MONZA, 7 May, 2006 

Q. On behalf of Akrapovic exhaust system technology, we would like to welcome you among those riders who are using our systems. I guess this is not the first time you are using our exhausts? Could you give us some general impressions about our exhaust systems and where you see Akrapovic’s main advantages?

A. Thank you for a warm welcome. But I’m not new to your camp. I remember I was using Akrapovic exhaust systems in 2001, when I was racing at 8 Hours of Suzuka with Honda. The result was fine – 2nd place. Well, I can’t tell you much from a technical point of view, but my impression is that Akrapovic exhausts contribute to better engine performance and power delivery. The engine runs smooth and provides me a great deal of fun. Their sound is fantastic and they look great. 

Q. As a racer you have been involved in motorcycle racing from 2-stroke engines all the way to MotoGP and Superbike machines. If you now look back and compare them, what would you like to point out, especially if you compare MotoGP and Superbike machines? Is a different riding style and technique needed?

A. Yes, but not too much. As a racer I always just wanted to be fast – if possible even the fastest out there. You have to consider the fact that in Superbike we ride bikes you could buy in your local motorcycle shop, unlike the bikes in MotoGP, which are prototype machines. And I am using different tires this year, compared to my MotoGP era. All that contributes to my riding style, but as I said, not too much.

Q. What are your impressions of the Superbike scene and the philosophy of the championship in general (racing on tuned road bikes one could buy)?

A. I think it’s great! First of all for the crowd. The spectators can see the same machines they ride themselves, competing with each other around the tracks. They can compare them as they are speeding down the straight or going sharp into the corners. And they have similar bikes standing in their garages! For that reason this is a great championship also for the manufacturers. You know: win on Sunday, sell on Monday. I think this championship has a strong future, for the exact reasons I mentioned.

Q. I guess you still have high hopes and plans for the championship. What is your aim at this   point of the season? Some predictions say that you will be in the fight for the title.

A. For sure my aim is to be among the best riders on the end of this year’s championship. I’ll try to fight even for the title in this year’s competition. We have pretty good material and I think we are competitive enough to be able to achieve that aim. I guess that would give me another boost to continue my career in the World Superbike Championship.

Q. And finally your plans for the future: are you planning to stay in the World Superbike camp, or do you have plans to go back to MotoGP – or maybe something else?

A. For the time being, my plans and near future are tied around World Superbike.