Lorenzo Savadori pledges to provide Jorge Martin with a significantly upgraded motorcycle

Savadori details Aprilia's testing efforts in the absence of Jorge Martin

Aprilia's test rider is adamant that he will return Jorge Martin's bike significantly improved.

MotoGP titleholder Martin was sidelined for two and a half days during the official Sepang trials following a severe accident on Wednesday morning.

With Martin unavailable, the task of advancing Aprilia's progress falls to his colleague Marco Bezzecchi and the test rider Lorenzo Savadori.

Savadori commented on his Friday testing efforts, stating, "We're focusing on advancing our aerodynamic capabilities. Our strategy involves pursuing dual paths – the key is to continually test, test, test…

"Creating the optimal bicycle for Jorge upon his comeback is challenging, yet it's crucial to accomplish."

Savadori remarked on the slimmer fairing observed on his Aprilia, stating, "It represents a progression. Additionally, there's a device on the fairing designed to analyze the wind more effectively.

"Let's give it another go. We've only attempted it for a couple of rounds."

Savadori was experimenting with fresh electronic components but mentioned the necessity of evaluating them using different types of tires.

"He explained that it's essential to grasp the nature of the TC when it's both pre-owned and brand new."

"At the start of the race, you're equipped with a fresh tire."

"Obviously, when you switch to a new tire, it offers increased traction, which is advantageous. However, this benefit applies to everyone."

Lorenzo Savadori Evaluates Marco Bezzecchi's Technique

Observers pointed out a distinct difference in how Savadori approached turns compared to Bezzecchi. It was mentioned that Savadori's technique involved more rounded movements through the corners, whereas Bezzecchi opted for a sharper, V-shaped trajectory.

He clarified, saying, "At the first turn, you have the option to stick to the inside or take a V-shaped path. The variation isn't significant; it's a matter of choice."

Our priority isn't on improving performance as it is for Marco; instead, our attention is on preparing the motorcycle for Jorge.

"Since there's no specific return time, he must choose the highest-quality bicycle available."

Unsurprisingly, Savadori ranked 22nd among 23 riders in the standings, with test riders from each manufacturer filling the last positions.

However, he demonstrated his ability to improve his speed by nine-tenths of a second by switching to a softer tyre.

"Truly, we're not racing against the clock! Our focus isn't on speed, but on getting the motorcycle ready for Jorge," he explained.

"Upon taking over from Raul Fernandez last year, my time was 58.8 seconds, yet the task at hand was entirely different."

"Switching to a soft tyre gives me greater leeway to speed up. However, this isn't the right location for it."

Bezzecchi finished ninth in speed on Friday, concluding a test session for Aprilia that was significantly disrupted due to injuries sustained by Martin and Trackhouse rider Raul Fernandez.

Savadori commented on Bezzecchi's transition from the Ducati, noting, "It's positive. He improves on the bike every day. Bez and I are aiming towards the same goal.

"Bez experimented with something I had previously attempted during the trial, and our observations are identical."

"His appearance on the track is impressive. He's on the right path to enhancing his performance."

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Marco Bezzecchi struggles to push the bike to its maximum during initial Aprilia speed trial

"I'm pleased with how we did…"

In his debut with Aprilia, Marco Bezzecchi managed to complete his inaugural performance trial on the RS-GP during the concluding day of the MotoGP testing session in Sepang this week.

On the third day of the testing session, the Italian rider secured the ninth-fastest time, achieving a 1:57.328 during a morning time attack.

"Bezzecchi expressed, 'That was my initial assault.'"

Today, I genuinely carried out a live time trial. I'm pleased with the outcome.

"I believe I didn't push the bike to its maximum potential, but that wasn't due to the bike itself, rather it was because of my own limitations. I still have to gain a deeper comprehension and figure out where the bike's maximum capabilities lie."

"However, conducting a timed trial was crucial to assess the outcomes of the efforts made so far."

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

Adjusting to the RS-GP

In the initial stages of his tenure with Aprilia, Bezzecchi has faced a significant workload in testing, largely due to the absence of Jorge Martin and Raul Fernandez from Trackhouse Racing. This has resulted in limited opportunities for him to spend extended time on the bike in a consistent configuration. The Italian rider acknowledges that he has yet to master riding the RS-GP in the most effective manner.

"Bezzecchi mentioned, 'I believe Sava [Lorenzo Savadori, the test rider for Aprilia] actually has a superior riding style when it comes to the Aprilia.'"

"His technique originated from his time with Aprilia, so he definitely has a deeper understanding of how to maneuver it. I believe I'm still in the process of getting used to it; my strength lies in braking, so I'm focusing on leveraging this advantage in my approach to riding."

"Yet occasionally, while riding the Aprilia, I find myself attempting to replicate my previous actions."

"Clearly, there are adjustments I still have to make, but I'm focused on improving. In certain sections, I managed to navigate in the style that suits me best."

He stated, "Ultimately, I'm fairly content. However, it's honestly challenging to find the flow when experimenting with various approaches."

"For me, this is my initial experience testing as a factory rider, and on the whole, I'm pleased because I managed to provide valuable feedback."

"However, the work remains incomplete, yet so far, it has been a positive experience for me."

"I believe that once we have the opportunity to concentrate on the environment and place greater emphasis on the riding aspect, I will endeavor to advance further."

