Good first day for Simon

Late summer sunshine and warm temperatures (26º ambient and 43º on track) welcomed the Moto2 class to Misano today although strong winds had built by the time the intermediate category took to the track later in the afternoon. It was no surprise to see San Marino’s Alex De Angelis set the pace today although he was followed closely by Mapfre Aspar rider Julián Simón. Japanese rider Shoya Tomizawa did his best to ensure Spaniards and Italians don’t completely dominate here but the lap times throughout the field were typically tight.

Simón once again confirmed the good form he has found himself in since returning from the summer break at Brno and as he did at Indianapolis a week ago he battled for top spot in this afternoon’s session. De Angelis upped the pace towards the end of the session but the Spaniard’s final lap of 26, a 1’40.211 brought him to within a tenth of the home favourite.

2º Julián Simón 1.40.211 (26 laps): “Even though I am not physically 100% because of a sore throat I felt fine on the bike. It wasn’t an easy session and the Italian riders were strong – Pasini and De Angelis are back and both desperate for a good result. I was a little surprised that Elías struggled to get on the pace after testing here so recently. Anyway, it is early to make too many judgements. We have worked well, we tested the soft tyres but in the end went towards the harder ones. The final sprint at the end of the session weas really good and I almost ended up with the fastest time. I’m happy because we have a fantastic feeling here and I hope it continues tomorrow. The objective will be to get on the front row because the start here at Misano, with such a tight first chicane, will be tricky. We have more experience since Brno, the team are doing a good job and that makes it easier for me to ride.”

Source: Mapfre Aspar Team