MotoGP Update: Moto2 Test

Showing posts with label Moto2 Test. Show all posts

Showing posts with label Moto2 Test. Show all posts

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Kallio satisfied with Jerez work

Post under Marc VDS Racing, Mika Kallio, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Mika Kallio is confident he has arrived at a solid set-up on his Marc VDS Kalex Moto2 machine ahead of next month's season opening round of the championship in Qatar.

Kallio posted the fourth fastest time overall during the three-day Jerez test in Spain and his best lap of 1m 42.301s was just 0.318s adrift of the top time set by fellow Kalex rider Claudio Corti.

The Finn completed a full race simulation on the third and final day on Wednesday, when he managed his quickest time on the fourth lap.

“It's been a good three days of testing here in Jerez. The plan was to get a little bit closer to the front and we achieved that today with fourth position and less than half a second off the fastest time, so I'm satisfied with that,” he said.

“During the race simulation the bike felt good for all 23 laps and my times were both fast and consistent, which means we go to Qatar in a good position.

"Conditions will be very different in Qatar, but the work we've done during testing means we're pretty sure even now how we need to set-up the bike for the first race.

“Remaining calm is the key to the first race; we know we have the pace to challenge the front runners, so we just need to continue with the approach that's worked so well for us during testing.”

Michael Bartholemy, team manager, added: “Mika's methodical approach to testing certainly paid off today, with his fastest lap of the test coming during his race simulation this afternoon.

"He will be quick in Qatar, a track that he has done well at in the past, and I'm confident he'll get his second season in Moto2 off to a strong start.”

Kallio's team-mate, Scott Redding, struggled with illness and machine issues but the young British rider ended the test just 0.3s slower than Kallio's best lap.

“Scott struggled a little with illness and an engine problem during these three days at Jerez, but he proved during the previous tests this year that he has the pace to run at the front, so he will head to Qatar with his confidence intact,” added Bartholemy.

“After such a long break I think we're all looking forward to the first race, where I hope we'll make a strong start to the season.”

The opening round of the Moto2 World Championship will be held at Qatar over the weekend of April 7-8.

source: crash.net

Gino Rea delighted with set-up progress in Jerez

Post under Gino Rea, Gresini Moriwaki, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Gino Rea declared himself delighted with progress made with the set-up of the Gresini Moriwaki Moto2 machine he will campaign in 2012 at the end of a three-day test at the Jerez circuit in Spain.

The former World Supersport winner ended in 23rd position overall with a best time of 1.43.486 that left him less than a second away from the top six.

He was actually poised to post a best time of 1.43.1 in the final session under clear blue skies in Jerez when he crashed unhurt at the final corner after clipping the back wheel of another rider in the braking zone.

That time would have elevated him to the fringes of the top 15, but he was satisfied with progress made in setting up the new 2012 Moriwaki chassis and Showa suspension.

Rea and Gresini Racing team-mate Ratthapark Wilairot are the only two in the 33-strong Moto2 field to be running Showa suspension and he told MCN: “This week has been positive in many ways and it was a lot better than the last test at Jerez.

"We are still trying to develop the chassis with the new Showa suspension and there is still a lot of development work to be done.

"We are quite a way behind because everybody has been fine-tuning their set-up since the start of the year while we are still trying to make big steps. But the progress we have made has been good. We have improved in every area, particularly with the steering and rear grip.

"At the last test I had a big problem with steering and pumping and chatter problems but this test we have got rid of that. We still need to work on rear grip but we are not far off.”

Explaining what happened in the final corner crash, which activated his Dainese airbag system, he said: “I was on a good lap and braked in my normal place and went to the outside and the other rider came across and I clipped their back wheel.

"If I had got round that corner it would have been a 43.1, and that would have been my best lap of the test. That would have put me close to the top 15 again and I’d have been happy with that.”

source: MCN

Advantage Corti as testing concludes

Post under Claudio Corti, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Claudio Corti leads the third and final Moto2 pre-season test, at Jerez, which finishes with 14 riders within one-second of the top.

Claudio Corti will go into the new Moto2 season having been fastest in two of the three pre-season tests.

The Italtrans rider, fifth at the opening 2012 test at Valencia, had been joint fastest at last month's first Jerez test, but made the top spot his own on days two and three of this week's return visit.

The performance marked a dramatic turnaround in form for Corti, who has been just 25th in the standings during the previous two seasons of the 600cc grand prix class, but is clearly much more comfortable after switching from a Suter to Kalex chassis.

Corti, who took a podium finish in the first year of Moto2, set a best lap time of 1m 41.983s on the final afternoon of testing, allowing him to edge out Thomas Luthi by just 0.004s.

Interwetten Suter rider Luthi, who celebrated his first Moto2 win at Sepang last year, had been fastest on the first day of testing and was the only other rider to break the 1m 42s mark.

The official Jerez Moto2 best lap is a 1m 42.706s by last year's champion Stefan Bradl and this week's lap times - while using the official Honda engines - signalled that Moto2 will take another clear step forward in performance this year.

