VLM MX2 Pentecost title for Robin Bakens!
Robin Bakens has not even been back from injury for two weeks and he has already achieved his first success. That's how the Beacons Yamaha rider to win the VLM Pentecost trophy. On the beautiful circuit of AMC Genk he was the strongest over two days in the Inters MX2 class.
Qualifying training and the first two heats were held on Sunday. During qualifying training Robin felt exceptionally good, normally timed training is not his thing, but this time he managed to guide his blue machine to a 6th fastest time overall, which was good for first place in the MX2. Things went a little less well in the first series. Bakens had to chase at the start. During this chase he also got a stone on the brake line, which caused all the brake oil to drain from the lines and halfway through the series the front brake stopped working altogether. After some adjustments, he managed to do it with the rear brake alone and he crossed the finish line as the second MX2 inter.
In the second series everything went as dreamed. Robin was able to nestle his MX2 bike among the heavy 450cc engines at the start and was immediately at the front. The Yamaha and the spirit suspension tuned suspension felt perfect. What followed was one of the best races of the season. Not only was there a good fight for an overall good place, MX2 rider and winner of the first series Jonathan Banken also performed well. After a long battle, Bakens was able to pull away with the help of new line choices and take the first MX2 place. This was enough for the day's victory on Sunday.
No hail, but rain on Monday
Fortunately, no hail in Genk as we saw in the Waasland, but the circuit did experience some rain. It was still tough in the free practice sessions on Monday. Robin has therefore decided to just complete a few laps and get used to the bike. When the first series started, the circuit was already drier, but it was very difficult. However, this was no problem for Bakens' perfectly tuned suspension and the first series went well. After a poor start, the Waaslander pushed itself forward, but unfortunately the engine broke down in the last two laps. Fortunately, Bakens had completed 3/4 of the race and still took 16 points.
For the second series the spare engine had to be used. This is always used in training and it always does a good job, but in terms of power it was slightly less than the racing engine. The start was not that great, around 15th place, but in the opening lap Robin was able to make up many places. Halfway through the race Bakens slowed down a bit, a little too much in fact, so two more MX2 riders passed him and he finished the series in third.
Robin Bakens can call himself the Inter MX2 Pentecost champion of the VLM!
Robin Bakens: “I really had a great weekend. Not everything went without problems, but the feeling was great and the result is there! It was sweltering on Sunday and unlike others, it didn't bother me that much. My trainer Fredrik Adriaensen from REV Training in Beveren-Waas has prepared me well. Besides the fact that I am Pentecost champion, I can also leave for Italy for the European Championship 250cc with a good feeling. I was able to race for two days on a great circuit with many cuts and ruts that can be compared to those of a GP circuit. I would also like to thank spirit suspension for the great suspension and all my other sponsors for keeping me going for a whole year! Steven Braems drilling and concrete works, Arai Helmets, Leatt protectives, EKS Brand Goggles, Gaerne Boots, BEST products, Putoline motorcycle oils, Yamaha Belgium, Van Hasselt exhausts, TMV, Twin Air, No Limit Graphics, Fietswereld Bijvank, Renthal, Muc- Off, Acerbis, Bakens Yamaha, Pirelli, Spirit suspension.”
Photos: Brentmxpics
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