Will private test provide Honda with much-needed Portugal MotoGP boost?
Despite significant changes made to Honda’s bike for the 2024 season, the gap to the leading teams remained evident at the start of the campaign in Qatar. Johann Zarco of LCR finished as the top RC213V rider in 12th place, with Joan Mir in 13th for the factory team, while Marini struggled and ended up in 20th position. Despite these challenges, Honda has already started utilizing its concession benefits this year by conducting tests at Jerez. The team is optimistic about the improvements made to the bike following the analysis of the Qatar GP performance and is looking forward to seeing how it performs on different tracks. Both Joan Mir and Stefan Bradl believe that the setup used in Qatar, with necessary adjustments, will serve as a good foundation for the Portugal weekend, with the hope of narrowing the gap to the top riders and making further advancements in performance.
