Just a few days after the homologation of the latest 1100 version by the FIM, in the third round of the EWC (Endurance World Championship) the RSV4 of the Japanese team Tatara took the podium in the NSTK category, as well as 20th place overall at Suzuka.
Qualifying was based on the average times of the two best riders, specifically Ruka Wada and Italian Samuele Cavalieri, a former Aprilia rider in the Italian Superbike Championship but at his first experience in an endurance race. Starting in fourth place in their category (26th overall), the three riders tackled the eight-hour race by focusing on consistency, avoiding mistakes, especially when a light rain animated the strategies.
The box then decided to refuel at every rider change but change tyres every two stints, a choice that turned out to be correct. On its debut the team also occupied second place in its category for a long time, a result that vanished only 30mins from the chequered flag.
The podium in such a demanding competition as the 8 Hours of Suzuka is nevertheless a remarkable result, which adds to the Aprilia RSV4’s extraordinary palmarés. After 7 World Titles in Superbike and countless trophies in the various categories, the Italian super sports bike continues to make history in road bike racing.
