English
Italiano
Andrea Locatelli and Yamaha were the surprise of the Portimão round. The rider from Bergamo brought the R1 back to the podium, animating the situation. There's obviously still a long way to go, but there was certainly a first encouraging sign.
That said, one of the new features that emerged on the Japanese bike in Portugal was the new chassis. Being able to take advantage of the super concessions, the engineers went to work and intervened on this component. How many changes were made and what they were compared to before were explained to us by Nicolò Canepa.
"First of all, I have to congratulate the entire work group," the team manager told us. "The guys did important work at home, and the results showed. In fact, we wanted to send a signal after the problems in Australia, and we're very satisfied. Obviously, the road is long, but this is the way forward."
There's been a lot of talk about this "super concession" chassis. What's changed compared to before?
"First of all, I'd like to point out that this is the standard Yamaha R1 frame, so it's not a new frame. But, since we're able to take advantage of the super concessions, we intervened on the stiffness of this component. This has had two positive effects. The first is entering. In fact, Locatelli and the other riders found that the bike entered corners better than before, while the second point is exiting. In exiting, the R1 has more thrust and is more competitive."
In the end, the problem wasn't the engine that was discussed so much.
"Relating to the engine, I've always been very clear with you all every time we've spoken. During the winter, no work was ever done on the engine. In fact, I think there was some misinformation spread by someone about it. Unfortunately, the regulations don't allow us to do a 1200cc," he said, smiling. "But we've always been convinced of the nature of our engine, which is very gentle and actually makes the R1 smooth in riding and agile."
Assen is coming up. A track that suits Yamaha well.
"Exactly! We hope to confirm the work seen in Portugal with the intention of continuing our progress. Last year, we got on the podium. This year, the level has risen, but Yamaha is working."
Nicolò, there was also talk about the wings. Some people say the bike is more physical since they were introduced. Is that true?
"I've tried them and, I must say, the bike presents a better downforce, offering us strong points. Maybe the Yamaha is less maneuverable, but I think the positives are greater."
How much does Johnny's absence take its toll?
"Unfortunately, it does, because a major investment was made in him and, as of today, he's unavailable due to injury. We hope to have him back soon, although health remains the priority, because his path to recovery must end in the best way possible. But there's Locatelli, who's proving to be a rider of the highest level and a hard worker, good at directing development. With him, we also have Remy and Dominique. Consequently, we need to continue as we are doing."
