Hopkins aiming for 'big things' in Assen

Hopkins, who scored his maiden MotoGP pole position in last year's race, has shone in recent races as his team continue to make progress towards the front.

The American, fifth in the championship with 83 points, admits he loves racing at Assen, and he is confident of a good result there.

"I can't wait to get to Assen, I love it there," admitted Hopkins. "I got my first pole last year and I know I could have had a better result in the race but we had some grip problems.

"I can't see that happening again this year because Bridgestone has really stepped up and the tyres have worked well everywhere so far.

"The bike is also going great and we have shown that by being able to consistently run at the front in all conditions, so I can only see big things happening this weekend.

"I really want a dry race as I know the 800s will be fast at Assen and I certainly can't wait to see what we can do around there."

Australian Chris Vermeulen is also optimistic of a strong Dutch Grand Prix to consolidate his position in the championship. Vermeulen is right ahead of his teammate, having scored five more points.

"I had a good result last weekend at Donington and would like to repeat that at Assen," said Vermeulen in a team preview. "We had a few issues in the race last year, but did manage to get in the top 10.

"I really like the track and I had a double-header win in World Superbikes in 2005 as well as setting pole position and the fastest lap of the day in the races, so I know my way around here as well as anyone. I am really looking forward to this weekend and we need to keep this run going."