On the last day of MotoGP testing in Mandalika, Pramac Ducati racers Jorge Martin and Johann Zarco both crash.
Jorge Martin and Johann Zarco of Pramac Ducati had a less than perfect final day of test in Mandalika, despite looking competitive before of the 2022 MotoGP season opener in Qatar.
Martin only finished 18 laps after crashing due to a’small engine brake’ issue, a fall that occurred four tenths faster than Pol Espargaro’s quickest speed.
Martin would have become the first MotoGP rider to post a sub 1m 31s lap in Mandalika if he had finished the lap.
However, due to continued problems with his GP22 bike, the second-year rider was forced to being a spectator for much of the day.
Martin believes he and the squad have found out the ideal set-up for the season start following month: “Yeah it’s been a pity for me today because riding just 15 laps in the last day of testing before Qatar is not easy,” he added.
“But yeah, I had this big crash when I was coming in hot, was up by four tenths. Finally, we found out that it was a small issue with the engine brake and that was a big part of the crash.
“Afterwards, at the end of the day we wanted to make a long run but I couldn’t because we had some issues with the bike.
“Anyway, I’m happy with the base set-up we found during these days and I’ve been working a lot with the team and we’ve found the best way to start in Qatar. I feel competitive to start the season.”
Zarco finished 82 laps, second only to Takaaki Nakagami (91) in the race, however he crashed.
Zarco blamed an overheating front tyre in sweltering temperatures as the primary cause of his collision, which occurred while he was in the midst of a race simulation.
“It was quite a hard day, but it was also a good day again. I’m surprised at the amount of laps I’m still doing,” said the former two-time Moto2 champion.
“I tried to get even more control. I had a small crash during a long run with used tyres as it was getting too hot and I think the front tyre was not working perfectly.
“The lap time is not bad. It was only four tenths from the top lap time. Anyway, we knew it was always possible to do a good lap time and the biggest work is to find consistency to win races.
“I tried my best today, we are still working on the set-up to feel more comfortable. I did some good training and I’m happy for this. Now we will keep focused and do the best training at home for Qatar.”
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