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Sepang testing resumes with motogp.com

Friday, 22 February 2013

On Tuesday, MotoGP™ will again descend on Sepang for the third of four pre-season tests ahead of the 2013 campaign. From 10am local time on Tuesday, all runners will hope for dry conditions as more clues are provided ahead of the opening round of the world championship in Qatar on 7 April.

A fortnight ago, the first assembly in Malaysia was source of much excitement. Monster Yamaha Tech 3’s Cal Crutchlow believes that as many as eight riders could find themselves in a race-winning position this year, as he is joined for the first time by English compatriot and MotoGP™ rookie Bradley Smith.
Repsol Honda Team’s Dani Pedrosa topped all three days of the previous test, maintaining the ultra-strong form he displayed across the second half of 2012. However he could be forgiven for looking over his shoulder, as Moto2™ champion Marc Márquez now aims for a top three test finish following an impressive first outing at Sepang. Reigning title holder Jorge Lorenzo remains very much in touch, as returning Yamaha Factory Racing teammate Valentino Rossi now strives to match the former’s race pace.
In the expected midfield group, Go&Fun Honda Gresini’s Álvaro Bautista will trial a new front fork as he remains with run Showa suspension. At Ducati Team, their ‘evolution, not revolution’ concept continues. Further back but closer than ever, the CRT bikes continue to home in on front-runners as many resume their adaptation to the new Magnetti Marelli ECU. Last time out, reigning class champion Aleix Espargaró was just over two and half seconds off the top.
The field is praying for a lack of thunderstorms but motogp.com will be on-hand to provide all of the latest reports, reactions and video highlights as the test progresses, rain or shine. Regular rider interviews will again be accompanied by exclusive technical insight to ensure that not one element of the drama is missed.
Between Tuesday and Thursday, the action will be staged from 10am to 6pm local time (3am-11am CET). Live timing will allow you to keep close tabs on every sector, speed trap and split time.
To enjoy all the testing coverage, rider interviews and special features, pick up your motogp.com VideoPass and take advantage of our Pre-Season offer.