MotoGP Argentina: Rossi: I started when it was sblack and white!

Live On: 4/16/15 At 5:48 PM HaveNo comments.

MotoGP Argentina: Rossi: I started when it was sblack and white!

 

Valentino Rossi talks MotoGP riding changes from 2000 to 2015.

The oldest and most successful rider on the MotoGP grid, seven time MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi began his premier-class career on a 500cc two-stroke back in 2000.

Since then the Italian has raced 990cc, 800cc and 1000cc four-stroke machinery for Honda, Yamaha, Ducati and Yamaha again, using Michelin and then Bridgestone tyres.

So what has changed regarding his riding style?

“I started when it was still black and white. It was difficult to touch the knee down!” joked Rossi, the world championship leader heading into this weekend's round in Argentina following victory in Qatar and a third last Sunday in Texas.

“Apart from joke, mainly the positon on the bike. I think in the last years MotoGP has changed a lot. Also the electronic systems and Bridgestone tyres made a huge difference. With Michelin in the past it was a different way to ride and you cannot stay in the same position on the bike compared to now.

“I try to learn also from the other guys like Marquez, or Lorenzo that ride also my bike. It is interesting. But every rider improves and modifies his way to ride. Also Andrea [Dovizioso, Ducati] changed a lot from the last years. It is like this. It is always in evolution and I think this way is very interesting. It is never the same.”

Rossi is contracted to Yamaha until at least the end for 2016 meaning he will be present for the switch to Michelin tyres and a control ECU next season

Links