The most recent Honda motorcycle in MotoGP has lost its previous strength, according to rider Joan Mir. Mir, who struggled with the previous version of the Honda last year, believes that this year’s redesigned edition is a step back in terms of competitiveness. The new RC213V prototype received positive feedback from riders during pre-season testing and had a decent performance in the season opener in Qatar. However, it underperformed in Portimão and at the Circuit of the Americas, where it was expected to shine. Several riders noted that, while the new bike addressed the weaknesses of its predecessor, it also created new problematic areas. The bike has improved in terms of top speed and acceleration, but now lacks cornering ability. Mir specifically mentioned that this weakness was exploited by Marc Marquez, who left Honda to race for Gresini. The difficulties with the new bike may hinder Marquez’s short-term return to Honda, despite his desire to reunite with the manufacturer. As part of Honda’s concession status, they conducted a test with their race riders in Barcelona. However, Mir was not impressed with the direction they took. He stated that the bike’s concept needs to be changed. Full-time Honda riders will have the opportunity to test modifications during the post-Spanish Grand Prix test day in Jerez, which will likely coincide with the RC213V prototype that test rider Stefan Bradl is riding. Mir does not expect these changes to be a complete solution to the bike’s problems.
© 2024
