Kallio fourth despite a cramping arm in Argentina

Mika Kallio demonstrated an impressive fight in Argentina, finishing on fourth place just a second short of the podium. Kallio nailed the start and was able to push himself from start grid position 10 up to 5th place already during the first few laps.

-The start went as planned and I was able to catch the lead group quickly, which was extremely important for me in order to join the podium fight. Zarco gained a lead at the front, but I was looking forward to passing Lowes and Simeon within the first laps as well. Unfortunately they did a steady job in closing the lines and I did not find a good spot for overtaking them. Anyhow I am happy with my race pace, Kallio analysed.

Kallio’s fourth position did not come in easy, as he was forced to ride with a sore arm. Already during Friday’s practices he noticed pain in his left arm and midway during the race the cramps begun.

-The muscles of my left arm jammed up completely when the race was halfway through and this gave me trouble with the clutch. Shifting gears was difficult when I was unable to properly contract the fingers of my left hand. The clutch hand and gear foot should operate simultaneously when switching gears, but I really struggled with this since my hand did not obey my commands and the muscle tension slowed down the movements of the hand significantly. I ran wide the same corner three times due to this, so I guess that cost the podium for me. It’s a shame really, but there was nothing I could do about it, Kallio stated.

Kallio’s arm will be inspected and cared for before the next race in Jerez, and he is confident the problem will pass. Despite the disappointment of falling short from the podium, the rider is happy for the positive progress with his race pace.

-This was the first time this year when I was able to ride with the lead group for the whole duration of the race, with my pace matching theirs. The tyres stayed in good condition as well, because the temperatures did not rise so high today. I am prepared and happy to head to Jerez, since it is one of my favourite tracks and I won there last year, a confident Kallio reported.

-Even though the pace was on a desired level now, we still are facing the biggest question of the season before Jerez. We still haven’t decided if I will switch back to the 2014 bike before the European races begin and whatever the decision will be, we will stick to it for the rest of the year. Both models have their lacks and benefits, so making the final decision will not be easy, Kallio finished.

The next race of the season will take place in Jerez, Spain, during the 1st - 3rd of May.

Argentina GP results:

1. Johann Zarco 39.44,497

2. Alex Rins + 2,715

3. Sam Lowes + 4,161

4. Mika Kallio + 5,310

World championship standing after 3/18 races:

1. Johann Zarco 53

2. Alex Rins 49

3. Sam Lowes 41

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6. Mika Kallio 31