Crutchlow looks for acceleration gain in Germany

Cal Crutchlow was hampered by a slow engine at Assen and the Englishman knows that finding a solution to this issue will be key if he’s to challenge for a podium in the coming races.

Throughout the weekend Crutchlow was losing time to the Repsol Honda bikes but was able to still set competitive laptimes. Once the race started however his handicap meant that he was constantly losing time and unable to open a gap if he got to the front of the chasing pack.

“I’m not pleased, we shouldn’t be 24 seconds off the winner,” said Crutchlow. “But honestly my bike was too slow. I had no acceleration and I kept getting passed by Dovi into turn six because of the speed difference. I couldn’t make the break. Every time I went to go they were gaining three or four tenths on the straight on me.

“It isn’t apparent in practice or qualifying but it is when you’re riding with the other guys. On my data with Dani and Marc we were losing two tenths compared to the Ducati. I was losing a lot. Every time you passed them into the last chicane they’d pass me back on the start and finish straight. It was a good battle. I needed to finish the race first and foremost. I’ve had three non finishes. When I was in that battle I was constantly thinking, ‘I need to finish.”

Having had three consecutive retirements Crutchlow knew that it was imperative to finish the race and score some points. The next round of the championship is in Germany where Cal has had a front row start and a podium finish in the past.