Honda has to deliver in 2011, warns Kevin Schwantz

American legend Kevin Schwantz reckons Honda will be branded a major flop if it fails to emerge from the doldrums with Casey Stoner and Dani Pedrosa heading its line-up in 2011.

Honda has never won an 800cc world title and has consistently struggled to replicate the success enjoyed by rivals Yamaha and Ducati.

The Japanese factory though is launching a four-pronged factory attack in the premier class next season with Stoner, Pedrosa, Andrea Dovizoso and Marco Simoncelli all riding factory RC212V bikes in 2011.

And Texan Schwantz, who won the 1993 world 500cc title for Suzuki, said: “If Dani and Casey can’t make the Honda a consistent frontrunner and get them a world championship, the big red wings will probably need a few more feathers in it to fly.”

For an exclusive interview with Schwantz on his thoughts on 2010, see the December 29 issue of MCN.