After explained to us yesterday his Motegi Grand Prix, with views from Carlo Pernat, Toshihiro Suzuki (President of the brand) and Davide Brivio (team manager), as well as the different test sessions in which he participated for the development of the GSX-RR 2019, Sylvain talks to us today about the new engine, the future machine, the upcoming end-of-year tests, and his future for next season.
Brivio explained that “ Guintoli had an advanced engine with more power, which he already tested during a private test on the same Motegi track. ". What improvement does this engine bring compared to the current one?
“I had a different engine that delivered more power, which is good. But when you add power to an already very powerful MotoGP engine, it brings other problems.
“For the moment, we have identified phases where we are better than with the 2018 machine, but it is still too early to confirm. On the other hand, new pieces will arrive before we make the choices for next year. Evolution is constant. But yes, the engine is more powerful. »
Will the engine you used at the Japanese Grand Prix be the one approved for 2019, or will another version be tested in Valencia after the GP, before production begins?
“No, we still have other specifications to test before making the choices for next year. There are still planned developments to come. »
What are the main improvements brought by the 2019 GSX-RR compared to the 2018 model?
“For the moment, we are gradually identifying small improvements for certain phases. But often when you bring performances somewhere, you can also take them away from another place, so we are careful. There is still a little time.
“It's still a little early to say, especially since the 2018 bike is very good, as it is proving at the moment (note: Kidneys 3rd in Motegi, 1.7 behind the winner Marquez, after 5 podiums for Suzuki in Argentina, Texas, Jerez, Assen and Aragon). It is therefore not easy to find improvements!
“It’s a bike that is regularly at the front, regularly in the fight for the podium, so it’s important to take your time to design improvements.
“We already have phases where it’s a little better. It's super motivating and we're really looking forward now to determining the package for next year and having fun trying to bring the Suzuki to victory soon. »
Will you be present at the Valencia tests, just after the last Grand Prix?
“It’s not yet very precisely defined. In the tests after Valencia, normally I will not have to ride because it is a test session where the drivers who have just participated in the Grand Prix can test the 2019 machine directly.
“I normally have a test in Motegi at the beginning of November, then another in Jerez at the end of November. I might go to Valencia, that hasn't been decided yet. It will also depend on what material will be brought there. »
Can you tell us now about your year 2019?
“I will continue in 2019 with Suzuki on the same momentum. I am useful and I enjoy this role. We are moving forward, so we will continue in the same way. »
Tests and GP in wild cards?
“Yes, exactly the same.”
Photos © Suzuki and Michelin