But if the Jerez test is anything to go by the racing will also be incredibly competitive, with 14 riders lapping within one-second of Corti on combined lap times.

Pons' Pol Espargaro and Marc VDS rider Mika Kallio made it three Kalex riders in the top four. 2011 runner-up Marc Marquez shrugged off his five-month layoff due to double vision to end the test in fifth place and 0.447s from the top on his Repsol Suter.

The top Speed Up rider was multi Moto2 winner Andrea Iannone in sixth, with Avintia's Julian Simon leading the FTR challenge in ninth (+0.697s). Between them were Jerez I pace setter Scott Redding (Marc VDS), one of the few to lap slower on Wednesday, and returning former champion Toni Elias (Aspar Suter).

The top ten - which featured four different chassis designs - was completed by new Forward Racing (Suter) signing Alex de Angelis (+0.758s) with Corti's team-mate and Moto2 rookie Takaaki Nakagami a creditable eleventh out of the 33 riders.

Pons rider Esteve Rabat, Speed Up's Mike di Meglio and Tech 3's Bradley Smith were the remaining riders within one-second of the top.

The top MotoBI was former 125cc title contender Johan Zarco in 16th (+1.084s) while the best Moriwaki was Gresini's Moto2 rookie Gino Rea in 23rd. The AJR of Ricky Cardus clocked the 29th best lap time (+2.377s) with MZ-RE Honda's Alexander Lundh 32nd (3.013s). Lundh was ahead of only QMMF's lady racer Elena Rosell (+4.488s).

Moto2's third season of racing will begin under the floodlights in Qatar on the evening of April 8.

source: crash.net

Bradley Smith unhurt after 120mph crash

Post under Bradley Smith, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Yamaha Tech 3

Tech 3 Racing's Bradley Smith walked away unscathed from a 120mph crash during the final day of pre-season testing at Jerez in Spain.

Smith bit the dust on his Mistral 610 machine at the fast Turn 12 in the afternoon, but recovered to set the 14th fastest lap (1m 42.978s), just 0.5s outside the leading half dozen riders a the Spanish circuit.

“It has been a very positive test, despite the crash at the end at Turn 12. It was a very fast crash and I'm just thankful I've got away with just a few bumps and bruises and I will be 100% fit and ready to go in Qatar,” Smith said.

“I was pushing hard on new tyres and just lost the front, but we have learned a lot about the Mistral 610 this week, which makes me optimistic for the season.

"We have some work to do when you look at the lap times of the guys at the front, but I'm convinced we have a competitive package. I can lap comfortably and consistently inside the 1.43 bracket but when I push for a 42 it is not easy,” he added.

“But I am still really happy with the performance of the Mistral 610. We have improved the overall balance of the bike, particularly with stability on the brakes and corner entry. The Tech 3 Racing Team has been working unbelievably hard throughout the winter and at every test we have improved the bike.

“I'm a lot more confident on this new bike we have tried here, so I am looking forward to going to Qatar and starting the season with a strong result.”

Smith's Belgian team-mate, Xavier Simeon, was 19th fastest.

source: crash.net

Marc Marquez mixes it up at sharp end

Post under CatalunyaCaixa Repsol, Jerez, Marc Marquez, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Repsol Suter Moto2 star Marc Marquez emerged from the final pre-season test with a spring in his step after exceeding expectations at Jerez.

The 19-year-old was facing his rivals on track for the first time after he was forced to embark on a five-month lay-off after suffering eyesight problems following a crash at the penultimate round of the season in Malaysia in 2011.

Marquez, title runner-up last season, insists he has now fully recovered and today clocked a best lap of 1m 42.430s to take the fifth fastest time, just 0.447s adrift of Italtrans rider Claudio Corti's top time.

“The overall evaluation of this test is very positive, especially considering the situation that we were in compared to now. I think that we should be very happy with the results from these three days,” said Marquez.

“We have been steadily re-finding our confidence with the bike, because you can't help but lose that a little after five months out. We started to try out some changes to the configuration and are getting closer to the lead riders, who are still a little ahead of us. In any case, everything went better than I was expecting.

“The next challenge will be Qatar and logically we won't be at 100% there in terms of kilometres because we haven't had the time with the Moto2 bike, but we will have to have patience and make the most of the situation.”

source: crash.net

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Corti ends final pre-season Test at Jerez fastest

Post under Claudio Corti, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Italian rider Claudio Corti rounded off the 2012 pre-season as the fastest Moto2™ rider on the third and final day at Jerez, fractionally ahead of Thomas Lüthi.

Italtrans Racing rider Claudio Corti posted the fastest time of the final Moto2™ pre-season Test at Jerez on Wednesday, topping the timesheet with a time of 1’41.983 on the third and final day. The Italian set his time in the Moto2-only afternoon session, and was just 0.004s ahead of Thomas Lüthi (Interwetten Paddock GP), who had been quickest on days one and two.

The pair were the only riders under 1’42”, with Pol Espargaró (Pons 40 HP Tuenti) third in a time of 1’42.149. Mika Kallio’s strong form continued as the Finn of the Marc VDS Racing Team placed fourth on the timesheet, having been another consistently fast rider throughout all three days.

