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Honda Aims for MotoGP Recovery with Innovative Testing in Buriram

Honda is actively seeking to revamp its struggling MotoGP bike, and recent tests in Buriram highlight some of the innovative adjustments under consideration. During the opening day of testing, Johann Zarco showcased a newly designed rear section on his Castrol-sponsored bike, building on modifications first seen in Sepang the week prior. This aerodynamic enhancement features the integration of wings and a rear spoiler, aiming to improve overall performance.

Visuals from the Buriram pitlane reveal an intriguing design with dual vertical flaps that work in harmony to optimize airflow. This arrangement helps push air inward, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the rear wing. Notably, the previously used cantilevered upper profile, dubbed the ‘flap tower,’ has been removed in a bid to amplify the tail’s performance. The adjustments are intended to generate greater downforce while simultaneously minimizing drag.

Last week in Sepang, Honda encountered a concerning 7 km/h speed deficiency compared to competitor Ducati. In response, the engineering team is diligently exploring options to quickly address this performance gap. Although Honda’s engine has been identified as less powerful than those of its rivals, the team is aware that improvements can be made beyond just the engine.

Notably, the lateral bulkheads of the rear wing have been modified to curve inward, aiding the redirection of airflow from the bike’s sides towards the center. This is part of Honda’s broader strategy to gather extensive data from all its riders during this testing period. Alongside Zarco, HRC rider Luca Marini also contributed to the testing efforts, finishing sixth fastest, with Zarco closely following in seventh.

Zarco expressed satisfaction with how the bike performed on new tires but acknowledged that the progress Honda has made still falls short of what is necessary to challenge the top competitors effectively. “I’m pleased with this last half hour when I put on a new tire and the bike performed well,” he noted, indicating a cautious optimism. However, he also mentioned challenges in maintaining a consistent pace due to the differing tire performance in Buriram compared to Malaysia.

“It’s tough to develop the bike because we have tried several new components, but we are still seeking that significant advancement that signals we are ready to compete at a higher level,” Zarco elaborated. He did recognize some progress, particularly noting that Marini’s strong performance suggests a growing competitiveness compared to the previous year. “This is a step forward, but we always want to achieve more. The real test will come during race conditions.”

Looking Ahead

Honda’s continued testing will be critical as the team works to refine its bike ahead of the season start in early March. With ongoing innovations and collaborative development across its rider roster, there is hope within the team that these adjustments can translate into better results on the circuit.

For enthusiasts and analysts alike, the upcoming races will serve as pivotal moments to assess whether these efforts have effectively bridged the performance gap in a fiercely competitive MotoGP landscape.

Source
www.autosport.com