Spies and Lorenzo step by step at MotoGP Estoril

The Team Yamaha Factory Racing has had a day with good feelings, especially regarding its rider Ben Spies, since the American was going through a rough patch after a very complicated weekend at the Jerez Circuit, where he had problems with his Yamaha. But it seems that the 11 has managed to solve them together with his team, and in this third race of the season he is showing strength and is in the front group, so Spies is back and eager.

The first day of free practice has left Spies in 2nd position, being the fastest in FP1 and second in FP2 behind Stoner, so the 11 has pace. For his part, it has been a slightly more difficult day for Jorge Lorenzo; the Mallorcan has not found the best setup for these conditions, but he really likes Estoril and will surely have more pace today. Besides, he is not that far off, having closed day 1 in 5th place.

Furthermore, the 99 decided not to go out in FP1 to avoid risks, since the track was tricky, so FP2 was his first contact with the layout, and therefore in FP3 we will see him stronger. Of course, the team will try to find a solution today to be ready for the qualifying session.

It was also an important day because yesterday was his birthday, and he also reached the milestone of 10 years in the World Championship, so there is certainly a lot to celebrate in Estoril.

Statements by Jorge Lorenzo:

Today it was so-so, because we haven’t found a good setup, or a good ‘feeling’ with the bike. Also, the new asphalt is not the best; I think it is worse than last year in some places. The weather hasn’t helped either, with some patches of water left in the corners…

I hope to improve many things tomorrow, especially the rear of the bike, which doesn’t respond well in some corners.

Statements by Ben Spies:

It has been a day with good feelings, but it is still early, it’s only Friday. The most important thing is that I have to thank my team for making a big change to the bike, not only on the front, they also made some adjustments to the riding position that I asked for, and the bike seems to be going well.

It’s not just the times, it is now much easier to ride than in Jerez; it is fast and easy to handle, although we still have to make some improvements. But after two difficult weekends, being in the top three on the first day is a positive start.

Source | Yamaha Factory Racing