Remy Gardner’s Rollercoaster Ride: From WorldSBK to MotoGP Challenges and the Traction Control Debate

Remy Gardner believes it would be entertaining if traction control were banned in MotoGP, though it would also be quite risky. He mentions that he can handle his Superbike without traction control, but doing the same on a MotoGP bike would be dangerous.

Remy Gardner found himself in a challenging situation once more at the British MotoGP, being asked to step in for a second consecutive race on the Yamaha M1.

Due to Alex Rins' injury, Gardner, who is now competing in WorldSBK for Yamaha, was invited to fill in for test rider Cal Crutchlow's wild-card position at Silverstone.

The two tracks are strikingly distinct: The Sachsenring, spanning 3.671 km, has an average speed of 160 km/h. Meanwhile, the challenging 5.900 km Silverstone circuit boasts an average speed exceeding 180 km/h.

However, the Australian rider once more supported the 'aggressive' remarks made by factory rider Fabio Quartararo, whose main focus right now is to recapture the user-friendly handling qualities of previous M1 models.

"It was constantly in motion, always wiggling and shaking its head. Riding it was incredibly challenging!" Gardner remarked after concluding the grand prix in 18th place, which was last. His adjustment process was further hindered by testing new components for the development team.

"I was evaluating some new components," he affirmed earlier this weekend. "I can't disclose what they are – I'm fairly certain it would be the end of me! – but there have certainly been some significant parts undergoing testing."

A recognized weakness lies in the M1's electronic systems, which Gardner also found challenging during practice.

He explained that the throttle connection, traction control, and the way the system manages spin are all factors involved. He added that it all feels very intense.

"Initially, there wasn't sufficient power in the morning. By the afternoon, however, it became excessive. We need to find the optimal balance of throttle response to the tires' performance, avoiding over-spinning and maintaining control. Now, I'll review each corner with the team."

Gardner mentioned that although riding his R1 without traction control wouldn't be an issue, doing the same in MotoGP could be quite risky, yet potentially enjoyable.

“Superbikes are simpler and less complicated. Their electronics aren't as advanced, and they have 60 horsepower less, which often means less wheel spin. This makes them somewhat easier to ride.”

"I was capable of riding my Superbike without any traction control. That's one way to explain it."

That isn’t allowed in MotoGP?

"I could, but it would be quite risky!" Gardner grinned. "Honestly, it would be hilarious to watch! It would be great to just announce, 'okay, no one can use traction control anymore'. It would actually be a lot of fun!"

Despite the presence of traction control, Gardner emphasized that the current M1 is difficult to manage.

"It wasn't simple to handle, so I had to manage quite a bit today, to be honest. Riding was tough," he stated. "Certainly, the Superbike is also challenging to ride at high speeds, but it's likely a bit easier to use."

Just five days post-Silverstone, Gardner returned to action on his R1 at Portimao. He secured 10th, 15th, and 12th place finishes in the WorldSBK races, which currently positions him eighth in the world championship standings.

The 26-year-old has confessed that transitioning between various machines proved challenging, leading him to question his ability to serve as an official Yamaha MotoGP test rider.

During a conversation at Silverstone, he mentioned, “I believe it's unlikely to manage racing in SBK and testing in MotoGP simultaneously. The bikes are entirely different, and switching between them within a week isn't ideal. It’s better to concentrate on just one championship.”

"Following the race at Sachsenring, it took me about 5 laps at Donington to readjust to riding a superbike, and we faced some difficulties there. I'm uncertain if my adjustment period was the cause, but we'll find out more this weekend in Portimao."

When faced with the choice between testing and racing, Gardner shows a definite inclination.

“I’m 26 years old and still full of determination. A couple of months ago, I achieved my first podium finish in almost two years, and I’m eager for more. I finished fourth in Most, and it left me feeling devastated!” he expressed.

"I have a strong desire to stand on those podiums. I really enjoy racing and competing, and I believe I still have the potential to contend for a championship someday. Of course, things need to align perfectly, but at heart, I'm a racer."

Rins is anticipated to make another return in Austria this weekend, though the exact timing for Crutchlow's resumption of Yamaha testing, following issues with his hand surgery, remains undetermined.

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