Vinales starting to understand tyres and electronics

In a crowded class of rookies Maverick Vinales has been the most impressive through three tests and the Spaniard, who won the Moto3 crown in 2013, has been pleased with his progress over 9 days of running however he acknowledges that there are still plenty of areas for him to improve on.

“I’m happy because we have improved a lot especially with my rhythm,” said Vinales. “I’m still not completely confident with new tires, in Moto2 to make a fast lap you had to heat the rubber first six laps. The Bridgestone are completely different. You have to do it the first or is it half second slower. Anyway, happy because despite everything we have done a good time. Especially we have worked in the grip of the bike, conserve more tire.”

Getting used to the Bridgestone tyres is a common issue for most MotoGP rookies and for Vinales understanding electronics is an additional challenge. Having ridden with minimal electronics for the first two tests Vinales has started to dial up his usage of the rider aids.

“I still use too much traction control, want to learn well and it is clear that we are improving every day, but Aleix may be 7 or 8 steps ahead. I am very happy with my adaptation because every day I feel more comfortable with my bike, with speed.”