The competitors will be rapidly plunged into the heart of the Argentinean countryside. The combination of the route’s different features means that there will be something for everyone, while sticking to relatively simple criteria, for the time being. Fast tracks coupled with sharp bends will divide up the vehicles, according to the levels of the drivers, who will be tested in an exciting environment which marks this first special stage, but without singling out any particular category. At the end of this warm-up, the day will finish with a long liaison section to the first bivouac.
Alain Duclos finished at the 5th position and enrolled himself immediately as the first french on the first stage ranking.
In order to share with you the first impressions of the two Sherco Tvs Rally Factory riders, we are publishing here some extract from their remarks respectively broadcasted on the TV program Bivouac (France Television) for Alain Duclos, and on Fabien Planet official Facebook page.
THE RIDERS FEELINGS
ALAIN DUCLOS:
«I wanted to be in the top 10, because for me the Dakar really starts tomorrow with the big special, and it was important to be in a favorable position for the start; not having dust as well as having clear weather should make it a good stage finish tomorrow.
Therefore my goal was more than fulfilled!
Concerning the special, it will probably be very fast, as I remember we rode it in the opposite direction in 2010 and the average speed was 130km/h. It should be Fun, however there is the heat and obviously some apprehension and a lot of pressure, so I think and hope that I will enjoy myself tomorrow.»
FABIEN PLANET:
«The first day is finished, we started with a 150km/h stage that I found to be very long! At the start of the stage I was a little apprehensive, we were told that it was fast and long and that was not how I thought I would start a rally stage! I had to be careful, especially as it was a bit wet in places, and that’s what I did. I had a little trouble at the start of the special because I’m not used to riding at over 150 km/h on the slopes, but after several kilometers I got into it and in the end I am happy with the warm-up.
I followed the road book and for me the most difficult part of the day was the braking; often I would brake too early, so I hit the gas which caused me to arrive too fast for the turn! I am learning how to handle this bike, it is taking a little time but I am get used to it. I am very impressed with the stability of the bike, it is a crazy thing; in 2007 I could not exceed 120km/h and feel safe, with this bike I feel safe at 150! This is great.»