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Speculation surrounds the performance of Ducati's GP24 compared to the much-acclaimed GP25 models

Franco Morbidelli stands out during testing in Sepang

Franco Morbidelli finds himself at the heart of fascinating discussions about the performance levels of Ducati's pair of motorcycles in the 2025 MotoGP season.

The older models may frequently demonstrate superior speed during the initial stages, as competitors get accustomed to the upgraded equipment, which generally shows greater advantage as time progresses.

However, the previous year did not follow the usual trend for Ducati.

The latest model Ducatis outperformed the models from the previous year, except in the case of Marc Marquez.

On Friday, as the 2025 Sepang test wrapped up, the Ducatis from the previous year took the lead.

Alex Marquez of Gresini Racing led the rankings, while VR46's Morbidelli secured the fourth position.

"Morbidelli mentioned, 'Last year, our expectations for the GP23 were higher.'"

In truth, only Marc managed to achieve it. The outcome everyone anticipated failed to occur.

"Let's discover the outcomes of this year together…"

"Our speed was impressive, which is a good sign. Let's overlook the warmth, exhaustion, and challenges that typically accompany the season's initial extended outing!"

Morbidelli upbeat regarding move to VR46

Morbidelli transitions from Pramac to VR46, continuing on a Ducati from the previous year.

Despite his teammate Fabio di Giannantonio breaking a collarbone in a Wednesday crash, Morbidelli remains positive, stating that the Sepang test has overall been beneficial for VR46.

"I'm truly pleased with the past three days. The team performed exceptionally well, and collaborating with a new crew was a remarkable experience for me," he stated.

"During our initial three days of collaboration, we've already established a solid rapport. This is a promising start, and we plan to further develop from this foundation."

"Additionally, it's an encouraging beginning for the squad. Transitioning from a challenging year to kicking off like this? It's a significant uplift."

"We're aware of the problem with Fabio initially, yet from our perspective, things are progressing smoothly."

Morbidelli spoke about his new team, stating, "It was crucial. Getting to know one another, communicating your needs, expressing your desires for the bike, and then seeing them bring it to fruition.

"Your feedback matters, as does the manner in which it's conveyed."

"Prioritizing this should be your initial step upon joining a new group."

"I'm feeling positive and self-assured! Confidence is something I carry as a rider. Despite experiencing highs and lows, this moment is undoubtedly a high, boosting my confidence."

Starting 2024 with an injury from a preseason testing incident, Morbidelli bounced back to dominate the 2025 Sepang test, showcasing his peak performance.

Comments offered by Peter McLaren in Sepang

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Pedro Acosta addresses the media: "You all created confusion, but now it's clear everything is okay" at KTM

“Following the turmoil you [the press] caused, it's apparent now that all is well…”

Pedro Acosta states that the significant number of prototype components he tested at the Sepang MotoGP session confirms that the KTM initiative is on solid footing, despite doubts about its continuity.

During the winter, KTM underwent a process of self-administration due to significant financial difficulties, and it now approaches a pivotal decision from its creditors regarding its plan for restructuring in the coming weeks.

The ambiguity has overshadowed the MotoGP initiative, yet the brand has consistently maintained that all operations will proceed according to the original schedule for 2025.

An intense trial period at Sepang concluded with Acosta at the forefront among the four KTM factory competitors, securing the sixth position with a lap time of 1m57.175s on the last day.

He is of the opinion that he possesses "60% of a complete race bike" at the moment, given that KTM is in the process of selecting components to establish its foundational package for 2025. However, he interprets this as an indication that everything is in good order with the brand.

He responded by saying the race package was about "60% of a race bike" when inquired about its completion status.

Currently, I'm really pleased with the efforts we've made.

"However, the issue at hand is that we now need to employ a filter and determine which elements to assemble."

"Yet, we must remain joyful, as following the chaos you folks [the press] stirred up regarding [the KTM incident], now it's evident that all is well.

"To achieve this, it's essential that we maintain a sense of joy and tranquility."

Pedro Acosta discusses KTM's Sepang trial

Acosta mentioned that KTM's efforts on Friday at Sepang were crucial in salvaging the test session, after facing numerous challenges that hindered their scheduled plans on the second day.

"In the end, we experimented with various approaches," he mentioned.

"Additionally, yesterday presented numerous challenges in the morning, and determining a definitive outcome from the afternoon's efforts proved to be quite complex."

"In any case, we essentially rescued the test. I'm quite pleased since we maintained speed across various conditions and at all points during the day, demonstrating good pace. Given this, we have reasons to be content."

The Spanish rider mentioned that KTM aims to develop a motorcycle that's somewhat more stable than last year's model, yet at the moment, "I'm fairly comfortable with the speed and the performance during time trials."

Acosta also mentioned that KTM is yet to unveil several components and has a range of intriguing elements to experiment with during the Buriram test.

In addition to an impressive time trial performance, Acosta successfully executed a comprehensive sprint drill on Friday, although he acknowledged struggling with tire problems.

"There was an issue during my sprint simulation due to the tyre having no grip as soon as I exited the pitlane," he explained.

"For me, it was an unusual experience as well. By the third lap, I was struggling just to keep going. It definitely felt odd."

"Afterward, I installed a tyre that had been used for 10 laps earlier in the day, and it worked perfectly fine.

