The Suzuka 8 Hours are also back! One of the most prestigious motorcycling events, the legendary Japanese endurance round leaves no respite for drivers and teams. Due to the proximity to the various Japanese factories involved in the world championship, it is of particular importance despite its short distance compared to the European classics. After the first qualifying salvo which saw the blue, yellow and then red pilots set off, comes the traditional night practice session. Since the start of the weekend, the Yamaha-Honda duel has been taking shape but has taken an unexpected turn.
Honda with the advantage in numbers against Yamaha
While we had the right to expect the Honda CBR1000RR-R #1 in FCC TSR Honda France victorious at the 24 Heures Motos, it is rather the official winged machine entered for the Japanese classic which bursts into view. Led by Tetsuta nagashima, Yuki Takahashi et Xavi Verge, the Honda #33 Team HRC with Japan Post seems best able to respond to the current leader of the world championship, the Yamaha YZF-R1 #7 Yamalube YART-Yamaha.
This morning, Yamaha was faster and this is still the case for these night tests. Marvin Fritz achieved the best time in 2'07.667 but still closely followed by the winged machine with the number 33.
Photo: FIM EWC
The other favorites in the game
Le FCC TSR Honda France is third, which offers additional leverage for the brand that owns the Suzuka circuit. Seeing a Yamaha win here would be difficult to swallow, but we must not forget the other great Franco-Japanese team, namely the Yoshimura SERT Motul, imbued with unfailing resilience, including the Suzuki GSX-R #12 is incidentally ranked fourth in these night tests. The Japanese team SANMEI Team TARO PLUSONE equipped with BMW M1000RR completes the top 5, quite well ahead of the factory machine entered by BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. Honda and Yamaha remain favorites, but all these teams can create a surprise.
Tomorrow's (a little special) program
At Suzuka, the qualifications change. In fact, there are two sessions for each color of cuff (the first burst having taken place this morning, and the second is planned for tomorrow morning). But unlike the other rounds, the average of the two best times per machine will not dictate the starting order, but will qualify the teams for a typical session. shoot out, where two drivers per machine will have a flying lap each to achieve the best mark. The average of these two times will thus determine the position on the grid, and points will be up for grabs at the end of this particular session. American-style suspense guaranteed.
Who do you see coming out on top in this unique exercise? Rather Honda, Yamaha, or another manufacturer in Japan? Tell us in the comments!
Standings for the 8 Suzuka 2023 Hours night practice session:
Classification credit: fimewc.fr / itsresults
Cover photo: FIM EWC
