes, if we can call it like that, came from Nicky Hayden – during the tests he placed his new GP10 in the third and fourth positions in the final sessions at Sepang and Losail, respectively.
The Ducati squad could count on a very experienced and fast line up, a team that managed to have two world champions in the same garage. Furthermore, the new engine and smaller new features on the bike pleased the Kentucky Kid and the timing is giving them a good faith for this season. Watch out for the red machines then, they will be up front often this year.
The new season is going to start soon and Ducati has done a wonderful job so far. You seem to have a great feeling on the GP10, what are your thoughts on that?
Nicky Hayden: Yes I am very excited for the new season, but I don’t wanna say too much or make any predictions because there has been
enough talk - lets just line up and see if we got anything for them. And yes the bike is working very well big thanks to everyone at Ducati for working so hard and trying to help me get up front, a big big thanks. They are not scared of a little hard work…
Are you completely physically recovered and if so, what are your goals for the Qatar race and the rest of the season?
Nicky Hayden: Yes I am in good condition physically and mentally. I hope to go there and be at the sharp end and give the team and myself what I believe we deserve….
As Kevin Schwantz recently said in an interview, we’d like to see the American flag in the middle of some podiums these year. What do you think about that?
Nicky Hayden: HA I like how Kev is thinking, I just need to make sure it’s me holding the flag! But much easier saying than doing. They don’t just give away wins in MotoGP you got to earn them…
A bit about you and your bike: Any particular behaviour before getting on top of your bike? Favourite music & other stuff?
Nicky Hayden: I also love riding for my team and being apart of the Ducati family and yeah I do love music but nothing in particular a little of everything but I really like hip and rap!! YA herd!!! haha
About racing technique & style, we heard you are using for the first time a downsized rear brake disc (same size of the rest of the group). How much are you trying to change your riding style?
Nicky Hayden: Well last year also I used the normal size, but it’s true I use the rear brake too much, I come from dirt track where only have rear brake no front so I use it too much, to control spin, wheelie, and make the bike stop pumping. But I am now working to change my style a lot to fit this bike and how MotoGP has changed in the last few years…
What are your favourite tracks?
Nicky Hayden: I love Laguna - the track, the event everything, and Phillip island. And since I started to ride for Ducati the Italian races are extra special….
You always had a great relationship with your fans; now you are on Facebook and Twitter as well. What’s next and are you enjoying it?
Nicky Hayden: Yes the fans show me a lot love all over the world and I’m very grateful, but yeah its a cool way to stay in touch with the fans and show them a side of me they don’t always get to see. So check me out on Twitter: @nickyhayden69 and on Facebook: Nicky Hayden from OWB to MotoGP.
Thank you Nicky, it’s going to be a great year in MotoGP…Good Luck for your season!
Nicky Hayden: Yes I hope, the level is very high in MotoGP; I’m very lucky to be part of it … Lets get it!!!!
