Aprilia technical director Romano Albesiano has shared his thoughts on Monday's rainy MotoGP test at Mugello. Between technical challenges and unfavorable weather conditions, Albesiano took stock of the performance of his pilots and the possibility of a second test pilot, as well as the acquired arrival of a certain Jorge Martin... Not without a certain franchise!
In a context marked by the domination of Ducati in MotoGP, KTM et Aprilia continue to compete for the place of main pursuers, which makes the slightest wasted lap a missed opportunity to progress. Romano Albesiano expressed in this regard his disappointment in the face of a testing day at Mugello disturbed by the rain: we would have liked a more intense day of work, but the weather conditions decided otherwise »
During the tests, Aprilia had planned to focus on aerodynamics and the height-adjustable chassis. However, due to the conditions, work was refocused on the pits and around the test driver Lorenzo Savadori. Albesiano explained: “ Lorenzo is quick enough to provide us with the necessary information. Trying to gain the last tenths of a second with a second test driver could waste resources » Aleix Espargaro will appreciate and we understand better why he is heading towards Honda to ensure this function…
Romano Albesiano: MotoGP too physically demanding? “ Maybe we need to design a more comfortable motorcycle, more like a touring motorcycle? »
Michelin introduced a new soft rear tire this year, causing vibrations during acceleration, a problem also encountered by Ducati et KTM. " We are working with various analysis tools to identify and resolve this issue », specified Albesiano on speedweek.
The last weekend, Aleix Espargaró stressed that current MotoGPs are too physically demanding. Albesian, with a touch of humor, reacted: “ maybe we need to design a more comfortable motorcycle, more like a touring motorcycle? » More seriously, he added that aerodynamics would continue to evolve until 2026, and that a new start with the 2027 regulations would be beneficial for pilots.
Regarding the arrival of George Martin, the smile ofAlbesian said it all: “ Martin is one of the fastest drivers on the track. It will adapt perfectly to the RS-GP. Definitely yes. »
George Martin, currently leader of championnat of the world, will join Aprilia to succeed Aleix Espargaro, who will end his career after this season to become a test driver for Honda. Maverick Vinales, who should remain the teammate of Martin, has yet to officially confirm his desire to extend his contract.
