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MotoGP, Marquez: “Better if problems arise during testing"

The electronics keep Honda in check at Sepang, Pedrosa: “Only satisfied with the tyres”

MotoGP: Marquez: “Better if problems arise during testing"

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Marc Marquez is probably having flashbacks to the ghosts of a year ago, when his Honda struggled at Sepang against an uncatchable Yamaha. On the second day of tests, the Spaniard had to face new problems with the bike, specifically stemming from the electronics, so much to keep him in pit lane for an extended period of time. At the end of the day he was only tenth, a full second behind the leader.

Today was certainly not our day, since I encountered several problems. We started slowly because of the wet track and then we got held up for a long time in the garage. So, I went out with the other bike, but that one has a problem too. It is better if the difficulties come out now, so that the team can work on them, especially on the setup. If the weather improves, tomorrow we will use the session to take a step forward.”

What do you need to focus on?

“We still have several things to test, but the electronics are definitely a fundamental aspect, since we are losing too much time. This aspect has definitely delayed our plans. We need to find the right engine map. These are tests and we are here specifically to assess and troubleshoot.”

Will you be using the bikes with the new engine again tomorrow?

“I don’t know. Maybe with some different characteristics. I still need to decide. Unfortunately, I just can’t say at the moment.”

Are the problems you encountered the same or different ones?

“More than anything, I would say they are similar. The electronics package is definitely a problem that has a big impact, especially on our work method, since it means that we can’t test other material.”

What saves this day?

“I think having a good pace, in any case. We will need to work on the front end and the new engine that has different characteristics. As for the tyres, on the other hand, I haven’t found any particular differences, since both the new and used ones are competitive.”

What area is impacted by the electronics?

“Coming out of corners especially. I have to be very gentle on the throttle, otherwise I have to find another solution to find grip.”

The bad mood in the Honda camp is obvious even on Daniel Pedrosa’s face. There is only one aspect that encourages the Spaniard, after filing Tuesday away with the fourteenth best time, finishing behind none other than Rins on his Suzuki.

A bitter day for you and Marc.

“Marquez had two similar problems, but I am not sure what the reason was. At the moment, the electronics package is penalising us. The team and the engineers will work on it in Japan to solve the problems for the upcoming tests.”

Does it seem like you are reliving the events of a year ago?

(Pedrosa does not reply, but with his head he seems to be saying “more or less”).

Can you give anything passing marks?

“I think I had a good response from the tyres, since I did my best lap on a used tyre. It’s a pity that I didn’t put on the new tyre. I could have improved my time.”

Are the problems the same as the ones you encountered yesterday?

“Different. We partially solved the problem from Monday. We are trying to figure out what the problem is today. The team is working on dialling in the bike, although the combination is good.”

Translated by Jonathan Blosser
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