(Photo: Kawasaki Racing)

How important is it to get off to a good start in Anaheim?

Sheheen: "Anaheim sets the tone for the rest of the season. If you can step up and set a blistering pace and take the win, it is a huge mental edge on the rest of the field. Coming into Anaheim everybody has been working as hard as they can to get ready. If you smoke them, it is a crushing blow to them mentally."

Emig: “Well, unless you’re Villopoto or Dungey, it's everything. You need to get the positive vibes going early to contend the whole season. I believe Villopoto and Dungey are strong enough to bounce back if they have a bad race at the opening round. It has been done before by Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart, so it’s possible -- just not part of the game plan.”

Bates: “Getting off to a good start at Anaheim is everything! You can't win the championship there but you can most certainly lose it. Ultimately, it can set the tone for the whole season. So be spectacular!”

Which track(s) do you look at as difference makers for riders during the season?

Sheheen: "One race that can really shake things up is Daytona. The weather can be very treacherous. We have raced there in driving rain storms more than once and it can definitely have an impact on the title chase."

Emig: “Having a good vibe going in Angel Stadium of Anaheim is important because we will have three races there. A rider always looks forward to going back to a building where he has had success. Daytona is a real test of physical fitness. Atlanta is huge event with an immeasurable energy so it’s always a big boost. But if it comes down to it and you need a good ride to win the title, you better be good on the hard-packed desert dirt of Las Vegas. $$$ Payday.”

Bates: “The track could be considered the ‘21st rider.’ Every track is uniquely designed with obstacles and rhythm sections made from different types of dirt … East Coast to West Coast. Line choices change lap to lap, making it tricky for riders to predict what to prepare for next. Every track suits each rider’s style differently. So, in my opinion, every track will make the difference.”

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