Anticipation builds around Marc Marquez’s Ducati aerodynamics at Sepang trial

This week's 2025 Sepang pre-season trial is discussed in the team's preview on the Crash MotoGP Podcast

The excitement of MotoGP racing returns in 2025 with the season's inaugural official pre-season test scheduled in Malaysia from February 5th to 7th.

A handful of rookies and seasoned riders with concessions have already hit the track at Sepang for preliminary runs, but this week, the full lineup for the 2025 season will gather in Malaysia for their initial group session since November 19.

The upcoming pre-season is packed with excitement, featuring notable changes among riders, the introduction of three newcomers, and the collective effort to bridge the gap with Ducati's lead.

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In this week's episode of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, with Jordan Moreland at the helm, the crew offers a glimpse into what's anticipated for the upcoming test.

Nonetheless, it's important to temper expectations regarding certain aspects.

Ducati has captured attention with minor aerodynamic adjustments during the shakedown, yet Crash Senior Journalist Lewis Duncan anticipates no significant aerodynamic changes for the Italian marque in the near future.

"Gigi Dall'Igna is known for having a trick or two up his sleeve, and my guess is that we might not witness any significant alterations to the fairing until Buriram," he commented.

Historically, Gigi has a tendency to unveil new developments during the last trial, a strategy that catches competing teams off-guard, leaving them with insufficient time to respond or adapt swiftly.

All eyes will be on the Ducati team's pit area to observe the updates they've implemented. It's acknowledged that the new frame they experimented with previously has already shown to be a beneficial development.

"Thus, if you add that into the mix of what they've already got, coupled with some fine-tuning, Ducati will become a formidable opponent to overcome."

It's fascinating to observe Ducati's moves. In my view, the aerodynamic modifications observed are merely an appetizer. I believe that the aerodynamic enhancements hinted at by Dall’Igna are yet to be fully unveiled.

"Ducati has consistently made bold alterations to numerous elements throughout the years, as this might be their final opportunity to implement such changes."

"It's likely that this will be the final significant update in aerodynamics, as it's difficult to envision that they would allocate a substantial development budget to aspects that are expected to be drastically reduced by 2027."

"In what seems to be the final iteration of the aero generation, it appears Gigi has crafted something particularly remarkable."

Will Yamaha Unveil a V4 at Sepang?

The development of Yamaha will be under keen observation this off-season, however, according to Crash MotoGP's Editor Peter McLaren, the V4 won't make an appearance this week.

"McLaren mentions, they've received information about its development and are eager to find out when it will make its debut on the race track."

We had speculated that it might occur during this trial. The unveiling of the Yamaha was scheduled for the first evening of the initial shakedown.

On the first day, only Andrea Dovizioso had the opportunity to test ride the two Yamaha motorcycles, which closely resembled the existing model equipped with an inline-four engine.

"One could clearly observe, in addition to hearing a distinct difference, in the case of a V4. This is why Yamaha has maintained a level of openness regarding it."

"In my recent conversation with Paolo Pavesio, the successor to Lin Jarvis, he candidly confirmed the existence of the V4, although he mentioned that it's not yet prepared for track debut."

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Dani Pedrosa unexpectedly changes gear supplier

KTM test rider's unnoticed move during Shakedown

Dani Pedrosa appeared somewhat altered from what was anticipated during the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown test.

Pedrosa stepped out from the KTM workshop on the first day of testing his company's motorcycles, sporting gear from a different brand.

Check out this Instagram update

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For the first time since 2006, he donned Dainese gear.

Switching from Alpinestars attire marks a significant change. Not long before, while practicing with Pedro Acosta, Pedrosa was outfitted in Alpinestars equipment.

His subtly altered appearance was among a handful of low-key incidents during the off-air rehearsal.

Pedrosa was actively engaged as a test rider for KTM, working alongside Pol Espargaro.

