Still not a perfect fit for the Aprilia RS-GP, but things are moving forward – The Spaniard is not putting any pressure on himself in his learning process
Maverick Vinales has found a new home at Aprilia. The Spaniard has finished in the top 10 twice in the first four MotoGP races of 2022, with seventh place in Argentina his best result on the RS-GP. Most recently in Austin, Vinales was also ahead of his teammate Aleix Espargaro.
After the US Grand Prix, Vinales said that qualifying is still a weakness because he does not yet feel the limit of the Aprilia perfectly. With a better starting position he could have even fought for the podium, estimates the nine-time MotoGP winner.
That’s why Vinales was optimistic after the overseas races, because he feels progress. “It is a learning process. I rode a different bike for many years. It takes time,” Vinales told ‘MotoGP.com’. “I am taking this time and working without pressure.”
“I am sure that results will come. I see myself winning with Aprilia. But I don’t know how long it will take. I come from a completely different bike, a completely different brand. The character of the manufacturers is also very different.”
“For me, the bike still feels very different. It’s not a part of me yet. I don’t fit the bike perfectly yet, but I am fast. That’s why I want to see myself when I fit the bike perfectly. “
With Suzuki and Yamaha, Vinales has always ridden in-line four-cylinders. The Aprilia’s V4 engine is different to ride. Completely different lines are necessary. Vinales is working on this change. He is also fine-tuning details of the ergonomics.
“The bike is also designed for a different riding style,” the Spaniard notes. “The engine is completely different. Everything is completely different. Being in the back is difficult. You have to accept that and work.”
There is a spirit of optimism at Aprilia. Espargaro’s first win in Argentina was a milestone. The atmosphere is magnificent. That is also an important aspect for Vinales psychologically. The environment is ideal for him.
“I feel very comfortable in the team. We talk about everything,” says Vinales, referring to his teammate’s first win: “I’ve never had this feeling before. In motorbike racing you also have to be an egoist.”
“But for the first time I was happy for the team when my teammate won. If it had been the other way round, the other side of the pit would also be very happy. It’s very important because when everyone works together, the development is very fast.”
Vinales and Espargaro are also friends off the track. Both live with their family in Andorra. They also meet regularly in their free time for bike rides together. “We have a very good relationship. The whole team is relaxed,” laughs Vinales.