Marc Marquez discusses his fall during the Sepang MotoGP trial

"I fitted a fresh tyre intending to set a fast lap, however, I unfortunately took a spill at turn nine."

Landing in fourteenth place on the leaderboard isn't typically where one would predict Marc Marquez or a leading Ducati to rank, yet that's exactly the position the latest recruit of the Ducati Lenovo Team secured during the second day of this week's Sepang MotoGP trials.

Marquez referred to his accident, which occurred while slowing down for the low-speed ninth turn, as "usual".

"Marquez explained to MotoGP.com's After the Flag show that he experienced a common crash at turn nine, which is known as the circuit's slowest corner."

"Towards the end of the day, I installed a new tire to attempt a time trial," he continued, "but unfortunately, I ended up crashing at turn nine."

Update on Marc Marquez and Ducati's Testing Schedule

Despite Marquez's accident, he managed to complete the entire agenda he and the Ducati squad had set out to accomplish.

"We completed all the tasks today, every single item that was on our schedule," he stated.

Throughout the day, I remained highly cautious since our task is to pinpoint the strategic path for 2025, focusing particularly on engine and aerodynamics aspects. Ducati is keen on being exact in this pursuit while also adopting a cautious approach to ensure the right choices are made.

"Today, we conducted numerous tests. I believe we have a clear direction now, but we should verify it again tomorrow."

For the second consecutive season, Marquez is switching teams and consequently altering his crew setup. However, the eight-time World Champion is confident that he is integrating smoothly with his new squad.

"Positive," Marquez commented on his integration with his new team. "Regarding the team, I'm still getting to know them since they're busy throughout the day. By the time I take a break, I'm in discussions with the engineers about modifications needed on the motorcycle, leaving us little opportunity to interact," he explained.

"However, currently I feel fine with [Marco] Rigamonti."

"Indeed, our collaboration isn't frequent since the concepts and resources we utilize originate from the engineers. However, his ability to organize our day is impressive, and I appreciate that."

Marquez mentioned that he has been experiencing some physical discomfort lately, though he's uncertain whether it's due to illness or insufficient rest.

"I'm not feeling well today," he mentioned on Thursday.

"I'm unsure whether I'm coming down with something or just didn't get enough rest. Tomorrow should give us a clearer picture since my sleep was limited to five hours last night due to jet lag. We'll find out if it's an illness or just lack of sleep."

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Brad Binder from KTM points out a motorcycle issue that is common to all riders, stating, "There are a few turns where everyone experiences this problem…"

Brad Binder is aware of the main problem with his KTM, yet he emphasizes that everyone faced similar challenges at Sepang.

Binder and KTM struggled to solve the vibration problem that troubled them all of last year.

However, he firmly believes that his competitors encountered the same situation during the official MotoGP test in Sepang.

"Certainly, there's a significant amount of vibration," Binder acknowledged regarding his motorcycle.

"Honestly, I believe everyone experiences internal dialogue."

"There are a few turns where everyone experiences it. We aren't the only ones dealing with this issue."

Brad Binder expressed disappointment with his performance, saying, "The outcome wasn't what I hoped for." On Friday at Sepang, Binder ranked 11th in terms of speed, while his teammate, Pedro Acosta, secured the sixth spot.

"It's been three lengthy days, but they haven't been unpleasant," stated Binder.

"We have experienced numerous situations and various arrangements."

"We now possess a deeper comprehension of all aspects of the bicycle."

"The outcome wasn't what I had hoped for; I struggled to complete laps consistently. It was challenging."

"Overall, things are going well. We're beginning to identify a promising path forward."

"If we continue on this path, I believe we will be well-prepared when race day arrives."

He mentioned, "Usually, if something is effective at one track, it tends to work at all tracks."

"When everything is combined, it will be fascinating."

"I'm excited to assemble our racing bikes and find out what's ahead."

Binder and KTM are set to attend the MotoGP test in Buriram next week, where Binder aims to finalize the race setup he'll utilize for the first race of the season.

"Absolutely. Right now, our main focus is to review all the tests we've conducted, select the effective components, combine them, and develop a competitive race package," he stated.

