The plans of MotoGP teams attending the Barcelona test were conditioned by weather, with overnight rain causing most to postpone their work until tomorrow, when conditions should be more favourable.
Only the Aprilia, KTM and Suzuki riders headed out on track, benefiting from the concessions regime which means they can enjoy unlimited test days throughout the year.
The Montmelò test is doubly important ahead of the June race because the track has been completely resurfaced but has also reverted to its classic layout. In other words, there is no more Formula 1 style chicane, introduced following the incident that cost Luis Salom his life.
While the day began with rain tyres, sun slowly dried the asphalt, allowing riders to build confidence with the track. The fastest was Andrea Iannone who set a best of 1’40”422 with the Suzuki. In line with his times were the two Espargarò brothers: Pol, with KTM, was 0.097 slower while brother Aleix, riding the Aprilia, was precisely one tenth behind the Italian. Alex Rins followed close behind the leading trio, just 0”180 from his team-mate.
Scott Redding closed roughly half a second from the front, ahead of the KTMs of test rider Kallio (+ 0”674) and Bradley Smith (+ 0”712). Suzuki test rider Guintoli rounds out the short classification.
All riders should be on track tomorrow.
THE TIMES
Photo credits Circuit de Barcelona