Lorenzo working on stability, Spies aiming to get well
Published September 16th, 2011 | 
World Champion Jorge Lorenzo had a solid start in the first session, wrapping it in fifth place just over six tenths of first. The Mallorcan rider left the game session for stability of his YZR-M1 under braking and was also looking for more edge grip. The second session saw improvements in the game to take his time by seven tenths of a second, reducing the gap a little at first a little more than five tenths of a second.
Team Lorenzo, his teammate Ben Spies struggled to perform since his arrival in Japan after suffering severe food poisoning on the way to the U.S.. Treatment with last night the Clinica Mobile helped Americans find the strength to practice in the morning, finishing in eighth place, 0.9 seconds ahead. Exhaustion is in, leading to an early end to the afternoon session after just five laps. The team will continue to work closely with the mobile clinic today and tomorrow morning to improve the condition of Spies and endurance for the race on Sunday.
Jorge Lorenzo:
“We have improved the lap time enough in the morning to the afternoon session, but still not enough, competition is very strong here. It will be a very difficult weekend to fight for the podium and victory. We are trying some things on the bike to improve stability under braking and in corners. We found a little, but still need to find some more! We are the fifth, it could be worse today. ”
Ben Spies:
“What a shocking start to the weekend I do not think I’ve been as sick as I was on the way here, I’m not allowed near the plane. I’m getting my strength gradually thanks to the big boys in the clinic, but not enough to ride properly in the second session. I started to get tunnel vision on the line and felt it was too dangerous to be there. I am working with the clinic today and tomorrow and I’m sure things will be a little better for qualifying and the race. I am sorry for my team and all the Japanese fans who came to see today. “
