Aoyama to take first steps back at Brno test

Just over eight weeks after the warm up session crash at Silverstone that resulted in a fractured T12 vertebra Hiroshi Aoyama will once again ride his RC212V of the Interwetten Honda MotoGP Team, when he takes to the Brno track for the official MotoGP test on Monday.

The Japanese rider, who opted against surgery on his injury and has allowed it to heal naturally, has spent the past two months carrying out a progressive rehabilitation and will now assess his fitness. Following the test Aoyama and the team will then make a decision on when he will make his return to competitive action.

“I feel very good and I’m happy with the improvements I’ve made over the past couple of weeks,” said the 28 year-old. “Yesterday (Wednesday) my doctors did another X-ray and the bone’s healing process is going very well. I can move my arms and legs as I was able to before the crash, I just need to be careful with my back.”

“I started training a couple of weeks ago and have been cycling, swimming and going to the gym. Things are improving step by step and I’m almost back to normal again, and now I cannot wait to get back on my bike. I will decide on when I will race again after the test on Monday.”

Team Manager Daniel M. Epp expressed his delight at the prospect of seeing the 2009 250cc World Champion back on track at the test, and stated: "We are glad that Hiro's healing process is going so well and that he is improving every time. We decided that the test in Brno will be a perfect opportunity to test his condition. After the test on Monday we will decide how to continue, nothing is decided yet. We are happy to welcome Hiro back to the team after such a long time out."