The rider with the highest achievements in MotoGP history who has yet to secure a championship title continues to be highly regarded by his contemporaries for his skill in bike development and his prowess on the race track.

In the previous year, Pedrosa participated exclusively in the Spanish MotoGP, where his competing racers remarked on the veteran's maintained prowess.

His real contribution to KTM lies in refining their motorcycle. Serving on their testing squad, he hit the racetrack during the initial shakedown, just before the usual MotoGP competitors are back this week for the official MotoGP test.

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EXCLUSIVE – Aki Ajo Discusses KTM's Intense Shakedown: "A Lot of Innovations"

"We're truly pleased with the progress made in the production"

Aki Ajo, the newly appointed team manager for Red Bull KTM's MotoGP squad, mentioned that the Austrian team successfully achieved its off-season development goals, introducing "numerous innovations" during the intense Sepang Shakedown trials.

The future of the RC16's development is uncertain because of the financial instability currently affecting KTM.

However, test riders from the factory, Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro, spent all three days of the Shakedown on the circuit, evaluating several new components (including the rear seat unit and exhaust system) as well as other enhancements not immediately apparent.

"Absolutely," Ajo confirmed in a conversation with Crash.net, responding affirmatively to inquiries about whether winter development proceeded normally notwithstanding KTM's ongoing financial struggles.

"We're truly pleased with the progress made at the plant over the recent months. It seems all the scheduled tasks were accomplished, if not surpassed."

"Our [Shakedown] test was exceptionally chaotic as we encountered numerous novelties and had a plethora of elements to comprehend, verify, and inspect."

"Examinations proceed for an additional three days [at the Official test], with numerous aspects requiring further verification."

"In my opinion, we currently find ourselves in a favorable position."

"There are still numerous days of trials ahead, including sessions in Buriram, yet we've already seen a lot of encouraging outcomes."

Espargaro, who led the pack on the first day, ultimately secured the fifth position in the Shakedown rankings, trailing Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo by half a second. Pedrosa came in ninth, 1.286 seconds behind the leader.

Transponder signals indicated that Espargaro had been utilizing a pair of motorcycles set to be transferred to Brad Binder for the next Official test, while Pedrosa took to the tracks on the motorcycles allocated to the new factory team member, Pedro Acosta.

When asked if he believes KTM is capable of stepping up to compete with the current MotoGP champions, Ducati, Ajo responded:

"We possess a competitive spirit and naturally, our ambition is to emerge victorious. As mentioned earlier, Ducati previously set the standard as the top contender. Naturally, our goal is to narrow the gap and ultimately secure the position as the leading team."

"Initially, it's crucial to acknowledge that we are the latest entrant in the MotoGP, having made our debut in 2017, and over the past two years, we've emerged as the second leading manufacturer."

"Thus, it's essential to view it optimistically, yet naturally, we aspire for greater outcomes."

"Moreover, the rivalry is quite intense. Numerous factories lack what were once referred to as satellite teams. Nowadays, I'd refer to them as secondary factory teams."

Acosta demonstrated Tech3 KTM's prowess as the brand's secondary factory team, securing nine podium finishes and barely missing the fifth spot in the previous year's world championship to Binder.

After completing his inaugural season, Acosta now looks to the future alongside seasoned victors Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini, who are joining Tech3's team. Ajo believes this gives KTM an opportunity to approach strategies differently in 2025.

"Having riders such as Maverick and Enea join Tech3 influences our operations to some extent. It impacts our testing methods and how we optimize their use."

"Having newcomers on the team is always a positive addition. However, their presence might necessitate adjustments in the way we work, particularly in areas like testing. On the other hand, with veteran riders, we might find opportunities to explore and evaluate a broader range of options."

"One of our objectives is to enhance our collaboration with our second factory team, aiming to operate seamlessly as a single entity."

He mentioned, "In essence, we have four riders representing our factory. I'm quite familiar with three of them, and with Enea, we're in the process of developing our connection.

