Jump to content

  • Articles

    Our website articles
    RiderBOT
    Built to celebrate the 750 Super Sport Desmo, the 803cc café racer tribute will be limited to 873 numbered units worldwide
    Ducati has marked its centenary year by unveiling the Formula 73, a new model intended to bring a modern take on the look and feel of a bike that helped shape the brand’s identity. The Formula 73 pays tribute to the 750 Super Sport Desmo, the first Ducati road bike equipped with a desmodromic valve timing system.
    That original Super Sport was effectively a road-going replica of the 750 Imola Desmo with which Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari triumphed in the 1972 200 Miglia di Imola, the first European competition for production-derived motorcycles—a format that would later evolve into Superbike in the 1980s. Ducati says the Imola win and the subsequent release of the 750 Super Sport Desmo were the opening chapter in its production-based racing story, which it notes now totals more than 400 victories, sixteen rider titles and twenty-one manufacturer titles.
    Ducati is also leaning heavily into the period backdrop, describing the 1970s as a decade of change and contrasts, with strong cultural and artistic influence across music, cinema, fashion and wider thought.

    In Ducati’s words, the new bike has been built as a tribute to that epoch-making motorcycle, which already embodied the values of Style, Sophistication and Performance that have inspired Ducati ever since. The company positions the Formula 73 as a limited-run model aimed at riders who want a distinctive design and strong personality, with close attention paid to detail.
    Unmistakable personality
    Ducati describes the Formula 73 line as a contemporary reinterpretation of the 1973 750 Super Sport Desmo, with slim proportions and a minimalist café racer theme. Power comes from an air-cooled Ducati twin-cylinder engine, pitched as a blend of “Urban Café Racer” attitude and classic Ducati appeal.
    Design details include a silver and aqua green livery developed through research in Ducati’s historical archives by the Ducati Style Centre. A vertical gold stripe on the tank references an unpainted strip used on the 750 Imola Desmo to help the team check fuel level without extra instruments. Other cues include clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors, along with a short, tapered fairing and tail.
    Billet aluminium components are part of the standard spec, including brake and clutch levers with oil reservoirs, footpegs and a Rizoma fuel cap.
    As with other Ducati limited editions, the Formula 73 carries the model name and serial number on the steering plate and is supplied with a certificate of authenticity, plus a presentation box containing period images and Ducati Style Centre sketches.
    Innovation in tradition
    While it leans on retro inspiration, Ducati says the Formula 73 is still a modern, high-tech motorcycle. It uses an 803 cc Desmodue L-twin with desmodromic distribution and two valves, and is Euro5+ approved. Output is quoted at 73 horsepower at 8,250 rpm. A Termignoni-developed, type-approved silencer is fitted, and the bike uses Ride-by-Wire for throttle control.
    The Formula 73 runs a steel trellis frame painted in aqua green, paired with 17-inch spoked wheels and Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres. Electronics include DTC traction control, Cornering ABS, Ducati Quick Shift, and two Riding Modes.

    Availability
    A matching helmet (in collaboration with Arai) and a sports jacket are also offered to mirror the Formula 73 livery. The Ducati Formula 73 will be produced in a numbered series limited to 873 units and will arrive in European dealerships in spring 2026, with distribution elsewhere completed by the end of summer.
    Formula 73
    Livery 750 Super Sport Desmo replica Main standard equipment Desmodue engine, 803 cm3 Maximum power: 73 CV @ 8,250 RPM Maximum torque: 65.2 Nm @ 7,000 RPM Type-approved Termignoni silencer Wet weight no fuel: 183 Kg Steel trellis frame Upside-down 41 mm KYB front fork KYB shock, preload adjustable Front brake: 4-piston Brembo radial caliper and 330 mm disc Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, 120/70 and 180/55 Electronic package with Inertial Measurement Unit: cornering ABS; Ducati Traction Control (DTC); Power Modes; Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Full TFT 4,3” dashboard Riding Modes (Sport, Road) Full-LED lights with DRL Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) ready, Turn-by-turn navigation The post Ducati Unveils Limited Edition Formula 73 appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Ducati has unveiled the Formula 73, a limited-edition cafe racer that reimagines the legendary 750 Super Sport Desmo blending modern technology with vintage aesthetics.
    Produced in a numbered series of just 873 units, the Formula 73 celebrates the 750 Super Sport Desmo: the first Ducati road bike equipped with desmodromic valve timing, which emerged as a replica of the bike Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari rode to victory at the 1972 200 Miglia di Imola.

