Nieto on equal footing with Onde 2000 KTM project

Lining up a new project for 2008, Pablo Nieto has been one of the late testers in the 125cc category. The veteran of the lower cylinder category has moved from Blusens Aprilia to his brother's Onde 2000 outfit, and was testing for the KTM-supported team last week in Valencia.

"Onde 2000 is a different challenge for me. I'm going to concentrate this year on being a rider, my brother will be the team manager and I will try not to get involved at the moment," said Nieto, who will certainly have to be fully devoted to the cause with such a unique challenge ahead.

"It's a new team and a new bike, so for me it's a little bit difficult to only be starting in Valencia. We didn't go to Jerez, so this first time with the machines in 2008 will be to get used to everything in preparation for the upcoming Official Test, where we will be more experienced."

Also joining the team is Raffeale de Rosa, the talented Italian who had a sterling start to 2007. Nieto is pleased with the addition, with the philosophy being that the young upstart can further push him for top performances.

"Raffaele is one of the fastest riders in the class and it's good to have your rivals close to hand," notes the Spaniard. "I'm sure that we'll have a nice personal rivalry this season.

"We both have the same level of KTM bikes as the other teams. This year the factory are making seven bikes and these should be the same for everyone. We'll see at the first race, but of course KTM will push their fastest rider if they are doing well."