"However, I've collaborated extensively in the past with Brad, Pedro, and Maverick, which is definitely a plus. We're familiar with one another, understand what to anticipate, and hold mutual respect."

Ajo emphasized that advancement is not solely measured by the quantity of new components but also by enhancing their utilization and improving team collaboration.

"He mentioned that their focus spans across various aspects, including the chassis, engine performance, and electronics. However, he personally believes it's not just about the technical details and innovations."

"My approach, along with that of our top tech experts, involves not just knowing our product but also enhancing it wherever possible."

"I'm referring to not just the bicycle and its technical aspects, but also the collaboration among individuals and particularly how we provide everything the cyclists need and assist them in the most effective manner."

The formal testing session in Sepang, which includes all riders for the 2025 season, is scheduled from Wednesday through Friday.

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EXCLUSIVE – Aki Ajo Discusses Busy Shakedown, Innovations at KTM

“There’s significant satisfaction with the progress in manufacturing”

Aki Ajo, the new team manager for Red Bull KTM's MotoGP squad, stated that the Austrian team successfully achieved its off-season development goals, introducing "numerous innovations" during a "busy" testing session in Sepang.

The future progress of the RC16 is under scrutiny because of the current economic instability at KTM.

However, factory test pilots Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro spent all three days of the Shakedown on the circuit, testing some notably new components (like the back seat area and the exhaust system) in addition to other elements concealed within the bike's framework.

"Absolutely," Ajo confirmed in a conversation with Crash.net, in response to whether winter development had progressed normally despite KTM's ongoing financial challenges.

"We're genuinely pleased with the progress made in the plant over the recent months. It seems all the scheduled tasks were accomplished, if not exceeded."

"Our Shakedown test was incredibly busy as we were faced with numerous new elements and several aspects to comprehend, verify, and examine."

"The Official test will now extend for an additional three days, during which multiple aspects will undergo further verification."

"In my view, we're currently in a favorable situation."

"There are still numerous days of trials ahead, including sessions in Buriram, yet we've already seen a lot of encouraging outcomes."

Espargaro, who led the pack on the first day, ended up in fifth place on the Shakedown leaderboard, trailing Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo by half a second. Pedrosa came in ninth, lagging 1.286 seconds behind the leader.

Transponder data indicated that Espargaro was riding a pair of motorcycles set to be passed on to Brad Binder for the next official trial, while Pedrosa took the helm of the motorcycles assigned to the new team member, Pedro Acosta.

Asked about KTM's prospects of competing against the current MotoGP title-holder Ducati, Ajo responded:

"We possess a competitive nature and naturally, our aspiration is to come out on top. As you've mentioned, Ducati previously set the standard and was the top contender. Naturally, our aim is to narrow that gap and ultimately reach the pinnacle as the foremost team."

"Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge that we are the most recent addition to the MotoGP lineup, having joined in 2017. Over the past two years, we've secured our position as the runner-up manufacturer."

"Thus, we should view it optimistically, though naturally, we aspire for greater outcomes."

"Additionally, the rivalry is quite intense. Numerous factories no longer maintain what were once referred to as satellite teams. Nowadays, I'd refer to them as secondary factory teams."

Acosta demonstrated the capability of KTM's secondary team, Tech3, by securing nine podium finishes and missing the fifth position in the previous season's world championship to Binder by a slim margin.

Following Acosta's debut season, and with seasoned victors Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini joining the Tech3 team, Ajo believes KTM has the opportunity to adopt a somewhat novel approach in 2025.

"When we get the opportunity to include racers such as Maverick and Enea in our team [Tech3], it influences our approach slightly. It affects our testing methods and how we maximize their use."

"Having newcomers in the team is always a positive aspect. However, the approach and techniques we employ might need to be adjusted, like in testing. With veteran riders, we might have the opportunity to explore [more] options and make comparisons."

