Just six laps into Sunday’s Catalan GP Bradley Smith (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) pulled into the pits. Problems with the engine in his bike saw the Brit drop to the back of the field almost immediately. With no solution or improvements on the horizon, Smith rolled into the pits and was forced to watch the remainder of the race rather than contest it. It had been a tough weekend even before the disappointment of the race, Smith and the team hoping for more in Assen and eager for the Monday test.
Bradley Smith: “It goes without saying that this is quite an upsetting way to finish the Grand Prix. As soon as we began, I noticed that something wasn’t right with the bike, even though I didn’t know immediately what it was. We lost a lot of positions and I was struggling when slowing the bike down. Now, we will obviously investigate what happened in order to figure out what the issue was. However, it’s frustrating to finish this way because I certainly felt that we could have had a really positive close to an otherwise tricky weekend. Thanks to the Tech3 team for their efforts in Catalunya, we’ll work out the issue and then start again with testing. Nevertheless, I am certain that we can get right back to where we need to be at the next round which is the Motul Dutch TT.”
"I am really pleased to complete 83 laps without any issues at all"Smith is no stranger to hard work and headed out at the post-race test in Barcelona looking for answers. Most of the day was spent helping Michelin evaluate their new rear tyres across a total of 83 laps, more than any other rider. Several rear suspension options were also evaluated, everything adding up to a very positive day overall. The Brit concluded that day in 12th place with a best time of 1’45.670, 1.7s behind Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda) who topped the day. Regardless of position, Smith heads to Assen with more confidence in himself, his team and his bike.
“In general, today was positive and we can leave Barcelona feeling content with what we achieved at the test. After the technical issue in yesterday’s race, I am really pleased to complete 83 laps without any issues at all. I did a lot of tyre testing this morning for Michelin and they brought some interesting options so I'm excited to see how the tyres will evolve in the future. With regards to our setting, the main area of focus was the rear of the bike which seems to be where I’m most sensitive at the moment. We had quite a few different rear shock solutions that we wanted to try and although the result won’t necessarily boost performance, it will certainly make our weekend easier if I am struggling like I was here. Now, we have a good direction as well as more of an understanding about my YZR-M1. I’m always happy about these types of test because, like in Jerez, I can leave with more knowledge and added confidence for the package that I have. I will rest up now for two weeks and then get ready for Assen which I am looking forward to.”