Miller revved up for course
TOWNSVILLE’S Jack Miller again flies the only Australian flag in the MotoGP world tour this year, believing he can make a solid start this weekend under lights in the opening round at Qatar.
Miller, 22, starts his third season in the premier class fitter, slimmer and more mature.
His 2016 campaign, although it delivered his first race win at a sodden Assen in the Dutch GP, was cruelled by injury, even before the season had started.
But this year, the Marc VDS Team Honda rider has declared his mind and body are in good shape.
“I’m prepared now better than ever to have a strong season,” he told the Weekend Bulletin.
That preparation began almost as soon as the 2016 season ended with plates removed from his right leg – the legacy of last year’s pre- season injury.
Miller spent gym time at the W Training Facility in California, trimming 3kg and building his upper- body strength to cope with demands of throwing a twitchy motorcycle around a track at speeds of up to 330km/ h.
“Phillip Island was a really good test for us, as was Qatar. I’m feeling more and more comfortable on the bike. And definitely feeling better than last year.
“It’s been a busy off- season for me and I’m just trying to prepare myself as best I can.
“I’m in a positive mindset and that’s been helped with all the physical work I’ve been doing.”
After finishing just nine of 18 races in 2016, being more competitive more often is Miller’s aim.
“Consistency will be our biggest thing this year. I’d like to be inside the top 10 as much as I can.
“Over the past two years I’ve matured as a rider and learnt so much and now it’s coming to show.”
The addition of new chief engineer Ramon Aurin in the Marc DVS garage has added an extra element to the preparations and testing.
“I’m enjoying working with Ramon and it’s good to have someone fresh in there. We’ve had a good connection from the first day we met each other.”
Miller fell early during the opening practice session at Qatar but jumped on his backup bike and still recorded 16 laps.
Yamaha’s Maverick Vinales was fastest in FP1, ahead of the factory Hondas of Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa.