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The first day of tests in Barcelona partially restored the smile on Johnny Rea's face. At the end of Thursday, the Cannibal was in 5th position, without mounting the SCQ. On this occasion, the Yamaha rider spoke about the difficulties that emerged at Phillip Island, where he didn't score a single point and finished Race 2 with a bad fall.
With great composure, Rea wanted to clear the air.
"From the first lap, I found the sensations of the tests again," he began, "I think it was a positive Thursday, even if I feel bad about the start of the World Championship. During these past weeks, we tried to figure out what happened in Australia. In fact, we carefully analyzed all the data, performing all the necessary check ups. The reason for our difficulties at Phillip Island was due to details, which were then conditioned by the fall on Tuesday. Over the course of the weekend, we were forced to chase, despite the fact that we were then able to make progress."
Rea turns a page in Barcelona.
"Today, I started from scratch again, and we worked on different aspects of the bike, including the front end, with the goal of breaking better. I personally think the problems in Australia are resolved. We also have to consider that, in the end, that's a particular context. Plus, there was a lot of grip. But now we're here, and we have to start again."
Johnny then tries to make a quick assessment of his bike.
"I love the character of the Yamaha, although, to date, I've never ridden it as I would like to. This is a new adventure for me, and I have a new team around me. Consequently, we have to get to know and find that right amalgam that's needed. All the people working are extraordinary, because they put a lot of effort and knowledge into it."
The rider from Northern Ireland talks about the relevant mental aspect.
"You should definitely not panic, because that wouldn't help at all. Last year, I was devastated at the beginning of the season, because I didn't know which direction to take. But then we were able to start again and make progress. Over the winter, I was fast right away with the R1 but, the fact is, I'm not really as fast as I'd like to be. And, to be fast, all the pieces have to fit together."
Locatelli is currently making a difference.
"Locatelli is really confident with the bike and, in Australia, he demonstrated great competitiveness. We have to take it one step at a time without panicking. Like I said, Phillip Island is a special context, but I still feel bad about the start. However, I want to thank all the people at the medical center and the mobile clinic who assisted me after Tuesday's injury during the tests."
