Jordi Torres says the lack of World Superbike “interference” since Thailand has allowed him to “bring all the feelings” from riding the Avintia Ducati to the MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix.
Torres was called up to replace the injured Tito Rabat at Avintia, riding Xavier Simeon's GP16s, for the Aragon round and continued to deputise for his fellow Spaniard last time out in Thailand.
Prior to the Thai Grand Prix, Torres confirmed he had ended his association with MV Agusta in WSBK to concentrate fully on his MotoGP rides with Avintia, which are expected to continue through the flyaway races.
Torres believes not having to race in WSBK in Argentina last weekend has aided his preparation for Motegi, and has “high expectations” for the weekend ahead.
“We arrive at Japan with high expectations,” said Torres, who has finished 19th and 20th in his two MotoGP appearances.
“I haven't raced in Motegi since 2014, but I like the track because it’s quite technical and features hard braking points.
“I hope to understand the bike and the riding style better to be more efficient. It was good not riding bikes in the last few days because this allows me to bring all the feelings from Thailand to Japan without any interference.
“It will be great to keep working with the team and learn more in these overseas races, where you live together and you bond with the team even more.
“I trained a lot before this race and I’ll be physically and mentally fit for this weekend.”
Teammate Xavier Simeon believes the Thailand race was his “best” in MotoGP so far, despite finishing 14 seconds from the points in 18th, and is keen to build on that momentum at a track which suits the Desmosedici.
“We made a step forward in Thailand with the bike set-up and I hope this set-up will also work in Motegi,” the Belgian stated.
“I’ve never been so comfortable with the bike and no doubt it was my best race in MotoGP so far.
“The Twin Ring Motegi will suit our Ducati and I’ll work hard from Friday get the best of the weekend, trying to fight for my first points in the premier class on Sunday."
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