The first day of the German Grand Prix at the Sachsenring was particularly trying for Honda factory rider Joan Mir. After a series of recent setbacks, including a crash at Assen, Mir was once again faced with tough challenges on the German circuit.
However, the morning had started relatively calmly for Mir, who finished in 21st place during free practice, just behind his brand companion Stefan bradl. But in the afternoon, during the crucial qualifying session to determine the best starting positions, the Mallorcan quickly saw his hopes crumble. Very early in the session, he lost control of his RC213V, plunging the number 36 bike into the gravel.
Mad, Joan mir was seen gesticulating around his motorcycle, visibly angry. After qualifying, he did not hide his exasperation: “ Was I excited? I was very angry – and still am. What completely annoys me is that we're about 1,5 seconds off pace per lap and I'm still falling off the bike. How is it possible ? »
Mir identified a recurring problem with its Honda : " Honda riders suffer greatly from the bike's lack of will to enter corners. This happens when you have to turn during the braking phase. Here at the Sachsenring it's drastic in three corners: turns 1, 3 and 12. Our technicians know the problem and are working on a solution, but the solution is not there yet »
Joan Mir: “ the adjustment of the second bike was so bad that I didn't even try to push it. It would have been no use »
After his fall, Mir tried to continue with a second machine, but the settings were so bad that he didn't even try to push the bike to its limits. “ We had prepared a new framework for the tests. It was a bit risky, but I was in a good mood to try. Then the accident happened and the bike was unfortunately so tattered that I could no longer ride on the track with it. So I tried the second machine. Here the adjustment was so bad that I didn't even try to push it. It would have been no use »
Despite the difficulties encountered, Joan mir remains optimistic about its future with Honda. On the verge of concluding a new agreement with the Japanese manufacturer, he added: “ a day like today, even if it hasn't been good, is not enough to change my attitude »
The Spaniard hopes that discussions with engineers Honda will bear fruit and he will be able to find a more competitive configuration for the race. Waiting for, Mir continues to fight to improve his performance and meet the challenges that come his way on the track.
MotoGP, Sachsenring J1: times