"In a perfect scenario, my preference would be to start on the first day. However, on the second day, it's crucial to make all the decisions and proceed accordingly…"

Statements given by Peter McLaren in Sepang

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Fabio Quartararo discusses Yamaha's advancements following his record-setting lap at Sepang. "We've made gains, improving by 0.6 seconds between 2019 and 2024, and expect to enhance that by 0.8 seconds from 2024 to 2025…"

Fabio Quartararo concluded this week's MotoGP test session at the Sepang International Circuit in third place on the timing charts, achieving his fastest lap ever at this track.

The French rider had never surpassed the 1:57 mark at the Malaysian track before, but during the last day of this week's testing, he managed to achieve a time in the 1:56 range. He was the sole competitor not riding a Ducati to accomplish this feat.

At the conclusion of Friday's events in Sepang, Quartararo expressed his happiness.

"Last year, my quickest lap during qualifying was 1 minute and 57.5 seconds, which suggests that the difference is over 0.8 seconds."

"I was explaining that between 2019 and 2024, we've managed to enhance our performance by 0.6 seconds, and from 2024 to 2025, we're expecting an improvement of 0.8 seconds. Naturally, this is a

"It's important to remain composed; this is just a trial run, though I believe it's rather promising."

"During last year's test, Pecco, also known as Francesco Bagnaia, clocked a lap time of either 1:56.6 or 1:56.5. This year's lap times were about the same, which is a reason for us to be quite satisfied."

Quartararo was particularly excited about his ability to achieve fast lap times, especially given that in 2024, Yamaha faced its biggest challenges during the qualifying sessions each weekend.

Quartararo noted that the most challenging aspect last year wasn't the race itself. He pointed out that the main issue was during a single lap, which often resulted in starting from a very distant position, making it extremely hard to pass other competitors.

Before I attempted my initial time attack, I was confident that I would achieve a lap time of 1:56. When we first arrived here, Maio [Massimo Meregalli, the team manager for Monster Energy Yamaha] and I joked about hitting that time. Each day, we inched nearer to that goal, and today, it finally became a reality.

"However, the issue last year was that when you fitted a new tire, you couldn't predict the lap time you would achieve."

"During a single lap today, out of the last three days, it went exceptionally well."

Fabio Quartararo discusses the reasons behind Yamaha's enhanced performance, attributing it to changes in his riding technique and upgrades made to the YZR-M1 motorcycle.

"The 2025 M1 resembles it but isn't identical," Quartararo commented.

"In essence, the electronics have undergone many changes, which has altered my riding style. The bike now features new additions."

"Certainly, it's challenging to identify what's different, but based on lap times, it's evident that we were significantly faster compared to the previous year."

While the adjustments have enhanced Quartararo's experience in certain aspects of his riding, the main problem from previous years persists.

"The 2021 World Champion mentioned that they have significantly enhanced their handling while navigating corners and changing directions."

"However, our main vulnerability lies in our grip."

"The track had a lot of grip today, evident from the blackened surface due to rubber. I wouldn't describe our lap time as misleading because last year, under similar conditions, we were one second behind the fastest lap – and now we're just 0.3 seconds off."

"I'm eager to see how the track performs when it has very low grip, as these are the most challenging conditions for us."

In general, Quartararo is of the opinion that this off-season with Yamaha has been the most successful since he became part of the factory team in 2021.

He expressed that while they make progress each year, particularly from 2022 to 2024, Ducati and other competitors seem to advance two or three steps ahead.

This year, we've made significant progress. The way we ride has changed compared to 2019 or 2021, but I can tell the bike has speed. Although our riding technique has evolved from before, this is the first year we've successfully narrowed the gap.

"Previously, whenever we made progress, others made progress as well, or sometimes they advanced even more than we did. Now, I believe the difference between us has narrowed."

Not Just Excelling in Single Laps

Quartararo's excitement about the new Yamaha setup extended beyond just its performance in individual laps.

The French motorcyclist managed to complete several consecutive laps, maintaining a speed that was just a few tenths of a second slower than the top-performing Ducatis.

The French rider clarified that the exercise wasn't exactly a Sprint simulation. Instead, he was required to complete six laps using one setup and another six laps with a different setup, all on new tires.