"One of our goals is to strengthen our bond, aiming to be as unified as possible with our second factory team. In our efforts, we aspire to operate seamlessly as a single entity."

He stated: "Essentially, we're working with four factory riders. I'm quite familiar with three of them already, and we're currently developing our connection with Enea.

"However, my previous collaborations with Brad, Pedro, and Maverick have been extensive, which naturally is advantageous. We're familiar with one another, understand our mutual expectations, and have already established a foundation of respect."

Ajo emphasized that advancement isn't solely measured by the quantity of new components but also by enhancing their utilization and improving the team's operational methods.

"He mentioned, "Our focus spans across multiple domains, including the chassis, engine efficiency, and electronics. However, for me, it's not just about the technological aspects and innovations.

"My approach, which I believe is shared by our top tech experts, involves not just comprehending our product but also enhancing it."

"I'm referring not just to the motorcycle and its specifications, but also to the collaboration among individuals and, importantly, how we provide everything necessary for the riders and assist them in the most effective manner."

The formal testing session at Sepang, involving all riders slated for the 2025 season, is scheduled from Wednesday through Friday.

Peter has spent two decades in the racing world, witnessing Valentino Rossi's rise and retirement. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's health concerns.

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Jack Miller is set to make an unexpected change to his MotoGP gear lineup for the 2025 season. The Pramac team rider will be showcasing gear from two different

Pramac Yamaha's MotoGP competitor, Jack Miller, is set to participate in the 2025 season while sporting gear from a variety of different brands.

In the past, Miller was sponsored by Alpinestars for his gloves, boots, leathers, and helmet.

For his transition to Pramac Yamaha, he will don Dainese gear, including leathers, gloves, and boots, while continuing to use his Alpinestars helmet.

Pramac has entered into a new agreement with Dainese, which will provide the team with its official apparel. The partnership is set to continue until the conclusion of 2027.

Check out this Instagram post from Crash MotoGP, shared by their account @crashmotogp_.

Pramac team leader Gino Borsoi expressed great enthusiasm about beginning a new phase with Dainese, a brand well-known for its commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in the motorsport industry.

This partnership signifies the joining of a legendary MotoGP brand with a team that has already made its mark in MotoGP history. Together, this union will enable both parties to elevate their reputation and standards.

As we face the challenge of competing against Yamaha in MotoGP and Moto2, having Dainese's support and protection will be essential for our performance on the track.

"This collaboration not only bolsters our team's dedication to excellence but also embodies our mutual values of quality and commitment to the sport."

With the risk of not having a spot on the grid for the 2025 season, Miller appeared to have little choice regarding equipment sponsorship when the chance to return to Pramac in 2025 arose.

Dani Pedrosa, a test rider for KTM, was recently seen wearing Dainese gear at the Sepang shakedown. He joins other notable figures changing to the Dainese brand for 2025.

In his debut MotoGP season back in 2006, Pedrosa raced for the Honda factory team and was last seen representing Dainese.

All riders from Pramac’s MotoGP and Moto2 teams will be outfitted in Dainese racing suits.

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2025 MotoGP Sepang Test Guide: Tracking the Event

Details on the schedule, timings, and ways to keep up with the three-day MotoGP test in Sepang.

Here's a guide on how to keep up with the 2025 MotoGP Sepang test happening from February 5 to 7. Below, we have also included the start times for the MotoGP Sepang test.

Motorcycle Grand Prix competitors are set to hit the circuit for three days of sanctioned preseason trials in Malaysia.

Initial riders and newcomers, along with Yamaha and Honda's competitors under the concession regulations, have been busy getting their motorcycles ready during the Shakedown test.

This week in Sepang, Marc Marquez is set to ride his official Ducati, while Jorge Martin will keep adjusting to the Aprilia.

The Sepang test plays a vital role for both teams and riders as they fine-tune their equipment in preparation for the upcoming season.

Ways to Track the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Test from Anywhere

Unfortunately, there is no live broadcast available to watch all the laps of the 2025 MotoGP Sepang test.

