Hayden happier with 800

Defending MotoGP world champion Nicky Hayden has admitted he finally enjoyed riding Honda’s new RC212V 800 machine when he topped the timesheets in testing at Phillip Island.

The switch from the powerful 990cc four-strokes has troubled Hayden more than most, largely because he has no background in 250 racing. With higher corner speeds, the style required on the new 800 bikes is similar to a 250.

After giving himself a much-needed confidence boost in Australia, the American said: “I really enjoyed riding the bike at Phillip Island.

“Through the Esses it was quite good fun because you could just go so fast. There’s no big straight and you can definitely push around that track on the 800.

“The rider can make a difference by using body position and weight to get more out of the bike, whereas on the 990 you were almost just holding on through those Esses. But on this bike you can really push.”