    That historic win marked Ducati’s entry into production-derived racing, a discipline where the manufacturer has since accumulated over 400 victories, sixteen rider titles and twenty-one manufacturer titles.
    The Formula 73 features a familiar silver and aqua green livery inspired by the original 750 Super Sport Desmo, complete with a vertical gold stripe on the tank echoing the unpainted fuel-level inspection strip from the 750 Imola Desmo. Period-correct clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors, a short tapered fairing and minimalist tail reinforce the cafe racer ethos.

    Billet aluminium components, including brake and clutch levers with oil reservoirs, footpegs and a Rizoma fuel cap, add premium details.
    Powering the Formula 73 is an 803cc Desmodue L-twin with desmodromic distribution and two valves per cylinder, producing 54kW and 65Nm. The Euro5+ approved engine features ride-by-wire throttle control and a Termignoni-developed silencer.

    The steel trellis frame, painted in aqua green to match the livery, teams with 17-inch spoked wheels wearing Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV rubber. At 183kg wet without fuel, the Formula 73 promises manageable weight and agile handling characteristics.
    Modern electronics include Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) and two Riding Modes (Sport, Road), all managed through a 4.3-inch full-TFT dashboard. Full-LED lighting with DRL and Ducati Multimedia System readiness with turn-by-turn navigation come standard.

    Suspension duties fall to a 41mm KYB upside-down fork and preload-adjustable KYB rear shock, while a four-piston Brembo radial caliper and 330mm disc handle front braking.
    Each Formula 73 features the model name and serial number on the steering plate, and comes with a certificate of authenticity plus a collection of period images and sketches from the Ducati Style Centre presented in a special box.

    Matching Arai helmets and sports jackets echoing the Formula 73 livery will be available for riders wanting to complete the aesthetic.
    At time of writing, Australian pricing and availability has yet to be confirmed.
    2026 Ducati Formula 73. 1 of 12 Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his Aprilia Tuareg 660, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
    The post Ducati Formula 73: Limited-edition cafe racer celebrates legendary 750 Super Sport Desmo appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Royal Enfield Australia has launched its Endless Summer Sale, offering significant savings on selected models from 11 February through 31 March 2025.
    The promotion covers four key models in the Royal Enfield lineup, with rideaway pricing starting from $6990 for the Hunter 350 through participating dealerships nationwide.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350. The sale includes the urban-focused Hunter 350 from $6990 rideaway, the adventure-ready Himalayan 450 from $8,990, the Interceptor 650 from $9990, and the Continental GT 650 café racer from $10,890 rideaway.
    Pricing varies depending on model year and variant, with Dark Edition models included in the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 offers.
    Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. All motorcycles covered in the Endless Summer Sale come backed by Royal Enfield’s 3-year unlimited kilometre warranty and 3 years roadside assistance.
    The Hunter 350 delivers urban agility with its compact dimensions and accessible 350cc single-cylinder engine, while the Himalayan 450 has proven popular for both commuting and adventure riding since its Australian launch.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan. The 650cc parallel-twin models continue to anchor Royal Enfield’s premium offerings, with the Interceptor 650 providing relaxed, all-round capability and the Continental GT 650 offering a more committed cafe racer riding position.
    Offers are available in-store only through Royal Enfield’s Australian dealer network. Prospective buyers can contact their nearest dealership to arrange test rides and confirm specific pricing on their preferred model and variant.
    Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his Aprilia Tuareg 660, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
    The post Royal Enfield Endless Summer Sale slashes prices across Hunter, Himalayan, and 650 Twins appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Prototype superbike is star of the show at the world’s biggest motorcycle auction
    A 1968 Honda CB750 prototype has sold for $US313,500 ($A446,300) at the annual Mecum auction in Las Vegas.This US auction is the world’s largest and always throws up a curveball, usually some rare American or European motorcycle. It’s the first time a Japanese motorcycle has fetched such an eye-watering price.