"The performance was impressive. When we reflect on last year's results, where we finished in 11th and 12th positions, it's clear that we've made significant progress. Currently, we're matching the speed of the quickest riders at this track: Marc Marquez, Francesco Bagnaia, and Alex Marquez."

"In my opinion, the difference is quite significant, but I'm really satisfied with the lap time we achieved, particularly because it wasn't just a single lap that counted."

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Enea Bastianini describes an unusual characteristic of the KTM MotoGP bike he must adjust to

Tech3 competitor is getting accustomed to the RC16 during practice sessions

Enea Bastianini has remarked that the braking support from the KTM MotoGP motorcycle feels "somewhat odd" to him, noting it's a fresh experience compared to the sensations he was accustomed to while riding the Ducati.

The individual who has clinched victory in seven Grand Prix races is recognized for his exceptionally forceful braking technique, a skill that harmonized perfectly with the characteristics of the Ducati bikes he used to ride.

Following a couple of days spent evaluating the KTM during this week's session in Malaysia, Bastianini has observed that the RC16 exhibits exceptional strength when braking, a characteristic he finds somewhat surprising.

When questioned about his favorite aspect of the bicycle, he responded, "What I like the most? The brakes allow for significant force application.

"At times, I would lose control at the front end on older motorcycles, but with this one, adopting a more aggressive approach seems to be better supported by the bike."

"This is a novel experience for me and feels somewhat odd."

"I require a period to discern which aspect needs further attention, as this particular feature of the bike is exceptionally prominent."

Bastianini has faced challenges this week at Sepang, ending up approximately a second behind his teammate Maverick Vinales on Wednesday.

On Thursday, Bastianini expressed that he "struggled" in the morning due to several modifications made to the motorcycle that were unsuccessful.

Throughout the day, KTM succeeded in enhancing Bastianini's ease on the motorcycle, finishing 17th at the finish line, but merely less than a tenth of a second slower than Vinales.

"He mentioned that he experienced distress earlier today."

"I endured hardship due to numerous adjustments I made, yet none proved effective."

"In the afternoon, we made some adjustments to the motorcycle, and I experimented with different approaches, which boosted my confidence."

"Ultimately, I commenced my duties after obtaining certain details, which I was then able to share with the group."

In the final stretch, I managed to maintain a tighter proximity to my fellow competitors during the time trial, as well as keeping up with their speed more effectively.

"However, there's a need for us to put in additional effort. Likely, tomorrow will involve us undertaking several circuits and engaging in time trials, as it's crucial and currently what I'm lacking the most. This is because the primary advantage of this motorcycle differs significantly from my previous one."

"Occasionally, I commit errors. There's room for me to get better. Time is on my side."

"We only have a single day remaining here, but next up is Thailand, which is crucial since I'm somewhat delayed."

He elaborated on the adjustments that improved his motorcycle experience, stating, "I altered an aspect of the swingarm as I attempted to replicate previous modifications, but the outcome was unfavorable."

"We headed in a different direction and subsequently, things improved. However, we need to explore additional adjustments tomorrow, which might include altering my positioning on the motorcycle."

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Photos from the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Test

Aprilia

Unfortunately, Jorge Martin's RS-GP25, equipped with a front wing, did not spend much time on the track. Here is a detailed view of it.

After Martin was sidelined due to an injury following only 13 laps, his teammate Marco Bezzecchi took over the task of testing the RS-GP components. This included evaluating the vertical rear wings, which were notably absent on test rider Lorenzo Savadori's bike.

The most recent fairing on Bezzecchi's RS-GP25.

Martin wasn't the only Aprilia rider dealing with an injury on the first day. Trackhouse also lost Raul Fernandez for the remainder of the test following a high-speed crash while braking at Turn 9.

Honda's RC213V features a rear wing with two tiers and fins on the sides.

A detailed view of the ground effect 'shelf' on the RC213V motorcycle ridden by newcomer Somkiat Chantra.

Honda garnered attention by opting for a sizable, sleek rear seat that lacked any aerodynamic features. The manufacturer, possibly taking a cue from KTM, could be testing out different weight distribution strategies, such as relocating the electronics to the far back of the motorcycle, instead of implementing a mass damper system similar to Ducati's approach.

