Zarco "more in control" during the second KTM test

Tech 3 Yamaha converted Zarco underwent tough testing for its new employer last week in Valencia. He suffered two falls and was found 21st on the second day on the timesheet.

He continued to fight for the best pace on the first day in Jerez, his best time six tenths slower than Pol Espargaro's KTM reference, but reported an improved feel aboard the RC16.

Zarco said the key to his progress was to regain more confidence ahead, the entry into the corner having been a weakness in the Valencia test.

"It's happening," he said. "Compared to Valencia, where I had two accidents, I was more under control and I think [I am] give better information to the team.

"I have made a step that I was looking for, about driving and using the positive qualities of the bike.When I did this step during the day, it mr. provided more happiness and a new confirmation for the technicians.

"When I gained confidence in the front, I was able to play more with my body at the entrance and at the cornering speed, which helped me progress through the day.

"It's fine, the feeling improves, the calculation time is still slow, but when I improve, I'm so constant, so I think it's a positive thing. approach to the second [to the pace] or less than a second, we know it will be for each turn. "

Zarco added that he was still using the basic configuration of his teammate Espargaro as a reference as he continued to adapt to the KTM after two years on Yamaha machines.

"We are still trying to find our base," said the Frenchman. "We have Pol's base, he moves quickly, we always keep him on the side to be sure and do not go sometimes in the wrong direction.

"We are improving, it takes time, but in reality the whole package is going up and it will grow in the right direction."

Asked to name a strong point of the KTM, he replied: "The engine.

"This engine feels like you're out of the corner, even if you miss the turn anyway, the bike will leave, and that's one of the strengths we'll be able to use even better when we go faster."

Johann Zarco, Red Bull KTM Factory Race

Photo by: Gold and Goose / LAT Images