Japanese Manufacturers Honda and Yamaha Receive Unique Advantages in Championship due to Poor Results

In an unexpected turn of events, Japanese motorcycle manufacturers Honda and Yamaha have been granted a set of advantages in the championship following their disappointing performance last year. These benefits were agreed upon by other manufacturers and various bodies involved in organizing and legislating the championship.

Unfrozen Engine Development and Extensive Private Test Days for Honda and Yamaha

Apart from being allowed to continue developing their engines throughout the season while other manufacturers’ development is frozen, both Honda and Yamaha will now have the opportunity to carry out unlimited private test days with their race riders. This unique privilege gives them a significant advantage over their competitors.

Honda Focuses on Testing with Planned Private Calendar

Honda has decided to make testing its main focus this season. According to insider reports, they have already planned an extensive private test calendar consisting of up to 22 outings. However, it should be noted that this plan may not be fully implemented as assessments of Yamaha and Honda’s support will be reviewed during the summer break based on their achieved results until that point.

The Challenge Faced by Joan Mir and Luca Marini

Both Joan Mir and Luca Marini, who share the garage at works HRC team, are expected to participate in these tests. However, due to the start of the championship on March 10th which includes 22 events with sprint races every GP weekend, scheduling their participation will become more challenging. Consequently, most of the work will fall on the shoulders of the experienced test team led by Stefan Bradl.

Honda’s Search for a Second Test Rider

In order to alleviate the workload on German rider Stefan Bradl, Honda has initiated a search for a second test rider. This decision aims to effectively divide the testing responsibilities and provide relief to Bradl. Additionally, there are rumors that Bradl may compete in up to five grands prix as a wildcard in 2024, with his first appearance expected at the Jerez round on April 28th.

No Plans of Involving Satellite LCR Team in Private Testing

Despite offers from satellite team LCR, featuring riders Johann Zarco and Takaaki Nakagami this year, Honda currently has no plans to utilize their assistance during private testing sessions. The focus will remain primarily on their internal test team.

In the coming week, members of the test team and LCR will travel to Tokyo for familiarization with the new bike during an event called ‘schooling.’ Following this initial contact, Bradl and the rest of the test team will head to Jerez for their first official testing session alongside World Superbike teams in late January. The collective shakedown at Sepang is scheduled for early February where both Joan Mir and Luca Marini are expected to attend.