Luca Marini: The 850cc Honda is a truly beautiful motorcycle to ride.

Honda rider Luca Marini commented on the potential of the next generation of MotoGP motorcycles after the secret 850 cc test held in Brno. The Italian rider emphasized that the new machines exhibit a more natural character and that banning start devices was the correct decision. Furthermore, he expressed expectations that changes in safety regulations would positively affect race dynamics.

Luca Marini provided his assessment on the future of MotoGP and technological developments. The Italian rider stated that the new motorcycles possess a more natural riding style, noting that the progress recorded by Honda in recent years is noteworthy.

New Regulations and Track Dynamics

Marini suggests that some changes implemented in the MotoGP organization will yield positive results. He specifically supported the decision to ban start devices. He stated that this regulation will reduce the need for riders to worry about certain issues during the first corners and make it impossible for multiple riders to overtake during the race.

In their words

“This is excellent.” “We will have less to worry about when heading into the first corner.”

However, he expressed the view that this change could create an advantage for Japanese manufacturers. He believed these types of regulations would be beneficial given Honda's powerful acceleration characteristics. Nevertheless, he stressed that risks would not be eliminated entirely: “We might reduce the risk slightly, but the first corner always presents a great opportunity. Because it is almost impossible for three or four riders to overtake during the race.”

Safety Steps and Increased Importance of Qualifying

Marini believes that new safety measures have the potential to reduce accidents on track, drawing attention to changes in starting grids. It was reported that the distance between motorcycles will increase in MotoGP starting grids starting from the Sachsenring weekend, and the gap of three meters will be increased to four meters. He stated that this small but important step will help riders manage their braking better.

He also stressed that the importance of qualifying sessions must increase. Noting that currently 85% of races are determined during qualifying, Marini predicted that this percentage could rise to 86 or 87%. He believed this would allow riders to develop better strategies.

Motorcycle Performance and Track Feel

Marini, who was part of the 11 riders in the secret test in Brno, shared his comments on the new Honda prototype. He predicted a slight decrease in engine power for the new machines; stating that the level reached by the industry is incredible, he said, "The current engines are unbelievable." However, he anticipated a loss of several horsepower in 2027 and expected performance to rebound in the future. His most striking comment was very clear: "It is a very good motorcycle to ride."

He also emphasized the meaning of these technological changes for national athletes. The removal of Holshots devices, the reduction of aerodynamic effects, and the motorcycles achieving a more natural character could provide a significant advantage for our national athlete Toprak Razgatlıoğlu. He stated that an environment will be created where Toprak, who excels with aggressive braking and front-end feel, can showcase his abilities more prominently in the new MotoGP era.