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Tito Rabat's debut in MotoGP was not exactly outstanding; the former Moto2 world champion actually finished the season in penultimate position (excluding test riders and wildcard entries). He may have been crowned rookie of the year but this was only because he was the sole contender for that particular title.
Team Marc VDS and Honda have nevertheless decided to give him a second chance, and in 2017 the Spaniard will really have to show what he's made of.
“It has been very hard, but I have learned a lot about how the MotoGP bike works, how to understand my feelings on the bike and also how this whole world works. We have to think positive, and the most positive thing is that I have another chance next year and I have a good base from this season.”
How have you changed from the first time you rode a MotoGP bike in a test to today?
“I have changed in every way: The way I ride, think, train, position myself on the bike, what I focus on when riding etc. Many things. The most important lesson that I've learned is to have patience, in particular. I know where my place is, and one has to spend hours on the bike and participate in many races in order to get to where we want to go.”
Have you also had to evolve mentally?
“Yes, it was very different at the beginning of the season. I have matured a lot, both as a rider and in life. At the beginning of the year, everything was going by very fast on the bike, and it was all very difficult. Now everything has slowed down again, and I have more time to think on the bike and make better decisions.”
Which moments from this season will stick with you? Which moment was the worst?
“Of course, the first time I got onto a MotoGP bike. It was an incredible feeling. I will also remember the race in Misano. Despite the crash I suffered there, it was the best race of the year for me. It was the day in which I felt best and had my best race pace. On the other hand, Mugello was the worst moment, because I crashed and broke my collarbone.”
What good points can you take from the first preseason test?
“I'm very happy for three reasons. Firstly, and most importantly, because of the new chassis. It gives me a good feeling with the front and gives us more room to play around with the setup of the Honda if I lack grip or agility etc. This gives me a lot of hope for next year. Secondly, I am very happy with the crew we have put together. They provide a good atmosphere and we understand each other very well. In addition, the incorporation of Julito [Simon] has been a morale boost for me.”
What do you think Julian Simon can help you with during the year?
“Training with someone who you know will always be demanding with you is something positive, because it forces you to give one hundred percent. In principle, he will come to Almeria for two or three days a week to train on a motorcycle with me. It will also be good because we riders have our own particular issues, and we need someone who understands us. When we work with the team, he can go out onto the track and tell me which lines to take, what I am doing wrong, what I am doing well… in short, on what points I can improve. And I can also say that he is a very good person and it is always nice to spend time with him.”
What are your goals for next season?
“It would be great to end up in the Top 10, have good races, be competitive and keep evolving.”
