WSB: 'New approach' boosts Lowes in Phillip Island

Alex Lowes impressed at Phillip Island this weekend as he shot to the front to challenge for the podium on the Yamaha YZF-R1.

The former British Champion walked away from the Australian circuit with two strong fourth places and more points than he’s ever left the first round with before after two impressive rides saw him fight with the front runners in both outings.

While he says weaknesses in the second half of the lap saw him unable to achieve his podium goal, he puts the improved results down to a change in how he approached the race weekend.

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“The bike was working really well but I was just not fast enough on the second half of the track, and I was not aggressive enough there,” he explained. “That is what cost us a podium, so it’s something I have to work on for next year at this track.

“Apart from that I felt really strong and I was competitive for 44 race laps this weekend. I know the guys have done a fantastic job just improving the R1 in lots of areas. We can be happy with being equal third in the points, it’s a good start to the year, and something we can build on as a team. I think I have performed in a better way, not just riding two good races, but in how I have approached the weekend, how I conducted myself, how the team has worked together – I think we have all made a better job and that we have a good base to work from.”

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