There’s a special term in Underbone racing known as ‘the tuck’. Essentially, the term refers to an Underbone rider’s ability to literally ‘tuck’ himself into the frame of the bike and maximizing the natural aerodynamics of the machine. In Malaysia, seasoned campaigner Ahmad Fazli Sham is the undisputed king of ‘the tuck’.
Fifth after the first two free practice sessions, Fazli Sham slipstreamed his way to the top of the timesheets during the qualifying practice with 2’32.984s. The ONEXOX TKKR SAG Racing Team rider was the only Underbone rider to lap within 2’32 in the qualifying practice.
Yamaha Racing Indonesia’s Aldi Satya Mahendra, a rookie entry in the 2019 season, continued to gain fans with his consistent performance. Aldi clocked in with 2’33.213s behind Fazli Sham.
Indonesian Underbone specialist and now Ahmad Fazli Sham’s ONEXOX TKKR SAG Racing Team team mate, Wahyu Aji Trilaksana posted the third fastest time of the day with 2’33.364s.
The 30-minute Underbone qualifier also brought out the best from Fernando Masato of the Philippines. The UMA Racing Yamaha Philippine Team rider stopped the clock at 2’33.629s.
Meanwhile, Mohd Akid Aziz who had been fastest in the morning practice, dropped to fifth with 2’33.846s.