Final preparation phase before the EURO MOTO season

With the Valencia and Aragón tests, the Yamaha-supported Team APRECO entered the final phase of preparation for the 2026 EURO MOTO season. Under excellent conditions with consistent good weather, fast rider groups and a well-organised event by Bikepromotion, the team was able to complete the final steps in its testing programme.

For the first time, the Yamaha R1 was running in its full 2026 specification. Together with the complete crew on site, the focus was on fine-tuning the overall package and working through the final setup details.

Clear progress and strong lap time improvement

Twan Smits made full use of the conditions and worked through multiple setup variations that had already been prepared during the previous WSBK tests in Jerez and Portimão. This allowed the team to establish a clear direction moving forward.

“We tried different variations of parts we already worked on before, and the key items we needed to test were all very positive. We now have a clear direction,” said Smits. 

One of the biggest positives was the improvement in lap times. Compared to last season, Smits made a significant step forward and showed strong competitiveness throughout the test.

“We improved by around 1.6 seconds compared to last year, which is a really big step,” he added. 

Strong overall feeling on the Yamaha R1

Beyond lap times, the overall feeling on the Yamaha R1 stood out as a key factor. Smits quickly found a consistent rhythm and was able to translate his improvements directly into stable performance on track.

“I feel really good on the bike right now. I can do what I want with it, and the lap times come quite naturally,” Smits explained. 

Focus on Assen and the upcoming challenges

Looking ahead, Smits remains realistic about the challenges of the upcoming season, with demanding tracks such as Sachsenring and Oschersleben early in the calendar. Before that, however, a major highlight awaits. Smits will compete as a wildcard at the WSBK round in Assen, racing in front of his home crowd.

“Racing in Assen in front of my home crowd is something special for me. It’s a great opportunity and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Smits. 

Strong final step before the season

The tests in Valencia and Aragón marked an important milestone for Team APRECO. With a clear step forward in performance, extensive track time and a well-balanced setup, Twan Smits heads into the EURO MOTO season with strong momentum.