TECHNICAL OVERVIEW
APRILIA
Having made major steps forward with radical changes to its RS-GP in each of the three previous years , Aprilia ’ s fine 2022 meant only small evolutions were needed this winter . All aspects of performance were touched in a minor way . “ We have some more revs , the bike is a bit faster on the straight and it ’ s narrower , which makes it easier to change direction ,” said Aleix Espargaro of the bike ’ s evolution . “ With the new aero the bike turns better . In general , we made a very small step forward in all areas .” Having struggled to get the bike off the line in first part of the season , all Aprilias had an improved clutch after the summer break . Espargaro had a new swingarm and seat unit , which plays with the bike ’ s ergonomics , to test in Thailand . And while managing front tyre temperature when fighting in a group has also been problematic , news that the factory is developing a new carbon fibre chassis – last seen in MotoGP in 2011 – points to a bright future ahead .
46 | MotoGP™