Aprilia test suspension changes and new electronics

Aprilia test front suspension changes and new electronics

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MotoGP testing at Barcelona had confirmed the pace of the 2017 Aprilia RS-GP. The level the Italian project has reached is quite clear, despite the fact that there has been no validation in terms of results since the Qatar race (with Espargaró sixth across the line).

Aleix Espargaro's Aprilia failed at Catalunya — Aleix Espargaro’s Aprilia failed while running strongly in the race at Catalunya – Image by AJRN

After a race weekend that ended in disaster, with Espargaro limping off the track with engine problems after running with the leaders early on in the race, Aprilia Racing Team Gresini worked on various fronts at the tests. From new electronic management logic to different front suspension configurations.

Aleix Espargaró also completed a partial race simulation, confirming an extremely interesting pace and excellent performance for the bike on used tyres. On the 21st of the 48 total laps he turned, Aleix stopped the clock at 1’45.046, the fifth best time of the day.

There was also plenty of work for Sam Lowes who shaved more than a second off his best time from yesterday. The English rookie put a time of 1’46.389 on the boards during the 41st lap out of a total of 43 done.

Romano Albesiano – Aprilia Racing Team Manager

“This was definitely a good test. We took another step forward in terms of chassis setup and electronics. From this point of view, we improved brake engine operation and what is defined as RTD (rider torque demand), in other words, the diagram that manages the engine’s reaction to the rider’s demand. Overall, the RS-GP proved to be competitive on practically every circuit and we still have room to improve, especially in the first part of the race with a full tank. Aleix did a partial race simulation with some very interesting times and he found new benefits from the things we tested today. Sam also showed good progress. A few issues have hindered him recently and I am the first to be disappointed, but I am sure that his growth trend will continue.”