Honda rider Jens Getteman will stay in red next year as he joins the JTech Honda squad to contest the MX2 category of the MXGP World Championship aboard the CRF250R.
For the 21 year-old Belgian, it’s a welcome conclusion to a tough year. Jens has been sidelined for much of this season with an injury to his scaphoid that originally went misdiagnosed. This compounded the issue when he tried to make his return for the 24MX Honda Racing team with whom he was racing on the CRF450R in 2014.
Having had an enforced hiatus from MXGP since the GP of Spain in May, shortly after which he had surgery on his scaphoid, he has used this time to ensure he is fully recovered and fighting fit for the new challenge of next year.
Jens Getteman, No.51
“I’m really surprised that I have the opportunity now to ride for JTech Honda in MX2 again after the last two years with all my injuries. With my manager and trainer we talked a lot to decide to ride in MX2, and after talking with the team and Honda I’m so happy that I’m riding for them next year. I’m really motivated because I want to show something; it’s important for me for my career.
“I’ve only ridden the MX2 once so far, but I’ll start testing properly next month. I’m really surprised by the CRF250R bike though – it feels really good. In the beginning it was different to riding the 450 so there was a little bit of learning, but we’re going to work hard this winter.
“I’m so motivated for everything. I want to be the best. Maybe it’s not always possible, but this is what is in my mind and what I’m training for. Next Saturday I go to the USA for a bit of relaxing and also to watch the Monster Energy Cup, and then when I get back I’ll do a three-hour race at home and then I go to Italy for testing with the team and to get ready for next season.
“For sure MX2 is very competitive as you’re all together with young guns, but I want to give my best and be on top of it. I think having been in MXGP gives me the advantage of more experience. I want to prove something – I don’t want to ride for positions 10 to 20, let’s say. I want to be in the top ten for sure.”
