Bradl targets Open class kudos on Forward Yamaha

Stefan Bradl has outlined his primary objective this season of finishing the year as the top Open class rider on the Athin? Forward Yamaha.

Bradl is still adjusting to the bike after switching from the RC213V Honda and admitted pre-season testing at Sepang and Qatar had been 'intense'.

However, the German rider says his overall feeling with the bike is positive as he prepares for the first round of the 2015 World Championship this weekend at the Losail International Circuit.

"After a winter of testing, I'm really happy to be back on track for the race. It was an intense pre-season: I came to a new team and I had to become familiar with a completely different bike compared to last year," said Bradl.

"The overall feeling is positive and I look forward to ride the Yamaha Forward. As mentioned, the goal is to be able to approach the head of the Open class and try to win the title in this category."

Meanwhile, Kawasaki World Superbike contender and MotoGP rookie Loris Baz has given himself until the summer to be in a position to challenge the top Open riders as he makes the transition to the premier class.

"It's finally time of my MotoGP premiere. I worked really hard to be able to get ready for this race," said Baz.

"I had to learn everything about this bike: the carbon discs, the brakes, the new tyres and strengthen my muscles to adapt my driving style to the Yamaha Forward.

"The goal is to try to get close to my rivals in the Open class by summer. I am confident and at the same time anxious to get on track in Qatar."