Tech3 duo make encouraging first steps at opening test

Tech3 Racing Team riders Xavi Vierge and Isaac Viñales closed the two day Valencia test in a positive manner as preparations for the 2016 season kicked off.

The young Spanish riders sampled this season’s Mistral 610 as well as the new KYB suspension, which they will confidently compete with in the 2016 Moto2 World Championship. In addition, they both also tested the new Nissin brakes and Sakura exhaust system with the feedback being positive.

Xavi Vierge pushed tirelessly throughout the two day test and completed more laps than any other rider, with his personal best being just one second from the leading time. Meanwhile, rookie Isaac Viñales continued his adaptation to the intermediate class with a determined effort as he collected valuable feedback with the season inching closer.

Xavi Vierge – 3rd – 1’35.5 – Laps: 90

“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.”

Isaac Viñales - 7th – 1’36.9 – Laps: 72

“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.”