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MotoGP, Winter tests: a test of strength for bikes and riders

Capirossi and Martinez reveal details about the Sepang, Phillip Island and Losail tracks

Winter tests: a test of strength for bikes and riders

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Three events before the curtain lifts on the championship. From the extreme conditions of Malaysia to the Qatari desert, passing via Australia. MotoGP leaves Europe for its traditional pre-season tests. We ask ourselves why the bikes don't stay in the Old Continent. Here to explain the reasons for this choice are Loris Capirossi and Juan Martinez, the latter is the former Honda suspension technician who has worked with Doohan, Okada and Rossi.  

The heat of Sepang

“The decision to test at these three circuits was taken in common agreement between the teams, Dorna, IRTA and the tyre supplier – underlines Capirossi – we were looking for track where there is good weather and heat. The first will be Sepang – he adds - a track with a varied layout, characterised by a technical section but also some long, touch braking. “In Malaysia teams can work on frame configuration, but also on tyre duration in extreme conditions  - reveals Martinez – in addition, the riders' physical fitness is put to the tests as is the duration of the engines, in that similar situations might arise at other tracks like Barcelona or Mugello”.

The speed of Phillip Island

One of the tracks with the highest average speed (182 km/h), described by Capirossi as"very demanding on the tyres”. "Particularly in the final sector -  adds Martinez - because riders take the turns fast and the rear tyres also suffers a great deal. This is a track where the tyre supplier provides an asymmetric compound, with different rigidity on one side compared to the other”.     

Qatar, the final stop

Two weeks before getting started at Losail: “An ideal circuit for teams and riders –comments Capirossi – because the first race takes place in Qatar and, unlike Malaysia and Australia, teams can work in similar conditions to those they'll experience in the race." In addition, this track is unique in some ways: “Being close to the desert, the test allows for the track to be cleaned of sand – analyses Martinez – and final modifications can be made to the engine before they're sealed for the entire season."

Translated by Heather Watson

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