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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Johann Zarco calls for "respect" towards Honda's progress, asserting "they are clearly intelligent"

LCR Honda racer praises the company's advancements during the off-season.

Johann Zarco believes that Honda MotoGP racers should "honor" the company's winter upgrades, despite the fact that Romano Albesiano is stepping in as the new technical director.

Honda made a significant change to their team by bringing in Albesiano from Aprilia to lead their technical division. This move comes after the Japanese company ended up at the bottom of the constructors' rankings in 2024.

Albesiano started his position in January, which means he hasn't significantly impacted Honda's development efforts conducted during the winter leading up to the pre-season test in Sepang this week.

LCR's Zarco expresses confidence that Albesiano has been able to offer Honda's engineering team some insights regarding the bike. However, he emphasizes that the engineers are clearly intelligent and their efforts should not be underestimated.

"It's difficult to determine," he responded when questioned about whether Albesiano has had an impact on the development of the bike.

"I'm confident that he could have already contributed ideas, but given that he began his role in January, Honda had already laid the groundwork."

"They couldn't delay until Romano's concepts emerged in early January and then decide, 'Alright, we'll organize all preparations by the end of January.'"

"We need to honor that and proceed with it, as the concepts Honda aims to evaluate are definitely not foolish."

The individual who might be privy to certain confidential information is Gigi Dall'Igna, however, he is not the person who entered into an agreement with Honda.

"It seems that while Albesiano might offer suggestions, we need to stick to the plans we developed from November until now."

Johann Zarco shares insights into Honda's strategy in Sepang. Honda has already taken to the Sepang circuit for the initial testing phase. Zarco observed that the developments closely resembled those he experienced during tests late in the previous year.

He observed that, based on his current perspective, the bike appears to be largely the same, although they are experimenting with various different approaches.

"Tomorrow, we need to decide on the chassis. That's going to be our initial goal."

"They are working on some engine projects, although the top option might not be available immediately in Malaysia. Additionally, we will focus on aerodynamic components on the final day."

"Having gained experience, I no longer anticipate anything that instantly elevates performance or suggests that podium finishes are immediately achievable. I understand the effort involved and recognize the challenges in bringing everything together."

"The Japanese are implementing adjustments, yet often the sentiment remains unchanged, making it challenging to achieve significant progress."

"However, now that Romano is involved, I believe progress will be made."

He is really impressed with Honda's potential, and I appreciate this because I share the same sentiment now as I did a year ago.

"It's comforting to know that he shares the same feelings as I do."

Statements shared by Peter McLaren, 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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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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Honda's fresh MotoGP prospect acknowledges challenges with the ride height gadget.

"What's the contrast between Moto2 and MotoGP?"

Somkiat Chantra has confessed to having difficulties at the beginning with Honda's ride height mechanism.

A newcomer to MotoGP took part in three days of testing during the Shakedown, which is allowed under the regulations since this is his debut year in the category.

Chantra, along with fellow Honda riders and competitors from MotoGP, is set to participate in the official three-day test at Sepang this week, where he needs to continue getting accustomed to his bike.

"The initial test went well. We were using the new motorcycle," Chantra mentioned.

"We were making progress in improving our skills with the bike and were steadily getting better at it."

"The transition from Moto2 to MotoGP involves significant changes, including the introduction of advanced electronics and the use of ride devices."

"We made significant efforts to accurately position the ride equipment using the data. It was improving and nearing the ideal location."

Chantra was questioned about whether he was activating the ride height device too soon or too late.

He responded by saying, "Extremely late! In comparison to Takaaki Nakagami, I was much earlier."

Somkiat Chantra from Honda discusses how he's adjusting

Chantra finds the physical demands of handling a MotoGP bike to be a challenging learning experience.

He mentioned that they currently possess two bicycles. His team is not attempting to alter the configuration.

"They expect me to get familiar with the bicycle, grasp its functionality, and then return to share my impressions."

"Following the test in Barcelona, I experienced discomfort while riding the bike. Since that time, I have focused on improving the condition of my back and overall physical health."

