Brno: Team Ecstar Suzuki rider Alex Rins’ stint in MotoGP was a bruising one all this time. But even with multiple injuries, he came out stronger and achieved two podiums this year. He is now among the top riders in the world hungry for victory with his Suzuki GSX-RR, his weapon. Ahead of the 10th MotoGP race of the season at Czech Republic’s Brno Circuit which is stated to be held on 5 August, he speaks with Team Suzuki Press Office about his preparations.
Excerpts:
Q: After the first half of the season, are you feeling tired or hungry?
A: I’m hungrier than ever as though I have not had breakfast [laughs]. I want to ride, to compete, to do good things with Suzuki.
Q: After an year and a half in MotoGP, which rider would you say is the hardest to chase?
A: The hardest to follow, I think, is Marc MĂĄrquez. He is a rider who brakes very late, accelerates with very good traction, and is always very difficult to follow.
Q: From 0 to 10, how would you rate the performance of the Suzuki GSX-RR?
A: I think I would give it 8.5. It has outstanding potential. You can always improve, both the bike and me as a rider. I think we both have a lot of room for growth. But I have to say that this year the bike is very good and is proving to be competitive in any type of circuit. With the new engine and the constant evolution of the bike we are taking the right steps.
Q: What has been your strongest point this year, and what do you think you should improve on as a rider?
A: I need to improve a little bit on how to be competitive in strong braking where there is a lot of angle in the tight corners, but nevertheless I think I am very fast in areas with fast corners. I think there is a bit of room for improvement, and in general we are quite competitive in many areas. In addition, I feel very wrapped-up with the team and the factory, which are working magnificently with the GSX-RR.
Q: Is there anything that still surprises you in the MotoGP category?
A: Well, I have already had quite a few MotoGP races, and I have to say that I have learned a lot but there is still a way to go. You are always learning, especially when you are in front, battling with the top riders. What surprises me most about this category is that every time we get to a new circuit we can ride even faster.
Q: What can you expect from this second half of the championship?
A: Well, I hope to take many podiums or at least to fight for them. I hope that both Suzuki and I can achieve great results and that both continue to grow.
Q: How big is the gap to make up so that Suzuki Ecstar and Alex Rins can take a victory?
A: I think it’s little, quite little.