The MXGP rider has flown into Europe to begin testing his new RM-Z450 ahead of the 2016 World Championship.
By Hayden Gregory
The New Zealand rider arrived in Spain to join team mates Kevin Strijbos and Bas Vaessen as training starts to heat up for the New Year.
“It’s my first time down here in Benicassim and I’m really liking it.” Townley said.
“The team has been training here for a week now and it’s great that I can join them. I like being able to ride with my team mates. I’ve known Kevin since my first year in Europe and we get along fine; and this is also a great chance to get to know the younger guys.”
The move will see Townley work with 10 time MX World Champion and Suzuki MXGP Team General Manager Stefan Everts.
“I’m looking forward to working with Stefan,” Townley added. “I’m curious as to what he has to say about my riding and how he thinks it is going. My speed still needs to come-up a little, so I’ve got a few areas to work on in the coming weeks. Still, it was tough leaving my family behind. I’m missing them a lot already.”
Everts is excited to have all his riders at training putting in the hard yards before the season commences.
“I’m happy that he has made the trip already and now he has the time to acclimatise to the colder weather and the time difference.” Everts commented. “Ben is in great shape and ready to train with his team mates on the same rhythm.”
The MXGP season will begin on February 27 in Qatar but not before Townley debuts his new Suzuki earlier in the month at the Hawkstone Park International in the UK.
“I really feel like this bike fits me so well and I have a lot of fun riding it. I’ve been able to test a few more things since I arrived and that has improved the bike even more for me.” Townley finished.
