Aleix Espargaró didn’t experience any big changes during the MotoGP test day in Jerez. The Aprilia veteran worked a lot on his riding position on the RS-GP, also analyzing videos of riders from other brands to best optimize body movements. It’s not easy to adapt to a different style quickly, but the Granollers standard-bearer completed around seventy laps in a new position to improve his personal performance.
The driving position
It was a very unedifying MotoGP weekend for the 34-year-old Aprilia rider, with two retirements in the Sprint and the traditional race. There wasn’t much desire to talk even after the Irta test on Monday, but in the end he opened up about the sensations riding the Noale prototype and the future still in the balance. “I can’t say much“, said Aleix Espargaró with a hint of mystery. “I can say that I adapted my position on the bike a little. We analyzed the braking position of the other riders with videos. Then I tried to move my body forward slightly. After a long time it is difficult to change the situation, but it works“.
Michelin tire test
These are minimal changes but could significantly affect lap times. In the MotoGP class, every little detail can make the difference and the eldest of the Espargaró brothers is doing everything he can to achieve another victory with the RS-GP. “Often we just change millimeters, we go crazy, we go a millimeter higher or lower. But ultimately the body is the biggest part of the package, that makes a big difference too“, continued Aleix. In the Jerez test he also tried a new Michelin compound. “We tried a new rear tire for Michelin with a different casing, in case it was very hot. But it did not work. I was the first to try the tire, we’ll have to wait and see what others say. In any case, it was a big turning point for me in terms of responsibility“.
Aleix’s fate
At this stage of the MotoGP championship it is still premature to talk about his future, which oscillates between the renewal with Aprilia and farewell to the MotoGP (with a role as test rider). “I can’t say anything about it yet. I talk a lot with Romano (Albesiano, ed.) of the development of the 2025 motorcycle and the expected improvements. But I remain completely focused on 2024 and help Aprilia in development. Then we’ll see what happens in the next few weeks“. The Mugello stage will be decisive for many drivers and manufacturers in order to begin to put pen to paper and make the first official announcements.
Photo: Instagram @aleixespargaro