Marc Márquez (CatalunyaCaixa Repsol) has shown little sign of any lingering problems from the vision issue which had laid him low for much of the pre-season. Last year’s Championship runner-up was fifth at just 0.447s off the top time.

Andrea Iannone (Speed Master) made solid progress to end the day sixth fastest, with 2010 Champion Toni Elías (Mapfre Aspar), Julián Simón (Avintia Racing), Alex de Angelis (NGM Mobile Forward Racing) and Scott Redding (Marc VDS Racing Team) completing the top 10, all within eight-tenths of a second of Corti.

After morning falls for Randy Krummenacher (GP Team Switzerland), Takaaki Nakagami (Italtrans Racing) and Ratthapark Wilairot (Thai Honda Gresini Moto2), Bradley Smith (Tech 3 Racing) and Gino Rea (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) both went down in the afternoon session, the former’s fall briefly producing a red flag. Smith ended the day 14th and Rea 25th fastest.

The teams will now take their findings from the Test and make their final preparations for the season-opening round in Qatar, which gets underway in just over two weeks and takes place from April 5-8.

source: MotoGP Official

Scott Redding and Bradley Smith make big progress in Jerez

Post under Bradley Smith, Marc VDS Racing, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Scott Redding, Yamaha Tech 3

Scott Redding and Bradley Smith made big moves up the Moto2 timesheets in Jerez today.

Redding climbed up from 11th yesterday to fourth fastest this afternoon, despite a late crash at Turn 10 that he was able to walk away uninjured from.

The Marc VDS Racing rider took advantage of cooling track temperatures and a drop in strong winds that hit the track earlier to clock a best time of 1.42.638 on the Kalex chassis.

That put him 0.480s behind Swiss rider Thomas Luthi, who once again headed the timesheets with a quickest lap of 1.42.158 set in the fina hour of the day.

The Gloucestershire rider told MCN: “Today was a bit better and I feel better in myself, but we need to find a little bit more out of the bike to close the gap. I got down to a 43.0 earlier which is good but it is still a little bit frustrating because at the last test I did a 42.2 and that is a bit strange for me.

"I think it is the temperature of the track and the feeling is not so good in the heat. We are making it better slowly. We need to get the bike turning a bit more and find a bit more rear traction for the heat.

"(Thomas) Luthi and (Claudio) Corti seem really consistent and now the gap to them is closer, so I’m happier about that.”

Smith also made significant progress today on the second day on board an all-new Tech 3 Racing chassis and swingarm package.

The Oxfordshire rider was a lowly 17th yesterday but he climbed iinto the top 10 today. A best lap of 1.43.012 put him eighth quickest but he was less than half-a-second away from the top three.

He told MCN: “It is nice to actually put on the timesheets what I am feeling on the bike. I knew there was the potential in the bike yesterday but when you look at a 43.8 and you are 17th on the sheets, it doesn’t look like there is much potential.

"But we just needed to find it and today we made some big, big changes and actually found a bike that always in my mind I’ve thought how a 600 Moto2 should react and now we ard 95% there.

"I’m really happy over race distance again too and I am banging in low 43s consistently and that fills me with confidence because we are not dropping off. I’d have liked to see a 1.42 but the work we did was fantastic.

"A lot of it is balance for braking and corner entry. We need to make a bike that when I’m braking it doesn’t feel like I’m going over the handlebars all of the time and the rear is jumping off the floor.

"That makes a big difference on these bikes because when you have got 155kg of bike hopping off the ground and wanting to go straight it is difficult to muscle it into the corner regardless of how much you counter steer on the handlebars.

"That’s the biggest change making sure we’ve got a stable feeling entering the corner.”

Gino Rea also made good progress today on the Gresini Moriwaki machine and he ended up 14th with a best time of 1.43.486. That was 0.7s quicker than his pace on day one and he cut the gap to the top six to just 0.6s.

Spaniard Marc Marquez was in impressive form again today and he clocked the third best time.

Making his first serious testing appearance of the winter having been ruled out for five months with nerve damage in his right eye resulting from a heavy crash in Sepang last Octoher, he set a best time of 1.42.557.

That put him 0.399s adrift of Luthi and he walked away from a late crash at Turn 10.

source: MCN

Toni Elias: "Every day we are closer"

Post under Aspar, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Toni Elias

Toni Elias and Nico Terol have again improved their records in the second day of testing at Jerez again have used all your minutes of evidence and have continued collecting data.

The morning has been marked by further changes in the geometry of their respective Suter, and as the day has progressed, both have improved their feelings and their times. In fact, the last batch of late has been the most productive for both drivers of Mapfre Aspar. Both Toni and Nico were happy with the pace harvested and to improve their times three and five tenths respectively. They have also had opportunity to ride a narrower front tire, the Alcoy has been happy with the performance, not the Catalan who has seen some rebounds. In any case expect to continue making the most of their working time tomorrow.

