Conditions were difficult as the GoPro Motorrad Grand Prix Deutschland began on Friday, cold conditions forcing everyone to ride well within themselves or risk a crash at the nasty Turn 11. Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda) made the most of the short windows of dry-ish track and most importantly stayed upright in the tricky conditions. Overall it was a great start to the weekend for the Brit who is confident of continuing to improve alongside the conditions. With Honda’s strong history at the track, Crutchlow could certainly see himself fighting for top Independent Team honours.
Cal Crutchlow: “I felt okay today, but obviously I didn’t take too many risks – especially in sector three where everyone was crashing in turn 11. I was losing half a second in there but I’m experienced enough to know that there’s no point taking the risk at the moment. I felt good and comfortable on the bike and the team did a great job. We’re not struggling, but we did have a little problem with the brakes so that limited the session for me. It’s strange coming here with the temperature being so cold, it’s added a new element to the Sachsenring. I like riding at this circuit, lots of fans come out and I hope we can continue tomorrow where we left off today.
“I tried one of the asymmetric compound front tyres today, but we’ll probably have to try the harder one tomorrow as the left hand side is a bit too soft for the Honda. Michelin have done a good job though I feel. I don’t think it’s easy for them to keep 23 riders happy, with their different bikes and riding styles.”