Locatelli finds ‘setup’ gains, ‘aim is to be in the front group’ at Misano

Andrea Locatelli will get his first taste of a home WorldSBK race this weekend, as Misano plays host to round three. 

Locatelli’s progression between Aragon and Estoril was an impressive one as he took his first top five finish in just his second weekend. 

Locatelli was one of a few riders to test at Misano during the pre-season, which could be important given many of the riders will be trying out the newly resurfaced layout for the first time.

Speaking ahead of Friday’s FP1 session, Locatelli said: "It’s very nice for me to return on track at Misano in Italy – it’s the home race for me and it’s always nice because we can also have some fun during the weekend. 

"It’s important to have some balance! I am feeling good because we had a really good race 2 at Estoril. I understand more about the bike and the setup that helped me to make another step."

Locatelli's race pace has been the big reason for his four points finishes - all came in the longer races - but extracting the most in qualifying is where the Italian feels he needs to improve.

"I am sure that with this we can do very well at Misano because we have been improving every race. Also Superpole qualifying will be important and I want to improve and to understand the best way to get maximum performance on the Q tyre," added Locatelli.  

"Of course the aim is to try to be in the front group and try for a good result because our way now is to improve every race and I know the Misano track very well. We will see, but we’re ready."