If Honda riders had any concerns before the start of winter testing, it seems that these have dissipated after the two days of official testing in Sepang, Malaysia. Even critic Joan Mir is satisfied with the progress of the brand, and assures that the 2025 version of the RC213V reflects a nice evolution for the Japanese factory.
Unhappy after the official Barcelona test last November, as well as after Honda's private tests in Jerez later in the year, it seems that Honda has finally found a way to put a smile back on Joan Mir's face.
After testing two different machines during the first day of testing. One, not quite old, and one new, the Spaniard was already satisfied. He particularly pointed out the progress made by Honda when exiting corners, and the behavior of his machine with used tires.
"Honda has brought a package that allows me to do what I want on the bike, that's the main thing, Joan Mir confided this Wednesday. I was happy and smiling every time I rode the bike because I was enjoying riding it. We still have to improve some things, but we are able to get closer and ride better. The next two days we will try to win in these other areas, but it was a very good first day of testing."
The second day of action on the track therefore served to confirm the good feelings of the 2020 world champion on the track. The latter is also ready to affirm that Honda's 2025 bike is a real evolution compared to the 2024 machine. Statements that the brand's four riders were not ready to make just a few weeks ago.
“Today we worked with several engine options, the decision was not easy to make at first because we had work to do, continues Joan Mir. In the morning we worked a lot on the electronics to improve my feelings and in the afternoon we were able to find the right setup. I was happy and we made a step forward with the 2025 bike, improving our lap time."
He also explains that without a technical incident, he could have done even better than the sixth time he achieved at the end of the day. "I ran out of fuel in the last corner and lost about three tenths on my lap. We are very close in the timesheets and I am very happy about that."
Finally, the #36 has already identified the weaknesses of his machine, and knows what Honda needs to work on to perfect its preparation for the 2025 MotoGP season.
“There are still points of improvement, especially when the temperature on the track increases. We have one more day here and two days in Buriram, where I am sure it will be hot as well, to continue working on this point. I am happy and ready to do more.” concludes Joan Mir.
MotoGP – Sepang Test – Day 2 Classification:
Ranking: MotoGP.com
© Honda HRC
© Honda HRC