Luca Marini showed a preference for the updated Honda aerodynamic design, which is depicted below and contrasted with the 'standard' model seen with Chantra above. This new design features a significantly bigger lower duct. However, Joan Mir and Johann Zarco appeared to favor the previous version.

Yamaha's Alex Rins is testing a different front fairing design that features only two aerodynamic elements, as opposed to the three found on Jack Miller's Pramac motorcycle seen in the image below.

Rins appeared to favor the black-painted standard Yamaha chassis compared to the latest version, which was left unpainted.

In addition to their four competitive riders, the Yamaha test team has also seen Andrea Dovizioso and Augusto Fernandez participating on the track.

KTM's latest update features a significantly bigger salad box, along with a newly positioned exhaust system, as seen below. In the image above, Bastianini is shown with the usual setup for the rear unit and exhaust.

Below are additional images of the RC16 taken at Sepang:

Ducati faced a setback on the first day when VR46's Fabio di Giannantonio sustained an injury after a wheelie mishap following the session. Consequently, Michele Pirro was brought in to assist Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia in the development of the GP25.

The development of Ducati's latest engine, which is set to be locked in alongside Aprilia and KTM models until the conclusion of 2026, has been the main focus for Bagnaia and Marquez.

The two riders mentioned that the upgraded engine operates more smoothly, yet it presents more challenges when slowing down, possibly because of changes made to its internal components, as illustrated by the photos of Bagnaia and Marquez.

Before his fall on the first day, Diggia tested a new chassis and aerodynamic features. In this photo, Pirro is seen experimenting with the newest aerodynamic design.

Despite riding the older GP24, Alex Marquez from the Gresini team topped the leaderboard and recorded the quickest time in the Sprint race simulation.

Franco Morbidelli, along with Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer, demonstrated that the Ducati GP24 remains a highly speedy motorcycle.

Francesco Bagnaia takes a look at Maverick Vinales' KTM bike while practicing his start.

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Aprilia's test rider has committed to providing Jorge Martin with a significantly enhanced motorcycle. Lorenzo Savadori outlines the aspects of testing that Aprilia is conducting in the absence of Jorge Martin.

The test rider for Aprilia assures that he will return Jorge Martin's motorcycle in a significantly improved condition.

MotoGP titleholder Martin was unable to participate in two and a half days of the official testing at Sepang following a severe accident on Wednesday morning.

In Martin's absence, the responsibility for developing the Aprilia falls to his teammate, Marco Bezzecchi, along with test rider Lorenzo Savadori.

During his Friday testing session, Savadori discussed his focus on aerodynamics, stating, "We're working on further developing this area. We're exploring two different approaches, and it's essential to keep testing repeatedly…"

"It's a challenging task, yet it's crucial to create the best bike for Jorge's return."

Savadori commented on the slimmer fairing seen on his Aprilia, describing it as an improvement. He mentioned that there is also a device attached to the fairing to gain a better understanding of the wind.

"We should give it another shot since we've only tested it for a couple of laps."

Savadori was experimenting with updated electronics and mentioned that he needs to assess them using different types of tires.

"Both pre-owned and brand-new," he explained. "It's important to grasp how the TC behaves in each state."

"At the start of the race, you have fresh tires."

"Naturally, a fresh tire provides better traction, which is beneficial. However, this advantage applies to everyone."

Lorenzo Savadori evaluates Marco Bezzecchi's technique. Observers pointed out that Savadori approached turns in a manner distinct from Bezzecchi. While Savadori navigated the track in a more rounded fashion, Bezzecchi took a V-shaped approach to the corners.

He clarified that at the first corner, you have the option to either remain on the inside or take a V-shaped approach. The difference is minimal and largely depends on preference.

"Our priority isn't on performance, unlike Marco, since our goal is to prepare the bike for Jorge."

"There is no set schedule for his comeback, so he should aim to have the best bike available."

As anticipated, Savadori ranked 22nd out of 23 riders on the leaderboard, with test riders from all manufacturers filling the lowest positions.

However, he demonstrated that he was capable of being nine-tenths faster when using a soft tire.

"We're genuinely not focused on racing against the clock right now! Our goal isn't about speed; it's about getting the bike ready for Jorge," he stated.

"Last year, when I stepped in for Raul Fernandez at this event, I completed the ride in 58.8 seconds, although the task was entirely different."