Toni Elias: "The time has now been almost four tenths faster than yesterday, we are working hard and little by little we are leaving things right. Every day we are closer, but not going to settle, still looking new solutions, new improvements to be stronger in areas fast. Besides, today I mounted first supposedly new tires we use soon, and certainly not like I have done. But we have time to get used to them and find new solutions to gain more grip. Today we were more competitive than yesterday, tomorrow we will try to be a little more still, to leave with a little unclear Tasting ".

Nico Terol: "We have improved the time from yesterday by half a second, and we have also evolved in terms of pace. We have made progress and I know we still have much room for improvement, but there is more work. That's what training, what matters is every day we step forward and our feelings evolve. I rode many laps low rate of 1.44, I have wanted to keep pushing tomorrow to improve my records. Today we tested a narrower front tire that gives me some confidence. We lacked a bit more grip, but overall performance in the latest round of the day has made me happy conclusion. "

source: Motocuatro

Pol Espargaró: "I am among the best but I will not take"

Post under Axel Pons, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Pol Espargaro, Tito Rabat

Pol Espargaró set the fifth fastest time in the second day of testing in Moto2 IRTA Jerez, closing the lead group clustered in less than half a second. Tito Rabat was tenth, nine tenths, and Axel Pons 26 º.

Pol Espargaró was the first for most of the morning, to lose a few positions with the passing hours and also for not taking part in the final round qualifying, where Scott Redding has passed. In the same tenth that Corti, Marquez and Redding, the quartet just look from afar the wake of Thomas Luthi, the best of these two days with a stunning 1.42.158.

Tito Rabat has also been among the best all day, standing on the threshold of 1.42 (1.43.076) and closing the 'Top 10' and with a good feeling. Less has been satisfied Axel Pons, who does not quite at ease on the bike and should address shortcomings in the fast corners in order to progress in the classification.

Pol Espargaró: "I have given a lot of laps in 1.42, but I will not rest satisfied because we have faced some problems that have prevented us from going faster. The bike lacks traction as expected on the exit of corners and we work to find a good compromise between suspension and tires. I still like all winter, among the best, but I'm content and I want more, I would reduce the two-tenths of a benefit that has brought me Luthi and few thousandths ahead of Corti with a bike like mine. Tomorrow we will have a new opportunity to work on the development of the bike and from there, start thinking about the first race of the season. "

Tito Rabat: "Everything went pretty well and we stayed in doors to shoot in 1.42, as I did the last time we were here in Jerez. I feel very comfortable on the bike, I'm in the lead group and tomorrow will try to take another step forward in step-by-turn. I think we are at a high level and ready to start the World Cup guarantees a successful outcome. The team is helping me a lot and I think we can still be faster and more competitive. "

Axel Pons: "It just left me time and I have not finished the day at all happy. I still have problems in the fast corners and the bike gives me confidence in these points, which in this circuit are the ones that make the difference. We continued to work in setting up the bike and I think in the end we found a good way, hopefully we can analyze that morning. It will be important to get to go to Tasting with confidence and morale. The team is working hard but still far from where it is heading "

source: Motocuatro

Marc Márquez: "I had a small crash without consequences"

Post under Jerez, Marc Marquez, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Follow the countdown to the start of the 2012 World and today at the Jerez circuit has played the second day of testing this last pre-season test. This will, once recovered from his eye injury, the only evidence of Marc Marquez along with the other rivals before the start of the competition in preparation for the 2012 World Express. Overall today has made 53 turns more than 230 kilometers, which enabled gradually increase the pace.

True to the principles that he and his team always have been characterized, Marquez has returned to start the day with care to go up the speed gradually. Did not start until after 0:10 in the afternoon, waiting for the strong wind blowing today in Jerez, with gusts above 35 km/h- abate a little. When you finally come to court, after devoting the first day regain the sensations on your bike, Marquez has begun to refine the development of its Suter.

By adjusting the configuration of the chassis and suspension, Marquez has been lowering their watches and after about 20 laps, was the second driver to roll down runway in under one minute and 43 seconds, only surpassed by Corti. At the joint meeting with the pilots of Moto3, which lasted until 15:50 hours, Marquez has made 38 turns more, with a best time of 1 minute, 42 seconds and 557 milliseconds, just 1 tenth of the fastest, Thomas Luthi, and 9 thousandths of Claudio Corti.

After an hour of rest in which pilots were only Moto3 runway, the pilot of Cervera has completed another 15 turns, stopping the clock in a final 1 minute, 42 seconds and 557 thousandths. It was in her last turn, before suffering a slight dip in the curve 10 of the Andalusian track known as Peluqui, when it touched the inside of the curve under braking and has been closed direction.

Marc Márquez: "Today was a very positive day, we started working on the configuration and tuning of the bike, but always respecting our patterns of work, without taking too much because it can be counterproductive. Gradually we improved and at the end of the day we got a good basis for Moto2. The goal for tomorrow is to keep working as we have done so far. I had a little fall, I braked on one of the pianos of the route and has been closed direction, but no consequences. "

source: Motocuatro

Lüthi remains top of Moto2 field

Post under Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Thomas Luthi

Thomas Lüthi was the fastest Moto2™ rider for the second day in a row at Jerez, with Claudio Corti and an ever-increasingly fit Marc Márquez completing the top three.

