Ninth in the Superprestigio category in 2014, fifth in 2015 and vice-champion behind Marc Marquez last year, Toni Elias' performance in the Spanish event makes him the favorite for this 2017 edition.
He shares his impressions and secrets in an interview given to the site roadracingworld.com.
What was the little thing you missed to win last year?
“We were very close, yes... but Marc is really strong in track racing. The important thing is that I learn details in every track race I participate in, whether it's about setup, ideal riding style or race development. It would be great to win the Superprestigio, but this event is very special: you have to be lucky, be smart and above all, start well. »
Too radical adjustments were Brad Baker's mistake last year. Is it so difficult to prepare the bike for Palau Sant Jordi?
“Well, it wasn't easy because I rode three different bikes during my three Superprestigio participations: Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki (laughs). The Barcelona track has the particularity that it is a dirt with grip, and it is like driving at speed: you go into a skid and, in the middle of the curve, you prepare the bike and lift it. The problem is that these track conditions do not exist on the circuits where we train on the previous days. More than posing a special difficulty, the Palau San Jordi requires you to be very quick in setting up the decision-making in free practice on Friday. »
The 2016 Superprestigio was, by far, the one which experienced the most contacts and incidents on track. What was this due to?
“Those who come from speed, we want to do well and, of course, we leave very excited (laughs). The problem is that the track is not made of asphalt and, if you exceed the trajectory, there is no possibility of changing the situation. »
What aspect of clay riding technique costs you the most?
“Curved entry. You ride with the throttle and you lay the bike down by sliding the rear wheel, but you have to apply a very particular technique that I still need to improve. Baker and Ferran Cardús, for example, do the opposite, with both wheels skidding and the bike straight ahead! It's very difficult to do. Fortunately, moving in and out of the curve works better for me. »
What do you think you should improve from last year?
“The departures, without a doubt. I always got off to a bad start in Barcelona and that's something that penalizes you a lot on dirt track. There's no point in being very fast if you're the last one to reach the first corner. Therefore, the maximum concentration behind the grid. If I start well, I can win the Superprestigio. »
Which drivers will be in front?
“Apart from the Americans, Ferran Cardús continues to evolve and shows excellent driving technique. There is also Gerard Bailo or Adrián Garín who are very fast. Among the sprinters, I highlight Tom Chareyre. His experience is very important and, thanks to it, he knows what he must do at each moment. He is a multiple supermoto world champion who understands track grip very well. »
