Pol Espargarò made his track debut with Honda in Barcelona a few days ago. But it was with the CBR-RR and not the RC231V, so he was able to fix some issues ahead of the Qatar test which will start on March 6th. It was an opportunity to try out the new Turn 10, which was modified over the winter, and to talk about his expectations for this season.
How was the first contact with the modification in turn 10?
“It was very good. We have been driving here for many years and when we started driving here this corner was particularly different from other circuits. I think the corner is getting a little better now and also restoring what was lost during the last renovation. Now I think it goes better with motorcycles than with cars. ”
Do you think this modification is good for your driving style?
“I think this modification is good for riders who have fast cornering speed or who ride bikes at high cornering speed. The corner is very fast and I usually brake very late and stop the bike in the middle of the corner. Anyway, we’ll find out in June. “
Do you think the Honda will do well at Turn 10?
“Hopefully yes. We have a lot of tools. Even if it won’t be the perfect turn for us, Honda and me in the beginning, we can set up the bike with technology and some mechanical changes and it won’t be a big deal.”
Did the virtual presentation help you realize that you are now a Repsol Honda Team rider?
“Yeah, I’m still getting used to it. It’s still a bit strange to see myself in these colors, but I’m starting to feel more comfortable in them. Knowing that I’ll be jumping into the Repsol Honda jersey in Qatar, I’m really looking forward to it. “
Are you impressed by the media impact of the presentation?
“For sure. Being on this team means the riders are quick and getting a lot of media attention and lots of people around the Repsol Honda team. I think I’ll get used to it, but this is going to be one of the hardest things to do. ”
How was your first attempt with the Honda bike?
“It was really nice. The weather was perfect so we really enjoyed riding bikes, but it’s totally different from MotoGP. Because of this, I am really looking forward to Qatar to see the difference between these and the ones I will be driving there. “
What do you expect from your first two tests in Qatar?
“It is difficult to expect anything. I’m really looking forward to being there and seeing myself on this bike. I’ve dreamed a lot about this moment and I feel like I can do well with Repsol Honda. I have to wait a few more days and they will be long.”