The last half-hour will be available for viewing through the MotoGP Video Pass.

Stay updated with live timings on Crash.net. Additionally, we will provide you with the latest news from the track, including technical updates and interviews.

Our social media profiles, Crash.net MotoGP X and Instagram/CrashMotoGP, will showcase top-notch photos and videos for you.

MotoGP.com is set to air a program titled 'After The Flag' towards the end of each day, providing a recap of the day's events.

Schedule for the 2025 MotoGP testing in Sepang

The tests are set to begin on Wednesday, February 5, running from 10 AM to 6 PM local time. In the

Thursday, February 6, from 10 AM to 6 PM local time, which corresponds to 2 AM to

On Friday, February 7, the event will take place from 10 AM to 6 PM local time, which corresponds to

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Newcomer Enea Bastianini identifies major issue with KTM

Enea Bastianini highlights a flaw in KTM's characteristics

Enea Bastianini is aware of the main issue with his KTM that he aims to address in Sepang.

This season, Bastianini and his teammate, Maverick Vinales, are part of the revamped Tech3 KTM squad. They will be riding bikes with factory specifications and are poised to benefit from backing provided by the factory.

This week, at the Sepang preseason test, they will be back on their bikes for the first time since November in Barcelona, keen to get accustomed to their new motorcycle.

Former Ducati racer Bastianini is already aware of the issues with the KTM.

He mentioned that the KTM performs exceptionally well when entering corners.

"However, after a while, as the tires wear out, the rear begins to slide frequently. Once it starts, it doesn't recover."

"This is an issue, and we need to find a solution."

Enea Bastianini from KTM discussed the testing at Sepang, stating, "I have outlined a strategy for the three days. However, I have not yet communicated with test riders Dani Pedrosa or Pol Espargaro."

"If I encounter Dani, we should likely have a conversation."

"The bicycle I have now is akin to the one I evaluated during the test in Barcelona."

"I need to begin by building confidence and getting accustomed to the KTM. After that, on the following day, I can explore different approaches."

"In the beginning, Maverick and I will handle separate tasks."

Bastianini emphasized the importance of managing a rider's physical health during a three-day testing period, highlighting that the desire to work nonstop isn't always feasible.

He emphasized the significance of recognizing the energy we possess.

"Occasionally, you might complete numerous circuits on the first day, only to find yourself completely exhausted on the following day."

"While you may be in good shape, it may not be sufficient for MotoGP, as it requires a different level of fitness than other types of motorcycle racing."

He mentioned, "It's crucial to perform excellently with the same motorcycle on the first day. On the following day, KTM likely aims to test out different options."

"I am curious to observe these solutions."

Statements shared by Peter McLaren, the Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Fabio di Giannantonio has stated that his shoulder is "as good as new" and he has a "clear mind" regarding the GP25. He expressed his desire to ride the GP25 and provide his honest feedback.

Fabio di Giannantonio is set to ride in his first MotoGP session since last competing at the Thai Grand Prix in October. He will be back on the track tomorrow as the Official Sepang Test begins.

The Pertamina VR46 racer withdrew from the 2024 season to have significant shoulder surgery, following a dislocation that occurred several months ago in Austria.

This resulted in him missing both the last two rounds of the world championship and the post-race testing in Barcelona, where the initial model of the factory-spec GP25, which he will compete with this season, was unveiled to the public.

"The winter season has been lengthy," di Giannantonio remarked in an interview with Crash.net at Sepang on Tuesday.

"I had to concentrate intensely on regaining movement in my shoulder. Following that, I worked on restoring strength to all the muscles surrounding it. It was quite an extensive journey. However, at this point, I'm feeling great, at about 80-90%."

"I haven't fully regained my strength yet since I only began physical training at the beginning of January, leaving me with only a few weeks to prepare for this test."