"In Sepang, the track features high-speed turns. From my perspective, the key is having increased power to accelerate the motorcycle."

Chantra needs to keep in mind the numerous technological components on his Honda, which represent another significant change from Moto2.

He mentioned that his bicycle was equipped with two brakes: one at the back and another operated by hand.

"It's not the same. My team decided, 'let's maintain it this way.'"

"There comes a time when we apply the foot brake."

"During the initial day of the trial run, recalling all the details proved challenging."

"Following the completion of two laps, they altered the map…"

"However, each day, I made an effort to recall all the details."

Chantra felt uplifted after receiving a visit from Nakagami, a long-standing figure at Honda who is serving as a test rider this year.

Additionally, Ai Ogura, who is a friend of his, is also moving to MotoGP with Trackhouse.

"On the final day, Nakagami visited me. He made an effort not to make me feel pressured."

He told me to have fun with the bike.

Ai is making the transition from competing in Moto2 to participating in MotoGP.

"When we have leisure moments, we discuss MotoGP, focusing on its strength and velocity."

Statements given by Peter McLaren, the Editor of Crash MotoGP

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EXCLUSIVE – Aki Ajo: “Busy” Shakedown, “numerous innovations” at KTM

“We are extremely pleased with the progress made at the factory”

Aki Ajo, the new team manager for Red Bull KTM MotoGP, stated that the Austrian manufacturer successfully achieved its winter development goals, introducing "numerous innovations" during the "busy" Sepang Shakedown test.

The progress of the RC16 project is uncertain as KTM is currently dealing with financial difficulties.

Factory test riders Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro participated throughout the three days of the Shakedown. They tested some noticeable new components, like the rear seat unit and exhaust, as well as other parts that were concealed within the bike's structure.

When questioned by Crash.net about whether the winter development proceeded normally despite KTM's existing financial challenges, Ajo affirmed, "Yes, definitely."

"We are thrilled with the progress made at the factory in recent months. We believe that all planned tasks were completed, and possibly even exceeded expectations."

"Our [Shakedown] test was extremely busy as we had numerous new elements and various aspects that needed to be understood, validated, and examined."

"Testing will proceed for an additional three days at the Official test, with numerous items requiring verification."

"However, I believe we are currently in a favorable position."

"There are still numerous days of testing ahead, including in Buriram, but we've already seen several encouraging outcomes."

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

According to the transponder codes, Espargaro appeared to be riding two motorcycles that are set to be given to Brad Binder for the upcoming Official test. Meanwhile, Pedrosa was on the bikes designated for the new factory team rider, Pedro Acosta.

When asked if he believes KTM has the potential to compete with the current MotoGP champion Ducati, Ajo responded:

"We embody a competitive nature and naturally aim for victory. As you mentioned, Ducati previously set the standard and was the most formidable. Naturally, our goal is to close the gap and ultimately become the top contender."

"To start with, it's important to acknowledge that we're the most recent entrant in MotoGP, having joined in 2017, and for the past two years, we've been the second-leading manufacturer."

"We should view this optimistically, although we certainly desire additional progress."

"The level of competition is extremely high. In the past, we referred to certain teams within the factories as satellite teams, but now I'd describe them as secondary factory teams."

Acosta demonstrated the capabilities of KTM's secondary factory team, Tech3, by securing nine podium finishes and came close to beating Binder for the fifth spot in the world championship last year.

After Acosta's first season has concluded, the new Tech3 team will consist of seasoned riders Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini, both of whom have multiple race wins to their names. Ajo believes that this shift will allow KTM to adopt a somewhat different approach in 2025.

"When we have the opportunity to include riders such as Maverick and Enea in our team at Tech3, it influences our operations to some extent. It impacts the manner in which we conduct testing and how we optimize our resources."

Having newcomers on the team is always a positive thing. However, it might require some adjustments in the way we operate, including our testing procedures. When working with riders who have more experience, we might have the opportunity to test a greater variety of elements and make comparisons.