"When we switch to a soft tire, I have more leeway to increase my speed. However, this is not the right location for it."

On Friday, Bezzecchi achieved the ninth quickest time, concluding a test session for Aprilia that was significantly hindered by injuries sustained by Martin and Raul Fernandez of Trackhouse.

Savadori commented on Bezzecchi's transition from the Ducati, stating, "It's going well. He improves with the bike every day. Bez and I are collaborating towards the same goal."

"Bez was experimenting with something I had attempted during the initial trial, and we both shared the same observations."

"On the racetrack, his performance appears promising. He is on the right path to enhancing his abilities."

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Jack Miller proposes a theory on Marc Marquez's tactics in Sepang

Pramac Yamaha competitor theorizes on the strategy of Ducati's main team

Jack Miller has suggested that Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia are not fully revealing their capabilities following the second day of testing in Sepang.

The Ducati duo, widely regarded as top contenders for the 2025 MotoGP title, finished 14th and fifth in Thursday's preseason testing timesheets, a result attributed in part to each rider experiencing a crash.

Pramac Yamaha's new addition, Miller, has been closely monitoring their activities.

"Miller suggested that the red team appears to be holding back for now."

"I'm confident they have some tricks ready to use against it tomorrow."

"We also have a few tricks up our sleeve."

Naturally, during the three-day preseason test at Sepang, all MotoGP riders and teams will focus more on enhancing their bikes rather than solely aiming for top speed.

However, there's a strong curiosity about the performance of Marquez and Bagnaia, especially in comparison to one another.

Friday, marking the last day of trials before the next session in Buriram, might reveal new insights into their comparisons.

Jack Miller adjusting to Yamaha

The new addition to Pramac Yamaha, Miller, expresses satisfaction with his transition from KTM.

He expressed his satisfaction on Thursday, saying, “I wrapped up today by pushing the pace, and I was pleased with my trajectory, my riding technique, and the bike's performance.”

Today marked progress in my journey towards feeling at ease and maintaining steadiness.

"Adjustments are needed on the map to enable greater authority."

Miller expressed, "I'm feeling great, increasingly comfortable with each departure."

"We're currently figuring out how to handle the map and strategize for the time attack."

"The bicycle is boosting my self-assurance. We're in the phase of development."

"I'm genuinely pleased with the outcome; the team has been working tirelessly every evening to assemble new bicycles and setups."

"We'll aim to discover additional opportunities tomorrow. I believe there's still some potential to improve my performance on the circuit."

"By altering the map, we have the opportunity to bridge the gap even further. We'll continue pursuing the goal relentlessly."

Miller highlighted electronics as a significant sector that requires enhancement.

He conceded that improvements were necessary but emphasized that significant efforts were being made in strategizing and implementing a program for engineers to make the needed modifications.

"The program isn't the simplest to navigate when it comes to making modifications for each corner or gear shift."

"They are aware and are actively seeking to enhance their response time."

Comments shared by Peter McLaren in Sepang

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Collision Hub

Pedro Acosta addressed the press, saying, "You reporters stirred things up, but as you can see, all is well at KTM." He continued, "After the media frenzy you caused, it's clear now that everything is in order."

Pedro Acosta indicated that the numerous development components he tested at the Sepang MotoGP session demonstrate that the KTM project is on track, even though its future remains unclear.

During the winter, KTM initiated a self-administration process due to experiencing a significant financial crisis. The company is now approaching an important vote with its creditors regarding its restructuring proposal, which is set to take place in a few weeks.

The MotoGP project has been clouded by uncertainty, yet the brand has consistently maintained that operations will proceed as scheduled in 2025.

The four factory KTM riders had a hectic testing session at Sepang, with Acosta finishing in sixth place with a time of 1m57.175s on the last day.

He thinks that right now he possesses "60% of a race bike" because KTM has many components to decide on for its foundational 2025 model. However, he believes this shows the brand's condition is satisfactory.

When questioned about how complete the race package was, he responded by saying it was "60% of a race bike."

"Right now, I'm pleased with the efforts we've made."

"The issue at hand is that we must now employ a filter and discern which elements should be combined."

"We should be content, as despite the media creating chaos around the KTM situation, everything is now resolved."

