Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Colton Haaker takes on the ErzbergRodeo for the first time this year, looking to experience first hand a race that he’s followed for the past 10 years. Competing alongside the vastly experienced Graham Jarvis and up-and-coming young Spaniard Mario Roman, Colton knows just how difficult the challenge that lies ahead is but remains focused on experiencing and learning all that he can.
Colton, you’ve been at Erzberg for a few days now. What are your first impressions of the place?
Colton Haaker: “It’s awesome to be here at Erzberg. Until now all I’ve seen is what I’ve watch on TV – ever since Travis Pastrana raced here some 10 years ago. It’s definitely a lot bigger, crazier and gnarlier when you see it in person. When you’re here looking up at the mountain, it’s crazy. It’s completely unique. Driving here is a really special experience too – you wind your way through scenery that’s straight out of Lord Of The Rings.”
The event started earlier today with the first of two qualifying prologue runs, how did it go?
Colton Haaker: “The prologue’s super fast. It was definitely a new experience as I’ve never ridden that fast on a fire road for that long before. You kind of need to be a specialist high-speed racer for that, but generally I felt like it went well. No one wants to risk a sixth gear crash so I guess like everyone I didn't let things hang out too much. I’m happy enough. It’s my first time at Erzberg so I’m not putting too much expectation on myself.”
Your prologue run was your first competitive ride on one of Husqvarna’s all-new 2017 enduro bikes. How are you enjoying your new bike?
Colton Haaker: “I really like it. It’s lighter, handles so well, I just feel like it really suits my riding style. Riding this kind of terrain is going to be so much easier knowing I’m on a bike that I’m so happy with. The whole package really is a big step forward. It kind of feels like you’re riding a 125 when you’re actually on a bigger capacity machine, which is neat.”
The prologues is one thing, the Hare Scramble is another. What have you seen ahead of Sunday’s main race?
Colton Haaker: “I feel like I’ve pretty much walked every inch of this quarry, but I’m sure I’ve barely seen a fraction of it. But I’ve seen enough rocks to last me a lifetime. Being my first time it’s important that I have some idea of what’s ahead for the Hare Scramble. Up until yesterday I didn't think things were looking too bad. But then I walked Carl’s Diner. Wow! I’m not looking forward to that at all – it’s like one super long world trials section.”
Do you have any expectations ahead of the race – are you expecting any last corner passes for the event win?
Colton Haaker: “I’ve been telling myself that no one expects me to win, but I want to do the best I can. Basically, I just want to keep things clean, learn as much as I can from the guys that have done it before. And just try not to damage my bike. Graham Jarvis has been awesome showing me around and offering me advice. I’ll do my best and see what that brings.”
The 2016 edition of the Erzbergrodeo takes place in Eisenerz, Austria this weekend. The Hare Scramble wraps up three days of action on Sunday, May 29.