"I improved my time by 0.4 seconds, which is quite unusual. Nonetheless, we're pleased as it seems we've made more progress compared to last year."

"Additionally, arriving here without a pre-event trial run was a novel experience for me, and everything unfolded rapidly. However, we are quite pleased with the outcome of the sprint race."

Comments supplied by Peter McLaren, the Crash MotoGP Editor

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Marc Marquez discusses Ducati's advantageous dilemma with 2025 MotoGP motorcycle

"Our foundation is built on a vehicle that secured 19 victories…"

Marc Marquez states that Ducati must approach its 2025 MotoGP engine choice with a high degree of certainty, attributing this to the advantageous issue of the GP24 being an exceptionally solid foundation.

The Ducati team has rigorously evaluated the new GP25 against the previous year's GP24 throughout the three-day testing period in Sepang, making a pivotal decision before a two-year moratorium on engine development takes effect.

Marquez finished the trial in fifth place overall, while top accolades on Friday were claimed by his brother, Alex Marquez, who was riding the GP24.

While Marc Marquez caught attention with his impressive sprint simulation on Friday, he kept the details about which engine he utilized under wraps.

"It was a combination," he explained. "It involved the 2024 aerodynamics, but the rest remains unseen… Hence, I can only reference the aerodynamics."

With only two days remaining for testing before the season kicks off and the implementation of a two-year ban on engine development, Alex Marquez's leading performance in Sepang, including a sprint simulation that surpassed his brother's, presents a challenge for Ducati.

"Marc Marquez mentioned, 'The fortunate challenge for Ducati lies in beginning from a position where they secured victories in 19 out of 20 races.'"

"Thus, enhancing this aspect is challenging, which is why ensuring its improvement is crucial, especially since with the 2024 model, you stand a solid chance of contending for the championship without a doubt."

"There, we experimented with various aspects, not just focusing on the engine or aerodynamics alone."

"Today, we focused on numerous minor aspects, aiming to discern the superior elements from the inferior ones through a detailed examination."

Inquired on whether Alex Marquez stands a chance in the championship race this year, his older sibling commented: “It's too soon for him. I wouldn't want to burden my brother with that expectation. He's currently having a good time and is in a great place mentally.

"Thus, the expectation is on the designated riders. Within the official team, battling for the championship is a must."

"He's having a good time, so continue. However, I was heavily focused on my garage since we were working on a tight schedule, and it was crucial for all the engineers to grasp everything clearly as we had to make the right decision."

"Ducati's fortunate dilemma is that its starting point is already excellent, meaning any enhancements must be undoubtedly superior. Hence, we've rigorously tested and retested to ensure this."

Marquez pointed out that the exceptional track conditions obscure the areas where Ducati needs to enhance their motorcycle, as the high levels of grip mask any problems.

"He emphasized that there's always room for improvement."

The issue stemmed from the state of the track, which was extraordinary due to an excessive amount of rubber on it. This made it difficult to pinpoint any issues with the bike, as the track's grip was exceptionally high – to the point where, upon inspection by foot, the track appeared completely black.

Numerous issues arise from the absorption of all that rubber.

"At that instant, when I select the top option available, I experience satisfaction. It's difficult for me to pinpoint areas for enhancement."

Statements given by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Alex Rins discusses Yamaha's strategy to bring in a V4 engine. "As riders, we definitely request…"

Ever since Yamaha revealed midway through the last season that they were working on a V4 engine for their MotoGP initiative, the prototype engine has become one of the most talked-about topics in the sport.

Since the start of the four-stroke era in the premier class in 2002, the Japanese company has consistently used inline-four-cylinder engines. If they switch, it would align all MotoGP manufacturers with the trend of using ‘big bang’ or unevenly firing V4 engines, leaving Yamaha as the last to adopt this engine type.

It's been approximately five months since Yamaha revealed the V4, yet there is still no confirmed schedule for when it will make its debut on the track, where its sound will be anticipated.

Factory Yamaha rider Alex Rins mentioned after the first day of the official MotoGP test in Sepang on Wednesday that they were not provided with any specific date.

"Certainly, as cyclists, we do inquire, but they choose to keep it separate so the rider doesn't get distracted by wondering when the testing will happen."

"Absolutely, conducting tests would be beneficial."

"I believe that they have told us they will introduce it once it surpasses the performance of the current bike."

Having a V4 engine isn’t essential. After all, Honda uses a V4 engine, and we are still encountering issues.

On Thursday, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team manager Massimo Meregalli supported Rins' statements from Wednesday. He shared his thoughts during the After the Flag show on MotoGP.com, as the second day of activities was coming to a close.

"When questioned about the potential debut of Yamaha's V4 engine on the track, he responded by saying, 'When it will be ready.'"

"Certainly, it's not feasible to express anything."

"Certainly, we aim to test the V4 on the track at the earliest opportunity, but we'll proceed only when we're fully prepared."

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Tech Snapshots: Sepang MotoGP 2025 Trials

Aprilia

Regrettably, it made a brief appearance on the circuit, but showcased is a detailed view of the front wing on the RS-GP25 ridden by world champ Jorge Martin.

Due to Martin being sidelined due to an injury after completing only 13 laps, his teammate Marco Bezzecchi carried on with the evaluation of the RS-GP components, which involved experimenting with vertical rear wings (refer to test rider Lorenzo Savadori for comparison without the wings).

