2012 season will begin the evening of the race which is a tradition in Qatar. Two great history will be recorded, as this becomes the prime era of MotoGP 1000 cc engine, as well as the increasing number of riders on the track to 21 people after a new presence in the MotoGP category, the team CRT (Claiming Rules Teams).
From the results of the last winter test in Sepang (2 times) and last in Jerez, it seems that Honda and Yamaha to join the team to compete in the front row. Meanwhile, relying Ducati Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi still need a very strong effort to offset the plant's two teams, although they are already doing a radical change in the Desmosedici GP12.
But the main concern is the defending champion, Casey Stoner. Repsol Honda rider seems to be the one to be defeated by its rival, because he was always foremost during pre-season trials (six in total nine-day trial). Moreover, he also has a reputation ciamik during the night race in Qatar, where in the last five years he was a four time winner.
"After testing a good pre-season, both in Sepang and Jerez, we go to Qatar with a positive feeling though it should still work," said the Australia rider. "It's for the first time will use the new motor in this circuit, so we need to spend more time to setup in order to get the best position.
"We always achieve good results at Losail Circuit, but this is a new season and there are many competitors there this year. I am happy to start the new season and compete with other riders for this World Championship."
Rider who can stop the dominance of Stoner is Jorge Lorenzo. Stud Factory Yamaha team has always put pressure on Stoner during winter testing, so natural that the 2010 world champion who was nominated for a chance to be world champion in 2012.
"I am very pleased to finally get to the race and see how our presence than many rivals," said Lorenzo. "Last year Qatar became a good race for us, but I think this season we have a little more competitive bike, so I hope there's a good thing.
"Because of my hand injury (three series of races last year, at Phillip Island), I have to wait a long time since the race, so I am very pleased to welcome on Sunday. I had plenty of practice for the season; I feel very good and very pleased with the motor. "
Other riders who could provide a serious threat is Dani Pedrosa. Stoner's teammate is performing pretty consistently during pre-season testing, because it always is at the forefront. Moreover, compatriot Lorenzo of Spain was also promised to be perfect so that no serious accident as in previous seasons.
"Every year is different and there are always obstacles that vary during the season," said Pedrosa. "I had a good race and the bad in the past, but a large portion of all proceeds is how to prepare for the winter. I work well this year, I had a good pre-season with this bike, and with my physical training; I hope this time lucky, so we can have a good competition.
"Qatar is important because it is the first series this season, but you have to minimize the risk. If you do not win this race, you can still be a champion, but on the other hand, an error can be difficult this year. I'm ready. Let us see whether it works well and where we are. "
Go beyond the three riders, there are Yamaha trio, namely Ben Spies (his teammate Lorenzo), and the duet Yamaha Tech 3 satellite team, Cal Crutchlow and Andrea Dovizioso. They have demonstrated ability during pre-season test, due to appear consistent. Fewer mistakes made by Stoner, Lorenzo and Pedrosa, the three riders are ready to deliver punishment.
There are still drivers who have the potential to bring surprises, namely Alvaro Bautista, the last two seasons to defend the factory Suzuki team. Using the Honda RC213V, Honda Gresini rider is already showing his talent as a rider to be reckoned with.
"I look forward to racing again, because the test gives a bit of pressure with so much work. Those days (trial) is over," said the Spaniard is. "Now is when the real action for us to give everything. This will be my first race with Team San Carlo Honda Gresini, and it is fun for the whole team worked well. I think we've made a connection that I need to spend my potential in Qatar .
"I like this circuit, because it is fast and flowing, and have a nice long straight track. Unfortunately, I was not interested in the idea of night races. Although the track is quite bright, but not at the races during the day. However, I have machine that is ready to compete at the front, so I'll give you the best. "
2012 MotoGP series of preparation, starting from the third to the first official test for this winter, will soon be over. Free practice at the Losail Circuit, Qatar, on Thursday (05.04.12), a sign that the real race will begin before the start flag was unfurled on Sunday (04.08.12).
