Zarco Back on a Bike Three Months After Serious Barcelona Injury

Johann Zarco has returned to riding a motorcycle for the first time since his heavy crash in Barcelona on 17 May. The LCR rider completed his first laps on a production bike at the Circuit Andorra - Pas de la Casa, in Grandvalira, as part of his recovery process.

The double accident at the Catalan GP left Zarco with a serious left knee injury. At the second start after the red flag, he lost control at the first corner and took out Luca Marini and Pecco Bagnaia. Zarco's leg got caught in the Ducati, causing severe damage to his left knee.

Initially, doctors opted to wait for the swelling to subside before operating, but a burn wound below the affected area advised against surgery. Surprisingly, Zarco announced he would not undergo surgery and targeted a September return. He has been working hard in the gym and on the bicycle to speed up his recovery.

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According to information gathered, Zarco has already tried a production bike at a small circuit familiar to MotoGP riders living in the Pyrenees. His first run took place a few days ago, and he returned to the track on Friday to continue his adaptation.

Zarco's comeback opens the possibility of using a special test after a long injury, following regulations pushed by Aprilia after Jorge Martin's injury last year. The requirements are a minimum absence of three consecutive Grands Prix or 45 days without racing, which Zarco comfortably meets.

Such a test can only be carried out at a circuit not hosting a MotoGP Grand Prix within the following eight weeks. LCR has consulted Honda about conducting a test to let Zarco feel the RC213V, and is awaiting a response from the manufacturer's management.

Zarco's goal is to return at the Aragon GP at the end of the month (28-30 August), but doctors are asking him to be patient and wait until the San Marino GP at Misano (10-13 September). The final decision will depend on his physical condition.