The most recent nose cone update on Bezzecchi's RS-GP25.

Martin wasn't the sole Aprilia competitor sidelined due to injury on the first day, as Trackhouse's Raul Fernandez was ruled out for the remainder of the testing period following a high-speed crash while decelerating for Turn 9.

Honda's RC213V features a two-tiered rear wing and lateral stabilizers.

A detailed view of the 'ground effect' shelf on newcomer Somkiat Chantra's RC213V.

Honda garnered attention by experimenting with a big, sleek back seat devoid of aerodynamics. Similar to KTM's approach, the manufacturer could be exploring adjustments in weight balance, such as relocating the bike's electronic components to the far end, instead of adopting a mass damper system akin to Ducati's.

Luca Marini showed a preference for Honda's updated aerodynamics (illustrated below, in contrast to the 'conventional' model ridden by Chantra above). This updated model features an expanded lower air channel, yet Joan Mir and Johann Zarco appeared to favor the previous iteration.

Yamaha

Alex Rins is testing a modified front fairing featuring just two 'wings' compared to the three found on Jack Miller's Pramac motorcycle beneath.

Rins appeared to favor the traditional Yamaha frame (colored in black) rather than the latest version without paint.

In addition to its quartet of competing racers, Yamaha's test team has featured Andrea Dovizioso and Augusto Fernandez on the circuit.

At KTM, the most noticeable change is the significantly enlarged salad box and the updated placement of the exhaust (seen below). Bastianini is shown equipped with the conventional rear setup and exhaust system above.

Additional views of the RC16 at Sepang are available in the images below:

Ducati

Following an injury to VR46's Fabio di Giannantonio on the first day, due to a wheelie mishap after the session, Michele Pirro was brought in to assist Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia in developing the GP25.

Bagnaia and Marquez have placed the highest importance on the latest Ducati motor, which, similar to Aprilia and KTM, will not undergo any changes until the close of 2026.

Both competitors noted that the updated engine offers a smoother ride, yet presents more of a challenge to slow down when braking, possibly because of modifications to the internal components. This is highlighted in the photos of Bagnaia and Marquez.

They also introduced a new chassis (previously tested by Diggia before he fell on the first day) and aerodynamics. Here's Pirro testing the most recent aerodynamic enhancements:

Despite this, it was Alex Marquez from Gresini, piloting the previous model GP24, who not only topped the leaderboard but also recorded the quickest time in the Sprint race simulation:

Franco Morbidelli, alongside Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer, demonstrated that the Ducati GP24 continues to be an exceptionally speedy motorcycle.

Francesco Bagnaia examines Maverick Vinales' KTM during a trial launch.

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Luca Marini and Joan Mir acknowledge improvements at Honda, yet face a significant challenge

"The issue is, while we advanced, so did everyone else…"

Luca Marini feels that despite improvements during the winter, Honda remains as distant from leading the MotoGP pack as it was in 2024.

The Italian is of the opinion that this year's RC213V represents a general advancement over the previous year's model, though it hasn't necessarily translated into a boost in competitiveness.

"Marini mentioned that they enhanced the previous year's bicycle and have made progress with the 2025 model."

"However, we remain significantly distant, as our progress was matched by everyone else – that's the issue. I believe the current disparity is roughly equivalent to what it was last year."

Specifically, Marini noted that the 2025 motorcycle has seen enhancements in corner entry, yet issues with acceleration persist.

"He mentioned that they have enhanced the bike's braking system and its maneuverability over last year."

"Definitely, it lacks the motor, the maximum velocity.

"Securing this will serve as the crucial factor in unlocking future possibilities, throughout the season, particularly in surpassing others, as today, Joan [Mir] and Johann [Zarco] delivered an exceptional performance with their incredible lap speeds."

"However, the issue arises during a race when overtaking becomes challenging, leading to the motorcycle overheating, a problem that similarly affects the tires."

"Thus, I believe it's crucial for us to concentrate on this aspect to increase our chances of advancing positions during the race, since we will be beginning from a middle position on the grid, not towards the front."

Overall, Marini summarized that the updated motorcycle is more "user-friendly" to handle, particularly during race simulations, highlighting its efficiency in maintaining speed without wearing out the tires excessively.

Nonetheless, the time trial is "extremely challenging, significantly tougher, and requires taking considerable risks to achieve a fast lap."

Joan Mir Responds: "It's Not Exactly As Described"

Joan Mir, who teams up with Marini at Honda HRC Castrol, and whom Marini acknowledges for advocating for better throttle response – an enhancement that has been incorporated into the 2025 RC213V – provided some clarity on the Italian rider's statements.

"To avoid any conflict, I'm siding with Luca [Marini]," Mir responded when questioned about Marini's remarks on braking and turning.

"However, it isn't entirely the case. He's aware of it, though he likely described it differently."

"The combination of components we've assembled for 2024 and 2025 enhances the bike's maneuverability," the 2020 MotoGP World Champion stated.

"This is a sector where we've seen significant enhancement from the previous year. I'd also mention the steadiness during braking since I tend to apply the brakes forcefully, which has greatly improved my turning capability."

