One thing is certain: Summer 2018 will be a hot summer for the superbikes. Yes, because on the one hand there is the driver market and on the other hand the teams that are busy with various contract extensions. This applies to both Milwaukee and Ten Kate, but also to MV Agusta.
The Schiranna-based manufacturer will not operate their F4 directly in SBK as it is managed by the racing department, which is managed by Andrea Quadranti. A completely independent structure that, despite some support from the manufacturer, develops and manages the F4 autonomously.
2018 has been very tough for the team so far and Andrea Quadranti is analyzing the current situation.
“The Misano weekend was quite a struggle. The fact that Pirelli brings different new solutions to each race puts us in trouble. I say this because we can’t focus on finding the right setup for the bike. “
Quadranti goes into detail.
“Jordi has a very different style than Camier and as a result We have to start all over again every weekend. Unfortunately there are a lot of tires to test and this aspect means that the tires have a real impact on SBK. “
The situation is very delicate, also because The homologation for the Euro3 version of the F4 will expire at the end of 2018. In addition, participation in the Superbike series is not a priority for the Italian manufacturer.
“If your results deteriorate, the damage is indirect as it is not easy to find new partners in the future. The fact is that we are not primarily interested in continuing like this, even in light of the fact that the new model will not be available. Last year the bike fought for the top 5, while we are now playing catch-up. “
Quadranti is on his way.
“In this situation I don’t see any other outfit with which I can compete in the superbike. We’ll see who we can talk to to understand what to do next. “
Dorna can’t just watch because she risks losing two historic brands – Aprilia and MV – at once.
“Of course, it is not a matter of course that someone who rides an Aprilia does not change bikes. I am only talking about our own situation and under these conditions I would like to understand what the intent for 2019 is, especially in relation to management. However, I can say that under these conditions, as things are, 90% sure we won’t continue because it doesn’t make sense ”.
“At Portimao we have to make a decision, or at the latest at Magny-Cours“.