"A key objective for us is to strengthen our relationship with our second factory team, aiming for even greater closeness. Our goal is to operate as a unified entity."

He stated, "Essentially, we have a team of four factory riders. I'm already quite familiar with three of them, and we're in the process of developing a rapport with Enea."

"Having collaborated extensively with Brad, Pedro, and Maverick before, this is undoubtedly a positive aspect. We are familiar with one another, understand what to anticipate, and have mutual respect."

Ajo emphasized that advancement isn't solely about the quantity of new components; it's also about enhancing their utilization and improving team collaboration.

"We're focusing on every aspect, including the chassis, engine efficiency, and electronics," he stated. "However, from my perspective, it's not just about the technical specifications and innovations."

"My approach, which I believe is shared by our top technical experts, focuses on comprehending and enhancing our overall system."

"I'm referring not just to the bicycle and its technical aspects, but also to the collaboration among individuals, particularly in terms of how we provide everything needed for the riders and support them as effectively as we can."

The Sepang test, which includes all riders for the 2025 season, is scheduled from Wednesday through Friday.

For two decades, Peter has been a notable presence in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently at the center of the developments surrounding Suzuki's departure and the injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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Anticipation Surrounds Sepang Test Featuring Marc Marquez's Ducati Aerodynamics

This week's 2025 Sepang pre-season test is spotlighted in the latest episode of the Crash MotoGP Podcast.

The 2025 MotoGP season roars back with excitement as the initial official pre-season testing session is scheduled from March 5th to 7th in Malaysia.

Some test riders, newcomers, and concession riders have already hit the track at Sepang for the initial shakedown. However, this week, the full lineup for the 2025 season will gather in Malaysia for their first group session since November 19.

This pre-season is packed with excitement as there are numerous rider changes, three fresh additions to the lineup, and the ongoing pursuit to bridge the gap with Ducati.

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In this episode of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, presented by Jordan Moreland, the crew discusses the anticipated outcomes of the upcoming test.

On the flip side, there are certain aspects that might not live up to expectations.

Ducati has garnered attention by making minor aerodynamic adjustments during the shakedown. However, Crash's Senior Journalist, Lewis Duncan, believes that the Italian company is unlikely to implement a major overhaul in their aerodynamic design at this time.

He mentioned that Gigi Dall'Igna often has a surprise in store, and he expected that a major change to the fairing would likely be unveiled by the time they reach Buriram.

Historically, during the final test, Gigi tends to introduce new changes. By that stage, it’s typically too late for the teams to react and say, "We need to swiftly adjust something."

All eyes will be on the Ducati team to observe their developments. It's known that the new chassis they tested last year was already an improvement.

"Imagine adding that to the package they already have, along with some improvements. Ducati is going to be very tough to defeat."

"It's always fascinating to observe Ducati's actions. The aerodynamic adjustments that were noticed seem to be just a preview. I doubt this will be the complete new aerodynamic setup that Dall'Igna hinted at."

"Ducati has historically been bold in making significant changes to various components, as this might be their final opportunity to do so."

"It's likely that this will be the final significant aerodynamic update, as it's difficult to foresee them investing a substantial development budget into a project that will be significantly reduced by 2027."

"I would have expected Gigi to create something remarkable for the final update of the aero era."

Yamaha's V4 Engine Appearance at Sepang?

The developments at Yamaha will be under careful observation this winter. However, according to Peter McLaren, the editor of Crash MotoGP, the V4 engine won't be making an appearance this week.

McLaren mentions that they are aware of its development and are eager to find out when it will be ready for the race track.

There was speculation that the date might coincide with this test event. The Yamaha unveiling took place on the first evening of the shakedown.

On the first day, only Andrea Dovizioso took the Yamaha test bikes for a ride, and they appeared quite similar to the existing inline-four engine model.

"You could both see and hear the difference when it comes to a V4 engine. This is why Yamaha has been quite open about it."

During my conversation with Paolo Pavesio, who has taken over the role previously held by Lin Jarvis, he candidly acknowledged the existence of the V4. However, he also mentioned that it is not yet prepared to be raced.

