Pol Espargarò is also out on track at the Red Bull Ring. The Spaniard is in action with the KTM for what is his home wildcard race for the Austrian brand. It was certainly not an easy Friday for the Spaniard however, who was forced to deal with several problems that kept him relegated to 21st position.
"I'm here to test the bike and make progress," he began, "unfortunately we had a couple of problems this morning, but we still managed. The thing is that I couldn't ride as I wanted then a problem happened on the second bike, but in the end it's just a test for us. I think we were unlucky considering that this is a different context than testing where you have more time."
What can you tell us about that test?
"I did 350 laps even going under Pecco's record and nothing happened. I think ours was just bad luck and we will try tomorrow to secure a place in Q2."
What kind of problem did you have?
"I had a problem with the bike, but I can't say more than that."
What are the feelings ahead of the weekend?
"We had a test with good feedback and the feelings turned out to be positive. In testing we managed to be very fast and I am aware that this bike has great potential. This morning it didn't go the right way, but in the end that's part of the process. Personally, I feel fast enough to be in Q2, but it's not the case. That is the thing I regret the most. However, we will try to be ready tomorrow, as I am sorry since the situation is not good at the moment."
KTM also brought to the track unique shark-tooth aerodynamics on the swingarm that becomes a winglet.
"There are several areas KTM is focusing on such as braking and traction. Top speed is not an issue, but on traction and braking we are working a lot."
Did you see Acosta's crash?
"He was using the hard tire and I think he had taken it to the limit of durability considering among other things he was on a full tank. He knows he made a mistake, certainly the crash was scary."