Windier conditions on Tuesday made for a slightly trickier task for the Moto2™ riders at Jerez, although that seemed to do little to hinder Thomas Lüthi's strong pre-season form as the Swiss rider again topped the timesheet. Lüthi (Interwetten Paddock GP), quickest on Monday as well, set a time of 1'42.158 in the afternoon session, leaving him almost four-tenths clear as the leading rider.

Claudio Corti (Italtrans Racing Team), who was fastest at the midway stage of the second day, ended Tuesday second with a time of 1'42.548, and Marc Márquez (CatalunyaCaixa Repsol) was third at just 0.009s off the Italian. The Spaniard, who is continuing to improve rapidly despite having a shortened pre-season due to injury, walked away unhurt from a late crash at Turn 10.

Another rider to fall at the same spot late on was Scott Redding, and the Marc VDS Racing rider also escaped injury, closing the second day fourth fastest with a best lap of 1'42.638. Just 0.018s behind in the order was Pol Espargaró (Pons 40 HP Tuenti), fifth overall and the final rider within half-a-second of Lüthi's marker.

Takaaki Nakagami (Italtrans Racing) and Mika Kallio (Marc VDS Racing) were the final riders under 1'43" on Tuesday in sixth and seventh positions respectively, with Bradley Smith (Tech 3 Racing), Julián Simón (Avintia Racing Moto2) and Esteve Rabat (Pons 40 HP Tuenti) completing the top 10.

2010 World Champion Toni Elías (Mapfre Aspar) and Alex de Angelis (NGM Mobile Forward Racing) were the final two riders within a second of Lüthi, and Brit Gino Rea (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) took a big step forward, posting a best time of 1'43.486 – the 14th fastest time of the day.

source: MotoGP Official

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Pol Espargaró and Tito Rabat in the top ten in Jerez

Post under Axel Pons, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Pol Espargaro, Tito Rabat

Pol Espargaró has achieved the fourth best time on the first day of practice IRTA Moto2 which take place in Jerez de la Frontera and being the last before the start of the World Championship, which has helped him become the first Spanish. Tito Rabat has achieved eighth place and Axel Pons the 25th, a day marked by sunshine and spring temperatures in Andalusia.

Pol Espargaró, member of 40 HP Tuenti Pons, has fallen to 10 thousandths of third place and three-tenths of first, Thomas Luthi, and being one of the four pilots shot in 1.42. The best lap of Polyccio has achieved in the morning round, closed with the third place after going down gradually and records remain constant among the best.

Tito Rabat has always moved in the 'Top 5', to yield three positions in the final minutes of the afternoon session, having completed the maximum allowable turns. In the end it stopped the clock at 1.43.3, just over four tenths of a teammate. And Axel Pons, who has struggled to catch the rhythm, the end has made a best lap of 1.44.5, a? $ Ban with enough room for improvement.

Pol Espargaró: "I am with the front but I have not finished the first day of training too happy, especially because he hoped to shoot a little faster. In the morning we have been testing a new clutch cost me find the point, and the tires were not as in the last test. At that time the track was cold today, with the track five degrees warmer, I lacked grip. We made a change and have begun to improve, rolling pace in scoring a 1.43 and 1.42. In the afternoon we could prove little, since the engine could not give more than 56 laps. Tomorrow I hope to improve and most of the time, see me regularly by 1.42, giving us a moral in the face of the first race in Tasting. "

Tito Rabat: "I started the day strong and rolling with great consistency, then getting the final training time in this circuit. I think the evening could have downloaded the records, but I have run out of laps, was limited to 56, and I could not go to court when I have passed three riders. I am happy and am convinced that we can continue to be fast and be very close to the head, because the whole team is working hard and well and we clear the way forward. "

Axel Pons: "It was a day very productive but I'm not happy. We started with setting up the bike the last training session held in Jerez, but it took me quite pick up the pace and roll over short periods. I still have enough problems in the fast corners and despite follow Pol and Tito occasionally fail to follow the racing line and fix them good. I lose almost all the time in two or three corners and tomorrow will continue to work hard to get closer Tasting the best. "

source: Motocuatro

Marc Márquez: "I need to recapture the confidence on the bike"

Post under CatalunyaCaixa Repsol, Jerez, Marc Marquez, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Marc Marquez took part today in the first round of qualifying in Jerez that put an end to the season 2012. Reigning Moto2 runner, which was measured for the first time this year with the other riders in the category, has been very comfortable on his Suter and set the fifth fastest time with 1 minute, 43 seconds and 080 thousandths.

After some first impressions made in private practice in drawing Albacete ten days ago, Marc Marquez has returned to action today at the official preseason test of the tournament. The categories of Moto2 and Moto3 shared track on a sunny morning and good temperature started at ten-thirty. In the morning session, the good feelings with Suter have allowed Marquez to sign the third fastest time.

