Back to work as the second half of the season kicks off at Indianapolis
POWER ELECTRONICS pair excited to return to action after summer break; Nicky Hayden ready for his second home race of the season
Nine races down, nine to go in the 2015 MotoGP World Championship and after a timely three-week summer break the action resumes this weekend at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Despite recent changes to the track it remains technical and tricky, with more than one section of asphalt that can easily catch the riders out. With the unique atmosphere that always accompanies big motorsport events in the USA, this weekend’s MotoGP promises to be a high-octane affair with everything still to be decided as the championship heads into its crucial second half.
The summer break was a welcome opportunity for the two POWER ELECTRONICS Aspar riders to rest up and prepare for a gruelling schedule between now and the end of the season although neither Nicky Hayden or Eugene Laverty enjoy being away from their motorcycles for too long. The pair know that they are capable of more than they have been able to show in the first half of the campaign and for Hayden this weekend holds extra significance as Indianapolis is just a few hours’ drive from his home in Kentucky. As the only American currently in the series, Hayden is determined to fly the flag with pride in Sunday’s race.
Nicky Hayden: “I am excited to race at Indianapolis, my true home Grand Prix, which is really close to where I live. Unfortunately I had to miss it last year and it was tough to be there watching without being able to take part. It also means I haven’t had chance to evaluate the changes to the track myself yet although the feedback from the other riders was generally positive, so I’m looking forward to riding. We will be competing alongside the MotoAmerica boys, who will be riding from Thursday so there should be some rubber laid down for when we go out on Friday, which is good. It is no secret that the first half of the season has not gone as well as we’d hoped. I have had chance to rest up a little over the last three weeks and also get some training done. I am sure we will return at a higher level for the second half of the season.”
Eugene Laverty: “I feel 100% ready for the second half of the season. My body really needed some time to recover from a few big crashes lately so the time off was a welcome break. I enjoyed one week of holiday to recharge and prepare myself for the remaining nine races. I’ve learned a lot during the first half of my rookie season which ought to set us up for a strong end to the year. Things have been up and down but I’m confident that our speed is there to challenge regularly for Open class honours from here on. Indianapolis kicks off the second half of the season and the track looks fun to ride. I’m excited to see my bike again after a month apart!”