What type of championship can we look forward to?

"It will be very… very balanced. With at least six riders on paper in with a chance of winning."

Can you name them for us?

"They're the ones everyone is talking about; Bayliss, Biaggi, Corser, Toseland and Haga. But I'd add Lanzi to these because he's been so positive in pre-season testing. If you think that at four circuits - Valencia, Losail, Philip Island and Vallelunga - he's always lapped close to the times set by Bayliss, he can't be ruled out of winning."

In the last two seasons, the first two races have set the pattern for the championship. Will it be the same this year?

"I don't think so. Until mid season, say after the Brands Hatch races, it will be difficult to choose a true favourite. Then a small group of the best riders will emerge and play to the end for the title. Until then it will be very balanced, with a lot of riders in a position to win the championship."


Will Ducati still be the bike to beat?

"If you look at the results of the tests you could think this. I think instead that this has been the work of two riders in good shape, on a bike they know and making the most of the latest developments. On the other hand the four cylinder bikes - two of which, the Yamaha and Suzuki, are new - must still convince us that the 20 horsepower difference between two and four cylinders will be enough."

Also this year Pirelli has put a lot of work into development. What do you think?

"It's true, and it displeases me because the four cylinders will be able to put down all their power on the track. To be fair, Pirelli deserve praise because it's not easy to construct thousands of tyres - not just prototypes - and to guarantee such a high production standard."

One last question; how does a rider like Bayliss - who has achieved so much - still find motivation?

"To race for anything but the win is in his nature. He doesn't even like to lose when he's playing with his son on the beach. Eventually, when he doesn't have this will to compete any more, he'll stop. He won't be one of those riders who only races to bring home money. He'll say stop, it's enough."