Take 5; Rick Wennekes
signed at the end of last month Rick Wennekes at before SKS Racing-Husqvarna NL for the 2019 season, of course we are curious what he thinks about this and what his plans are. That's why we visited him in beautiful Haps in Brabant.
MXMag: Your last season on 125cc is over. How do you look back on this class?
RW: This has really been a super educational season for me, I have learned a lot on the 125cc in terms of driving round lines and "riding light", not clumsily rushing into corners everywhere, but continuing to drive neatly and technically. This went pretty well for me. We had said at the end of the season to stay at 125 and to compete in this class for another year next year because I was still of age. We then looked back on the season and ultimately made the choice to go 250 next year because before the season starts we will already be a few months further and I may also have grown and gained weight. And I have noticed very well that weight plays a major role with the 125 and this is also the case with the 250, but there are several riders who have the same weight as me. Still, I think the 125 is the most beautiful class and motorcycle to ride. But it was also time for a new challenge!
MXMag: The KNMV Dutch Masters of Motocross has improved greatly in recent years, what is your view on this as a rider?
RW: As a rider, I think it's really cool to be here at the start, so many fast riders and everything set up so beautifully and spectacularly, this is really cool! Yet there were also some lesser points such as dust and/or tracks that were too fast, but I think you will like this and this shows different sides of a rider! I really respect the people and companies who get all of this organized and set up like this!
MXMag: Last year you switched from JTX Racing to SKS Racing-Husqvarna NL. I assume the collaboration went well because he has signed a new contract for 2019?
RW: Yes, that's right, I certainly liked this. It was quite a change from the JTX team to the SKS Husqvarna team: guidance during the competitions, permanent mechanic, guidance on the track and guidance along the track, these were all new things that I had to experience. and which took some getting used to in the beginning, but it is really nice that there is such a team behind you with so much knowledge and experience and this has allowed me to really make a step forward both mentally and with riding the motorcycle. I am really very satisfied with the support of the SKS Husqvarna NL team and I hope that we can make further progress next year and we will work hard on this again.
MXMag: What does your schedule look like in 2019?
RW: In 2019 I will participate in the: ONK 250cc competitions, Dutch masters 250cc and ADAC Youngster cup. I also want to start again in some youth enduros, IMBA Youth and MON Inter competitions
MXMag: What is your goal for 2019, when will this season be a success?
RW: I haven't set any special goals for 2019 yet as I haven't trained on the 250cc yet, but I'm going to work hard again to get the most out of myself and start the season in good shape this year and stay injury free. This season will be a success for me if I can transfer my rhythm and speed from the 125 to the 250 and expand it again.
MXMag: Thanks for your time!
RW: Thank you for your interest in the Team and me!
By: Steven van Kempen/KEMCO
Photo: #NiekFotografie
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