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His face says it all, because Friday is a day to forget for Nicky Hayden. Once again the American rider is far from the front, more than one second off the pace. He didn't expect the Honda to struggle to much a Buri Ram but it's the same story as Phillip Island two weeks ago. The team prepares for an uphill climb this weekend.
“There's not a lot to say after these two sessions, as we have various difficulties with the engine brake, just like in Australia. Also the bike is struggling in braking. During the practice I had an electronics problem and went long”.
So not much has changed with respect to Australia?
“The sensations are the same, actually in Phillip Island I was able to qualify for SP2, but not here. It's frustrating to ride like this, because I don't have confidence in the bike. Honestly, I don't even know what path to take”.
What will you focus on tomorrow?
“We just have to work and hope, nothing more. I thought it would be better here in Thailand compared to round one but practically nothing's changed".
On the other side of the garage there has been some degree of progress. In the afternoon Stefan Bradl improved on his morning's time to move ahead of his team-mate. The German is under no illusions but has definitely seen a ray of light on the horizon.
“Compared to Australia my sensations are different, especially in session two today. The bike is better in terms of traction, braking, but also the engine. We're moving in the right direction, but we know the road is long. I'm not looking at Rea and the Kawasakis, as they're on another planet”.
You came very close to qualifying for SP2
“A pity, it would have been great to be straight into SP2. Tomorrow I'll have the bit between my teeth to try and get through Superpole 1. I need to be a bit more constant”
