Everything is all set to go. Riders today had the final chance in Asunción to go over the last minute details of the opening few days. Next stop is the final meeting with race authorities followed by the ceremonial starting ramp. Then the real battle for the Dakar Rally 2017 will commence.
With the technical and administrative ‘shake-down’ firmly behind them, the Monster Energy Honda Team have occupied the eve of the Dakar Rally engaged in various activities. With less than twelve hours to go until the event gets underway, riders were able to take a final breather before the start of the first special stage. The final free moments, both before and after the rider’s briefing, will be used to go over the roadbook in preparation for the 39 kilometre curtain-raiser. The riders also get one final opportunity to do gym and physiotherapy sessions to make sure they are in tip-top condition for the onslaught ahead.
The spirit of the Monster Energy Honda Team crew is buoyant and the group are particularly eager to get into the Paraguayan fray astride the Honda CRF450 RALLY bikes. Without the injured Kevin Benavides, the rider’s line-up consists of Joan Barreda, Paulo Gonçalves, Ricky Brabec and Michael Metge, all of whom will be busy doing last minute race analysis as the clock counts down towards offroad’s blue riband event.
