Record times and show during the second IRTA test day at the Cataluña circuit
Valentino Rossi finished fifth, while Nicky Hayden keeps on improving, setting the thirteenth fastest time.
Good weather presided the second day of the IRTA tests at the Catalunya Circuit, allowing riders and teams to compare their performance before the season start on April 6th at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan. After the free practices in the morning, the riders sat for the traditional family picture on the starting grid and then held one minute of silence in memory of the recently passed away Barry Sheene, rider, and Yves Jamotte, photographer. After a very contended session, where all those present were able to hear the power of twenty-seven engines, Valentino Rossi finished fifth fastest, while his team-mate Hayden, who is feeling more and comfortable and familiar with his bike, showed himself very optimistic after today’s tests.
Valentino Rossi
5th fastest overall; 1’44.111:
‘This is not a test; it was really the 17th GP. We really didn’t test anything – the temperature was too cold but also we start like a MotoGP and we have one hour of practice – it’s not like a real test. However the bike felt good and all the testing we have done over the winter has shown good benefit. I’m looking forward to going to Suzuka and racing!’
Nicky Hayden
13th fastest overall 1’45.533:
‘The weekend was good but like any other racer you always want a little more and I’d like to be in front of a few more guys. The ‘qualifying’ session was fun – something a little different for me. I got on with the track real well. Tady was helpful as were the split times – I’ve never had that before in MotoGP. I could see where I was fast and slow. The atmosphere was great. Never heard air horns at a test!’
Today’s times:
- Loris Capirossi 1.43´634 seg.
- Tour Ukawa 1.43´832 seg.
- Alex Barros 1.43´878 seg.
- Sete Gibernau 1.44´071 seg.
- Valentino Rossi 1.44´111 seg.
- Daijiro Kato 1.44´290 seg.
- Max Biaggi 1.44´326 seg.
- Shinya Nakano 1.44´803 seg.
- Troy Bayliss 1.44´893 seg.
13. Nicky Hayden 1.45´533 seg.
