February 13th saw Aprilia present their 2001 World Superbike team in a lavish ceremony at Marghera, near Venice. The occasion was attended by all of Aprilia's top brass, plus FIM president Mr Zerbi and SBK International president Paolo Flammini, together with the world's media.

Unlike former years, the Aprilia SBK team launch was separate to that of the GP team - a sign of Aprilia's growing committment to the World Superbike Championship and a sign that Aprilia really wants the title. This year, Troy is joined by ex-GP star Frenchman Regis Laconi and these two will be suppported by test rider Alessandro Antonello at selected races.

Troy's entrance to the launch was a little dramatic. His flights from Australia to Italy suffered numerous delays and he arrived soon after the opening film was being shown -sporting a slight limp. Despite twenty-two hours in the air, Troy looked relaxed and said, "Every flight was delayed or had a problem, but I made it. My left foot (the one I injured in South Africa) is a little sore, mostly because of being on an aeroplane for so long! Feet always swell up on aeroplanes, so I expected it. The foot will be OK for the Valencia tests - no problem.

I was surprised when Aprilia told me that the Superbike launch was on its own - but very happy. It means that Aprilia are really committed to trying to win the title. Our recent tests have shown that the RSV 1000 is improved over last year, so I think we have a really good chance. This year, I'm here to win the title and that's what I'm aiming for."