At 34 years of age, Noboru Ueda is one of the last remaining members of a generation of Japanese riders who burst onto the Grand Prix scene at the beginning of the 1990's. 'Nobby' marked his arrival in sensational style, winning his debut race from pole position in 1991. However, despite his early promise he has found the no1 plate to be an elusive target, finishing runner up in 1994 and 1997 and injuring his arm as he mounted a title challenge in 1998. The lifelong Honda servant has never lost his enthusiasm or competitive edge, and returns for his twelfth consecutive season in the 125 class with renewed hope of a push for World Championship honours in 2002.