Khairul wants a bit more time to find his footing in Moto2
IT HAS been a struggle, but youngster Khairul Idham Pawi is under no illusion as to what it’ll take to succeed in the super competitive Moto2 class.
The 19-year-old rider was a sensation when he made history by winning two races in his rookie season in the world championships last year.
He won two races under wet conditions in Argentina and Germany in the Moto3 class.
Honda Team Asia then, in a surprise move, promoted him to ride in the Moto2 world championships this year.
But Khairul has not had it easy in his rookie Moto2 season as he continues to struggle to learn the ropes.
To his credit, Khairul has managed to earn 10 points to be ranked 25th in the Moto2 standings, thanks to the 14th place in the Czech Republic Grand Prix in Brno in August and a superb eighth in the Japanese Grand Prix in Motegi earlier this month.
“This is a learning year for me. I’m still trying to find my footing when it comes to getting familiar with the Moto2 bike. I need more time to settle down in the Moto2 category. I’m not thinking about fighting for podium finishes.
“It’s already a great achievement for me if I can finish in the top 15 to score points considering I’m up against riders who have more experience riding in Moto2,” said Khairul, who is also known as Super KIP.
Khairul, who replaced 28-year-old Thai rider Ratthapark Wilairot, is the second Malaysian rider in Moto2 together with Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah, who is retained by Petronas Raceline Malaysia for a fourth season.
So, what are his hopes for his home race – the Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix – which will take place before a near capacity crowd this weekend?
“Honestly, a podium is out of my reach as I don’t think I am capable yet.
“I will still try my best although to score championship points will be great enough for me.
“It’s more about improving my lap times in each round,” said Khairul, who is from Kampung Gajah, Perak.
This is a learning year for me. I’m still trying to find my footing when it comes to getting familiar with the Moto2 bike. I need more time to settle down in the Moto2 category. Khairul Idham Pawi