Superbike: Marco Melandri “We're not at the top yet but I'm very happy”

Marco Melandri and Aprilia concluded three days of testing at the Jerez circuit. The driver from Ravenna completed 237 laps to gain ever greater confidence with the Italian company's RSV4. With the team he worked a lot to adapt to the characteristics of the new bike and the biggest problem he encountered was braking on the hairpins. The word is up to him.

“I'm very happy with this test, even if I'm not yet 100% satisfied with how I ride the bike, we need to work especially on braking before the hairpins – he said Marco Melandri – In these three days we understood what to discard for the future and my understanding with the team, now complete, has grown. We are definitely faster in terms of race pace than the flying lap time suggests, but I am sure that by exploring new avenues in terms of set-up we can improve further. With a clear head, I will take stock with the technicians to hear their opinions and we will try to prepare the 2014 season as best as possible."

“Marco's chemistry with the RSV4 and with the team continued during these three days of testing – he added Romano Albesiano, Head of Aprilia Racing – We tested various chassis, engine and control strategy solutions, identifying a fairly clear line of development. The performance level in terms of race pace is already very satisfactory, while we need to work on the flying lap performance. During the winter break we will process the material collected and prepare other proposals for the pilots for the resumption of testing in January."