Fermin Aldeguer described his first experience on a MotoGP bike as “crazy” after testing the Gresini Ducati at the post-season session in Barcelona.
The 19-year-old Spaniard, transitioning from Moto2, gave an honest assessment of his adaptation process, including learning the ride-height device, understanding the new Michelin tyres, and pushing the Ducati to its limits for the first time.
Aldeguer wasted no time familiarizing himself with MotoGP’s ride-height device. “I started to use it from the first lap because I said, ‘I have to be automatic with this thing,’” he explained.
However, the initial runs didn’t go perfectly. “The first run was crazy because sometimes, I put it, but I didn’t unlock it [by braking hard enough]. So I was in the third corner with the bike [still down]!”
Despite the early hiccups, Aldeguer persisted. “I used it in all laps and, in the end, I finished good,” he said.
The Ducati’s braking power and Michelin tyres stood out as major adjustments for the eight-time Moto2 race winner. “Today was very good because I feel incredible with the bike from the first lap.”
“Everything is incredible – the acceleration, the speed – but I think the most important was the braking point. You can brake so late and still stop the bike. Understanding this on the first laps was difficult.”
He also noted the big differences of Michelin’s asymmetric tyres compared to the Pirellis used in Moto2. “The tyres are completely different… but maybe it’s a little bit cold, and I lost the front [in a crash]. I need more laps to understand,” he admitted.
That's 3/3 rookies getting done what would have happened sooner or later...
— MGP1 MotoGP (@mgp1official) November 19, 2024
Fermin Aldeguer is down in Turn 5 💥#MotoGP #BarcelonaTest pic.twitter.com/Vi77CcwNm8
Ahead of the test, it wasn’t clear whether the Spaniard would be fit to ride a MotoGP bike, however. despite a recent hand surgery and experiencing mild arm pump, Aldeguer managed a full 58 laps.
“I feel good with my physical condition, only a little bit of arm pump and the surgery on my hand, but for sure I have work to do for a long race,” he added. “I have to work a little bit more on my style with the bike. I think it’s not time to think about the settings yet. We will see what’s happening in Sepang.”
Aldeguer has already set a clear goal for his rookie MotoGP season: “The target is to be top rookie, but we have to stay calm and then go step by step.”
“Everything is a step, or two, or three, more than Moto2,” he said. “The most impressive part was the brakes. You can brake so late, and you don’t know where the limit is – I did crash, so now I know where the limit is. But I am happy because I adapted to everything fast.”
