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Revolving Racer – Mike Jones | COLUMNS | GASSIT GARAGE

Motorcycles have been part of my life even before I was born. That’s because of my father’s passion for motorcycles and because my mother rode as a pillion passenger when she was pregnant with me!

I was riding bicycles before I could walk and rode my first motorbike at the age of three. I played soccer from the age of five, but that only lasted until I was 12. Martial arts was in the mix for a few years too. I never raced motocross or flat track, instead I rode dirtbikes in the paddock and bushland with my dad and older brother. My first taste of road racing came at age 11 on mini-moto bikes. Although I didn’t know it at the time, it was the start of my career.

Becoming Australian Superbike Champion in 2015 has been a major highlight of my career. This led to one of the most fortunate moments of my career, signing a deal with DesmoSport Ducati co-owners Troy Bayliss and Ben Henry. And while last year was one of the most challenging seasons in the ASBK championship, I was given some amazing opportunities in two world championships. You may already know that I did a wildcard race in WSBK at Phillip Island and wildcard races in MotoGP at Motegi and Phillip Island. Those were a real buzz!

It was the performances throughout 2016 that brought me to the attention of some top people. Those people, along with Troy’s help, have provided me with one of the best rides available in the European Superstock 1000 Championship this season. I couldn’t be happier having signed the deal with Aruba.it Racing – Junior Team and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.

It’s a massive change to pack your life into a suitcase and move to Europe for the year. I’m currently living on the outskirts of Bologna in Italy with my girlfriend, Carly. We’re staying in an apartment on a farm about 30 minutes from Bologna. I like it a lot because it’s peaceful and relaxing. It’s great to have a nice place to stay between race weekends, and having someone with you makes the challenge a bit easier.

I’m training most days, working through my schedule at the gym, which consists of cardio, strength and stretching. Regular massages assist in recovery and help ensure I’m ready to race.

The language barrier is the main difference for everyday living compared to being at home. Hand gestures and pointing seem to be a common form of communication for me now. I’m learning to speak Italian, although this is a slow process and I can’t make conversation yet. I communicate with the team in English and the majority of them speak it quite well, so that makes the job a little easier.

The team is extremely professional and experienced with the Ducati Panigale R. The bike is slightly more advanced compared to ASBK specification due to the rules being less regulated. This allows for the use of aftermarket electronics, which means more sophisticated levels of telemetry, traction control, anti-wheelie, engine braking, power delivery and launch control. The engines are also more powerful, the subframe is modified to give a lower seating position, and the tyres are treaded instead of slicks.

I’m adapting to the bike and its differences, and learning to race against new competitors. The championship is highly competitive and its very important to develop my riding skills.

Pre-season testing and the first race at Aragón in Spain were very positive. I was happy with my performances, but know I can do better. I’m very motivated to improve because I consider myself an achiever and I’m only truly happy when I ride my very best or win the race. This season my goal is to do the best job I possibly can, which I believe will allow me to win races and be on the podium. For the overall championship, I consider a top five finish to be realistic. Ultimately, though, I want to do well enough to make the step up to World Superbike next year – that’s what I would really like to achieve!

I want you to know I’m very appreciative of the support I receive! Follow my progress online at mikejonesracing.com.au or on social media by searching MikeJonesRacing.

Mike Jones, Australian WSBK 2016