Johann Zarco finished the Barcelona test with a Honda RC213V that still needs some improvement. The French rider identified the bike's weak points and stressed the importance of improving in several areas to get back on the podium.
Johann zarco concluded his first year with Honda LCR on a mixed note, but full of lessons. During the MotoGP tests in Barcelona, the Frenchman finished in 10th place, confirming progress in his feelings on the handlebars of the RC213V, but highlighting the many challenges that lie ahead Honda to return to the top of the competition.
The official test in Barcelona allowed zarco to work on potential improvements for 2025. In particular, he tested a new motorcycle which, although uninteresting in his eyes, provided valuable information for the future direction of development: " we discovered that some directions were not the right ones. This is important information. : this will prevent us from making the same mistakes again »
zarco highlighted several crucial development axes for Honda : " we must improve engine, because we don't have the fastest bike. More power would allow us to fight better on the straights and overtake under braking. » On rear wheel grip he says: « This is a weak point that affects both acceleration and braking. We must find solutions. »
Aerodynamics and frame are also a subject: " The new framework has not brought significant progressThe next steps must absolutely result in an improvement in lap times. »
Johann Zarco: “ We pilots are not engineers »
The first season of zarco in Honda ended in 17th place overall, a far cry from his consistent performances on Ducati, where he was a frequent contender for the podium. Nevertheless, he was able to learn lessons from this difficult year: " I learned to work on myself in difficult times. I changed my attitude and it allowed me to manage the bike better and reduce the pressure. »
zarco also recognizes the importance of its role in the technical process: “ We pilots are not engineers. If the best Japanese technicians cannot find the solutions, it is not up to us to discover them.. I learned to concentrate on my driving. »
Despite the challenges, zarco remains motivated by a personal goal: to return to the podium. My big challenge is to continue to grow and return to the podium. I know I can still improve, and that's what motivates me.. » With an additional test at Jerez before the Sepang tests, John Zarco et Honda still have work to do to catch up with rivals like Ducati.
Johann zarco has shown resilience and a positive mindset in a difficult season. His methodical approach and consistent efforts to adapt to a less competitive bike show he is ready to take on the challenges of 2025. With Honda Working intensively on his weaknesses, the Frenchman hopes to play a key role in the team's revival.
In 2025, zarco will not be content with being a development rider. He aims to become a regular podium contender again and show that his first year at Honda was the springboard for a strong comeback.
MotoGP, Barcelona Test: times
