GOOD OUTCOME FROM PORTIMAO FOR INDONESIAN RACING GRESINI MOTO3
The last European test before the trip to Qatar has drawn to a close for Jeremy Alcoba and Gabriel Rodrigo, who have completed two days of action at Portimao, Portugal.
Alcoba, who few months ago had claimed at this track his maiden World Championship podium, has had a bit more of a hard time to find the right feeling on the bike, but was eventually able to up his game towards the end and set some interesting lap-times – with a smile back on his face afterwards. His 1’48.5secs lap-time is already a very competitive one.
Wind aside, it was an important test also for Gabriel Rodrigo, who showed the same type of form as in Valencia while already eyeing Qatar (19-21 March). The Argentine got a very positive feeling, especially in race trim and with used tyres.
JEREMY ALCOBA #52 (1’48.5 – 110 laps)
“Yesterday we were not so competitive, with many ideas and few solutions, and especially with the leathers that did not fit me well. We made a lot of set-up adjustments, without finding the right ones. Today we improved a little, even though we struggled with used tyres. Then the new leathers came – slightly modified – and things turned around for the better. I was able to focus solely on my riding and the times dropped lap after lap, with an excellent pace. I think our season starts now.”
GABRIEL RODRIGO #2 (1’48.5 – 84 laps)
“This is a very demanding circuit riding and set-up wise. I immediately felt comfortable, even though I chose to not take too many risks when the wind was blowing stronger given the many crashes occurred on track. I had a very good rhythm – in the low 1’49s – which I didn’t expect. We weren’t lucky with the time attack as a red flag stopped us on the quick lap, but generally speaking I’m very happy with the work done and I think we’re ready for Qatar.”
