Crutchlow: Yamaha MotoGP bike “needs less power” despite rider demands
Cal Crutchlow is participating in a one-off MotoGP race at the Japanese Grand Prix to evaluate development items for Yamaha in preparation for 2024. However, he is not allowed to test the 2024 engine prototype due to regulations. While top speed has been a consistent issue for Yamaha riders, Crutchlow believes that more power is not the solution. Instead, he emphasizes the need for a smoother power delivery to improve the bike’s rear grip and top speed. Crutchlow explains that the problem lies in the engine’s lack of smoothness and that riders should not be asking for more power but for less power and a smoother engine. He believes that the acceleration and corner performance of the bike will improve if they go in the direction of a smoother engine, like the 2019 and 2020 models. The goal is to have better grip and the ability to put power to the ground, rather than relying on electronics and traction control. Crutchlow points out that Marc Marquez on the Honda struggled to overtake the Yamaha on straightaways because of Fabio Quartararo’s superior corner exits, despite the Yamaha’s slower speed. He concludes that Yamaha already has enough top power but needs to focus on improving the way they exit corners.
Source: motorsport
