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MotoGP, Vinales: my time? my pace is better

Maverick continues to amaze: "I know I still have more to do, but I've taken more steps forward than I expected to"

MotoGP: Vinales: my time? my pace is better

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Maverick Vinales is the golden boy of MotoGP right now. Ever since he climbed on the Yamaha last November, there hasn't been a test where he hasn't finished first. Don't make the mistake of thinking that the Spaniard is only focusing on lap times though, as this week in Sepang he's mainly worked on race pace.

“Today, like yesterday, I've worked on my pace - he confirms - I haven't done a race simulation, but I completed that distance, over several shorter exits, on the same tyre. I have to admit that I've improved more than I expected to, I got under two minutes even with used tyres”.

It was hard to do more…
I'm sure we'll have a good base when we get to Phillip Island, because I've tried so many things that I liked. Anyway, we're still developing the M1, choosing the material. For example, the bike is still not perfect when it comes to the flying lap.

We wouldn't say that… what do you want to improve?
Today we took another step in terms of pace, but it's not enough because we're all very close. I would like to me more effective in braking, something I'll need if I find myself against Marquez or Valentino on the last lap. I admit that I feel really good, I improve each time I go out but I still need to work on myself, I'm not yet using the best lines”.

Is the new frame better?
I like it, but I'm not 100% sure yet. We need to carry out more tests”.

You've been up front both here and at Valencia, what do you hope to see in Phillip Island?
(he laughs) “That's one of my favourite track, I want to have fun”.

Translated by Heather Watson
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