Honda is growing
Joan Mir finished the Buriram tests in the top-10 with the tenth fastest time, six tenths behind Marco Bezzecchi. The 2020 world champion had been closer to the top in Sepang, but explains this step back with a feeling that wasn’t so great with the Thai track, which proves difficult for a Honda in search of grip. Luca Marini, on the other hand, is more optimistic. Below are their statements.
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Joan Mir: “We had a pre-season with great potential, but obviously as a rider you always want more. This circuit for us, but especially for me, was more difficult than the last ones. We didn’t have good grip, while other riders did, so we spent most of the tests playing with the geometry of the bike. There are a couple of options with the direction of the bike to try to make us more competitive. We still have a few days to find other solutions before going to the race, so let’s try to make the most of it and be competitive when the season starts.”
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Luca Marini: “The bike has improved a lot from the point of view of the engine, aerodynamics and the braking phase and we must be satisfied with it. Everyone worked hard during the winter and in these two tests and I know they will continue to work hard throughout the year. We must stay focused on the aspects we are missing to go faster. I can’t wait for the race to start to see where we really are. Qualifying will be very important in this first race, so we have to prepare well. I think our potential is easily in the top seven, maybe even more if we can find some solutions for the bike in the next few days.”
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