Although directly confronting their competitors, the Aprilia RS-GPs ran without transponders during this test on the Red Bull Ring.
No lap times, therefore, for the machinesÁlvaro Bautista and Sam Lowes came to replace Stefan Bradl injured in the collarbone.
Perhaps a desire to go unnoticed, which will undoubtedly nevertheless be difficult with the “hammerhead shark” version seen in the hands of Alvaro Bautista…
Another element tested by Aprilia and which still requires validation, the new lighter swingarm which the RS-GP already had at Sachsenring.
Overall results described as satisfactory for Noale's men, which, in the absence of a timer, does not mean much...
Alvaro Bautista, 166 laps: “On this new circuit you need an engine and a bike that is stable when braking and accelerating. We worked with this as a goal and found some interesting solutions in preparation for the race. However, we still need to experiment with the lighter swingarm as I'm not sure it provides an advantage. I must also point out that it is a rather unique circuit, and that it is therefore difficult to make comparisons.
In another area, in terms of safety, I think there are a few places with very little clearance and porch walls. It would be good to think of various solutions before the race, especially in relation to high speeds. »
