Ducati’s Eric Bostrom has had his share of ups and downs. I remember he high-sided during practice for Daytona years ago (I believe he was on a Honda superbike at the time) breaking his ankle. Even after fully recovering physically, it was quite some time after that before he rode with any real confidence.
Switching to a v-twin Ducati 999 a year ago seemed to affect Eric’s confidence, as well. It just took him some time to feel comfortable on the bike (it probably didn’t help that Ducati used Michelin tires on the bike last year . . . Bostrom had been on Dunlop tires for years).
This year, Bostrom has found a very good rhythm on the 999, and has scored two victories in the last four AMA Superbike races. This includes that huge win at Laguna Seca a couple of weeks ago.
Early this year, it looked like his teammate Neil Hodgson (a former World superbike champ and MotoGP rider) would run away from Eric Bostrom at every race. Now, ironically, Hodgson is the one who needs to get back on track after a few forgetful rides (including his first lap crash at Laguna Seca). In any event, when Eric Bostrom is confident and feels right on his bike, he can be very difficult to beat. He should put in a good showing at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course this weekend.
