Hopkins to end Oz misery

American John Hopkins says he is determined to crack Phillip Island’s fast and flowing circuit when he goes to race Down Under in October.

Hopkins shouldered some of the blame himself for his miserable recent testing display in Australia where he slumped to the slowest time.

And he said: “A lot to do with Phillip Island is in my riding. I think it’s just something I need to improve.

“This track is special, the set-up is nowhere near like anywhere else and neither is the riding style. Everything about this track is different and unfortunately I haven’t been able to come to terms with it.

“The bike has never been the greatest bike at this circuit but I need to pick up because if we are going to be high in the points then it’s got to change for this coming year.

“I’ve got to be faster for the race, no question.”