P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Honda is planning an extensive 22-day testing plan for 2024 as the storied brand looks to return to the forefront
Honda, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer, has faced difficulties in recent seasons, with only one win in the past couple of years. Their RC213V machine has proven to be challenging for their riders, resulting in high-speed crashes during the 2023 season. This poor performance led Honda to finish fifth and last in the constructors championship, but they now benefit from MotoGP’s updated concessions system. The new format allows Honda and struggling Japanese rival Yamaha certain advantages, such as unlimited test days and the ability to use their race riders during testing. In an effort to regain their position at the front, Honda plans an extensive testing program with test rider Stefan Bradl, potentially using a total of 22 test days throughout the season. They may also hire a second test pilot to share the workload with Bradl. Honda aims to complete most of their testing in the first half of the season, as manufacturers will be evaluated every six months, potentially affecting their testing abilities. The factory Repsol Honda team will reveal their 2024 colors on February 13th, while the satellite LCR team will do so a day later.
