Tech3 duo fired up for 2016 as first test arrives

Posted on Jan 31, 2016 by Monster Yamaha Tech 3

​Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team rider Bradley Smith will commence his first test of the year at the Sepang International Circuit on Monday as he looks to hit the ground running for the forthcoming season.

Both riders will use the three day shakedown test to get back up to speed and become further accustomed to the new Michelin tyres, the 2016 electronic package and this season’s Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP bikes.

Bradley Smith aims to build on the successes of last year whereby he completed the season in 6th in the championship and as the leading satellite rider, and will seek to jump straight back into gear at the first test as he plans to go one step further in 2016.

Bradley Smith
"The wait is finally over and it goes without saying that I am really looking forward to jumping back on the Yamaha! It’s been a long time coming, but now I can thoroughly sample my new YZR-M1, the Michelin tyres and the electronics together. For sure it will be a challenge and we have some work to do so that we can be as ready as possible for 2016 but I trust the team and I know they are as eager as me to get going. I’ve enjoyed the off season and I have been training hard so that I’m in the best possible shape for this year. I look forward to seeing all of my crew again and then getting stuck in. There will be a lot of laps, but on Monday we go back to work and I can’t wait!”

Hervé Poncharal - Team Manager:
“We’ve all had the break that we needed and I’m sure it was good for everyone but now it’s time to pack our bags and head back to the track so we can get 2016 underway. This year will be a different adventure compared to the previous seasons due to the new Michelin tyres and the different electronics package which are both big changes in the sport. We are excited about this new challenge and we will need to put a lot of work in to ensure that Brad, Pol and everyone at the team leaves this test positively and ready for Phillip Island. This week will be a shakedown, yet I know the guys are raring to go and they will be ready to put all of their effort in as soon as the wheels start turning. We are positive about the forthcoming year and with a solid start in the testing, both guys can do a great job and fight where they want to be. It will be interesting for sure, so we’re all excited to be heading back to the Sepang International Circuit because we enjoy the sport as much as the fans!”