Edwards and co. mountain bike through San Marino

MotoGP’s Colin Edwards, Moto2’s Valentin Debise and wild card rider Mattia Pasini, and 125cc trio Sandro Cortese, Jonas Folger and Johann Zarco took to the hills of San Marino on Thursday for some mountain biking as they explored the historical centre which has been recognised by the UNESCO World Heritage.

When the group reached the end of the ride and arrived in the Plaza of Liberty, they were met by a presentation of different bikes including ones formerly ridden by Max Biaggi and Valentino Rossi. Also present to greet them was Alex de Angelis, who will this weekend ride as a substitute for the injured Yusuke Teshima on the JiR Moto2 team.

Pasini, who is riding as a wild card for the Italtrans STR team, said: “Italtrans have given me a great opportunity for my home GP and this is very important for me after the beginning of the season. Now we will see if it is possible to go to the end of the season or if it’s just for this race.”

“I’m focused on this race and I want to do my best on Sunday,” he added. “I’m stronger and I’m confident of having a great weekend and race.”

Cortese, who took his second podium of the season in Indianapolis last weekend, feels that a first GP win is on the horizon and said: “I’m sure it will come this year. During the weekend everything has to be perfect to be top in the race. I will try my best and work very hard and I think I am ready for the first victory. I just don’t know when it will come, but for sure it will be soon.”