"Thus, the components of the package we currently possess don't entirely encompass the 2025 enhancements that improve the bike's maneuverability – yet, they aren't completely novel elements either. We've also incorporated features from the 2024 model."

Mir concurred with Marini's assessment that HRC had progressed during the off-season, largely due to his own improvement in lap times from the previous year's qualifying round at the Malaysian Grand Prix.

"We must express joy since these individuals put in significant effort during the winter season. It was evident, and they demonstrated it through an improved motorcycle," he stated.

"Our package has improved compared to the past. Indeed, on this third day, the grip conditions have surpassed those typically experienced during a race weekend. This is a fact."

"I managed to shave off 1.3 seconds from my qualifying lap time. It's not just about the motorcycle itself; it's about how it enables me to exert more effort. However, it's a blend of both factors."

"Definitely, I'm not content, as my nature is to always desire more. However, we must find reasons to be joyful."

Mir then shifted focus to the motorcycle's drawbacks, highlighting its maximum speed and traction.

"He mentioned that there are still a few vulnerabilities, but they are significantly weak."

"The maximum speed is quite poor, and our traction falls short when compared to competitors; we simply don't have the same level of grip. This is something we need to concentrate on improving."

"The persistent vibration issue remains unresolved, unfortunately. It's disappointing as it significantly affects the rider's comfort and greatly influences how they tackle corners."

"Your time diminishes significantly in those moments – each instance of vibration through a turn results in a loss of at least one tenth, effortlessly.

"However, the truth is that we are significantly nearer."

"In warmer weather, our performance tends to diminish. The engine faces increased difficulties and we encounter numerous issues related to traction."

"Therefore, we need to focus on these two aspects and attempt to progress for Buriram, as the initial race is likely to occur under warm conditions."

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Ducati faces a significant challenge, yet it poses an even greater concern for the rest of the field. After starting the 2025 pre-season on the same high note with which they concluded 2024, Ducati departs Malaysia having encountered a problem, with only two days remaining for testing.

Pre-season trials in MotoGP come with numerous conditions that make it nearly impossible to accurately interpret track performance. However, discerning subtle hints between the lines can sometimes offer solid indicators of the competitive landscape.

Following the conclusion of the three-day test at Sepang, the standings remained largely unchanged from the previous year's end. Riding the Gresini-operated GP24, Alex Marquez secured the top spot with a time of 1m56.493s, narrowly missing the all-time lap record by 0.156s, a record previously established by Francesco Bagnaia during the qualifying round of the previous season's Malaysian Grand Prix.

Ducati dominated the leaderboard, securing four out of the top five positions in the overall rankings. Alex Marquez led the pack, closely followed by Bagnaia, while VR46 team rider Franco Morbidelli claimed the fourth position riding a GP24, and Marc Marquez rounded out the top five on a factory Ducati.

Regarding sheer speed, Ducati significantly outperforms other brands when comparing their fastest lap times.

Quickest records by brand

During the time trial rounds, a gap of 0.835 seconds separates the five competing brands. Aprilia faced the challenge of finishing the Sepang trials without Jorge Martin, the current world champion, and Raul Fernandez from Trackhouse Racing, Aprilia's sole returning rider for the 2025 season, both out due to injuries. Consequently, the majority of the testing responsibility fell on Marco Bezzecchi, newcomer Ai Ogura, and test pilot Lorenzo Savadori.

In summary, Bezzecchi managed to outperform the leading Aprilia by 0.718 seconds during his prime lap in the time attacks for the 2024 Malaysian Grand Prix, securing him a spot within the top 10 on the test rankings. This achievement came even though Bezzecchi admitted to lacking the self-assurance needed to fully exploit the capabilities of the RS-GP on what was his initial serious qualifying attempt.

Yamaha's advancements throughout the testing phase appear authentic. However, Marc Marquez described the grip levels on the last day as "unreal," which may slightly distort the results.

The M1 continues to grapple with issues related to rear traction, and the presence of abundant rubber on the track is likely to obscure this problem further. Additionally, Yamaha benefited from an additional two days of testing with its professional racers during the shakedown period. Nonetheless, shaving off 0.868 seconds from its quickest lap time ever recorded at Sepang last November is a remarkable achievement, a point that Bagnaia highlighted at the conclusion of the test session.

"I believe there's going to be a change regarding the team supporting Ducati this season; in my view, Yamaha has performed exceptionally well."

Ducati GP24 shines during Sepang testing

Today saw impressive sprint simulation runs from both Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez 🏃 Bagnaia clocked an average time of 1:58.243, while Marquez edged ahead with a 1:57.930 🔴⏱️#MotoGP #SepangTest pic.twitter.com/x8dab9V05T— Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) February 7, 2025

Today, Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez showcased their skills in sprint race simulations 🏃 Bagnaia notched an average time of 1:58.243, with Marquez slightly faster at 1:57.930 🔴⏱️#MotoGP #SepangTest pic.twitter.com/x8dab9V05T

The GP24's results are as expected. This motorcycle secured victories in 19 out of 20 major races last year, with notable success at the Malaysian Grand Prix, showing it's perfectly tuned. Riders Alex Marquez and Franco Morbidelli are tasked mainly with getting accustomed to its handling, without the need for further enhancements.

