Declarations
bike
Marc Coma (ESP - KTM - 5th)
"These two first stages were not very difficult but full of traps. I had to remain focused on what I had to do. But it was good. The bike and the team are both OK. In fact, for us, the race has started yet. We arrive in Africa in good conditions. That was the most important for us. Now I am very looking forward to being there and at last starting the race".
bike
Isidre Esteve Pujol (SPA - KTM – 2nd)
"The track was a real ice-skating rink today. So I couldn’t ride as fast as I wished. But it was an enjoyable stage. Actually, these two first stages in Portugal were very pleasant. There were a lot of fans, the people were very welcoming in a good atmosphere. But of course, the real Dakar has not started yet".
bike
Helder Rodrigues (POR - YAM – 4th)
"Like yesterday, today’s stage was very technically demanding. And according to these changing conditions, I didn’t know how fast I could ride. I am happy since I managed to keep cool. Actually, I was so happy about my 4th place yesterday that I couldn’t believe it. So you can guess how great it is for me to finish 4th once again".
bike
Ruben Faria (POR,SPEDakar,1st) :
« This is a child’s dream to win a stage at Le Dakar. It was pretty tough today because I couldn’t use the disc brake pad at the back of my motobike. On the other hand, I knew very well the course because I live in the region and lots of people supported me. Now is the time for a new story in Africa. I don’t know the desert, I don’t even know how to use GPS. I want to learn and reach my goal : Dakar”.
bike
David Casteu (FRA - KTM Gauloises, 3rd)
« I had a great fun with my new KTM motobike. I was so motivated to be able to catch up with David Fretigne during the stage, I could see him driving. Being in a pro team changes a lot, everything is prepared for you. I look forward to riding in Africa and getting back to the bivouac at night. It is such a magic place for friendship ».
bike
David Casteu (FRA - KTM Gauloises)
« I had a great fun with my new KTM motobike. I was so motivated to be able to catch up with David Fretigne during the stage, I could see him driving. Being in a pro team changes a lot, everything is prepared for you. I look forward to riding in Africa and getting back to the bivouac at night. It is such a magic place for friendship ».