"In order to achieve this goal, we need to maintain a sense of happiness and tranquility."

Pedro Acosta discusses KTM's testing experience. Acosta mentions that the efforts made by KTM on Friday in Sepang "rescued the test" after facing several challenges on the second day that hindered progress through their planned schedule.

"We experimented with various options in the end," he stated.

"Yesterday morning, we faced numerous issues, and in the afternoon, the tasks were challenging, making it difficult to draw a definitive conclusion."

"Despite everything, we managed to salvage the test. We're pretty pleased because we maintained good speed throughout the day, regardless of the conditions, and had a strong pace. This is something we should be content with."

The Spanish rider mentions that KTM is continuing its efforts to create a motorcycle that is somewhat more stable than the one from the previous year. At present, he feels fairly comfortable with the speed and performance during time trials.

Acosta mentioned that KTM still has "additional components" and "several intriguing things to experiment with" for the Buriram test.

In addition to a strong performance in the time attack, Acosta also successfully carried out a sprint simulation on Friday. However, he acknowledged that he faced challenges with the tyres.

"There was an issue during my sprint simulation; the tire had no traction right from when I exited the pit lane," he stated.

"It was really unusual for me as well. By the third lap, I was struggling just to keep going. It felt quite odd."

"Afterwards, I used a tire that had already completed 10 laps earlier today, and it worked perfectly."

"I improved my time by 0.4 seconds for this. It's unusual. Regardless, we're pleased and believe we're closer compared to last year."

"It was a novel experience for me to arrive here without a preliminary test run, and things moved quickly. However, we are quite pleased with the sprint race."

Statements given by Crash MotoGP Editor, Peter McLaren.

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Joan Mir's fastest lap at the Sepang MotoGP test was thwarted due to a fuel shortage

Honda showed further promising results at the Sepang test on Thursday

Honda's Joan Mir mentioned that during the MotoGP Sepang test on Thursday, he could have improved his time by three tenths of a second if he hadn't exhausted his fuel supply on his final timed lap.

On Wednesday, the Japanese maker seemed to start off strong, with 2020 world champion Mir placing sixth in the rankings and stating it was his most successful testing day with Honda to date.

Mir's impressive performance carried over to the second day of the Sepang trials, where he maintained his sixth-place position. His time improved from 1 minute, 58.1 seconds to 1 minute, 57.791 seconds, nearly a full second quicker than his qualifying time at the previous year's Malaysian Grand Prix.

He likely would have achieved an even faster time if he hadn't exhausted his fuel at the final turn during his fastest lap, depriving him of a performance that might have propelled him into the top four.

On Thursday, Mir concentrated on evaluating the engine and feels that the 2025 model is an improvement, but it still requires an increase in horsepower.

"Today, we tested the most recent configuration for 2024 along with this year's new engine specification," he stated.

"Initially, making the choice was difficult, as after installing the engine, it seemed it didn't quite align with my preferences."

In the morning, my spirits were quite low, but as the day progressed, we dedicated ourselves to the electronic aspects, aiming to configure the engine optimally in terms of its electronic settings – adjusting the engine braking, throttle response, and so forth.

"The engine has changed from last year's model, yet it retains a comparable personality. The overall essence remains much the same. By the close of the day, I was pleased and have previously mentioned that, in my opinion, the 2025 model surpasses the current one in terms of potential, or at least it seems to have more promise."

"We managed to beat yesterday's lap time. Additionally, I exhausted my fuel supply at the final turn. Consequently, I had to navigate from that last turn to the finish line with the motorcycle operating at less than maximum capacity.

"We dropped by three tenths, which means we're quite close if it weren't for that issue. Thus, I'd express satisfaction with our progress, yet we do have a few areas that need improvement.

For instance, when the track's temperature increases, it becomes a challenge for everyone. We find ourselves lagging behind the others.

"Our lap times are lagging compared to the competition. They seem to manage things more effectively. For some reason, our motorcycle begins to skid slightly, complicating our performance, especially in warmer conditions.

"Therefore, it's imperative that we address this issue. We'll proceed with the electronic components and their configuration tomorrow. I believe there's additional progress to be made."

Joan Mir highlights persistent issue with Honda

The problems with rear traction that have troubled Honda for several years remain unresolved, despite the introduction of Mir's favored new engine.

