Stiggy Honda World Superbike rider Roby Rolfo has put off an operation to stablise his injured left shoulder so he is able to race in 2009.

Doctors think that surgery would be a good idea, but any operation would necessitate long rehabilitation and could force Roby to miss a large part of this year’s championship.

Because of this, he has decided to put off surgery and is now on a course of physiotherapy so that he can take part in the Portimao tests on 23, 24 & 25th January. During these tests, Roby will wear special support to increase the stability of his shoulder when he is on track.

“For the moment, I  have decided not to have an operation because I want to continue  physiotherapy and improve the stability of my shoulder.  Above all, I don’t want to lose even a day on track," said Rolfo.

"It will be long and hard work, but I’m in good muscular condition, thanks to constant physio during the last season. At Portimao, I will wear a special support which will  stabilise the shoulder when I am on the bike. I’m sure my strong motivation and  desire to ride will overcome any aggravation the shoulder gives me! I am determined to do my best, whatever my condition!”