Crutchlow: Good start, top-five aim for race

Cal Crutchlow opened up second fastest at Motegi in Japan as the British rider slotted in behind Andrea Dovizioso on the FP1 times.

Crutchlow opted not to venture out in the wet afternoon session on his LCR Honda and ended the day only 0.105s down on the factory Ducati rider.

“The conditions were not too bad in FP1, we expected it to be a little bit worse because of the dirt on the track but the lap times were quite respectable and we were pleased with how the session went,” he said.

“I need to find something in the second sector, but overall we’re happy and obviously this afternoon we didn’t go out. I think the risk outweighed the reward, to go out in the afternoon. At the moment [the weather] looks very clear for the rest of the weekend, so I didn’t think we needed to go out and push in that session.”

The British rider has made progress with the acceleration of the LCR Honda, although Crutchlow points out this is not the sole factor in determining the overall competitiveness of his RCV at the Twin Ring circuit.

“I think on the acceleration we’ve definitely made a step with our bike and our package and Honda. But I think we don't just lose in the acceleration. We lose to our competitors in some of the braking zones as well,” he said.

“It depends also on what front tyre we use or how we can manage the front tyre. So we have to look at all areas. We have a video guy on track that is managing that situation very well, for us to be able to show Honda as well where we gain and where we lose against out competitors.

“So we’re always trying to work as best as possible and this weekend will be no different.

Looking ahead to the race on Sunday, Crutchlow feels there is an opportunity for the Independent riders to challenge for the rostrum.

“I think some of the Independent guys can be on the podium this weekend. Johann is riding very well,” he said.

“He was also strong at the last race and now he is strong again, so he has a great chance to be on the podium. So we have to aim to be there or in the top five.”