When Moto2 was established as the gateway to MotoGP, instead of the 250 which had been, for decades, the frontier with the premier category, many were doubtful. A four-cylinder Honda from a 600cc production machine was like a Supersport already existing in WSBK with the only added value of a prototype chassis. The first title Tony Elias, in 2010, then did not make sparks among the elite. He wasn't a beginner though... Then things got better until this new era with the engine Triumph. But this time, everyone is in unison to praise the level of the new plateau!
After three Grands Prix, promoter Dorna can be reassured about his choices regarding Moto2. The Triumph engine and the hint of electronic culture brought by Magneti Marelli had their effect. Those mainly concerned are delighted. And better, their counterparts in MotoGP welcome this development.
Let's start with the most famous of them, who knew Michelin, Bridgestones, the 125, the 250, the 500 and the MotoGP, i.e. Valentino Rossi : " I remember in 2010 when Moto2 was introduced everyone was a bit worried and scared », remembers the Doctor. “ They said: 'it's a production bike and it's not good for preparing for MotoGP, the 250cc were fantastic'. But over the years a lot of work has been done and it's always fun to watch the racess ”.
« Especially this last step, with the Triumph engine and electronics from Magneti Marelli you now have a very good bike available to arm yourself for MotoGP. It looks like all the drivers are happy, the engine has more torque, it's a little bigger and faster and, in my opinion, it has reached a good level » assesses the Doctor, who has two foals and a stable in the running: the Sky VR46 team with Luca marini et Nicolò Bulega.
Marc Márquez, whose brother Álex is involved in Moto2, is in unison. When asked about the new Triumph engine, he joked: “ Honda would have been better! No, joking aside, I spoke to my brother and other Moto2 riders. They say it's more of a racing engine, designed for racing ».
« It used to be more like a production engine, but on the track you can now do more with electronics and more power, and at the end of the straights the drivers are getting around 300 km/h, which approaches MotoGP ».
His colleague Cal Crutchlow, of the Honda brand, is however fanatic for another reason… “ I'm very proud because it's a British manufacturer. The good news is that if the British drivers have a bad race, at least the engine wins, so there is always a British winner. They now have more room to maneuver, which will certainly make the transition to MotoGP easier ».
It will be recalled that this new version continues to confirm the domination of the Kalex chassis, all the more pronounced as the KTM opuses are not really in the game. Speed Up is the only chassis manufacturer other than Kalex that can claim the podium so far.
