Behind the scenes MotoGP: Assen paddock pics part 1

Touring the paddock at the MotoGP Assen is like being in a land of caravans.
You realise that things are tough for those in the 125cc and Moto2 classes as they camp out with their camper vans becoming makeshift garages.

They work in the heat and only the wealthier teams with sponsors manage to get something closer to pit-lane and the air conditioning of the hospitality tents.

As the MotoGP free practice laps get underway there is the constant noise of bikes rumbling around the track and you can orientate yourself purely based on where the riders are at any one time.

In the meantime, mechanics and teams work on the bikes and the tyres as journalists take a few shots before the press conferences get underway.
There is an air of routine calm which belies the incredible noise and atmosphere of adrenalin which comes from the track during the free practice.

You realise that there are symbols that will stay with you after the races are over: the scooters, tyres, banners and no access areas.
Check out our gallery below for the behind the scenes of theMotoGP Assen paddock.