Sykes targets podiums after fourth at Assen

Factory Yamaha rider, Tom Sykes believes that he has the potential to challenge for podiums in the future as he continues to find the optimum setting for his R1.

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The 24 year old enjoyed another impressive weekend in Assen after claiming fourth in race one before battling with fellow countryman Jonathan Rea to end up sixth in race two.

He said:

“We had really good potential this weekend. I think we did ok in race one, but in race two we made a small change but it didn’t seem to work

“I had an issue with the front brake lever which made my braking inconsistent and it meant my initial braking was quite weak so I ran wide in a few places.

In race two I made a diabolical start and that was my fault. I left myself too much work to do. And you make life difficult if you give yourself work to do against these boys.”

Despite being overshadowed by his American team-mate Ben Spies who has already won four races, Sykes has remained disciplined and focussed and is confident he is making progress every time he rides the bike.

“Everything is working, now its just a case of fine tuning it. A fourth and a sixth isn’t too bad, I’m not over the moon with it, but I’m confident we will be stronger in the coming rounds.

“To be honest, the year is shaping up pretty good and it’s only a matter of time before I’ll be stepping on the podium, especially after what we’ve learnt here and at the Monza test.

“I don’t like alcohol but the sweet taste of champagne wouldn’t go a miss now!”