Cross Test
Danny McCanney, EJ (Gas Gas): “I’m looking forward to getting stuck into the Cross Test – I think it should be my sort of track. It’s mainly based on a large motocross track with some ski jumps and a couple of tabletops. The ground is a bit sandier than the other special tests and unlike last weekend will cut up very quickly. Even though it’s quite smooth now by Sunday it’s going to be extremely rough and you’ll have to work hard to stay on top of the bumps in order to get a good time. I think the conditions will be similar to what I’m used to so hopefully I can set some competitive times around it.”
Enduro Test
Mathias Bellino, EJ (Husaberg): “I think the Enduro Test will be a lot better than last weekend. This time it follows some nice stony trails along a valley. In places there are some tricky climbs and descents but nothing too technical. The average speed should be a bit higher than last weekend but it’s quite narrow and twisty in places so you must be careful to choose the correct line. Although it is only approximately 4km in length it will be very physical especially because we must ride it four times each day. Fitness will play a big part in the outcome of the results.”
Extreme Test
Jeff Goblet, E2 (Yamaha): “The Extreme Test is completely different than what we raced last weekend in Chile. It’s along the side of a steep valley with lots of ravines. The terrain is really beautiful – it’s almost like standing on the moon. The test is 100 per cent natural so we won’t face any man made sections this weekend. It’s quite long but not too difficult. The conditions are soft but gravely. Although there are many rocks to avoid and some hills to climb I think it will ride fast and will be similar to a very difficult enduro test.”
Overall the feeling surrounding the GP of Argentina is one of high optimism. After the hard packed terrain in Chile last weekend, riders are facing a new challenge - soft gravel like dirt with lots of loose stones to avoid. The tracks are going to cut up to be very rough and with four 50km laps scheduled for both days in blazing Argentinean heat expect this GP to separate the men from the boys.
Let the racing begin…