    However the Honda prototype is very special. It’s a one-off sent to the US for evaluation testing several months before four pre-production CB750s arrived for the company’s Las Vegas Dealer Show in January 1969.
    It has unique features, including badging, starter motor cover, one-off sandcast carburettors with shared floatbowls and an accelerator pump, an early version of Honda’s disc brake and a seat that flips up to the rear not sideways. The speedo reads 446 miles.

    The prototype CB750 was restored to its original condition in the early 2000s, including the correct Candy Blue-Green paint, and won Best of Show at the prestigious 2024 Quail Motorcycle Gathering in California.
    The Mecum auction, held from 27-31 January, attracted its biggest crowd and number of entries for several years. However seasoned observers described prices as “soft” with one saying: “People are holding their cash.”
    A Wes Cooley Suzuki GS 1000S A generational change was apparent with British twins from the 1960s and 1970s selling for less than half what they would have just a few years ago.
    For example a 1963 Triumph Bonneville, the first powered by the new unit-construction engine, sold for just $US7000 while a very clean 1969 BSA Rocket 3 only fetched $US5500.
    Japanese performance bikes from the 1980s sold consistently well, indicating a higher level of interest from possibly younger buyers.
    Several Easy Rider choppers featured at the auction A 1980 Wes Cooley GS1000S sold for $US11,000 and even a 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo for $US5000. A 1983 Honda CB1100F sold for $US17,000 and a 1990 Yamaha TZR250SP for $US9500.
    More than 2000 diverse motorcycles went under the hammer, including groups from 30 or more collections.
    Strangely, four Easy Rider Panhead replica choppers were offered up, selling for as much as $US60,000 and as low as $US21,000.
    The post Honda CB750 sells for $450k appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    New four-cylinder sports model coming this year
    Australia is already one of the first countries outside China to be offered CFMoto’s neo-retro 500 SR Voom sports bike but now the company is on the verge of adding another variation of the bike to its range in the form of the more modern-looking 500 SR.
    It’s a bike that’s been a long time coming. Back in 2023 CFMoto rolled out disguised prototypes for both the 500 SR and 675 SR-R in front of fans in China, with the production version of the three-cylinder 675 SR-R being the first to appear in production form. The 500 SR, meanwhile, seemed to disappear from CFMoto’s plans, with the related 500 SR Voom reaching production despite looking nothing like the teased prototype.
    Now the upcoming 500 SR has been type-approved in China, confirming both its appearance and key technical details.
    That appearance, while in keeping with sister models like the 675 SR-R, the upcoming 750 SR-S and the much-anticipated 1000 SR-RR superbike, is distinctly different to the panels that could be seen under the disguise of the 2023 preview. It suggests CFMoto has completely redesigned the bike, explaining its delay in reaching production.
    Under the skin, the machine is identical to the 500 SR Voom, with the same tubular steel frame and 499cc, four-cylinder engine putting out 58kW at 12,500rpm and 49Nm at 10,000rpm. The dual under-seat exhausts are unchanged, and the geometry is unaltered, with the same 1395mm wheelbase as the Voom, the same 41mm adjustable USD forks and a matching swingarm and rear shock.
    What’s new is the styling, which dispenses with the Voom’s appealing late-80s or early-90s inspired shapes and dual front intakes disguised as circular headlights and replaces it with an up-to-the-minute style complete with aerodynamic addenda on the side panels, frowny headlights under angry-eyebrow DRLs.
    The bar and peg position looks much the same as the Voom’s but the new look adds fairing-mounted mirrors instead of the previous model’s bar-end units. There is a difference in terms of brakes, though, with new calipers peeking out from behind extensive cooling ducts wrapped around the dual front discs.
    The type-approval specs give a curb weight of 187kg, which is 7kg lighter than the Voom. That may well be down to measuring differences, though, as it’s hard to see where so much mass could have been pared from the bike.
    Since Australia already gets the Voom, and the two bikes are mechanically identical, it should be no problem to gain type approval over here if there’s demand for a modern-looking 500cc four alongside the retro version. If it does come here, that also means the price is likely to be close to the Voom’s AU$10,490.
    The post CFMoto 500 SR details emerge ahead of launch appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Kawasaki Australia has announced its display line-up for next week’s World Superbike Championship round at Phillip Island, headlined by the Australian debut of the 2026 Ninja ZX-10R.
    The Japanese manufacturer will showcase six models across its performance and heritage ranges, while sister brand Bimota brings four exclusive machines to Victoria’s iconic circuit.

