After coming close to an authentic challenge for the 2015 MXGP world title Red Bull IceOne Husqvarna’s Max Nagl is putting in the first steps for another valid attempt in 2016 and has made good progress with tests on the ’16 FC450 with his team.
The German has gone through initial set-up and suspension work and is now focusing on engine components in the coming days before taking a holiday break with partner Sabrina and baby son Mason.
“The new bike feels great but it is totally different because of the geometry and it meant he had to start from zero with the settings and the suspension,” he commented exclusively. “We made some impressive progress in the two days we had in France and now we’re trying engine parts. When we are on holiday I know the guys will be looking at where we can still find improvements and then we’ll test again in mid-November.”
Nagl preferred to race the 2015 FC after making such a positive start to the season that delivered three wins in the first five rounds and saw him setting the pace in the championship until he broke his ankle in the qualification heat for his home Grand Prix at Teutschenthal in June.
The 28-year-old admitted that the WP suspension configuration for next season was his priority and that a decision over whether to use the full ‘air’ system tested by outgoing team-mate Nathan Watson still has to be made.
“I have been testing the air suspension already and we have still not made our minds up about it. It feels different and means a different way of riding,” he said. “We had the option to go that way but we need to talk more with WP.”
