2014 Catalunya MotoGP Test
Marc Marquez capped off his perfect Catalunya MotoGP weekend by posting the fastest time Monday during a one-day test.
When the test began, the participating riders spent 30 minutes testing a shorter track loop (shortened around turn 10) assessing the potential safety of it. The riders will provide feedback to the Grand Prix Safety Commission at Assen.
Once the testing began on the full circuit, the 21-year-old Repsol Honda pilot Marquez was the man to beat. He experimented with bike and electronic settings, and a new Bridgestone front tire that featured an updated composition that may be used later in the season. When the test wrapped up, Marquez posted a best time of 1:41.184.
The Movistar Yamaha MotoGP duo of Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi, who finished fourth and second, respectively, spent the day testing a new 2015 engine in the YZR-M1. The team also tried an new Akrapovic exhaust. Both riders were just off Marquez’s time, Rossi three-tenths of a second back and Lorenzo nine-tenths.
Ducati Team’s Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow tested new software on their GP14 prototypes. Ducati Team Test Rider Michele Pirro was also out, and will continue testing at Catalunya over the next two days.
Suzuki, which officially returns to MotoGP in 2015, was also out with its test rider Randy de Puniet. The Frenchman tested chassis and software, aiming to find optimal setup ahead of next year.
LCR Honda’s Stefan Bradl, who finished fifth Sunday, worked on his satellite Honda RC213V’s suspension geometry and electronics. The GO&FUN Honda Gresini team was also testing suspension with Alvaro Bautista and Scott Redding.
All the open-class riders also experimented with new Magneti Marelli Software.
Swiss Moto2 rider Dominique Aegerter was also present. He tested Mike di Meglio’s second Avintia Racing bike, completing 90 laps as he his first gained experience on premier class machinery.
For a recap of Sunday’s GP, visit 2014 Catalunya MotoGP Results.