P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Six crucial factors that led Honda to their lowest point
“There are several factors that have affected Marc Marquez’s dominant position in MotoGP. Firstly, his right arm fracture in Jerez 2020 and subsequent complications prevented him from competing for the 2020 title. Had he been fully fit, he would have been the favorite alongside rising stars Fabio Quartararo and Francesco Bagnaia. However, even if he was fit, the progress made by Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia might have posed a challenge for Marquez in 2022.
Both Marquez and Honda must take responsibility for his ill-fated early return after the Jerez injury, which ultimately led to further complications. Additionally, the Honda team has struggled to find a strong second rider to support Marquez, making it a one-rider bike. Attempts to diversify with riders like Jorge Lorenzo and Pol Espargaro have not been successful.
Honda’s persistent rear edge-grip weakness has also been a challenge for Marquez, leading to high-side accidents. Their cautious approach to bike development and slower delivery of new parts compared to European manufacturers has hindered their progress. Marquez, along with other Honda riders like Joan Mir and Alex Rins, has suffered injuries from these accidents.
Overall, Marquez’s dominance in MotoGP has been influenced by his own injuries, the team’s struggles to find a strong second rider, and Honda’s cautious approach to bike development.”
Source: Crash
