During yesterday’s qualifying session at Qatar, Marco Simoncelli missed out on a front row start by just 0.
041s, but the Gresini rider is slightly worried about his fuel consumption during the long race.
Simoncelli is the tallest rider (183cm, the same as Karel Abraham) on the grid and despite having gone through Honda’s wind tunnel twice to have a bigger fairing made to improve his aerodynamics, the electronics on his RC212V tends to cut power and lean fuel in order to let him finish the races.
His long time crew chief Aligi Deganello speaking to one Sportsmediaset’s pit lane reporters also said that Simoncelli’s weight (72 kg) adds to consumption problems compared to the other Honda riders; Andrea Dovizioso (54kg – 165cm), Hiroshi Aoyama (57 kg – 165cm), Dani Pedrosa (51kg -160cm) Casey Stoner (58kg – 171cm), Toni Elias (57kg -163cm).
Here’s what Simoncelli had to say after qualifying:“Today went well and I’m happy because after practice yesterday I never thought about the fourth time.
In this round we have made some small changes and we went a lot better in race trim.
Then on the “dry” lap I have been strong and I came within .
041s of the front row.
I’m still a bit concerned about fuel consumption, but we will still talk about it before the race.
In any case, starting from the front is already quite an advantage and that will allow me to consume less fuel.
Of course the two who have gone ahead are very strong and will dispute the race between themselves, but I will fight for a position of prestige.
”
