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Not just Sam Lowes and Aleix Espargarò. At the Aprilia presentation, Lorenzo Savadori also made an appearance, fresh from the Phillip Island opening round. The Italian’s thoughts may be on Superbike, but he has had a dream called MotoGP from childhood. However, now he must focus on the season that is underway with the upcoming Thai round of Buri Ram.
How did we start this 2017 season?
“I think it was a positive start to the season. A pity about the crash in Race 1, but on Sunday we were able to do better.”
What do you think has changed with Milwaukee compared to Ioda?
“The thing that has an impact is the language. My crew chief is English, so I never speak Italian with him. In any case, I consider this a positive aspect, especially in terms of personal growth.”
In this new adventure you share the garage with Laverty. How is your relationship?
“I am happy to have Eugene beside me. He is also very good and experienced, so we speak often. He knows the bike very well, having won with it several times in the past. There will be a lot to learn from a rider of his calibre.”
What do you need to focus on in view of the upcoming races?
“The bike is still similar to the 2016 version, although some steps forward need to be taken in certain areas. I don’t think it has weak points. Maybe it is just a bit too stiff, so sometimes it can be difficult to be consistent over long distances. It is not a defect; rather, it just needs to be optimised.”
And its strengths?
“Definitely the engine and the precision, particularly at high speeds. This is an aspect that suits my characteristics well.”
This is your second season in Superbike. How much have you grown?
“I always try to learn as much as possibl3e from the more expert riders, paying attention to every small detail. The 2016 season was useful for me to learn how to manage the bike and the tyres over long distances, besides the experience in Superbike after Stock.”
What is the goal for the Championship?
“It’s hard to say after just one race, but we need to stay in the top spots – the ones that count.”
Aprilia believes firmly in the youth project. Do you feel like a point of reference?
“In 2015 I won Stock and together with them I moved up to Superbike a year ago. Now they resigned me and I cannot help but to be enthusiastic.”
Have you ever thought about a test with the MotoGP bike?
“If they were to ask me, I would say yes straight away. Arriving in MotoGP has been my dream since childhood, but my mind remains focused on Superbike.”
Next weekend you have the Thai race. What is your feeling as you head there?
“Buriram is a nice circuit. There are lots of straights that suit my characteristics and those of the bike, so we will be able to capitalise on our engine.”
