Kevin Schwantz, one world title against Eddie Lawson's four and Wayne Rainey's three. Yet he is the most loved. ‘The fans see how much heart you put into it. Every lap at maximum, always. They appreciate that,’ explains the American legend.

The number 34 comes from his uncle who raced on dirt tracks. The 1989 Suzuki Pepsi? ‘Perhaps the most beautiful racing bike ever. White, clean, white wheels.’ Today's MotoGP bikes? ‘Too much aerodynamics, they're not beautiful.’

The 1993 world championship bears the scar of Rainey's injury. ‘He called me and said: you earned it, you put yourself in a position to win if I made a mistake. And I made a mistake. Don't think you don't deserve it.’ Words that meant everything to Schwantz.

The contracts? "2-3 million dollars base, up to 5 with bonuses. Different contract: payment for attendance, so Suzuki didn't risk anything if I got injured.‘

Retirement at Mugello in 1995 with tears: ’Joy and pain. I had given everything, but I knew that life was over.‘ Return at 49 to the Suzuka 8 Hours: ’I wanted to try, competitive times, then that's it."

Rossi or Marquez? ‘Valentino. What he has done and continues to do for the sport is incredible.’ Advice to Bagnaia: ‘Stay where you feel best or look for a new challenge, but go back to what made you win.’

Today? ‘I still like to push on the track, to go faster than the lap before. Still adrenaline.’