Taka Nakagami, who is set to take on a new role as a tester and wildcard for Honda next season, has shared his thoughts on how the factory has lost touch with its rivals in MotoGP. The Japanese rider, who has been with the LCR Honda team since 2018, identified 2022 as the turning point where Honda began to slip away in the competition…
Taka Nakagami is convinced that Honda can return to the top, but stresses that major changes are needed. HRC had one of the best bikes in the past, but now we are missing something. I think HRC will be back on top as soon as possible. But it will be difficult. It is not easy… there are many, many things to change »
After dominating for years, notably with ten tracks MotoGP riders between 2002 and 2019, Honda has seen his fortunes decline since the injuries of Marc Marquez in 2020. According to Nakagami, the critical point was the change in the concept of the bike in 2022. " They completely changed the concept of the motorcycle. I clearly remember that when I tried this new version, I said to myself: “Wow, that’s not the Honda bike anymore!” » » He explains that the Honda, once renowned for its short wheelbase and braking ability, lost its edge after trying to focus on improving rear grip.
Taka Nakagami: “ In Europe we don't really know what the HRC guys are testing in Japan. I think I can improve that. »
Nakagami also noted that this attempt to improve grip had negative effects on the overall balance of the bike. The front end became difficult to control, and we never managed to find a good balance.. » This imbalance made the bike unpredictable and less competitive in all races.
As he prepares for his new role, Nakagami sees an opportunity to improve communication between engineers in Japan and the team in Europe. Right now we are in Europe and we don't really know what the HRC guys are testing in Japan. I think I can improve that. It's about connecting Japan more with the European paddock, so that everyone understands each area. »
Nakagami approaches this new phase of his career with optimism, although he admits that the road to competitiveness for Honda will be long. He also hopes to play a role in the integration of Somkiat Chantra, the Moto2 rider, who succeeds him at Honda LCR. " I want to help him by using my experience so that he adapts more quickly to MotoGP. " assures the Japanese on crash.net.
With his last eight races as a full-time driver, Nakagami focuses on his final performances before starting his new chapter at Honda.
