News

The Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team has successfully concluded its inaugural day at the Lausitzring in Germany, with Alex Lowes and Sylvain Guintoli each setting 76 exploratory laps of the new circuit throughout the four 40-minutes sessions.

Lowes was eager to reacquaint himself with his WorldSBK-spec YZF-R1, having recently returned from his Suzuka 8 Hour victory, while Guintoli remounted his Yamaha for the first time since his Imola accident in late spring.

Sylvain Guintoli:
“I didn’t know how I was going to feel because it was quite a big crash and it’s been a long time since I’ve been on the bike, but I feel okay. The test here is just about building the speed back up, but it’s going well. I enjoyed riding the YZF-R1 and I did quite a lot of laps, so it’s now about continuing to rebuild the confidence and the rhythm with my riding again. I’ve never been to Lausitz before so we also need to learn the track, as it’s a bit different and very bumpy! We need to learn how to go fast with the R1 and not the YZ450F! Physically I felt good yesterday and my ankle is holding up well, so I’m pleased and we’ll just continue the development today.”

Alex Lowes:
“It’s been really nice to get back out on the YZF-R1. It’s only been a few weeks but it seems longer! I’ve really enjoyed the first day and getting to grips with the Lausitz track, as it’s a new one for me. It’s certainly different; a few corners are a lot of fun and a few I’m finding more difficult at this early stage, so I need a bit more time! We have worked really well today and I’m satisfied with the whole team’s efforts. I’m looking forward to chipping away some more tomorrow and building some strong foundations for the final push of 2016!”