A day of intense work, but by and large profitable. These goods Johann Zarco‘s first impressions at the end of Day 2 (the first for him) of the official MotoGP testing. On the Losail circuit, he had the opportunity to make his debut and get in touch with the Ducati of the Pramac team. take home an encouraging sixth place in this pre-season test. Despite being four tenths behind the lead, the Frenchman was surprised by his speed today.
“I think it’s an excellent first day. In winter I was only able to train with the Panigale V4S, so that was my first test on the Desmosedici in 2021I’m quite surprised, I didn’t expect to be competitive from the start “.
For long stretches at the top of today’s timesheets, the Cannes driver tested a few new things that gave him positive feedback.
“There are no big differences from last year, just very small parts that helped me. I think these engine, transmission and chassis improvements will help us in the race. I have excellent sensations on the bike. The team is fantastic and I’ve brought some of my trusted mechanics with me, with Ducati we are on the right track “, he concluded.
Jorge Martin: “We have to move forward in small steps”
While Zarco has considerable experience with the Ducati, on the other hand, the Pramac garage Jorge Martin continues to retract. For the Spaniard it was the second qualifying after yesterday’s shakedown, in which he crashed in the last part. In addition to shortening his best lap time by over two seconds, he was the fastest of the rookies in 18th place.
“I have pain in my neck after the accident, but nothing to worry about. Today I went out on the track and tried not to repeat the same mistake. I’m very satisfied, I’ve improved with every outcome. “
Despite what happened Jorge Martin completed 37 useful laps to continue his adaptation to the bike. without focusing too much on a “time attack”. These are just the first tests together and the road is long but the Madrid rider feels extremely happy.
“Unfortunately I couldn’t do laps with a fast driver, I mostly drove alone. Anyway, I did tried to improve my sensations and my driving style – he explained – I have to perfect some aspects like the position in the saddle, but we have several days to be ready for the debut. At this moment the goal is to take small steps forward every time ”.
At the same time, the 23-year-old learns the secrets of Michelin tires, which differ greatly from the Dunlops used in the middle class until last year.
“Compared to Moto2, the French manufacturer’s tires are a big leap forward. I’m trying to do my best but I’m still not fast enough to push them to their limits and understand their true potential,” he concluded.