Alex Lowes, Hubris and Humility: Learning From The Past To Be Fast In The Future

Motorcycle racers are complex characters. If they are to achieve success, they must find a way to combine hubris and humility without their personalities veering off the scale at either end. Without hubris to believe they are the best rider in the world, they would never find the determination to dig deep in preparation, and overcome the pain and adversity the sport brings. Without humility, they would never be open to the constant process of refinement and learning, of throwing away preconceived ideas, acknowledging mistakes, and being open to the information which can help them be even better.Few riders are willing to talk about the two horns of this dilemma they find themselves caught upon. From time to time, they may allude to it in passing, but rarely do they speak openly and candidly about it.Which is why speaking to Alex Lowes, Pata Yamaha WorldSBK rider, at the launch of Yamaha's global racing program was so refreshing. In a candid and very open interview, Lowes spoke of his aspirations for the 2017 season and beyond. He talked about the lessons he learned during the 2016 season, including the hardest lesson of all, seeing his teammate get a podium. Lowes also talked about the things he learned from his stint in MotoGP replacing the injured Bradley Smith, and the insights it gave him into how to get more out of the Yamaha YZF-R1M in World Superbikes.