Published: 21 Aug 2024
Honda’s New MotoGP Engine Update "Not The Solution" ... Again
Honda’s latest MotoGP engine update has not yielded significant improvements in performance. Stefan Bradl warns the new prototype is not the solution.
Honda’s latest engine update, introduced at the Austrian Grand Prix, has not yielded significant improvements in performance.
Despite Luca Marini’s assertion that the update represented a “minor step forward,” results at the Red Bull Ring suggest that the team remains far behind its competitors.
Joan Mir confirms the new engine spec has brougt in new issues since the team was not yet able to fully configure an optimal engine configuration.
The Spaniard’s feedback was blunt: “It was a challenge just to finish the race. I experienced strong vibrations and poor rear wheel control, which severely hampered my performance.”
Wildcard rider Stefan Bradl used a different bike configuration that featured noticeably altered and more angular side fairings.
However, the German’s weekend was marred by technical difficulties. After having to retire from the Sprint on Saturday more than a last-place finish wasn’t feasable for him.
Bradl commented before the race that the substantial test program was affecting his on-track performance.
“The performance on the track suffers because we have a massive test program. We’re focusing on gathering data and ensuring a solid test race, but we’re not expecting to make any major breakthroughs. The new prototype isn’t the solution.”
Despite Honda’s ongoing development efforts, Marini observed that the new engine offered marginal improvements, particularly in throttle response.
He noted that the new configuration improved connection between the throttle and the engine, which could be beneficial for future progress.
However, the overall impact on performance remains limited, with Marini conceding, “It’s a small improvement. We need to keep working and hope that these incremental steps will contribute to better performance in the future.”