In the afternoon and the track only for the drivers of Moto2, the Cervera has continued recovering pace and confidence on your bike. His progression throughout the day was very successful and ascendant, meeting up again back to back with their level of riding.

Marc Márquez: "I've had very good feelings, I really wanted to resume training with the other riders. After checking in Albacete test that the subject of the hearing was fixed, I was able to attend these trainings. Today, being the first day, as we would have taken time to recover sensations in this circuit, which is big and fast. Gradually I have been gathering pace, and at first it took me logically, because the other drivers are on another level. But I could reconnect with the layout, with the braking points and I felt better and better. I think today we did a good job and tomorrow we start with the set-up. But I have yet to regain the confidence he had before over the bike, and is this what we will focus during this training camp. "

Source: Repsol via Motocuatro

Luthi leads Moto2 field on day one

Post under Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Thomas Luthi

Swiss rider Thomas Luthi was the fastest Moto2™ man on track at Jerez on Monday, where he led a top five which also included Takaaki Nakagami, Claudio Corti, Pol Espargaró and Marc Márquez.

Thomas Luthi got the final pre-season Test at Jerez off to the best possible start by setting the fastest Moto2™ time on Monday. The Interwetten Paddock GP rider set his best lap, a 1’42.627, in the morning session during which the Moto3™ bikes were also on track, prior to the later afternoon session which saw each category get its own run.

Japanese rider Takaaki Nakagami continued his progress with the Italtrans team by posting the second quickest time of the day at +0.266s off Luthi, with his team-mate Claudio Corti just behind in a best time of 1’42.963.

Pons 40 HP Tuenti rider Pol Espargaró was the last man under 1’43” as he ducked below the barrier by 27-thousandths of a second, with the fit-again Marc Márquez making positive progress in his first official Test of the pre-season. The CatalunyaCaixa Repsol rider completed the top five, just under half a second off Luthi’s time in 1’43.080.

Finn Mika Kallio (Marc VDS Racing), a podium finisher in the final race of 2011 at Valencia, Andrea Iannone (Speed Master), Esteve Rabat (Pons HP 40 Tuenti), Alex de Angelis (NGM Mobile Forward Racing) and Toni Elías (Mapfre Aspar Moto2) completed the top ten times, combined across the two sessions ran on Monday.

Scot Redding (Marc VDS Racing) closed the day 11th fastest, ahead of Simone Corsi (Ioda Racing Project) who recovered from a morning-session crash to go 12th quickest. Johann Zarco (JiR Moto2), runner-up in the 2011 125cc World Championship, placed 14th on the timesheet, 12 positions and almost two seconds ahead of former 125 rival and champion Nico Terol.

Brits Bradley Smith (Tech 3) and Gino Rea (Gresini Racing) ended the opening day in 17th and 22nd positions respectively.

source: MotoGP Official

Monday, February 20, 2012

So much work in Jerez Andrea Iannone

Post under Andrea Iannone, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Lots of work, without thinking of the time trial. So you can sum up the three-day test in Jerez de la Frontera for Andrea Iannone, committed to finding the best set-up commands to the Moto2 Speed Master Speed Up Team. The pilot Abruzzo admitted that there remain problems to be solved, but thanks to these tests were collected important data to guide development for the 2012 season.

"They were three days constructive enough," admits Andrea Iannone, "we worked hard, but we have yet to figure out some things. We need to clarify exactly where to intervene to improve your riding and to make it work harder.

We'll see how it goes and how the next test will be our situation with the new material, if it brings the advantages that we need to prepare ourselves for the new season. "

Andrea Iannone for the next event on the track is fixed March 19 to 21 in Jerez de la Frontera, the last pre-season test session, this time with the availability of official Honda engines by GEO Technology.

source: bikeracing.it

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Toni Elias: "The bike works gradually getting better and I'm attaching to it"

Post under Aspar, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Nico Terol, Toni Elias

After three days of incessant work, suited Mapfre Aspar riders feel very satisfied with their progress, and we eagerly await the next test in March.

After three days of intense activity, after hours and hours of shooting, no driver wanted to leave the Jerez circuit today, and is curiously today was the best day of the test Andalusia. Conditions have improved, the temperature was ideal and most teams have used to dismiss this training to work from early in the day, to almost six in the afternoon.

NicoTerol, like yesterday, trying to gain grip on the train back and eliminate some vibrations in the former. Meanwhile, Toni Elias was playing with the suspension and the chassis to gain more speed through the corners faster. Both have nailed her best time of 1.43.60-day, and were totally satisfied with their performance, after imposing a rate of 1.43 during most of the day. Now you think to recover, having completed no less than 394 laps between them (226 and 168 Toni Nico) in the three days of trial.

