2017 MGP3O DEBUTS IN VALENCIA
Comunitat de Valenciana, 20 February 2017: The 2017 season has officially begun for Mahindra Racing, completing a successful two-day test at the Valencia Circuit. A number of upgrades have hit the MGP3O for 2017 with engine development remaining as a key area of focus for the Moto3 World Championship’s only Indian manufacturer. The two-day test also saw a new rear shock from Ohlins implemented, developed specifically for the MGP3O.
Both Lorenzo Dalla Porta and Albert Arenas were back aboard the 2017 MGP3O after initial tests at the end of 2016 and were pleased with the development work done over the winter break. For Dalla Porta, who joins Mahindra Racing as the 2016 FIM CEV Repsol Moto3 Junior World Champion, the test was especially useful as he continues to quickly adapt his riding style to the new machine. The team and riders were both pleased with the lap times, their attention focused on exploring setup options.
Also learning the MGP3O were Jakub Kornfeil and Peugeot teammate Patrik Pulkkinen, the latter set to make his World Championship debut in 2017. With seven years’ experience in the lightweight class, Kornfeil was quickly up to speed and impressed with his lap times over the two days. The Czech rider ended the test pleased with the base setting of his MGP3O, both Kornfeil and the Peugeot team were thrilled with the 2017 upgrades to the MGP3O.
Despite a somewhat cold start to the second day of testing, the teams were able to complete their testing programmes and steadily improved their lap times. They immediately head to the next test in Jerez on February 22 to 23 with a direction to follow. Afterwards, Mahindra Racing will remain in Jerez for further testing ahead of the first official IRTA test on March 8 to 10.
The countdown continues to Qatar, the 2017 MotoGP World Championship beginning under the flood lights on March 26.
Lorenzo Dalla Porta, Aspar Mahindra Team: “It has all gone very well. We were productive on both days and were able to set some good times alone. I’m happy with the Mahindra chassis, which works great. We will keep working in Jerez, where hopefully we can make another step. We improved with each run on the bike, the feeling with the bike and the team is always better.”
Albert Arenas, Aspar Mahindra Team: “I am happy to be back and starting to learn with the bike and team. This test we started with a new bike and tried to get a good setup with small but consistent steps. We worked looking towards the race and tried many different things. We have a defined path now.”