This significant benefit has allowed Ducati riders, within their first year, to achieve remarkable success at the onset of the MotoGP season. In 2022, Enea Bastianini clinched victories in three out of his first four races while riding the GP21, all within the initial seven rounds; similarly, in 2023, Bezzecchi secured two wins out of three races on the GP22, accomplishing this feat within the first five grands prix.

Thus, it didn't come as a shock to witness Alex Marquez at the forefront during the sprint exercises on the last day of the event.

Average sprint simulation on the third day of Sepang testing

Alex Marquez outperformed Jorge Martin's winning speed at the 2024 Malaysian GP sprint by an average of 0.595 seconds, while Marc Marquez exceeded it by 0.567 seconds. Although track grip levels significantly influence these outcomes, it remains a noteworthy achievement, especially for Marc Marquez.

In last year's Sepang sprint, he secured the second position with an average speed of 1 minute and 58.550 seconds while riding the Gresini-operated GP23. The rider, who has won the world championship eight times, managed to secure victories in three grand prix events on the often-criticized GP23 during the previous season. He also achieved a third-place finish in the overall championship standings, outpacing the nearest competitor on a GP23 by a significant margin of 219 points.

In 2024, a major speculative topic was the potential impact of Marquez racing with Bagnaia and Martin on a GP24. The Sepang test has provided some insight into this scenario, yet the status of Ducati's 2025 motorcycle still remains largely unknown.

Engine troubles at Ducati

The spotlight during the Sepang trials has largely been on evaluating the difference between the GP25 and GP24 engines. With a two-year moratorium on engine development for manufacturers without concessions starting from the Thai Grand Prix, the choices made at this juncture are vital.

Ducati faces a challenge because the GP24 model's performance is so impressive that there must be a noticeable improvement in the GP25 engine before it can be officially approved.

Marquez, experiencing his initial tumble since joining Ducati's official team on Thursday, remained secretive about the specific model he employed for his speed trial. He revealed merely, "It was a combination. It featured the 2024 aerodynamics, but the other details are not for public disclosure… Hence, I'm only mentioning the aerodynamic aspect."

Team member Bagnaia mentioned that Ducati utilized “two distinct setups” of the motorcycle to optimize data collection.

Consequently, he believes his speed didn't truly reflect his capabilities since he expressed dissatisfaction during the race, noting, "I experienced an unwelcome surprise when I started feeling some vibration. It wasn't as severe as what I encountered last year, but it progressively worsened with each lap."

Bagnaia was limited to a single attempt at a time trial and feels he didn't fully capitalize on it, despite being a mere 0.007 seconds behind Alex Marquez's top lap time and more than half a second ahead of his teammate, Marc Marquez.

Ducati has experienced uncertainty regarding engine specifications in previous pre-seasons as well.

As the 2022 season approached, Bagnaia decided to use a combination of the 2021 and 2022 engines for his official bikes, after finding the complete 2022 model incompatible with his riding technique during trials. This strategic decision paid off, leading to Bagnaia clinching the championship title. Meanwhile, the Pramac team members, who were equipped with the original 2022 engine, faced difficulties.

Marquez points out that while Ducati's situation isn't exactly similar, their 2024 foundation is "challenging to enhance," and he emphasizes the need for careful consideration in choosing their path forward.

"It's essential to confirm its superiority, as you're aware that with the 2024 model, you're fully capable of competing for the championship," he stated.

"Therefore, in that location, we experimented with various elements since it's not solely about the engine or aerodynamics alone. It involves numerous minor aspects. Today, we focused more on the finer details, attempting to discern which components were more effective and which were less so."

Alex Marquez's speed with the GP24 could potentially increase the unpredictability regarding Ducati's future strategy. However, both Marquez and his teammate Bagnaia believe that this won't affect their plans, with Bagnaia mentioning that initially testing a factory bike often results in a slight decrease in performance.

The last pair of test days in Buriram are pivotal for a choice affecting Ducati's strategy for the upcoming two years. However, the situation seems favorable regardless of the outcome: the team will either compete with an engine that has a history of winning championships or an advanced version of that engine.

Regardless, Ducati continues to hold its lead in the rankings, even as there are indications that rivals are becoming more competitive.

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Collision.Network

Francesco Bagnaia forecasts an unexpected second-place manufacturer trailing Ducati

"He anticipates a change regarding the runner-up to Ducati"

Francesco Bagnaia expects a shift in MotoGP's competitive hierarchy this season following Yamaha's impressive performance during the initial preseason test in Malaysia.

In recent times, Europe's leading motorcycle producers have taken the lead in the top tier of Grand Prix racing. The once-dominant Japanese companies, Honda and Yamaha, have seen a downturn, ranking lowest in the competition for both 2023 and 2024. Meanwhile, Aprilia and KTM have emerged as the primary competitors to Ducati's supremacy.

Bagnaia hinted, though, that the situation might shift by 2025, following Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo being the sole non-Ducati competitor to achieve a lap time in the 1:56s during the last day of testing at Sepang.

"Bagnaia expressed his belief that there will be a change in the team supporting Ducati throughout this season, following the completion of this week's three-day trial in Sepang."

"I believe Yamaha performed quite well, however, we should hold off judgment until Thailand since they underwent six days of testing [Yamaha participated in the Shakedown alongside all four of their racing riders due to their concessions status], so their results might partly be attributed to that as well."

