Tech 3 riders Xavi Vierge and Isaac Vinales both left Valencia happy after completing their first private test of 2016. The pair evaluated the 2016-spec Mistral 610 chassis as well as new Nissin brakes and Sakura exhaust systems with the French team looking to challenge Kalex and Speed Up in the upcoming season.
Vierge is embarking on his first full campaign having finished runner-up in last year’s FIM CEV European Championship and already feels he has a package which will enable him to be competitive.
“I am very happy with what we accomplished at this test and I am excited for our next run out in Jerez. We ran a solid programme and had a lot of different things to try but overall, I am satisfied with every aspect. The new chassis package was positive and I am already quite comfortable with it. In addition, we tested a lot of suspension parts from KYB and I am really pleased with this as the results were encouraging and we had some great support from them. We also tried new Nissin brakes and a new exhaust pipe from Sakura, which all felt positive and had a good impact. Furthermore, I was still able to set a competitive lap time that leaves me satisfied about the first test and eager for more. I must say thanks to the Tech3 Racing Team because they worked really hard during the winter and now everything is coming together.”
Vinales moves up to Moto2 after five years in the lightweight class and is confident he will be up to speed in time for the opening race.
“Overall, both days were positive and I have to say that I am pleased with the work that we achieved. It’s great to be back at the track where we finally started our preparation for the approaching season. I am very pleased with the Tech3 Racing Team’s work and how they are helping me, with the overall feeling being confident. Of course, the change to Moto2 is challenging but I feel that I am gradually adapting to the intermediate class and I am looking forward to making some further steps forward at the next test.”