Nico Terol 1.43.60 (62 laps): "I am also very pleased with the results of this third day in Jerez. Physically, I'm finding more and better with the Moto2 and I can complete more laps. I made the last run of the day a great pace, constantly spinning at 1.43, but then we have come a vibration in the front. There I noticed that I lack experience in the category because, trying to resolve it with determination and a little too quickly, we have engaged. My mechanics have done a great job and we have gone ahead without difficulty. I make a very positive reading of this test because our records are already quite fast and also improve every day. Rhythm is also perfect for three days, I think this is key to further progress. "

Toni Elias 1.43.60 (71 laps): "I leave Jerez happy because we had a very clear progression. We evolve at a rapid pace and every time we get closer to the time of head. Today for the first time we have turned in 1.43, considering that the last time we were here I could hardly get off of 1.45, is a good result. I'm happy because every time the bike is working better and I'm gradually attaching to it. Of course we still have room for improvement, but we worked much in these three days, and thanks to that we have collected a wealth of information to be discussed in the break period until the next workout. I say goodbye to Jerez very happy with the team, there is a super smooth relationship, I think we're doing a job we're getting progressive squarely on the right track. "

source: motocuatro

Avintia Racing drivers, Viñales and Simon, among the best in the test in Jerez

Post under Avintia Racing, Jerez, Julian Simon, Maverick Vinales, Moto2, Moto2 Test

The last day of spring training in Jerez has been the best in terms of weather and track conditions. Avintia Racing drivers have completed the three days of testing without incident and looking very competitive.

Although equal in both categories is the protagonist, both Maverick and Julian, marching from the Andalusian track with a lot of work done and the feeling that they are prepared for "battle" that will begin next April in Qatar. Now, some time off before the last and final IRTA next March, again in Jerez, which no longer worth any kind of strategy. In them, we will know for sure what equipment and what drivers will be featured during the year. Racing Avintia Men are convinced of being part of a select group of pilots who will fight for places of honor in 2012.

Maverick Viñales (1.47.52) 48 laps: "After three days of testing I can only be truly happy. We worked very hard on the chassis and improved the engine a little, but we still need more. We filmed in very good and we're less than a second record in the 125 cc In next month's training we have to try and lower them to be even closer (if not better), the record. I think with the help of Honda we can get. Now there is a "break" which must be exploited to physically work best to get the best possible way to Qatar. I am very excited but we must be careful because it will not be easy. There are a lot of very good competition. We will see. "

Julian Simon (1.42.75) 62 laps: "Being able to roll with good weather and the track in good condition during these three days has been very productive. Keep in mind that this season I must discover and get familiar with the bike and the team and have these days of testing, has been fundamental to this. We made the most of the three days and, as happened when we left the Valencia circuit in Jerez I'm a very good feeling and confidence that we move in the right direction. We have not reached the peak (we still improve the front end) and yet, as we are fast and competitive. Today I made some great times and I have been constant. That makes me very positive about the coming IRTA and, of course, before the first race in Qatar. "

source: motocuatro

Pol Espargaro: "We are on track and I have great confidence"

Post under Axel Pons, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Pol Espargaro, Pons Racing, Tito Rabat

Pol Espargaró, driver of Pons 40 HP Tuenti low time in four tenths in Jerez IRTA TEST and leaves with high expectations. Tito Rabat also shines down to 1.42 and Axel Pons progress stopping the clock at 1.43.5

The three drivers 40 HP Tuenti Pons closed the second IRTA Test with extraordinary sensations and progress in the development of their Pons Kalex 2012. Pol Espargaró, Tito Rabat and Axel Pons will now have a few days of physical work before returning to Jerez for the final three spring training before the debut Moto2 World Championship in Qatar night, scheduled for April 8.

Pol Espargaró , 1.42.4 (58 laps) "We have improved the feeling with the bike, after a difficult day like yesterday, and today I went very fast from the first laps. I have lost my time in half and have shown steady as they come in 1.42. I have also suffered a couple of mishaps without consequences, one in the first corner and the other in the past, but I take it as normal when you're looking for the limits on a new bike. A year ago, on my first test with a four-stroke Moto2 not got 1.45 and twelve months after the lap not believe I have given in 1.42. I think we are on track, I have great confidence and Santi Mulero and the entire crew are helping me a lot and making progress every time I get on the bike. Now I have a few days of training without bike and I can not wait to return to Jerez IRTA and the seconds travel to Qatar for the first race of the World 2012 ".

Tito Rabat , 1.42.8 8 (67 laps) "I am very happy to have finished these tests in Jerez down to 1.42, a time that never achieved in this circuit. During the three days I have been gaining confidence on the bike and tuning in the set-up, but until now could not get a motorcycle front end stable in fast corners. We eventually found the key and I confirm in the next round of IRTA, the last before the start of the World, we will have in Jerez. The team is helping me a lot and I want to thank this support because they are an important part of how well things are me. "

Axel Pons , 1.43.5 (70 laps) "I managed to shoot in 1.43 and this is welcome after the tuning difficulties we are encountering. In the end I think we are on track and I endorse it in late March when we return to Jerez, where they have to focus so much on the bike and I can devote myself to polish my driving and how to gain tenths stopwatch. We are working well and slowly I can get to be with my teammates, now a step ahead, references to which I can be very helpful. "

source: motocuatro

Corti and Nakagami both top Moto2™ field

Post under Claudio Corti, Jerez, Moto2, Moto2 Test, Takaaki Nakagami

Three days of testing at the Jerez circuit concluded today with both riders of the Italtrans Racing Team posting the fastest time of the Moto2™ field.