"I'm feeling great. We spent three days riding the Panigale in Mandalika, and I had a fantastic time. My shoulder didn't cause me any pain at all."

"However, participating in MotoGP is an entirely different experience. We'll have to wait and see what unfolds here."

When questioned about what he anticipates being the most challenging aspect, Diggia responded: "Without a doubt, it's the [deficiency in physical] preparation, particularly when it comes to braking."

"I need to focus on the straight sections and the correct turns, as those were the primary challenges last year."

"I couldn't position myself as low inside the fairing on right turns as I could on left turns."

During a press briefing at the track, the 26-year-old remarked that his left shoulder now feels "brand new, as if nothing ever occurred." He praised the Professor, describing him as one of the world's top surgeons for this type of operation and expressing that he believes the Professor performed excellently.

Reflecting on the experience of racing the GP bike in the final seven events of last season, it was undoubtedly challenging. However, the situation has changed significantly now. I am optimistic that the performance on the track will also improve starting tomorrow.

The GP25? "I aim to maintain an open mindset," says di Giannantonio, who will be the sole competitor besides the Ducati Lenovo pair, Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, to have the highly sought-after GP25 at his disposal.

"We have numerous options to explore!" smiled the Italian rider, who has previously raced on MotoGP bikes that were already a year old and had reached the end of their development cycle.

"This is my first experience testing such a large number of components, and it's incredibly exciting. It's really great to be involved in this."

"Certainly, each person will follow their individual schedule, but the three of us will collaborate on the bike's development."

Giannantonio observed from the sidelines as Bagnaia and Marquez experienced their initial ride on the GP25 in Barcelona.

However, he remains receptive as he approaches Wednesday's premiere.

"The Qatar 2023 race winner mentioned that both the team and Ducati chose not to share numerous details with him to avoid swaying his perspective, which he believes was a wise decision."

"I definitely caught some things from you journalists, from interviews and a few remarks. However, personally, I preferred not to know too much because I wanted to keep my mind clear."

"I would like to cycle and express my deepest emotions."

"It appears that the start has been quite promising. Although the lap times were decent, the bike used in Barcelona wasn't the complete version of the 2025 model. This is in part because the final design for the 2025 model hasn't been finalized yet, as we are still conducting tests for this year."

"I believe that moving forward, we will have the initial '25 prototype for the season."

The Sepang test is scheduled to occur from Wednesday through Friday.

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Maverick Vinales sets benchmarks for a "successful" MotoGP test in Sepang

Vinales to spend three days in Malaysia adjusting to KTM

Maverick Vinales states that a "successful" pre-season MotoGP test in Sepang with KTM will help him to "grasp the bike's limitations," focusing more on this aspect than on performance outcomes.

The racer, who has secured 10 grand prix victories, has committed to joining KTM and will compete with the Tech3 satellite team in 2025, after spending three and a half years with Aprilia's factory team.

After having a successful initial trial on the RC16 last November in Barcelona, Vinales mentions that he does not have any specific performance objectives for his visit to Sepang this week.

“To tell the truth, I’ll be occupied with my own matters,” he mentioned.

"Adjusting to a different bicycle requires significant effort."

"It's always fascinating, so I'm eager to fully enjoy the adaptation process. I'm curious to experience how it feels on a different track like Sepang."

"In my view, a test is considered successful if I can grasp the bike's limitations, comprehend the dynamics during a time attack, observe the behavior in race mode, and understand the experience of trailing another rider."

Addressing each of these issues will be crucial for achieving a successful test outcome.

"Clearly, I'm not familiar enough with the bike to determine whether it's an improvement or not."

"You can sense it and you can see it. However, my goal is to find answers to all the questions swirling in my head."

In 2025, Maverick Vinales has aspirations for success in MotoGP while riding for a satellite team. This marks his initial season with a satellite outfit, although the team maintains a strong connection with the factory, as evidenced by all four KTM bikes featuring a consistent livery that year.

