From a press release issued by Camel Honda Racing Information:

Camel Honda team aiming for the top in Holland

With the ill-fated Barcelona race quickly put to the back of their minds, the Camel Honda team head to Holland with both riders determined to be back at the front of the action, although the duo will be looking at the historic race from differing perspectives. For Max Biaggi, the track is one of his all-time favourites, and the memory of last season’s podium which came at the end of a hard-fought race in slashing rain, adds to the many positive factors at the Dutch race, including the fact that the event takes place every year in the week of his birthday (June 26th). For Makoto Tamada meanwhile, the track – easily one of the most technically challenging on the calendar – is not one of his favourites. Yet the Japanese rider admits that the task of finding an ideal set-up whilst working out the perfect lines to take around the fast circuit motivates him as much as anything else.(The Dutch TT GP is scheduled on Saturday, June 26th)

Sito Pons – Camel Honda (Team Principal)
“The Assen Grand Prix is very important for us, because we go there on the back of a strange race where our riders didn’t go too well. In Barcelona we were unlucky because Max definitely had the chance to win the race considering the pace and the consistency he showed in practice. In any case, the championship is still wide open and there’s a long way to go, and I still believe that both he and the team are capable of winning the title. Makoto has also been unable to reap the benefits of the positive work he has been doing, especially after having given ample proof of his talents as a fast and determined rider. So we hope to get our just rewards in Holland; a good dose of fortune so we can enjoy our Saturday.”

Max Biaggi #3: (Michelin Tyres)
“The Assen circuit is one of those I really like. Last year I did a great race there in the rain and finished up on the podium. One of the most positive features of the Dutch circuit, besides the beautiful track design, is the asphalt, which drains any water off brilliantly, so it offers impressive amounts of grip even in the most extreme conditions. After the last race, which was simply abnormal because of what happened, I’m really keen to make amends. Everything’s there for us to do well, so together with Honda and Michelin, we’ll be aiming for mine and the team’s first victory, I believe we can do it, and on Saturday I hope to not just be celebrating my birthday.”

Makoto Tamada #6: (Bridgestone Tyres)
“I have to be honest, Assen isn’t one of my favourite tracks, but I think this is down to it being one of the most difficult and technical there is, and because I’ve only raced there once, I haven’t had the chance to learn it properly. You probably want a bit more time there than at other circuits so perhaps after this weekend I’ll like it a bit better! I’m desperate to finish on the podium, and if not at Assen, as soon as possible. The bike is running well and soon we’ll be in a position to fulfil our objective. The weather conditions in Holland should mean that we are at less of a disadvantage with the tyres anyway, although I can’t make any predictions on how they will go because new ones will certainly be arriving. We’ll see, I’m very motivated in any case.”