Dixon: 'We have a good set-up for Qatar', finishes Portimao test P4

Jake Dixon has closed out the Official Portimao Moto2 test fourth fastest on combined times, despite being relegated to eighth come the end of day three. 

The new GASGAS Aspar Team rider, who topped day one before finishing fourth on day two, held onto a top five position courtesy of his quickest day two time. 

Dixon’s best lap during Monday’s final day of action came during the second session (S8 of the test) as he set a 1:42.495s, which was over four tenths off the time he set a day prior. 

But with that said, Dixon feels he’s got the ‘set-up’ of his Kalex machine where it needs to be for next month’s season opener, despite suffering a crash during his final time attack run. 

Speaking after the three day test, Dixon said: "We close the Portimao test with a good pace, an average of 1:42s, although when I was looking for a time attack, I crashed. 

"In the last run I was heading for a 1:41 but in the last two corners I had my foot resting on the brake lever and that prevented me from achieving it. 

"The positive thing is that we have a good set-up for the first race, I am already looking forward to competing in Qatar."

After finishing tenth on day two, Dixon’s team-mate Albert Arenas was one of the biggest movers during day three.

The 2020 Moto3 champion found close to seven tenths during session 8 as he improved to sixth place on the overall combined times.  

Arenas added: "We finish testing and continue to improve and learn things from this new bike. 

"I'm happy with the consistency we've achieved, we've been fast and we've stayed close to my best time consistently, always finishing in the top ten. 

"I want to thank the team for all their work. Now we have to rest for a few days and immediately prepare to travel to Qatar."