Nicky Hayden was back on top of the time sheets at the second MotoGP test day in Barcelona, Catalunya. The reigning world champion tried out a chassis that featured the latest modifications.
Nicky Hayden said about Day 2 of the MotoGP Test
“It’s been an encouraging day testing the updated chassis. You’ve got to do it when it counts on the race weekend but I have a better feeling on the machine now and I think it’s definitely an improvement in some areas. It certainly shows potential at this circuit, so I hope that carries over to the next race at Donington Park.
We spent a large part of the day tyre testing for Michelin and I did a longer run this afternoon - about three-quarters race distance - and was able to get some good consistency. We tried a qualifying tyre with the modified chassis too, because we didn’t want to get to Donington and have any surprises. Thanks a lot to my guys because we’ve had two GPs on the trot and they’ve been working really hard. I know those guys aren’t giving up on me which gives me a lot of confidence.”
MotoGP Test Times - Day 2 Catalunya
1. Nicky Hayden USA Honda 1?42.40
2. Casey Stoner AUS Ducati 1?42.76
3. Chris Vermeulen AUS Suzuki 1?42.90
4. Loris Capirossi ITA Ducati 1?43.09
5. Shinichi Itoh JPN Ducati 1?45.51
6. Nobuatsu Aoki JPN Suzuki 1?46.01
hopefully this will be the break nicky needs to get nearer the front
What Nicky needs is proper chassis set-up and tires that can last the whole race. The testing in Barcelona with the new chassis gives me some hope. When he gets it right watch out, cause he’s got more talent than any rider in the world except Rossi. With his work ethic and positive attitude, I’ll never lose faith. Go Nicky