Jerez GP2 Test

As the racing year drew to a close after Brands Hatch we found ourselves itching to get out on the Chasis Factory GP2. The opportunity came about to take this years bike out for a 3 day test at Jerez (Spain) whilst our own bike for next year is in the process of being built. The test started on Friday 22nd November but unfortunately we brought the English weather with us so this day was written off. However, Saturday was a lot better with the bright skies showing up from the start of the day but the track still needed time to dry out. As a result we went out just before lunch to put a few laps in on the bike to get comfortable. After lunch it was fully dry, the slick tyres went in and we set off for our first dry session.

The GP2 machine has a few differences from the bike I’ve ridden previously (Yamaha R6) but straight away I felt comfortable on the bike and got up to speed on the slick tyres. We managed to get 3 solid dry sessions in before the day came to a close. Then came the final day where the sun was shining yet again. Similar to the previous day we kept building on what we learned, the main developments were in braking and acceleration where the data on the bike can really pin point where exactly you’re losing out. Even though we were only here to get up to speed it was nice to post a fast lap time getting down to an ideal time of a 1:47. For the final session I went out and focused on some riding points that will suit the style of the bike setting myself up nicely for next years pre season test. I’m very happy with my progress on the new bike and I can’t wait to get out again.