Yamaha and Spies ready to take the fight to Ducati at Brno

The Yamaha World Superbike squad showed just how much they want to win their first ever WSB crown by bringing a host of new parts to last weeks Imola test.

With Spies just 14 points behind the injured series leader Noriyuki Haga in the WSB standings, Yamaha know that this weekends’ race at Brno is the time to capitalise and they are pulling out all the stops to do just that.

In the team’s first test since Monza in March, Spies had new electronics with updated traction control and anti-wheelie settings plus new Ohlins front forks. The team also experimented with revised rider positioning in an effort to improve the handling and stability of the R1.
Speaking to MCN, Spies said:

“We’ve definitely found some stuff and some more adjustability in the areas we’ve been struggling with. Braking is one of the bikes and my strong points, but we want to make it even better. We’ve been working to keep the bike more settled on the brakes and keeping the dam rear tyre on the ground.”

Although Spies has been stunning all year, at Valencia and Kyalami he struggled against the Ducati’s and he believes that Imola is a similar type of track.
“At low grip, bumpy tracks like Kyalami, Valencia and Imola, where the tarmac is very coarse the Ducati’s have an advantage. Traction wise you get to a point where the frame only allows you so much. The frame on the Ducati allows for good grip and that really shows at tracks like these.

“This test has been good because we’ve had good race pace even though it’s been really hot. It’s a good result because usually on bumpy low grip tracks we struggle. We’ve found a good race set-up so when we come back here in September and its 10 degrees cooler it should be easier.”

Now Spies remains focussed on next weeks race in Brno. Despite not knowing the circuit he has shown an uncanny ability to learn tracks fast.
With Haga still recovering from the broken right forearm and fractured Scapula, The Czech race will be Spies’ perfect opportunity to take control.

“The championship is getting close now and the good thing is that we never gave up. I was over 80 points behind and now we’re only 14. Nori isn’t going to be 100% at Brno, but he’ll be riding for points. I need to stay out of trouble and not make any mistakes.”