Yesterday, Alex Rins’ Suzuki caught fire in the pit lane and today the Spaniard set the best time with the same motorcycle. So the Sepang weekend couldn’t have started better as he finished the free practice sessions before the others.
“We knew the Suzuki would be competitive – he began – Compared to February, the motorcycle has changed a lot, especially in terms of engine, electronics and aerodynamics. So we have to keep going in that direction, improve the braking as we are still suffering a bit there, and try to be strong in qualifying on the flying lap. “
And to think that the same GSX-RR caught fire yesterday.
“The team did an amazing job – he remembered – yesterday, when the Suzuki caught fire, I was here in the garage. I saw every member of the team working hard to lend a hand and put out the fire. The funny thing is, I spent the time at FP2 on the same bike that caught fire. “
So the look on Alex’s face shows a lot of self-confidence.
“We can say that we are “on fire” – he joked – like we have a fire inside. Compared to FP1 we changed some things on the electronics such as the mapping and I have to say the sensations are excellent. I’m obviously surprised by the performance – he concluded – and all the more so when I’ve solved the problem that happened yesterday. The feelings about the tires were positive. “
On the other hand, Andrea had to chase Iannone from behind and set the ninth fastest time, almost nine tenths of a second behind his team mate.
“The weather conditions were difficult but the second practice turned out to be positive – the Italian driver explained – I have some problems braking and accelerating so I need to improve to get the most out of my potential. I am really fighting in the third sector and I still lack confidence as the Suzuki is sliding around too much. “
In the meantime, Rins is on top of the pile.
“We can compare data – Andrea emphasized – it has a different framework than I do here. This is not a really important aspect. All that matters is the solution to the problem. Unfortunately, from the tests onwards, Sepang wasn’t a positive track for me and as I said, I don’t have good grip and have problems accelerating. “