Burgess is the crew chief for Rossi (and was for 5-time world champ Doohan before Rossi hit the 500cc class), and he made that claim long ago (a decade). Most people these days admit that, with all the fandangled electronics and assorted technology, the rider is less important than he used to be, though still more important than the bike he rides. I’m hoping that the move up to 1000ccs in 2012 will change that….if the universe doesn’t explode. Going back to 350 lbs machines that put out 260-270+hp will hopefully leave a lot more room for the rider to excel.
I was really happy to see Nicky running in the front. Regardless of his riding skills, he’s always been one of the best sportsman in the paddock, always gracious in good times and bad, and always humble. I really hope he has a good year this year; he sure as hell can’t do much worse than last year.