SBK, Rolfo unveils the new Suzuki Grillini
Roberto and the Monaco team celebrate 20 years of racing: "like Rossi, I couldn't live without racing". Gamarino and Ruiu also ready to start
Submitted by Mirko Colombi on Sun, 17/12/2017 - 16:12
A pure coincidence, but in 2018 team Grillini and Roberto Rolfo will be blowing out the candles on the same cake.
The Italian rider and the Monaco-based team will together celebrate their 20th racing seasons: 20 years of racing for Andrea, 20 years of world championships for Roberto, who confirmed his readiness during the presentation evening held at La Rascasse in Montecarlo: "here I am ready for the umpteenth challenge. I'm training hard in order to be ready for Phillip Island. I'll soon turn 38 and am very happy to return to Superbike, as I was missing riding a 1000 race bike".
The new Suzuki GSX-R will need a lot of development...
" I have experience as a test rider. I know the project is new and the team, though private, has everything it needs to do well. I'll have a specially created team to follow me, including the skills of Nando De Cecco... the GSX-R has a great chassis, we'll try to get the best out of it ".
Rolfo belongs to the (small) club of riders over 35: "I know I won't have many more chances. This is why I thank Grillini for the opportunity, I intend to make the most of it and put all my experience into it. The championship will be a tough one and, believe me, the level in Superbike is really high, with Rea the strongest of all, he's undoubtedly a step ahead".
Valentino Rossi is worried about the day he'll stop...
"I totally agree! Like Valentino, I would struggle if I wasn't riding bikes. With racing, I'd really miss that adrenaline. Once I retire, I don't think the helmet will be simply left on a shelf in the garage".
You're an example for the youngsters, what message would you like to give them?
"Going fast on the bike is my job, and I'm still able to do it and have fun. This is the key - always remember that this is, first and foremost, a sport".
Advice taken by Christian Gamarino, who will be alongside Rolfo until Imola at least: "the Suzuki Grillini is really beautiful. I can't wait to ride it. Rolfo will definitely be a good teacher, I know him well and will take all his advice on board".
Gabriele Ruiu, not yet 18, is also excited: "I want to be ready for by debut at Donington. I've already the Suzuki in the CIV, I'll have to work hard to be the best 2018 rookie".