MotoGP: Aprilia renew partnership with charity (RED)

The Aprilia MotoGP team will renew their partnership with HIV/AIDS charity (RED) this weekend at the Valencian Grand Prix and the final round of the 2017 season, running both Aleix Espargaró and Sam Lowes in a special livery, as they did twelve months ago at the same round.

However, special colours won’t be foremost in the mind of Espargaró as he looks to return to MotoGP action, missing out last time out at the Malaysian Grand Prix thanks to injuries sustained a week earlier at Phillip Island.

“I can’t wait to get back in the saddle. I have missed the RS-GP! I was sorry to miss the Malaysia round due to the injury. Unfortunately, ours is a dangerous sport and these things can happen. I am confident. My hand is better and despite the fact that there is still some pain, I will give 100%. The entire team and I deserve to finish this season well. We have worked hard and we want to tackle preparation for 2018 with the right confidence.”

TOP STORIES

• Moto Guzzi announce V85 concept
• MCN Fleet video: How am I finding the Suzuki GSX250R?
• MCN Live from Milan: Eicma 2017
• BSB: Honda stick with O’Halloran and Linfoot for 2018
• Royal Enfield reveal Continental GT and Interceptor 650cc twins
• Ducati reveal bigger Multistrada 1260

The race also marks something of a bittersweet outing for Lowes as he lines up for the last time with the squad before his return to Moto2 action for next season.

“I want to do well in Valencia. It is a track where we have done various tests, so we will have a good starting setup. After the triple-header I recharged my batteries and I am ready to give it my all for myself and for the team.”

Originally formed by U2 frontman Bono and activist and politician Bobby Shriver, (RED) is perhaps more famous for their range of branded products produced to raise funds for their work, including Apple iPods, Starbucks coffees and special edition Coca Cola bottles. The money raised supports parent organisation the ONE Campaign in their work fighting extreme poverty and preventable disease in Africa.

Have a browse for your next bike on MCN Bikes ForSale website or use the MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.