Having arrived at Honda this winter as a test rider, Aleix Espargaró did not expect such a culture shock. After years spent in a "European-style" development environment at Aprilia, the Spaniard had to adapt to the famous — and sometimes rigid — Japanese engineering method.
And he readily admits it: his beginnings were a real headache. In the beginning, I really struggled to understand how the Japanese worked "Says I will espargaro.
« At Aprilia, when you have a problem with the chassis, you go see the person in charge of the chassis. It's the same for the electronics or the engine. At Honda, it's much more complicatedThere are a lot of people. and it's difficult to understand exactly who is responsible for what »
Fortunately for I will espargaroHe is not alone. Roman Albesian — former technical director Aprilia — also joined HondaTogether, they worked to simplify internal communication. accelerating the flow of essential information to the development of the RC213V.
« I spoke a lot with Romano. He understands their system better.He spent a lot of time in Japan.. »
« Nowadays, when I need something quicklyI know who to contact.The information is more direct. »
Aleix Espargaró: “ Honda has made a considerable effort; our current method has nothing to do with the one from the beginning. »
This internal change is reflected on the track: first victory in two years, three podiums in dry conditions, and moving out of the bottom of the Concessions standings.
The new test pilot believes this progression is clearly linked to this cultural transformation: Honda has made a considerable effortThey understood that working the way we do now is more efficient, it's better. »
And he concludes: Our current method has nothing to do with the one we started with. »
With a more agile structure, the expertise of a top-flight European engineer, and the experience of a pilot who has successfully reinvented himself after his retirement from competitive sport, Honda seems to have finally returned to the right path.
But in a MotoGP where Ducati The real victory ofI will espargaro will only be visible on the day when the Honda will once again become a regular winning weapon.
