Maverick Viñales is now an official Aprilia rider and he discovered his new RS-GP mount during two days of testing in Misano. Result ? A priori very positive since the Spaniard will be on the starting grid for the next MotoGP Grand Prix in Aragon. His good humor is such that he says he is completely alive again. But be careful, at Yamaha too he went through phases of euphoria followed by deep depression...
However, this time Casa Particular in Viñales no longer really has the right to make mistakes and in his new box he will be able to count on a sort of Big Brother called Aleix Espargaró. The latter took it in hand during its final phase with Yamaha , and he seems extremely grateful to him. During his first long speech about his brand new experience, Maverick Vinales does not hide strong feelings: “ after five years of ups and downs where I didn't understand much, I ended up asking myself: "What is going on?" But as soon as I got on the Aprilia, I knew what I could do, I knew my potential »
He specifies : " I was expecting to stay home and wait until November before I could test the bike. It was good that it happened so quickly because it gave me the opportunity to do six races. This is much better than just doing five days of testing. I will try to prepare well for 2022 with Aleix Espargaró too. It is very important for me. And what makes me very happy is that all the guys here work very hard. The enthusiasm is high and after a podium, it's the best time to join the team and try to give them feedback. Aleix and Savadori certainly did a great job. They are very fast and the bike runs well. I was quite surprised ».
Vinales: “ I feel very strong, that’s the positive point«
« It's the best way to prepare for the year ahead » assures the Spaniard. “ Although maybe I'm not ready because it's difficult in terms of riding style to become one with the bike. I was used to a completely different bike. I think we will understand a little more in Aragon, also because Aleix is there. It's fast so I can learn how the bike works. But I feel very strong, that's the positive point ».
What is the ninefold winner MotoGP must change his driving style? “ I need to change the way I brake, It’s excellent learning. How to brake with the Aprilia is totally different. I still need tricks for this. Aleix brakes very hard too, I will have to copy him a little. But I think it will also come with confidence. » In fact, the day after his victory in Qatar which was the first race of the season, the same official Casa Particular in Viñales who was preparing to be a father had already declared that he was living the best time of his life. We know the rest.
