Kallio and Espargaró looking to Qatar for improvements

After the Sepang test Pramac Racing’s two riders are now focused on the final pre-season test in Qatar, where they are confident of finding the right balance on their respective bikes.

The Sepang test allowed Pramac Racing riders Mika Kallio and Aleix Espargaró further time to continue adapting to the Ducati Desmosedici GP10, and whilst the final day proved difficult for both they are positive about the progress made.

Kallio reported a better feeling with the prototype but on Friday was unable to improve on his best lap from the previous day, and finished the test with a fastest time of 2’02.038. The Finn is now concentrating on finding the next step up on his bike at the final pre-season test in Qatar, which is scheduled from March 18-19.

“On Thursday in the late afternoon we had found a good technical compromise and this had given us confidence for the last working day here at Sepang, but things have not gone as we expected,” explained Kallio. “I feel very good with the new bike but perhaps I have yet to find total confidence to push to the maximum. We cannot make any more mistakes at the next test in Qatar next month.”

Espargaró, who had a minor fall on the first day, improved his time on the Friday to 2’02.367 and is convinced the Qatar test will allow him to find his best level on the GP10.

“This morning I was feeling well and I wasn't doing so bad, but then in the afternoon I was unable to make the step forward as most of my colleagues have done and I was back down in the (timesheet) classification,” said the Spaniard. “Anyway I remain very confident because I have everything I need in order to do well. I am very pleased to see the two official Ducatis in the top three. I am sure we will soon find the right solution to fight for the best positions as well.”