Espargaro: Electronic changes helping Suzuki

With two tests completed and one to go before the MotoGP season opens in Qatar in three weeks Aleix Espargaro is pleased with the progress that has been made by the Suzuki squad as they prepare for their return to the class.

In both tests the supple Suzuki chassis has been praised by the riders and with development of electronics progressing Espargaro is confident that the team should have the GSXR-R in a strong position once the season starts.

“I’m very happy with everything we’ve improved,” said Espargaro. “It’s important to know that we have good pace for the race. In the higher temperatures we have improved a lot. The key has been the change we have made in the traction control, the bike responding much better, especially in high inclination, which was where he failed, because the bike moved a lot. Today we have taken a big step in the traction control.

Having suffered a knee ligament injury in December Espargaro now feels that he’s close to full fitness but the nature of the Suzuki’s layout has presented challenges for him so far.

“The knee is better now, the problem is that as the bike is very small when folded me very much pressed ligaments and it hurts. It just needs time to heal fully.”