Johann Zarco has taken another important step towards his MotoGP return after getting back on a motorcycle for the first time since suffering a serious knee injury at the Catalan Grand Prix in May.
The LCR Honda rider had been sidelined for more than two months following his crash at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where his leg became caught in Francesco Bagnaia’s Ducati during the opening-corner incident at the race restart.
With his recovery progressing, Zarco was able to ride a Supermoto bike at a small circuit last week. The Frenchman chose the bike because its more comfortable riding position allowed him to gradually test his recovering knee without putting excessive stress on it.
“It was so pleasant to do some laps and train my body specifically for riding,” Zarco said.
Source: NaikMotor
However, the two-time MotoGP race winner knows he cannot rush the process. He explained that his knee can still become painful or swollen after riding, making it important to carefully control the intensity of his training.
Zarco said the knee needs to be stimulated gradually, while managing any swelling to ensure the recovery continues in the right direction.
Despite those limitations, the return to riding has left him feeling positive about his progress. Rather than pushing for a quick comeback, Zarco is taking a cautious approach as he works towards his target of returning to the MotoGP grid in September.
“I’m approaching this period with patience, which is the big word in this challenge,” Zarco said.
“The goal is still September, and I’m working hard to get there in the best shape possible.”
Zarco’s return to a motorcycle represents another encouraging milestone after a lengthy spell away from racing. The Frenchman will now continue building his fitness and knee strength, with the focus firmly on making sure he is fully prepared before returning to MotoGP action.