"Our advantage lies not just in slightly improved acceleration, but primarily in our higher maximum speed," he further explained.

"We enhanced our speed by 1 kilometer per hour on the straightaway, but it looks like we require an additional four to five k

"At present, that's somewhat the situation. However, if we were somewhat satisfied with a less powerful engine yesterday, and now we've gained a bit more power, the motorcycle has become easier to handle. It's an improvement."

Luca Marini, a fellow team member who ranked 15th on Thursday, dedicated his time to trying out new aerodynamics and feels that the most recent version is definitively an improvement.

"Today's agenda was entirely centered on aerodynamics. We tested various adjustments, including fairings and wings, and I'm pleased because by the end of it, we identified the ideal balance," he mentioned.

"We now need to determine whether the new setup will be ready for Buriram, or if we'll begin the season using the previous configuration, which remains excellent since it took us the entire day to achieve a better balance with the old fairing."

"Thus, time will tell. It's enhanced maneuverability, particularly, without any compromise on acceleration, wheelie performance, or braking capability. Therefore, it was an impeccable execution."

Statements given by Peter McLaren, the Crash MotoGP Editor

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Marco Bezzecchi struggles to push the Aprilia to its full potential during his initial time trial. “I’m pleased with how we performed…”

Marco Bezzecchi, who recently joined Aprilia, successfully completed his debut performance on the RS-GP during the last day of the MotoGP testing session in Sepang this week.

On the third day of testing, the Italian racer achieved the ninth-fastest time by launching a morning time attack, resulting in a lap of 1:57.328.

Bezzecchi mentioned that it was his initial attempt at an attack.

"Today, I executed a live speed run. I'm pleased with how it turned out."

"I believe I didn't push the bike to its full potential, but that was more due to my own limitations rather than the bike's. I still need to learn more and figure out where the bike's boundaries lie."

"It was crucial to perform a time trial to evaluate the outcomes of the efforts made so far."

"There are still a few things left for us to test, so the task isn't complete yet."

Adjusting to the RS-GP

Bezzecchi is in the initial stages of his journey with Aprilia. The testing responsibilities he has taken on, due to the absence of Jorge Martin and Trackhouse Racing's Raul Fernandez, have limited his opportunities to spend prolonged periods on the bike with the same setup. Bezzecchi acknowledges that he has not yet mastered the optimal way to ride the RS-GP.

Bezzecchi mentioned that he believes Lorenzo Savadori, who tests for Aprilia, handles the Aprilia motorcycle more effectively.

"He developed his riding style on the Aprilia, so he naturally has a better understanding of how to handle it. As for me, I believe I'm still in the process of adjusting. I'm quite effective when it comes to braking, so I focus on leveraging this strength in my riding technique."

"However, there are moments when I'm attempting to apply the same techniques with the Aprilia that I used previously."

"Naturally, I still have some adjustments to make, but I'm actively working on it. In certain areas, I was able to ride in my preferred style."

He remarked, "Ultimately, I'm fairly content. However, I must admit that it can be challenging to find a steady pace when experimenting with various elements."

"This was my first experience testing as a factory rider, and I'm pleased because I managed to provide valuable feedback."

"The task remains incomplete, but so far, the experience has been favorable for me."

"I believe that once we have the opportunity to concentrate on the environment and devote more attention to the riding, I will attempt to improve further."

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In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net team after spending two years reporting on consumer and racing motorcycle news for Visordown.

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Michelin responds to claims that Jorge Martin's test crash was due to a tyre defect

'The tyre is not at fault'

Michelin's Piero Taramasso states that the tyres used by Aprilia's Jorge Martin, which he was on during his significant crash on the first day of the Sepang MotoGP test, did not have any issues.

The current world champion experienced two crashes in rapid succession at the outset of the first day during the Sepang pre-season test, with the latter being a severe highside crash that resulted in him sustaining several fractures.

Martin's injuries have sidelined him for the rest of the test and put his pre-season in jeopardy as he returns to Spain for surgery on Friday.

On Wednesday, Aprilia's Chief Executive Officer, Massimo Rivola, informed the press that according to the team's analysis, there were no problems with either the rider or the motorcycle, and that the tyres were functioning within the appropriate parameters.