After Pramac secured the championship last year with Jorge Martin, Vinales views the transition to a satellite team as not being a disadvantage.

He mentioned that he believes the atmosphere is pleasant.

"Everyone is working together, and I believe this is for a single purpose, which is crucial."

"In the previous year, a secondary team determined the outcome of the championship, so at present, I don't believe it's a matter of concern."

"In past years, perhaps, during a different time. However, currently, all the bikes are identical and completely equal."

The team atmosphere is optimistic and upbeat, which suggests that things are likely to go very well.

"The key priority at the moment is to maintain simplicity and operate effectively."

"In the end, the factory is providing support. Technically, it appears that way, but once I'm on the inside, it seems different."

Statements given by Peter McLaren, Editor of Crash MotoGP

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Marco Bezzecchi reveals an impressive feature of Aprilia

Marco Bezzecchi offers initial insights into his experience with the new Aprilia.

Marco Bezzecchi has expressed his admiration for the performance of his Aprilia, even after transitioning from a Ducati.

This season, Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin will be the new factory team for Aprilia, but both riders will need to adjust from their previous Ducati models.

In the 2024 MotoGP season, Martin claimed victory riding a factory-spec Ducati, whereas Bezzecchi struggled to adapt to the 2023 model he had used in the previous year.

Wearing Aprilia's colors, he is optimistic about a new beginning at the official test in Sepang this week.

Bezzecchi expressed a desire to spend additional time riding the bike, but noted that he had no major grievances overall.

"There are areas where we excel and areas that need improvement, and we will focus on enhancing the latter."

Overall, I have no issues with either the bicycle or the manufacturing plant.

"The initial impression? I instantly sensed that it was excellent."

"The responses from the frontline were incredible, and I felt truly pleased with them."

"I found it incredibly impressive."

"Feeling confident with the front right away is fantastic, as it's more crucial than the rear when you're riding."

Marco Bezzecchi transitions from riding for Ducati to joining the Aprilia team. One significant change from last year's Ducati model is that Bezzecchi will need to operate a manual ride height adjustment system on his new Aprilia.

"It's not the same, but it's not any worse," he asserted.

"Occasionally, it's beneficial to possess a tool that functions right away. It's not a button; it's a lever."

"I have to acclimate myself to it. At Montmelo, we began our efforts. I began to comprehend the optimal timing for activating the device."

"I'll have additional time here to comprehend better."

Lorenzo Savadori conducted the testing for Aprilia during last weekend's Shakedown event.

"We had discussions with Sava, the entire Trackhouse team, and notably the factory," stated Bezzecchi.

"The team at Aprilia Racing has put in a lot of effort over the winter. It's now up to us to provide our input."

"Beginning in a positive manner is crucial."

"We stayed in contact all winter long."

"Following the Montmelo event, we provided input regarding the motorcycle. The team spent the winter months addressing our suggestions."

"Our remarks, along with those from Jorge, were aligned, providing a straightforward path to pursue."

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of events including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Jorge Martin discusses his "fixation" and initial goal with Aprilia

"I plan to maintain the mindset I had last season…"

Current MotoGP world titleholder Jorge Martin has expressed that his main goal for his debut season with Aprilia is to be the best version of himself, rather than concentrating solely on achieving results.

After securing the championship title for Ducati, Martin joins Aprilia while holding onto the top position. Last year, Ducati reversed its decision to elevate him to their main team.

Last November, the world champion had a day of experience riding the RS-GP in Barcelona. This week, he will further adjust to the bike during the pre-season testing at Sepang.

As the reigning world champion and a newly appointed factory team rider, Martin faces significant expectations for the upcoming season. However, he doesn't share this perspective.

He stated that he currently does not experience any pressure.

"The kind of pressure we're looking for is to achieve positive outcomes. However, I intend to maintain the mindset I had during the previous season."

"My goal wasn't to win; I aimed to improve daily and become the best version of myself."

