Caterham Moto Racing – Almeria Test Day Two

Circuito de Almeria, 8th February 2014

Circuit Length: 4.025km

Bike # 5 – Johann Zarco – 80 laps, best time – 1:37,1

Bike # 2 – Josh Herrin – 27 laps, best time – n/a

Weather: air temperature 16°C (dry) / track temperature 24°C max

The Caterham Moto Racing team rounded up day two at the Almeria Circuit pleased with their progress and ready to head to the official test in Valencia.

Although unable to ride in the morning session and still suffering from severe sickness, an exhausted Josh Herrin battled through to get out on track. This enabled the team to shakedown the #2 Caterham Suter whilst Josh continued to build confidence on the bike.

A crash on the back straight halted Johann Zarco’s test prematurely but not before trying a number of setting changes and collecting valuable data in the process.

The team worked hard to repair the damage, allowing Zarco to get back out on track.

Johann Zarco: “Physically after the crash I am fine, no pain which is good. I am little bit disappointed as I was unable to make the target that I was thinking but still we were able to make many laps, and trying different things on the bike which is always important for the team.

“The Caterham Suter is good, now I just need to stay focussed and work on finding the limit. With the support of my mentor and the team I am feeling confident and believe I can be fast in Valencia.”

Josh Herrin: “Today I was still really struggling with sickness. We decided it was best to get some rest in the morning and head to the track in the afternoon so that I could put in a few laps on the new bike and make sure everything felt good for our next test.

“Getting back on the bike today was difficult as my body felt terrible but even though I only did a handful of laps I was able to get comfortable with the feel of it again.

“Heading into the test next week I just want to do as many laps as possible and get used to the track again. I haven’t ridden at Valencia since 2003 and that was on an 80cc but I’m looking forward to riding my new bike on a track I’m familiar with.”

Johan Stigefelt – Team Manager: “We tested here today with both riders. Josh came and managed to do 27 laps which was really valuable for us and especially for him, allowing him to get a feel for the new bike and make changes to the positioning.

“I am happy that his physical condition is improving and over the next couple of days he should be feeling better and ready for Valencia.

“With Johann we were trying some different settings throughout the day using different tyres and working a little bit on the suspension. Monitoring what he likes and what he didn’t like we now have some data and a direction that should enable us to continue progressing.

“This test was all about preparation and allowing the riders get a feel for their new bikes. We are still a new team and are learning every time but we are happy and feel prepared going forward to Valencia.”