Valentino Rossi : MotoGP 15 Years Ago Was More Romantic. . . Ayank bebeb #Mbak_Yu Valentino Rossi is the only rider on the grid to have raced 500cc two-strokes and one of only two current riders - along with Dani Pedrosa (retiring at the end of this season) - to have experienced the first generation of 990cc four-strokes. Rossi was a world champion on both types of machine, then won his sixth and seventh premier-class titles in the 800cc era. Further technical changes, such as a single tyre supplier, 1000cc engines and single ECU, were to follow. But Rossi feels the biggest difference from a rider's perspective compared to the early years of his career is the level of professionalism. . "I think one of the biggest differences compared to 15 years ago is that now we are always very close during the practice," he said in crashnet. . "I think that compared to 15 years ago, the level of professionalism of the sport has raised a lot. Now, the team but especially the riders, try to work in all the small details. You try to learn, try to understand corner-by-corner, braking-by-braking. 15 years ago it was more romantic! You would ride your bike, have your feeling. But it is not like this now, you have to work more. Maybe it is a bit more boring! I think this is one of the biggest differences, but it is good for the championship." . One thing that hasn’t changed, despite not winning a title since 2009, is the number of VR46 fans that flock to each and every circuit to support their Italian idol. . "I'm always very lucky in my career, because I have great support, also outside of Italy" he said. . "I think it's mainly because of the results in my career, and also for being more than 20 years at the top. I think that a lot of people around the track are growing up with me, also watching on television. So we grew up together, and it's always a great feeling. But apart from that, I don't know!" . Yeah 15 years ago, you just need to play on gas and riding style. Now...?? Tyre, electronic, riding style play the role of your fortune. 😊