"My focus is on becoming the best version of myself, and when it happens, it happens."

Jorge Martin senses a duty at Aprilia.

"I'm attempting to influence everyone with these ideas, as when I first joined, everyone was saying, 'we need to win, we need to win,'" he remarked.

"We aren't required to win. Our focus should be on giving our utmost effort, and from there, we'll be able to gauge our capabilities. Our potential is significant, but we'll soon discover our current standing."

He mentioned, "The stress I experienced last season is something I don't expect to encounter again in my lifetime."

"I experience a sense of duty rather than stress. It's about being accountable, not feeling pressured."

"The intensity you experience while competing for a championship is at its peak, and what I've gone through over the past few years, especially last year, was overwhelming."

"Now I feel very at ease and eager to put on a show."

"I've relieved myself of a significant burden and am now concentrating on giving my all, while being mindful of the responsibility that comes with having the entire factory supporting us."

Martin mentions that establishing the "family" bond he experienced at Pramac is a gradual process at Aprilia, as he is still relatively new to the team. However, he believes that he has already developed a better rapport with the management at Aprilia compared to his time at Ducati.

"We definitely aren't yet a close-knit group like the Pramac team," he mentioned.

"Joining the same team and organization again after four years is quite challenging."

"I've brought a few team members from Pramac. I also knew some individuals at Aprilia through Aleix Espargaro, so it seems like the team is really coming together well."

"It's like being part of a large family; I now feel a connection with the bosses that I didn't have with any of them before."

"Now, I truly feel like I'm part of the project and capable of making a significant contribution. It feels refreshing and revitalizing to step inside the box and breathe in the fresh air. This is incredibly positive."

Statements offered by Peter McLaren, the Editor of Crash MotoGP

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Brad Binder identifies a crucial skill of Pedro Acosta that he should emulate on the KTM.

Brad Binder shares insights on the factory KTM team's upcoming test in Sepang.

Brad Binder understands that he should draw motivation from Pedro Acosta's approach to riding the KTM, especially in one crucial aspect.

Last year, Acosta excelled in his debut season and has since been elevated to KTM's official MotoGP team, joining forces with Binder.

Last season, Binder managed to finish just ahead of Acosta in the standings, securing the position as the highest-ranked rider not on a Ducati. However, Binder has pointed out the areas where the young talent is maximizing the performance of his bike.

"When questioned about how he could emulate Acosta's riding technique, Binder mentioned that one aspect he needs to focus on is initiating at the corner entry."

"I should start the process sooner. I tend to postpone repeatedly, and then suddenly rush to complete it quickly!"

"Lacking front grip can lead to difficult situations."

"I should approach it with more care. It's something I noticed he was doing right from the start."

"If I'm able to achieve this, it will simplify things for me."

Brad Binder hopes for two significant adjustments from KTM. Binder and Acosta are scheduled to participate in the official MotoGP test at Sepang in 2025, which will take place this week from February 7-9. They will be stepping in for KTM test riders Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro, who previously participated in the Shakedown session.

Binder expressed two key desires for the progression of his KTM: "A significant improvement would be reducing the wheel spin on the straights. I believe this change could have a substantial impact throughout the season."

"If we were able to improve our turning, we wouldn't need to push the front so hard, which would reduce problems in that area."

"Both options would be greatly valued."

Binder is confident that the mood at KTM is positive, saying, "I haven't actually talked to Dani or Pol yet, but I've had discussions with my team."

"It's the most positive I've observed them in quite some time, particularly following an initial test."

"There's a lot of excitement in the air. They have many plans in the works."

He emphasizes that all information and new components developed during the season will be available to the new Tech3 pair, Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini.

He mentioned that the situation was identical the previous year, where whatever applied to one individual applied to everyone.

"We implemented various changes with all four riders providing feedback, which then led to further adjustments."

"It seems to me that we function as a group of four rather than just a pair. Although there's a barrier separating us, everything else remains accessible."

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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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