"Indeed, it's accurate to say that Fabio [Quartararo] showcased impressive speed throughout the entire three-day event, and the time trial, previously identified as a weakness for Yamaha, showed considerable improvement today."

"In my opinion, they performed exceptionally well."

Bagnaia Reflects on Sepang Trial

Bagnaia did note a few reservations, primarily concerning the constraints of his own testing schedule which resulted in restricted opportunities for fast laps.

"Speaking from my own viewpoint, I wasn't able to truly exert myself in the test as I had hoped," he stated.

My setup for the speed trial managed to surpass the previous lap record, yet with only a single attempt at the trial, it was challenging to achieve the explosive performance I typically do during such trials.

"However, aside from that, I'm pleased that all the tasks completed helped us identify areas for improvement and determine which foundation to choose for our operations in Thailand."

Alex Marquez's standout lap time topped the charts, overshadowing even Quartararo's impressive time trial results, as day three concluded.

This year, the Gresini Ducati competitor takes over the Ducati Desmosedici GP24, a bike that excelled in the previous season. Its engine remains under evaluation by the factory team, especially by Bagnaia, who notably prefers its braking features over those of the 2025 engine.

Does Marquez's showing on the GP24 complicate the decision-making process for selecting an engine for the next season, especially considering the impending development freeze that will also affect choices for 2026?

"Bagnaia expressed, "Not for me," explaining, "truthfully, it's evident that when there's a lot to handle and numerous things to test, some level of performance inevitably drops – it's a natural outcome."

"Take, for instance, this morning when I simply said to my team, ‘Allow me to execute a single attack, it’s what I desire’."

"I wasn't able to attempt multiple tries like some of the other participants, simply because our attention had to be more concentrated on the task at hand.

"However, I'm aware that we're simply engineers cycling because it's essential for our testing. We must maintain our peak performance for these tests, even though it slightly separates the performance aspect."

On the last day of testing, Bagnaia recorded times in the 1:56s range, narrowly missing Marquez's top time by a mere 0.007 seconds. However, his fastest lap of 1:56.500 fell short of his own pole position record from the previous November by nearly 0.3 seconds.

Nevertheless, the tri-time World Champion was satisfied with the overall outcome of his test.

"After three days, frankly," Bagnaia summarized at the test's conclusion.

"There was a window of opportunity – somewhat limited – yet it allowed us to sift through various aspects and essentially put everything through a trial."

"It was unfortunate that Diggia [Fabio Di Giannantonio] couldn't participate in the test as his input would have been very beneficial, but working alongside Marc [Marquez], we accomplished great things."

Bagnaia and Marquez each undertook Sprint trial runs, with Marquez managing to clock an average lap time that was approximately 0.3 seconds quicker than Bagnaia's.

The Italian didn't explicitly mention this discrepancy, but he did observe a variation in the "setups" of his motorcycle compared to Marquez's during those 10-lap trials.

"Today, we also chose to test the bike using two separate setups in the simulations to provide the engineers with as much data as possible, which turned out to be extremely beneficial," Bagnaia mentioned.

He mentioned, “During the Sprint simulation […] I had to compromise on performance a bit to experiment with something throughout the simulation, and I wasn’t too pleased because an issue arose. I experienced some vibration – it wasn’t identical to last year's issue, but it progressively worsened with each lap.”

For the concluding day, the variation in specifications between Bagnaia and Marquez was attributed to the chassis.

"Bagnaia mentioned, "All I can mention is that our tasks varied."

"Throughout the day, we employed two distinct approaches, and one aspect I explored further than Marc did was the chassis."

The feedback was favorable, yet the Italian is eager to test it under less gripping conditions, which he anticipates encountering in Thailand the following week.

"I enjoyed it, though as with anything, it has its ups and downs, so I'm looking forward to experiencing it more thoroughly in Thailand."

"We require less traction, as today's experience was quite volatile. I found myself trying out new techniques, making my way back, and even increasing my speed. Yet, as I continued experimenting with these new approaches, my performance began to enhance. Thus, it's challenging to gauge when the traction behaves unpredictably like this."

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Accident.Net

The highlights and lowlights from each of the five manufacturers at the Sepang MotoGP test this week.

The 2025 MotoGP championship commenced recently, beginning with the Shakedown followed by the official tests at Sepang, where all participating teams experienced their share of ups and downs.

Ducati

Beginning from the pinnacle is always ideal, and for Ducati, they continue to hold their position at the apex as of 2025.

Alex Marquez leading the session on the GP24 managed by Gresini highlights Ducati's solid foundation for this season.

Undoubtedly, with victories in all but one Grand Prix in 2024, the GP24 stands out as an iconic motorcycle in the realm of two-wheeled motorsport. However, this success poses a unique challenge for Ducati: finding a way to outperform it.

The solution for the Bologna brand involved introducing a fresh fairing, frame, and motor. However, facing a development halt in 2026, choosing the right motor became a pivotal decision, dominating the discussions for the majority of the two-day period.

Pecco Bagnaia has expressed that Marc Marquez is the inaugural teammate he's had who shares an identical sentiment in communicating with the engineering team 🤝#MotoGP #SepangTest pic.twitter.com/ToX9CXquFk

Navigating the program became more challenging when Fabio Di Giannantonio was hospitalized due to a wheelie accident on the first day. However, considering Bagnaia's impressive second-place position in the time trials and Marquez demonstrating remarkable speed during his Sprint simulation, it's difficult to pinpoint any negatives in Ducati's test performance.

