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Honda is not going through a good period and more or less all the riders are struggling with the RC213V and the fact that Marc Marquez is not in perfect shape yet does not help the situation. The Japanese are trying to make amends and have pulled out of the crates the 2020 chassis, which Nakagami used today. With good results, because thanks to the 7th time he is the only rider on the RC213V in the top ten at the end of the first two free practice sessions in Jerez.
“True, I used two frames today, the old one and the new. It's not the best thing to do on a race weekend, but sometimes it's a necessity - explained the LCR team rider - The impression is that the 2020 chassis has more potential, I can be more consistent and I'm back to having fun. It's also true that Jerez is one of my favourite tracks, but it's nice to be in the top 10. Tomorrow, in FP3, we need to improve even more, but today I didn't push like crazy and I think I still have a margin, even if I don't know how much. The goal is to be able to lap in 1’36", I think it will be enough to get into Q2, but we need to understand the track conditions".
And decide which frame to use…
“I’ve just got off the bike, there are so many thoughts running through my head - smiled Takaaki - We need to analyse the data, understand things more in detail and discuss with the HRC engineers. I want to decide by tonight which frame I will use this weekend, then on Monday we will have time to make other comparisons ”.
The Japanese rider, however, can already rely on his feelings.
“The 2021 chassis has good handling and cornering potential, but I lack confidence in the rear - he observed - In Qatar and Portimao we tried to search for more stability and grip, but without finding a solution. With the 2020 chassis, however, there is more grip ".
