Hayden wants head-start on 2008
MotoGP world champion Nicky Hayden has told his Honda bosses that he wants to get a head-start on preparations for 2008 - even if it means sacrificing some form this season
The American has begun to make progress with his RC212V, securing podium finishes in Assen and at the Sachsenring, but has already started to think that it may be time to begin work on making bigger steps for next year.
And that could mean trying out new parts on race weekends rather than focusing on immediate form.
"I haven't talked to Honda about what is plan, but I have told them I am open to test anything for the rest of this year," said Hayden, ahead of this weekend's MotoGP race at Brno.
"I want to get a head start on next year. You go testing and you learn stuff, and there is no better time to test stuff than during the weekends. We don't have next year's bike or anything, but getting closer to the end of the season I would be open to try some stuff."
When asked whether he would be ready to sacrifice race weekends this year in favour of making more progress for 2008, he said: "I would hate to sacrifice a whole weekend, but I would definitely try something like that in a way. I want to give them direction back at the factory."
Honda have introduced engine improvements for this weekend to deliver more power, while tyre supplier Michelin are set to evaluate new rubber in the test on Monday and Tuesday.
Hayden added: "I am sure that whatever they have to make it run a bit better, that if it works on this bike it should work on next year's too."
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