Vickers puts the paddock on alert
All eyes will be on Ryan Vickers after the RAF Regular & Reserves Kawasaki rider stunned the BSB paddock by finishing third overall in Monteblanco.
The 21-year-old was on fine form running in the top six on all three days of the test. He was also one of only a handful of riders who were able to produce long race runs on the abrasive Monteblanco surface. “It’s been a great start,” Vickers told MCN. “We’ve made a lot of improvements, completing two race runs which showed really consistent pace. We’re finding where the bike is working for me and also for the race distance in order to save the tyre. “It’s really, really positive. There hasn’t been one time that we’ve gone out looking for a lap-time. We’re just testing things and the lap-times are just happening, which is the best feeling because I’m just very comfortable with the bike and I just know where the limit is.” Although Vickers remains within the Lee Hardy Racing setup, a lot has changed over the winter. The majority of the team’s personnel is different and so is their Kawasaki ZX-10RR. “We’ve got a new engine and the characteristics are completely different. It’s changed the way the tyres are gripping. We’ve also got a new fuel tank, which changes the turning of the bike, and the exhaust system. It’s very difficult but we’re just trying to make me comfortable and find what works best for me and best for the bike.
“I’m changing a lot with my riding style, like how I approach and exit the corners. It’s not just about testing the bike, it’s about testing and improving myself. I’ve got a good feeling with the bike and I know exactly what it’s going to do, so when I change something, I can feel that change. I’m in a really good place.”