Should you aim for a slight improvement – their speed didn't increase in this year's evaluation compared to the previous one. We believe they'll move past this.

Aprilia

The test session for Aprilia certainly began in a less than ideal manner. Jorge Martin, Raul Fernandez, and Ai Ogura each experienced crashes on the first day. Among them, only Ogura was able to participate throughout the second and third days.

The rider from Japan made considerable progress, achieving times in the 1:57 range toward the conclusion of the session. However, the bulk of the developmental responsibilities was carried by Marco Bezzecchi, who was stepping into the role of a factory rider for the first time.

Bezzecchi's concluding performance didn't quite stand out, ending the last day trailing behind Joan Mir and Johann Zarco from Honda. His opportunity for full performance runs was restricted, dedicating the majority of his effort to evaluating components for a motorcycle he had only one day's experience with prior to this week.

Concluding that Aprilia's testing session was a definite success is challenging, especially since two key riders, one of whom is the current World Champion, had to withdraw from the testing early on because of injuries. However, the efforts of Bezzecchi and the designated test rider Lorenzo Savadori, who stepped in to cover for the missing Martin and Fernandez, managed to redeem the situation somewhat.

Despite facing monetary challenges, KTM managed to introduce a significant number of updates at the Sepang test, particularly a new seat unit featuring a mass damper.

The goal of this, like many of KTM's efforts during the offseason, was to address the vibration issues that became evident in 2024 following Michelin's launch of its latest rear tire.

The issue with vibrations on the RC16 hasn't been resolved, with Pedro Acosta being the only rider to finish in the top 10 after the test. Despite this, the Spanish rider managed to maintain a decent speed during his Sprint simulation.

Brad Binder expressed a level of confidence that KTM is making progress towards the upcoming season, yet departing Sepang, it's challenging to feel that the Austrian brand has made any significant strides towards the front compared to their position last year.

Yamaha and Fabio Quartararo make a significant leap with a 0.8 enhancement from the 2024 to 2025 Sepang Tests 🏍️💥 #MotoGP #SepangTest pic.twitter.com/9qXu4N79rR— Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) February 7, 2025

Following a prolonged phase of perceived downturn, Yamaha demonstrated signs of real improvement in Sepang, with Fabio Quartararo achieving some solid extended runs and clocking a time of 1:56.724 during one of his time trials.

Before this week, the rider from France had not clocked a time under 1 minute and 57 seconds, and last year, Yamaha lagged more than a second behind the fastest lap in the Sepang test. Therefore, the 2021 World Champion's achievement of finishing just a fraction of a second behind Alex Marquez, who led the timings, was a clear indicator of significant improvement.

The typical warning about increased track traction applies, and it's worth noting that Yamaha had all four of its competitors participating in the Shakedown session, which occurred a few days prior to the formal testing. However, Yamaha showed significant improvement, clocking in 0.8 seconds faster than their performance in the 2024 Sepang test. This suggests they might have advanced to the same level as KTM and Aprilia, trailing behind Ducati. Only time will reveal the full scope of their progress.

Honda continues to lag behind other manufacturers in MotoGP following the Sepang test. According to Luca Marini, despite Honda making progress, so have their competitors, leaving them essentially in the same position as before.

According to reports, the motorcycle offers an improved riding experience throughout a race, yet it continues to fall short in terms of grip and maximum speed.

In light of the current situation, labeling Honda's performance at the Sepang test as a catastrophe wouldn't be accurate. However, whereas they were previously in a similar position to Yamaha towards the rear of the pack, they now appear to be distinctly isolated as the sole prominent brand lagging behind.

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

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Accident.Report

Two MotoGP riders, each dealing with three fractures, are planning a swift return to the track. Details on their recovery timelines have been disclosed.

Fabio di Giannantonio and Raul Fernandez remain optimistic about making speedy recoveries following their recent injuries.

During the official MotoGP test at Sepang, VR46's Di Giannantonio and Trackhouse's Fernandez sustained bone fractures.

The two riders were unable to continue participating in the test and needed surgical procedures to address their injuries.

Di Giannantonio sustained a collarbone fracture, whereas Fernandez experienced a break in a metacarpal bone in his left hand and also a fractured toe.

However, they could each return to cycling sooner than anticipated.

VR46’s Uccio Salucci mentioned to Sky Italy that he believes Fabio is scheduled for surgery during the weekend.

"I anticipate meeting him again in Buriram, not for the upcoming test next week, but for the actual race."

Check out this Instagram post from Raúl Fernández (@raulfernandez_25). Raúl Fernández (@raulfernandez_25) shared this post.

Fernandez has already undergone surgery.

"To begin with, I want to express my gratitude to Xavier Mir for consistently providing me with exceptional care," Fernandez shared in a post.

"I need to take some time to heal now and aim to head to Thailand. I appreciate all your supportive messages!"

The Thailand MotoGP, marking the start of the season, is scheduled from February 28 to March

This implies that Di Giannantonio and Fernandez have a three-week period for recuperation.

However, in that period, they will be absent from the Buriram preseason test, which means they will start the inaugural race, if they can participate, facing a significant disadvantage against their competitors.

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a variety of sports, including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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