In The Garage with…U.S. MotoGP star Nicky Hayden

Nicky Hayden during the final preseason MotoGP test in Qatar March 9, 2014

COUNTING THE DAYS UNTIL QATAR…

COTA: Only a week until the season opener. What’s going through your head right now?

NICKY: It’s an exciting time for sure as today I’m leaving for the start of my 12th season in MotoGP, which is an honor. So, I’m a bit nervous as it’s the first race with a new team. But mostly, I’m just excited.

COTA: You’ve expressed concerns about your new Honda motorcycle and the amount of power it produces. Have you made any progress there?

NICKY: Well top speed is not our strength at the moment with this bike, but it’s time stop complaining and go racing. We know it’s not going to be easy, and I am not as confident as I thought I would be with this new bike. But I need to focus on what I can control and improving where I need. And for me that’s taking advantage of the strength of the brake, and using its braking to 100 percent. I also need to re-adjust my brain to not use the clutch on back shifts on the corner entry and let the electronics do all the work—and not have the two systems working against each other. It’s the first time in my career where I don't need to use the clutch, and it’s a little harder to do than it sounds when you’re pushing at maximum and the reaction takes over.

COTA: Next up on the MotoGP calendar is the race in Austin at COTA. What are you looking forward to with your next trip to Texas?

NICKY: The fans! The support I get here at my home GP is amazing. It’s really a pleasure to have so many fans standing behind me rain or shine, so it will be nice to see everyone and have my family at the race. That’s also pretty special. They can come along, support me and enjoy the event. And Mom can sell her merchandise at her stand, which I know she loves!

MULTIPLE CHOICE…

COTA: Okay, it’s time to get to know the real Nicky Hayden. Tell us your preference of these choices:

COTA: Batman or Superman?
NICKY: They are both cool. But I prefer the former racers who have won the grand slam!

COTA: Pizza or cheeseburger?
NICKY: Pizza

COTA: Beer or bourbon?
NICKY: M7 Drive Energy Drink!

COTA: Mountain retreat or ocean view?
NICKY: Ocean view

COTA: Dog or cat?
NICKY: Dog

COTA: Star Wars or Star Trek?
NICKY: Neither. I’m not into that stuff.

COTA: Friday night or Saturday morning?
NICKY: Saturday morning

COTA: M&Ms or Reese’s Pieces?
NICKY: Both!

COTA: Football or basketball?
NICKY: Basketball

COTA: Blonde or brunette?
NICKY: One of each, please!