First tests of 2019 end on a potitive note for Aprilia

Posted on Feb 08, 2019 by Aprilia Racing Team Gresini

The first MotoGP test session of 2019 ends on a positive note for Aprilia. On its track début, the new RS-GP demonstrated encouraging growth, gathering positive feedback from all the riders who took it out.

After the shakedown entrusted to tester, Bradley Smith, whose work was praised by both Aleix and Andrea, the factory riders had the chance to assess the evolutions of the 2019 Aprilia prototype in the demanding conditions of the Malaysian track. Aleix expressed satisfaction, completing an encouraging race simulation and attempting a fast lap today, finishing with a time of 1'59.022 that placed him seventh in the final standings.

Andrea Iannone was able to count on a day of rest today, thanks to the contribution of test rider Bradley Smith, who put in an intense day of testing. The Italian rider, tired after a long antibiotic treatment and with the agreement of the team, chose not to take any risks after the good job done on the first two days, so he will turn up to the next tests in Qatar highly motivated.

Bradley Smith:
"These were some very interesting tests. The guys at Aprilia improved the RS-GP and I think that at the end of this first outing, our level is decidedly encouraging. I'm pleased that what we did during the shakedown allowed Aleix to start from a good base. Seeing him lap at 1'59 brings great satisfaction for the entire team. I tried to give my best, conveying my sensations to the engineers, and I can’t wait to get back on the track in Qatar. First as a tester and then, on the race weekend, as a rider!"