One swallow doesn’t make summer just yet, but by three you can be sure that winter is over. In Jerez Aprilia had the confirmation that the RS-GP works well everywhere and that the gap to the best competition is getting smaller every day. Aleix Espargarò finished second in first free practice and third in second, but the challenge against the clock didn’t excite him the most.
“I am satisfied, it seems that our bike runs well everywhere and not just on one route – he said – you always have doubts before you go to a new route, but It’s the first time I’ve felt this competitive, especially at racing pace. I felt at home straight away. At this point I can also think about the podium, why not, let’s see what happens ”.
Are you already thinking about the racing strategy?
“Of course, the goal is to improve a little, to start and stop! (laughs) Seriously, we’re always close in Jerez, but I have good pace because after 10 laps I was able to do one lap in 1’37 “, I was shocked and that motivates me. I think the Yamahas and maybe the Suzukis will be closer tomorrow, but it will be difficult be going much faster ”.
How optimistic are you?
“I would like to say that I have a bike that is ready to win, but that’s not the case. But we’re getting closer to our goal, the podium, every weekend. I believe that Morbidelli, Quartararo and Vinales will be the men to beat on Sunday and I hope to stay with them in the first part of the race, it would be important.
Where has the new RS-GP improved the most?
“The bike has become more agile without losing stability, which has always been its strength. On the other hand, we still suffer a little from changes in direction at high speed, however If you manage to stay with the front runners in three very different ways, it means you have found a solid base and now I don’t want to get confused. “
Did the data collected during the tests Dovizioso carried out help?
“It just doesn’t work that way. I also did some tests here in February, but I used a completely different setup. Bradl practically spent the winter in Jerez and is not in the top 10, which is not a huge advantage in my opinion. “
On race weekends you start strong straight away, but often have trouble improving like your opponents. Why?
“I ride at a good level and can be quick straight away, the Aprilia has also improved, but it is not yet a bike to fight for the championship with. The other riders are probably more ahead, while I immediately achieved 105%. but we have shown that we can always stay in the top 5 or 7.
Are you feeling at the best moment of your career?
“Not just my career, but my life. I have a competitive bike and a team that believes in me and I’ve never been so happy at home. The results show it now, but last year I felt like I was driving very well and I will continue to do so this season. I’m in my best moment ever ”.
Let’s talk about qualification …
“Starting in the first two rows will be of fundamental importance because in Jerez it is difficult to overtake and especially for me because of my driving style. Tomorrow I have to turn my brain off and take a very fast ride! Jerez isn’t the only option though, I have a feeling this bike will be strong on all tracks. “
This is how you go to bed peacefully tonight …
“After a year and a half my wife came to the racetrack with me and I always sleep peacefully with her, there is no better company (laughs)”.