Without directly attributing the accident to Michelin, Taramasso has come to the tyre company's defense, asserting that their own inquiries revealed no issues with Martin's tires.

"In incidents like these, we must always search for the cause, and naturally, the tyres, being a component of the bike and its entire system, come under scrutiny," he explained to Sky Italy on Thursday.

Upon examining Jorge's back tire, we found that in terms of its traceability, the tire was produced in the previous year. It had not undergone any heating process, preserving its characteristics that qualify it as a high-performance tire, which is the reason for its selection for this occasion.

After examining the tire following Jorge's laps, it performed effectively. This is evident from its appearance, showing it functioned properly on both the left and right sides.

"When tyres fail to function properly, they often appear glossy and slick, yet Jorge's tyre did not display these characteristics.

Additionally, examining the lap timings, he matched the pace of other competitors for the initial four to five laps. In his subsequent attempt, he outpaced racers such as Francesco Bagnaia and Brad Binder.

"Subsequently, he experienced two accidents. It's somewhat unusual for him to have continued for 13 laps; typically, if a tyre is malfunctioning, riders return and request a replacement within the first few laps."

"Echoing Massimo Rivola's accurate observations, both the pressures and temperatures were within acceptable ranges."

"From the perspective of tyre performance, everything was functioning smoothly. Based on our observations and the data we've gathered, there are no issues to report."

Following the incident, Aprilia announced on Thursday that Martin had not sustained any significant injuries. The brand remains optimistic about his ability to compete in the season's opening race in Thailand, scheduled for the end of the month.

If Martin is unable to participate in the upcoming second test in Buriram next week, he will enter his debut season with the Aprilia factory team, and as the current world champion, having only managed to complete 90 laps on the RS-GP.

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Max Verstappen has been encouraged to delay any decision regarding Aston Martin's F1 proposal, as suggested by a former leader of a Formula 1 team.

Max Verstappen has been advised to hold off on accepting Aston Martin's alleged £1 billion proposal until the conclusion of the 2026 F1 season.

The Daily Mail has recently reported on a rumor suggesting that Aston Martin has been reaching out to sponsors with the goal of assembling a massive £1 billion offer to lure Verstappen away from Red Bull.

Aston Martin has dismissed the claims, yet both they and Mercedes are thought to be interested in acquiring Verstappen, who is under contract with Red Bull until the conclusion of 2028.

The team based in Silverstone has announced their ambitious goals to vie for the world championship in the near future. They plan to take advantage of the major regulation changes set for 2026 to advance towards leading positions on the Formula 1 grid.

Aston Martin has constructed a modern facility that includes a new wind tunnel, and the team has bolstered its technical staff by bringing on board Enrico Cardile and, crucially, Adrian Newey.

Adrian Newey, considered the best car designer in Formula 1 history, has been reportedly recruited from Red Bull, which is viewed as a significant move by Aston Martin. This strategic acquisition is believed to be part of Aston Martin's efforts to persuade four-time world champion Max Verstappen to join their team.

Ex-Haas team boss Guenther Steiner thinks that it would be in Verstappen's best interest to remain with Red Bull until the hierarchy under Formula 1's new regulations is clear.

"Steiner advised GPBlog to hold on for 26."

"I'm not familiar with the specifics of Max's contract or the conditions for his release, but I expect that it includes a performance clause related to the team's achievements."

"If the team doesn't perform well, he has the option to depart after 26. This is crucial because if the car performs well in 26, it should continue to perform well for the next three or four years."

"When you begin working on a new rule or concept for a car, it can take a significant amount of time to fully disengage from it."

£1 Billion Deal Called 'Fictional'

Although Steiner admitted that Aston Martin has the financial resources to attract Verstappen, he raised doubts about the truthfulness of the rumored £1 billion proposal.

He remarked, "Calling it a billion might be an exaggeration, as it would establish a record that could never be surpassed."

"That sounds somewhat fictional, yet I'm confident Aston Martin would be willing to offer a substantial sum for his services."

"It's possible it could happen by 2027, but there's no assurance for Max that Aston Martin will perform well."

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Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. He is often on-site, providing firsthand accounts and sharing the narratives of key figures in the racing world.

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