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SBK, Lowes: "Three crashes? At least I improved my time"

van der Mark: "Surprised to be eighth, but we'll be competitive when it comes to race pace. The electronics? The R1 is more stable thanks to the update"

SBK: Lowes: "Three crashes? At least I improved my time"

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Alex Lowes arrives in Misano boosted by the podium finish in race 1 at Donington, but his Friday proved less than inspiring. Three crashes on this first day of action and a tenth place finish, which doesn't meet with expectations.

“Today was really tough – commented the Brit – the track was very different compared to the test, as a result I didn't have the confidence that I felt two weeks ago. In the afternoon I was able to take a small step forward, but there are many obstacles, not least the heat”.

Three crashes are at least two too many.

“It's true, but I improved my time  - he points out –the aim was to gain entry to Superpole 2. This is only practice, what counts is the race. We're still suffering mid-turn with the Yamaha, so I have to modify my riding”.

His team-mate van der Mark did a lot better today. Despite finishing seven tenths behind Rea, he closes Friday in eighth place, ahead of the Laverty on the Aprilia. The only negative was a crash in the afternoon, albeit without consequences.

“I guessed the Ducatis and Kawasakis would be there, but I'm surprised to be behind the Aprilia and the MV Agusta – stated the Yamaha rider–  unfortunately, due to the heat, I don't have the confidence I had in the test. We're also suffering with the tyres and need to understand what to do”.

Michael nevertheless seems optimistic.

Eighth place doesn't reflect our potential – he commented – if we look carefully at the data on our race pace, we're quite competitive. We have a good chance of being able to take a step forward”.

Let's not forget the bike's recent electronic update.

“We introduced it at the tests and immediately felt the benefit. The R1 definitely has better grip and so this was a good move ahead of the next races”.  

Translated by Heather Watson
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