The third and final day of testing at the Andalusian circuit was held under sunny and warm weather (ambient temperature 19°C and asphalt temperature 34°C) with times among the Moto2 riders dropping steadily as the teams wrapped up three busy days of work in preparation for the 2012 Championship season

Italtrans duo Claudio Corti and Takaaki Nakagami both reported the fastest time of the day with a time of 1’42.2, with Thomas Luthi (Interwetten Paccock) and Pol Espargaró of Pons Racing both posting a time of 1’42.4. Meanwhile, Avintia racing’s Julian Simon and Scott Redding both brought up fifth with a shared time of 1’42.7.

The quicker pace and pressure to make to most of the last day on track added to the number of crashes that occurred on the final day, with Tech 3 Racing’s Xavier Simeon, Kiefer Racing’s Max Neukirchner, Yuki Takahashi of NGM Mobile Forward Racing, SAG Team’s Angel Rodriguez and Damian Cudlin of the QMMF Racing team all having crashes in the morning though without injuries. In the afternoon, falls included Marco Colandrea and Pol Espargaró though without incident, however Claudio Corti and Alex De Angelis both had falls that brought out the red flag, though the riders ultimately were pronounced unscathed.

The Moto2 teams now have one month to analyze data and rider feedback collected and perform the required modifications their bikes before testing resumes again at Jerez on March 19th.

Unofficial Moto2 lap times for Saturday (recorded by teams):

1. Claudio Corti, ITALTRANS RACING TEAM, 1’42.2

2. Takaaki Nakagami, ITALTRANS RACING TEAM, 1’42.2

3. Thomas Luthi, INTERWETTEN PADDOCK, 1’42.4

4. Pol Espargaro, Pons Racing, 1’42.5

5. Julian Simon, AVINTIA RACING Moto2, 1’42.7

6. Scott Redding, MARC VDS RACING TEAM, 1’42.7

7. Mika Kallio, MARC VDS RACING TEAM, 1’42.8

8. Esteve Rabat, Pons Racing, 1’42.8

9. Randy Krummenacher, GP TEAM SWITZERLAND, 1’42.9

10. Bradley Smith, TECH 3 RACING, 1’43.0

11. Angel Rodriguez, SAG TEAM, 1’43.2

12. Axel Pons, PONS RACING, 1’43.5

13. Alex De Angelis, NGM MOBILE FORWARD RACING, 1’43.6

14. Toni Elías, MAPFRE ASPAR TEAM, 1’43.6

15. Nico Terol, MAPFRE ASPAR TEAM, 1’43.6

16. Mike Di Meglio, SPEED UP, 1’43.7

17. Simone Corsi, IODARACING PROJECT, 1’43.7

18. Xavier Simeon, TECH 3 RACING, 1’43.7

19. Ricky Cardus, ARGUIÑANO RACING TEAM, 1’43.8

20. Gino Rea, GRESINI RACING Moto2, 1’43.8

21. R. Wiliarot, THAI HONDA GRESINI Moto2, 1’43.8

22. Yuki Takahashi, NGM MOBILE FORWARD RACING, 1’43.9

23. Johann Zarco, JIR Moto2, 1’44.0

24. Andrea Iannone, SPEED MASTER, 1’44.2

25. Max Neukirchner, KIEFER RACING, 1’44.2

26. Dominique Aegerter, TECHNOMAG-CIP, 1’44.5

27. Roberto Rolfo, TECHNOMAG-CIP, 1’44.7

28. Alexander Lundh, MZ RACING TEAM, 1’45.1

29. Marco Colandrea, SAG TEAM, 1’45.4

30. Eric Granado, JIR Moto2, 1’46.0

31. Damian Cudlin, QMMF RACING TEAM, no time provided

32. Elena Rosell, QMMF RACING TEAM, no time provided

source: MotoGP Official

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Julian Simon: "We moved quickly and we are among the best"

Post under Avintia Racing, Jerez, Julian Simon, Moto2, Moto2 Test

Avintia Racing drivers have completed the second day of testing at the Jerez circuit running at a great pace, always among the best and completing the planned work of technicians and pilots to test these pre-season.

Julian Simon has continued the process of adapting to his new bike, trying a multitude of settings to find one that best suits your driving style. Gradually, both the technical team and the pilot are fitting the pieces to achieve the desired results, which have begun to loom in the day today, in which Simon has run really fast while regularly amongst the best.

Julian Simon (1.43.07) 51 laps: "I'm really happy. We have improved the stability of the bike, especially the corner entry, which has not let me ride in comfort. We used the time to look at different cycle solutions that allow me to better understand the behavior of the bike. We have made radical changes to get their reactions on all kinds of records. We eventually progressed and we were able to be fast with some comfort. Need to improve on some points but move quickly and are among the best. We still have tomorrow to get the latest improvements and hopefully finish the day with a good feeling. "

source: motocuatro

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