Moto2: Lowes hoping for boost from Montmelò test

Moto2 championship leader Sam Lowes is hoping for an extra boost this weekend at Barcelona’s Montmelò circuit, as he sets out to capitalise on a test at the Spanish track earlier this season.

Testing there at the end of April – and setting fast lap times in the process – he’s hoping to get his title campaign back on track after a shortened race last time out in Mugello destroyed any hopes he had of another win.

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“After the Spanish Grand Prix at Jerez we made a really positive test at the Montmelò circuit: we have been very fast, with lower lap times compared to last year’s race, and we also found a good set-up, so I’m looking forward to start the race weekend. So far we have been fast and competitive on all circuits, so hopefully we can start well from the first practice.

“I feel very good and are very comfortable with the bike and with the team, and also the third place collected at Mugello and the fact to be leading again the Championship are giving me a lot of motivation ahead of this race.”

His views are echoed by Federal Oil Gresini Kalex team boss Fausto Gresini, who says that the job they’ve done so far is exactly what’s been needed.

“After crossing the finish line at the Italian Grand Prix Sam obviously was not happy: he knew that he could probably get more if they had not stopped the race. The important thing though was to be able to get on the podium again and to be back in the lead in the Championship, just as it’s important to know that we have always been competitive so far.

“The team is working very well and there is a great atmosphere: I believe that Barcelona can represent another favourable track for us so we start the weekend in a very relaxed way, aware of our potential.”