MotoGP Test Sepang J2 Final: Enea Bastianini reveals himself, two falls for Johann Zarco and Marc Marquez last of the Ducati starters

This second day at Sepang as part of the IRTA tests was a new demonstration of the European brands who validated with their drivers the aerodynamic solutions as well as the engine side for the season which will begin in Qatar in a month. As a symbol of this domination, Enea Bastianini beat the Malaysian track record that Jorge Martin had just achieved in the morning. That being said, we raise our heads on the side of Yamaha and Honda with more than encouraging indications that the new dealership points should exacerbate over time...

To be convinced of a tightening of the MotoGP field on the eve of the next campaign, you have to look the top speed table where sits a fabio quartararo who hadn't been to such a party for ages.

Meanwhile, for the two Honda LCR riders, Johann zarco et Takaaki Nakagami, work continued on the two different aerodynamic packages available. The team of Lucio Cecchinello also focused on the two engine configurations.

The boss took stock of the tests of his pilots and thus spoke of work sharing at Honda : " Johann Zarco and Nakagami will have the same parts as the two official drivers. Johann has great sensitivity in the development of the motorcycle as well as good experience ". A compliment which was not taken away after two falls from the Frenchman, the first at turn 15 which also saw Maverick Vinales make a mistake.

During this second day at Sepang, numerous technical validations took place, Michelin is in deep reflection

Johann zarco had thus joined Pedro Acosta fell at turn 9 shortly before on the accident list. Augusto Fernandez then crashed at turn 5 and Marco Bezzecchi at turn 7. For its part, Fabio DiGiannantonio experienced a technical problem. By the way, On the seven pilots Ducati, six reduced their time compared to yesterday to 1'57... With the exception of Marc Marquez last of the titular Ducati riders…

Gigi Dall'Igna announced that the new engine Ducati was a step forward. Gino Borsoi, Pramac team manager, confirmed this. The new engine would have worked well straight away. At KTM, Francesco Guidotti announced the selection of the right package in all areas. Engine, electronics and aerodynamic parts, everything is checked during the comparative test. The sustained pace of Brad Binder is evaluated as “ very promising"

Then there also came this rumor of a unique manufacturer Michelin who would think about the tire pressure rule. The minimum pressure rule will be a major issue in 2024, as failure to follow will result in disqualification. Apparently, according to motorsport magazine, Michelin should now address the constant criticism of the rule and lower the minimum pressure required at the front. We don't yet know how many. Currently, 1,87 bar is required. To be continued… And see you tomorrow for the finale at Sepang!