Honda Signs JM Bayle!

Honda has signed Jean-Michel Bayle as their HRC Sporting Manager. That position has not been defined, but he will play an advisory role in the new HRC Honda team of Gautier Paulin and Evgeny Bobryshev.

Jean-Michel Bayles said, “In motocross I was always a Honda rider. I was riding Honda when I got my two motocross World Championships. For me, in my heart, I always go to Honda.  I’m so happy to be back and to get involved with the team because it’s my passion and we have two good riders for next year, so I’m very happy to be in the team to go for the world championship.

“I think Honda is a big brand with a big reputation in racing especially, and I think Gautier Paulin and I know that when you are all together, a good rider and a good team, you are going for the World Championship. That’s what we are here for, for the challenge and to bring home the World Championship.

Gautier Paulin said, “To be a part of Honda again is just amazing. In two words, it’s a dream. I started my professional career with Honda and to be part of the HRC family is such a good feeling. We have been working really well together already and the feeling with the CRF450RW is really good – that’s what I signed for! I really feel good on the bike. It’s always a challenge changing teams, but I really like the crew around me.It’s just like coming home for me.

Team manager Roger Harvey said, “We’ve introduced Jean Michel Bayle as sporting manager, so he’ll be looking after the riders, looking after advice, and obviously his vast experience comes into play a lot. The riders have a lot of respect for him so he’ll be working with both of them throughout the year.”