2014 Kawasaki Racing Team
There’s no doubting the performance of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R in World Superbike – factory rider Tom Sykes took the 2013 title aboard one.
But as Sykes continued to achieve optimal results throughout 2013, his teammate, Loris Baz, struggled. The Frenchman was affected by a back injury, which prevented him from competing in the final four rounds of 2013 World SBK.
But ahead of the mandatory testing ban, which began Dec. 1 and ends Jan. 15, Baz was back with the Kawasaki Racing Team for three tests. Though he wasn’t quickest on the the time sheets, he says his physical conditions are improving.
Loris Baz (Kawasaki Racing Team ZX-10R Superbike) says: “My back is really good now, I’m working hard on it with my coach Dominique Simoncini and I’m following a physiotherapy program. I’m feeling great. Testing went really well, I’m happy because we could end up 2013 in a strong way and that gives me confidence for next season. We did a big step forward with electronics and general feeling with the ZX-10R. Kawasaki Japan gave us some new parts which worked well and suit my riding style better.”
Of course, after two years of not-so good results, much will be expected from the former STK600 Champion in 2014. But he does not feel any pressure about the 2014 SBK.
Loris Baz says: “I don’t feel any pressure on my shoulders, I’m simply excited. I knew the level we reached in the second half of the season, but unfortunately the injury did not allow me to show my potential. We surely need to get a good start of 2014 and be consistently up front, my goal is to finish the season within the top-3.”
Over the winter break, Baz will continue working on his physical condition, hoping to be in top shape for 2014 World Superbike.
Loris Baz says: “I have no plans yet, but of course I will keep training hard during the winter. Today I’m going to Aix-en-Provence with my friend Jeremy Guarnoni to ride Supermoto bikes. I will spend Christmas at home and do also some snowmobile skiing. I can’t wait for January 16th as we’ll be testing at Almeria, I love riding my ZX-10R and I want to keep improving before the start of the season.”
