Examining someone's weaknesses is a very personal process and people's opinions can differ. I think Stefan might not be as strong as some guys if we are fighting and bashing bars and that style of racing is OK for me.
I feel that it certainly will be tougher for me this season. It will not be so easy to come back from a bad start and win a race. Luckily for everyone I'm sure it will be as interesting as it is competitive.
Q: How is your stomach now after the operation?
Mickael Pichon: It is much better now. I struggled at Hawkstone Park and my training has been delayed as I have got over the surgery. Physically I think I will be at 100% by the third GP in Teutschenthal. I am fine to race now but it is useful that we have some breaks after the first few rounds so that I can get my fitness up to a maximum level.
Q: What do you think about riding with Kevin this season?
Mickael Pichon: I like Kevin a lot and it will be interesting to see what he can do this season. He is very young and will be looking to learn. It was hard for me last year when I was riding alone and doing most of the testing on my own so I am sure he will be a big help.
He trains very well and is very determined; because of his youth and energy I may be able to learn a little bit from him! With a little bit of luck I am sure he is capable of breaking into the top 6 or 7. I like giving advice to the younger riders; it relaxes me and takes my mind off my own riding because I can get quite stressed about things sometimes. I really enjoy watching them do well.
Q: Kevin, what is it like having Mickael as a team-mate?
Kevin Strijbos: Well, to be honest I was a little nervous at first! Mickael helped me out a lot last year by looking at my riding and telling me where I was going slightly wrong with my lines. I was reluctant to initially ask him many things but over time we have worked together riding and testing and now I feel I can approach him anytime for some advice.
