Alvaro Bautista continued his excellent recent form at Phillip Island despite a crash this afternoon at the start of the second free practice for the Australian Grand Prix. The Spanish rider reported a positive feeling for the new asphalt here and after getting some good feedback from both his machines today Alvaro is confident of taking another big step tomorrow. Bryan Staring also showed that he is capable of setting a good pace at a circuit that he knows like the back of his hand.
Alvaro Bautista (2nd 1’ 29” 438)
“It has been a positive day despite the crash this afternoon. I felt good on the new surface straight away, it is much better than last year. In the afternoon we worked hard to take another step forward but after just four laps I had a crash in turn two when I got too tight to the inside and caught a bit of dirt, which caused me to crash. It was a stupid crash but luckily without any serious consequences and I was able to go out on the second bike with the same setting and establish a good feeling again. We made some small changes to the setting from there and improved even further so I am happy and hopeful of more progress tomorrow.”
Bryan Staring (21st 1’ 32” 290)
“It is nice to be at home and it has helped me to finally feel comfortable with the bike today. I know the track really well and that's a big help. We did a good job today and we are in good shape to make some progress tomorrow. I will be giving it my best shot, that's for sure.”
Fun&Gon HOnda Gresini Press Release
