The solid championship leader by 53 points ahead of Valentino Rossi returns empty-handed from tests after the Czech Republic Grand Prix in Brno. Honda, which had not brought any prospects for 2017, wanted to find something better for everyday life in 2016. A blow for nothing.
Marc Márquez put on a show last weekend on a track in Brno where he showed off his balancing skills and his knowledge of traffic. He also once again showed his new management skills by taking third place in a wet test marked by the choice of tires. He hadn't done the right thing. But he is still third in the end.
Now we know that the RC213V is not perfect. During tests the day after the meeting, the HRC proposed a solution to optimize corner exits and avoid lifting the front wheel. Ideas in weights and measures and not aerodynamics since the winged coat of arms does not want fins. Result ? A Marc Márquez not at all convinced: “ we tried to progress exiting corners, but in fact, we didn't progress » comments the teammate Dani Pedrosa. " We tried to understand how to limit the “wheelie”. We worked in particular on the distribution of masses. We saw some progress, but we also lost in other sectors ».
« So in the end, the best compromise is what I had during Sunday's race ". He details: “ We tried a new swingarm and there were some positive aspects. We gained a little grip and acceleration. These were our priorities ". Like his colleagues, he also tortured new Michelin tires in preparation for 2017: “ it was new front tires, there were two options. One was very good and the other was identical to this year ».
« But you know, with the tires we have at the moment, I feel good and I can attack. The new tire improves stability at the apex. I don't suffer from that this year with our current tires. The Honda uses the front more than any other motorcycle. But hey, it shows that Michelin is working tirelessly and that's very good ».
