What’s happening at Tech3?
Since Bradley Smith and Pol Espargaro left Tech3 replacements Johann Zarco and Jonas Folger have shown just how good those Tech3 Yamahas are – they’re probably only three or four months behind the factory bikes in terms of development. And they’re such a well rounded package – they’re 90% there on the engine, gearbox, braking, everything, which means if you’re a good rider, you can get on the pace very quickly because you don’t have to work round anything. Also, Zarco and Folger have come in with no pressure – no-one expected much of them in the first year. Zarco has impressed not just with his speed but in the way he’s not afraid of anyone and how hard he works. But as a double world champion we knew he had the potential. Folger, on the other hand, has a real surprise. He’s got natural talent, but he’s never been consistent and there was nothing to indicate he might get on with a Motogp bike. It’s been an amazing performance.