MotoGP news
Pramac newcomers continue learning
15 May 2009 / Results / PhotosPramac Racing rookies Mika Kallio and Niccolo Canepa progressed further along the steep learning curve as showers hampered valuable dry running time at the start of the French Grand Prix weekend. The squad completed a total of thirty-seven laps on Friday at Le Mans, with the Finn and Italian winding up in thirteenth and eighteenth positions respectively.
With a dry track the optimum for setup work, all teams were disappointed to see the falling of yet more rain this season as spots began to fall in the afternoon. "We aren't so lucky this season with the weather conditions," Pramac technical director Fabiano Sterlacchini said after the session. "Our riders, as rookies in this category, need to ride for as many laps as possible to learn the bike reactions at each circuit. We will see what the weather will be like tomorrow, even if we know that here in Le Mans it is always unpredictable."
Kallio kept the mood positive, despite having wished for more track time. "You can find over twenty degrees and sun but after a few minutes it can start to rain, ruining your work plan," said the third-placed 250cc rider of 2008. "It's a pity, because we had found the right way to follow; we started with the same setup as in Jerez and, after a few modifications, we found a good balance of the bike - nothing special for sure, but a good start anyway."
"Really unlucky today," added Canepa, who ended the day at the tail end of the field. "This is the first time for me in Le Mans and I need to do as many laps as possible to learn the best lines to follow. Anyway, I can be quite happy because I didn't make any modifications to the bike, I have only concentrated on learning the track."
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