Alex Barros signed the contract today. The Brazilian rides a Klaffi
Honda Fireblade in World's Superbike Championship 2006.
After the signature was done Alex gave his opinion concerning his new
team and the season 2006.
Alex, what was the determining factor for you to change from MotoGP to
SBK?
Well, end of last year I had several offers to stay in the GP. But all
of these different possibilities were not so attractive for me and my
career. I want to fight for the title and in World's Superbike
Championship I have a real chance to do it. Honda and the Klaffi Honda
Team offer perfect conditions to me.
Do you think SBK may become as popular as MotoGP during the next years?
The ambience is terrific and the competition is on a top level. So with
some efforts concerning promotion and tv-coverage it may be possible.
What are your first impressions of the Team Klaffi Honda?
Everything looks very professional. They are one of supported teams from
Honda Europe and I trust in them.
Do you think it will be a big difference to ride a Superbike after all
these years in MotoGP?
In 2002 I had my last ride with a Superbike. This was in 2002 at Suzuka
where I finished third in Endurance. So this is not so long ago.
The CBR 1000 RR is new for me. But if we all work together we will
manage it.
The most challenging thing will be the change of the tyres, because I
have no experience with Pirelli. Also some of the tracks are new for me.
I'll ride this year for the first time at Brands Hatch, EuroSpeedway
Lausitzring and at the new course of Silverstone.
Your personal target for SBK 2006?
My target is to fight for title and have fun!
Which will be your most important competitors?
Personally I know only a few of the other riders. For sureTroy Corser
will be very tough. And don't forget Haga, Bayliss and Ruben Xaus.
You signed the contract finally now?
Yes and we did it in a record time. We started in November 2005 with our
discussions. At this time most of the deals were already fixed and Honda
Europe helped me to find the best solution with Team Klaffi Honda.
You have only three days for tests in advance. What do you think about
the start of the season?
This is not so perfect. But I have to accept these conditions. I only
concentrate to do all my best. Here we go!
Team Manager Klaus Klaffenböck:
This is a sensational deal for our team. Alex was always on the top of
my wish list for 2006. He has a lot of experience and aggressiveness to
cheer up his competitors in World's Superbike Championship. - Now that
the contract is signed we still have a lot of work and we are a little
bit pressed for time. Our target is to give the best material and all
our support to Alex. His Klaffi Honda Fireblade will be one of the best
and fastest bikes of the whole Championship.
