However, what does this mean for the season ahead? Well, nothing really I suspect. The factroy teams will continue to dominate with the odd surprise result the season should pan out in pretty much a steady fashion.
Paddock wise, the one to watch is Ben Spies. This guy is a smart kid and will very quickly prove to be the heir apparent over and above the other 3 "Aliens" on the grid. The question is, Why?
Having followed Spies through his first and last season in WSB and seen him ride at Donington and Valencia on his wild card Moto GP rides I can honestly say one thing. This guy is unique.
From his unique riding style to the way I watched him toy with Max Biaggi at Donington this is a guy with supreme confidence. He displays all the qualities of a great champion, understated, self effacing, pragmatic and analytical.
His entourage have been with him throughout his career and with his mother acting as his manager you can be sure his feet will be kept firmly on the ground. Some of the usual suspects from Moto GP can come across as prima donna's or overly focused, not Spies.
As a Rossi fan I want to see him succeed as ever, however I would hope that Spies will demonstrate on, and off, the track that the world championship is easily within his grasp, and I believe it is.
