Espargaro Reflects on Indian GP and Aprilia's Well-Known Problems
Categories: MotoGP
The unexpected retirement at the Indian GP took Aprilia factory rider Aleix Espargaró by surprise. The investigation into the reasons behind it is still ongoing.
Despite the challenging conditions, Aleix Espargaro had high hopes for a top-ranking finish at the Indian Grand Prix.
The leader of the Aprilia team at 34 years old, reflected on the Indian Grand Prix, saying, “The Aprilia was tricky to ride throughout the entire weekend. However, I was still quick. I believe I had the speed for a top 5 finish.”
His lap times, hovering in the high 1:45-minute range, showed promise. He added, “Furthermore, I had a significantly better rear tire compared to Brad Binder and Joan Mir. A lot could have been possible.”
However, the events of the eleventh lap remain a perplexing mystery for the three-time MotoGP winner. He stated, “The bike just stopped. Suddenly, I had no power anymore.”
Recurring Aprilia issues in the heat
Aleix Espargaró dismissed speculations of a gearbox issue, stating, “The gearbox worked perfectly..” Nonetheless, the 313-time GP participant is consistently frustrated by a recurring issue that has plagued them for the past four years.
He expressed, “For the past four years, this problem has been recurring. Whenever we compete in overseas races, where it’s usually very hot, we struggle.”
He continued, “This simply can’t be. We absolutely need to improve and solve this problem once and for all.” The exact cause of this predicament remains somewhat unclear to the sixth-ranked rider in the championship.
He suggested, “It probably has to do with our fairing and aero packages. Of course, the heat here in Asia causes problems for all riders and bikes. But we suffer especially.”
