Talmacsi amazed by first MotoGP encounter

Gabor Talmacsi was undoubtedly the busiest rider in the MotoGP paddock on Friday afternoon, making a ‘shotgun debut’ in the premier class with the Scot Racing Honda team and having to start completely from scratch.

The Hungarian had barely put pen to paper on his contract before being whisked off to undertake further preliminaries, including kitting out his new Honda RC212V and leathers with personal and sponsorship logos. Dressed to ride, Talmacsi was then shown the myriad details of the 800cc bike in preparation for his first practice session. He may have received explanations in the garage, but nothing could prepare him for being out on track.

“The bike is amazing. It’s so difficult to explain, as I’ve never felt this kind of power, this kind of braking feeling, the grip of the Bridgestone tyres… it’s another world! Of course, I need more laps in order to improve, but I think that I can do it!” said a determined Talmacsi, seemingly destined for a complicated search for a ride after a split with the Balatonring 250cc team one month ago.

Even finishing an understandable last on the timesheet was of little concern for the former 125cc World Champion, who will never forget the events of June 12th.

“It has been an exciting opportunity for me. I’m happy to be back on track, with this kind of chance. This is my dream. You know, I come from Eastern Europe, and had to work very hard to get here. Myself and the Team Manager, Cirano Mularoni, know each other from 2006 in the Humangest Honda 125cc team, and he’s more like a friend to me.”

Debutant Talmacsi will continue alongside Yuki Takahashi for the remainder of the 2009 season, running the number 41 in a ‘switcharound’ of his previous number 14.