The first pre-season test for the 2023 MotoGP season has just taken place in Sepang, Malaysia, and it has given us some fascinating insights into what we can expect from the new season. The test featured all the major teams and riders, and it provided an early indication of who might be in the running for the championship. Here are some of the key things that we learned from the test.
- The new bikes are faster and more powerful
One of the most striking things about the Sepang test was the sheer speed of the new bikes. The teams have been working hard over the off-season to improve their machines, and it has paid off with some impressive lap times. The fastest rider of the test was Yamaha's Maverick Vinales, who set a time of 1:58.549 on the final day. This is more than half a second faster than the best time from last year's test, which shows just how much progress has been made.
- The new Ducati bike is challenging to handle
Ducati's new bike has generated a lot of interest, thanks to comments from rider Francesco Bagnaia that it is "nervous" and "more aggressive" than the 2022 model. The Sepang test confirmed this, with Bagnaia and his teammate Jack Miller both struggling to get to grips with the bike. It is clear that the new Ducati will require a lot of skill and finesse to ride effectively, which could make it a real challenge for the team in the coming season.
- Suzuki is looking strong
Defending champions Suzuki had a strong showing in the Sepang test, with Joan Mir and Alex Rins both putting in impressive performances. Mir set the second-fastest time of the test, just 0.018 seconds behind Vinales, while Rins was fourth overall. This bodes well for the team's chances in the upcoming season, and it suggests that they could be in contention for another championship.
- The rookies are adapting well
There are several new riders in the MotoGP field this season, and they all got a chance to show their skills at the Sepang test. Of particular note was Raul Fernandez, who is making the jump up from Moto2 to ride for the KTM team. Fernandez was consistently fast throughout the test, and he finished in the top ten on all three days. Other rookies, such as Iker Lecuona and Augusto Fernandez, also showed promise, which is a good sign for the future of the sport.
- The battle for the championship will be intense
With so many riders and teams showing strong form at the Sepang test, it is clear that the battle for the championship will be intense. Several riders will be in the running, including Vinales, Mir, Fabio Quartararo, and Jack Miller. It is still early days, of course, and there is a lot of work to be done before the first race of the season. However, the Sepang test has given us a tantalizing glimpse of what is to come, and it has set the stage for what should be an unforgettable season of MotoGP action.
Overall, the Sepang test has given us plenty to think about as we look ahead to the 2023 MotoGP season. There is still a lot of work to be done, of course, but the signs are promising, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the start of the season.