The masters of Motegi have arrived on Japanese soil to conquer the circuit that challenges them mentally, physically and emotionally. It is history in the making for Honda as they celebrate 50 years in the premier class. Honda has enjoyed walking down memory lane with their RC181 machine and current riders Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa. The comparison from the start of time and to the current state of being is incredible. The machines are a constant reminder of how the sport has developed and is continuing to do so with new elements of technology.
The questions on everyone’s minds in Japan are if mathematically Marquez can finish up with the title and enjoy the remainder of the season as a World Champion. Marc was quick to divert away from these questions. The focus for him is to win and continue on with business like normal. It may even be impossible for the title to be won in Japan so the Honda rider wants to avoid even thinking about the various scenarios. With three races back to back it is vital to stay on top of the bike and remain in the points and if possible on the podium for all three rounds.
Tyres and electronics are key at the Japanese circuit. There are so many riders who are delving into the unknown. There is some fear as to how the bikes will perform and if the Yamaha, Honda and Ducati machines are going to have more of an edge over one another! The Yamaha in the past has been very good at Motegi, whilst the Honda has struggled a little bit. For Jorge Lorenzo, having three races back to back is excellent. He loves being on the bike as much as possible because muscle retention and memory is much more higher. It allows him to be ready and prepared even when the conditions change.
On paper, the track suits Vinales and Dovizioso. The Ducati in particular has strong acceleration, which allows their straight-line speed to push them further forward in the order. It will be Bradley Smith’s first appearance back after injury and Jack Miller is also back on the bike after a nasty neck and wrist injury that kept him out of business in the previous couple of rounds. In other news, Hector Barbera is substituting for Andrea Iannone who is still out with injury and Mike Jones an Australian rider is looking after Hector’s spot at Avintia. To many fans, this is the most exciting part of the season as the riders really put everything on the line to win in Japan, Australia and Malaysia. They are three superb circuits and there is no doubt that to win those events is seriously a true test of courage both with speed, heat and gradient changes in the layout of the tracks.
In 2017, we will see Danny Kent and Swiss veteran Dominique Aegerter at Leopard Racing Moto2 team as Miguel departs for the new Red Bull KTM Ajo team that is set to debut Champion Brad Binder. In regards to the title fight, it will be down to the wire with Rins, Zarco and possibly Lowes. It is guaranteed that the riders will be on the limit as they go head to head in battling one another for the bragging rights of World Champion!
