Yamaha's "Devil" Fabio Quartararo encountered a real sea serpent on the first day of MotoGP testing in Buriram. After shining like a shooting star in Sepang, he had to face a sandstorm on the Thai circuit.
The 2021 MotoGP world champion, Fabio Quartararo, had a difficult first day during the tests of Buriram. The pilot Yamaha expressed frustration at a lack of front-end grip, a recurring problem that has prevented him from finding a satisfactory rhythm. He only managed 13th. Despite enjoying an intensive testing programme at Sepang where he showed solid performances, the situation at Buriram was different. The Frenchman explained why he was unable to replicate his results from previous tests.
« Today was a strange day for us ", said Quarterly. " This is the first time in my career that I am not satisfied with a front tire. I had to fight to be fast. We will see tomorrow when the track conditions are better and I can ride as I want.. » The pilot Yamaha said he had tested many configurations, but had not been able to find the ideal solution to improve his sensations.
Fabio Quartararo: “ we have made a lot of progress in a straight line »
However, he also found some positive points to report. We have made a lot of progress in a straight line and have taken some steps forward. The performance of the bike is good ", he added. The main problem remains the grip of the front tire, an area in which Yamaha has normally been competitive. I didn't find a good feeling at the front, that's why I was completely lost today. ", has explained Quarterly, focusing on upcoming adjustments.
The tests at Buriram are crucial for Yamaha , which, thanks to its dealerships, has the possibility of continuing to adjust its settings according to the performance of the motorcycle. Yes, concessions are very important to us. ", said Quarterly. " Le aerodynamic and engine package that we will have approved for the first race is more or less fixed. Tomorrow we will work a lot more on the chassis. »
The pilot Yamaha announced that his goal for the second day of testing would be to push the bike to the limit and improve its front-end feel. The race weekend in Thailand, which will take place February 28 to March 2, is approaching quickly, and Quarterly will have one last chance to fine-tune his settings before starting the season.
MotoGP, Buriram Test J1 Final: times