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Dani Pedrosa unexpectedly changes his leathers brand

Quiet transition observed during Shakedown by KTM's test rider

Dani Pedrosa presented a somewhat unexpected appearance during the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown test.

On the first day of testing his manufacturer's bikes, Pedrosa stepped out of the KTM garage wearing racing leathers from a different brand.

Check out this Instagram post shared by Crash MotoGP (@crashmotogp_).

For the first time since 2006, he donned Dainese.

Switching from Alpinestars gear marks a significant change. Not long ago, while practicing with Pedro Acosta, Pedrosa was seen in Alpinestars apparel.

However, his subtly altered appearance was just one of several low-key highlights from the unbroadcasted rehearsal.

Pedrosa was actively engaged in his role as a test rider for KTM, working together with Pol Espargaro.

The rider who holds the record for being the most accomplished in MotoGP without securing a championship title is still highly regarded by fellow racers for his exceptional skills in bike development and his prowess on the racetrack.

In the previous year, Pedrosa participated solely in the Spanish MotoGP, where fellow competitors remarked on how the seasoned racer still possesses his abilities.

However, his real importance to KTM lies in his role in refining their motorcycle. As a member of their testing squad, he hit the track during the initial shakedown session, ahead of the return of the regular MotoGP riders for the official MotoGP test this week.

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

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MotoGP newcomers face numerous areas for improvement – are they ready for the challenge?

Fresh talents share their thoughts on the Sepang practice session.

Three new MotoGP riders are making significant progress in getting accustomed to their bikes.

In 2025, the premier class will welcome three newcomers: Ai Ogura from Trackhouse Aprilia, Fermin Aldeguer from Gresini Ducati, and Somkiat Chantra from LCR Honda.

They finished a three-day preliminary test session in Sepang ahead of most of their competitors, who are set to hit the track this week for the scheduled official testing.

The newcomers will soon face increased expectations to perform well from the start.

Ogura from Trackhouse commented, "We've had a strong beginning to the season. Our performance over the three days was commendable."

"Right now, anything that happens is seen as a good thing."

Ogura commented on this week's official test, stating, "I haven't spent much time on a MotoGP bike yet. There are countless aspects that need improvement!"

"As of now, there's no specific area I feel needs improvement."

"With each lap and every session, I work on enhancing the bike's performance. Our goal is to reach the summit."

Marc Marquez's successor at Gresini, Aldeguer, remarked, "I felt positive during the initial shakedown test, although the opening day presented challenges."

"From a physical standpoint, it was intense!"

"We made consistent progress with each lap, enhancing our performance significantly. We're reaching impressive times, which is crucial. We've maintained our momentum and are continuously improving."

"I've shaved two seconds off my time. However, the focus isn't on the timing. We need to maintain this level of composure and work on enhancing our performance alongside the top riders under improved conditions."

"Riding MotoGP motorcycles is more challenging than handling Moto2 ones. Additionally, the duration of a MotoGP race is extended."

I need to keep improving my fitness and make my way to Thailand.

Check out this Instagram post from Crash MotoGP (@crashmotogp_).

Chantra is set to join MotoGP riding what is considered the least competitive motorcycle in the lineup. He remarked, "During the two days at the shakedown, we focused on figuring out the bike's performance. The first day went well as I got the chance to test the new machine."

"I attempted to understand the functioning of the bike and its electronic systems. It was not the same as the test conducted in Barcelona."

"During the second day, we conducted a new test which resulted in better lap times."

"However, I remain distant."

Chantra discussed ways to enhance performance by saying, "Upon reviewing my teammate's data, as well as Taka's, I noticed significant losses in Sectors 1, 2, and 3. However, I performed well in Sector 4."

"I experienced a significant reduction in speed through the corners. In the stop-and-go sections, the performance was comparable."

The trio of newcomers is set to participate alongside the rest of the MotoGP competitors during the three-day testing session at Sepang, scheduled for February 5th through 7th this week.

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

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