Kevin Schwantz reviews day one at COTA

Crash.net caught up with 1993 500cc world champion and MotoGP legend Kevin Schwantz shorty after Friday practice at the Circuit of the Americas.

Schwantz is an official ambassador for his local Texan track, having also helped design the circuit layout.

"The weather forecast is looking pretty iffy for the weekend, but I think the weather is going to make the racing much better. Certainly more unpredictable," began Schwantz.

"It could be wet, dry or change during the race. So instead of it being a four-to-six horse race at the front of MotoGP, I think it could be a ten-to-twelve horse race.

"You've got the usual suspects plus I think Cal Crutchlow is going to be a contender wet or dry. The Ducatis are also looking fast. We've seen the speed and acceleration they've got and it looks like they are handling well in the wet and the dry.

"The biggest surprise was in the wet. It was unbelievable. There are six Ducatis out there and it seemed like most of them were near the top in the wet at some time or another.

"It's been a long time since there were three closely matched brands fighting at the front of MotoGP. It'll make the racing exciting for sure.

"Scott Redding and the Suzukis also seem like they could be in the mix if it is really wet. Maybe the Suzukis would struggle in fully dry conditions, with a shortage of speed.

"We've also got the first round of MotoAmerica this weekend. Cameron Beaubier just qualified on pole for the Superbike class. Jake Gagne is on a Superstock bike and he is right there in the mix too, in third. Those races should be good to watch as well."

MotoGP final practice and qualifying takes place on Saturday.