Gardner, Fernandez looking to exploit test knowledge

After reaching the chequered flag in 15th and 18th respectively on their MotoGP debuts in Qatar, Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez start on a more level playing field in Mandalika this weekend.

All 24 riders will begin Friday practice with their prior experience of the new Indonesian track consisting of three dusty testing days in February.

Significant changes - a partial resurfacing and revised tyre allocation - will greet the MotoGP riders on their return but, unlike Qatar, both Gardner and Fernandez at least have a clear starting point in terms of bike set-up.

“The first race of the season in Qatar was positive as we finished with a point, which is not so bad for a first race in MotoGP," said Gardner, who led fellow rookies Darryn Binder, Fabio di Giannantonio and Fernandez across the line after a race long battle at Lusail.

"We still have a lot to work on, so I am looking forward to heading to Mandalika to try to make some improvements from the learnings in Qatar.

"We already did some tests in Mandalika, so we know the directions we need to take in order to prepare for the race on Sunday. I am excited to go racing in Indonesia for the first time, to meet the fans there, and to get back to see my team.”

Gardner, riding with a sore wrist after recent surgery, was 23rd (+1.5s) at the Mandalika test with Fernandez one place in front after withdrawing from the final day due to the affects of a heavy blow to the head.

“The first race in Qatar was difficult for us because we ended far away from the first rider of KTM. I take positives out of it because it means that we can learn from what Brad Binder did in order to improve," said Fernandez, referring to Binder's surprise runner-up finish in Qatar.

"I want to enjoy riding the bike for the second race in Mandalika. I am a rookie and it is important to take each race one by one in order to progress. The goal is to try to close the gap with the KTM riders.

"We already did some testing in Indonesia last month, so we have a good base to work on, and we will try to get better and prepare in the best way possible for the race on Sunday.”

Team Manager Herve Poncharal said: "Both riders had a good opener in Qatar, and they are very motivated by the performance of Brad Binder on his KTM RC16. They are looking forward to getting back on their bikes, and hopefully they will be able to fight for the points.”

Free practice begins in Mandalika on Friday.