MotoGP Misano - Hayden confirms Aprilia interest

Former MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden has confirmed he has been in talks with the Aprilia factory and visited the Noale operation after leaving Silverstone.

The American, who is out of contract with Ducati at the end of the year, still hasn't made a decision about his future but says there is a lot of interest in the MotoGP paddock but also hasn't ruled out a switch to World Superbikes in 2014.

"I had a look and it was very interesting. Their race department is really serious and they have a nice setup there. I have got a big decision to make so I don't want to make it on hearsay or maybe this or that. I like to go, get the facts, meet the people and really see what's there," said Hayden, speaking at Misano.

Hayden is believed to have solid offers from the new NGM Yamaha team plus an option to join LCR on a production Honda if extra budget can be found for Lucio Checchinello to run a second bike alongside Stefan Bradl.

"I can't say too much, not because I don't want to but because I don't know too much. Still there are a lot of things going on that make it complicated with different rule packages and bikes. It's not as clear as it has been in years past - also in Superbike.

"It's taking a bit more time but I will get all the information and make the best choice but I think the best thing is that I do have some choices and it has been great to see that after the last two frustrating years I am getting so much interest from teams and championships."

Hayden also spoke about his recent test on Carlos Checa's WSBK Panigale, saying it was interesting and he would go to the series but it wasn't he first choice of places to go next year.

"I hadn't ridden a Superbike in a while, so it was interesting to go do some laps on it. It was something different but my heart is in MotoGP and that is where I am focusing. I haven't ruled out WSBK but honestly it isn't my first choice but it was something I was considering and they wanted me to ride the bike anyway to give feedback.

"I would like to think I would do well in Superbike but it wouldn't be easy. It's a high level and it would be new bike, new tyres, new tracks but there are a lot of guys there I have beaten before so I would like to believe I can go there are be competitive.

"The thought of winning sounds very exciting but I don't want to give up on my dream of still being in MotoGP if I still have the possibility. I feel like Superbikes, I can probably still go there in a year or two and usually if you leave MotoGP, you don't come back."

By David Miller

Image by Bonnie Lane