Kawasaki MotoGP's test rider Olivier Jacque reckons that tyre choice will be absolutely crucial at Indianapolis this weekend as parts of the track are quite slippery.

Even though riders will mostly use a brand-new infield circuit, the two main straights are part of the old oval course and Frenchman Jacque says the transition from one to another will be a test for rubber.

"The Indianapolis circuit is quite unusual and very different from the tracks that the MotoGP racers compete at in Europe," explains Jacque. "The circuit uses the straights from the famous oval, which lead onto an infield racetrack. The two main areas of concern are the difference in grip levels between these two sections, and the joins in the tarmac because they are quite slippery.

"The test we did earlier this year was quite successful for us and the Ninja ZX-RR was working well, particularly in the tight turns and the quick changes of direction. A good tyre choice will be an essential factor during the race as the second half of the track is very grippy and the machine is at maximum lean angle for a long period of time," concluded the Frenchman.