Checa tries latest M1 at Almeria

Carlos Checa has been out on the latest version of Yamaha’s factory four-stroke YZR-M1 at Almeria this week.

The Marlboro Yamaha rider evaluated new engine and suspension parts in his first outing since the beginning of December.

The engine parts improved throttle response according to M1 project leader Ichiro Yoda and he said the chassis modifications had also been a success.

Checa was also able to try out a new construction rear Michelin tyre that the French manufacturer had come up with on the basis of feedback supplied by Checa, team-mate Max Biaggi and test rider John Kocinski at the last test in Malaysia. All riders told Michelin in Sepang that the rear tyre was making the front end push.The new rubber seems to have cured the problem.

The Marlboro Yamaha team were due to test at the Jerez circuit, but the track has now been completely closed to allow redevelopment work to be completed in time for the Spanish GP in May.

Italian Max Biaggi decided to skip the two-day test. He will return to action at the first IRTA test in Valencia in the middle of next month.