    The headline attraction is the all-new 2026 Ninja ZX-10R, making its first public appearance on Australian soil. The latest generation of Kawasaki’s flagship superbike arrives as the brand’s WorldSBK campaign continues with the Kawasaki Racing Team.
    Joining the ZX-10R in the display area will be the Ninja H2 supercharged flagship, the middleweight Ninja ZX-6R, and three models from Kawasaki’s Z naked bike family – the newly released Z1100, retro-styled Z900RS SE, and LAMS-approved Z500SE.
    1 of 8 The Bimota display represents the Italian manufacturer’s most innovative engineering, led by two versions of the hub-centre steered Tesi H2 – the standard model and Tera variant, both powered by Kawasaki’s supercharged inline-four.
    The KB4 and KB998 Rimini complete bimota’s Phillip Island line-up, showcasing the brand’s distinctive design language and limited-production craftsmanship.

    Both displays will be accessible to fans and media throughout the WorldSBK round at Phillip Island, with Kawasaki’s racing heritage providing a fitting backdrop for the brand’s road-going performance machines.
    The 2025 WorldSBK season opener takes place at Phillip Island from February 21-23.

    Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his Aprilia Tuareg 660, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
    The post Kawasaki and Bimota confirm display line-up for Phillip Island WorldSBK appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    New look emerges in Chinese type-approval filing
    A revamped version of KTM’s 790 Duke is heading for production this year with the redesign leaking early thanks to Chinese government filings showing the model’s type-approval details.
    With the debut of the bigger 990 Duke, powered by KTM’s second-generation LC8c parallel twin, you might have thought the 790’s days might be numbered, but it appeals to a slightly different market segment and as such KTM has seen fit to bring the original 799cc version of the LC8c motor into line with modern emissions rules and now the new look confirms the 790 Duke is being ushered into another model cycle.
    The styling, unsurprisingly, brings the 790 Duke into line with KTM’s latest design signatures. The complicated nose, with a central LED headlight bracketed by strips of DRLs on either side, each in their own pods, is similar to the 990 Duke’s design but not an identical part. Instead it’s unique to the 790, and the same applies to the side panels and fuel tank behind it, now more angular and sharply creased than before. In fact, the new 790 manages to look even more aggressive than the 990 Duke.
    At the back, the subframe is also new, and appears to be a self-supporting cast alloy unit, topped by a heavily stepped seat that perches the pillion much higher than the rider.
    Mechanical changes are relatively few, but the redesigned bike sports WP’s new brake calipers – a theme set to spread through KTM’s range, since it owns the WP brand – instead of the old KTM-badged J.Juan calipers of the previous generation. The discs, too, are new, along with their carriers, and the document confirms the brakes are controlled via an Indian-made Bosch 9.3MP ABS system. WP also supplies the suspension, of course, and both it and the main chassis structure appear to be carried over from the existing 790 Duke. The TFT instrument pack is also similar to the current model’s, but the mirrors are borrowed from the 990 Duke.
    As before, the new 790 Duke is manufactured in China at KTM’s joint venture with CFMoto, which explains both why the bike has been approved in that country first, and why it carries ‘KTMR2R’ badging on the tank, which is the firm’s Chinese branding.
    The approval specs show that the next-gen bike puts out 77kW and has a curb weight of 185kg, 2kg less than the existing bike. The power output is likely to be reined in to 70kW for European markets, allowing the bike to comply with their ‘A2’ licence rules like the current model does. At 1476mm, the new bike’s wheelbase is 1mm longer than the spec for today’s version, but that’s close enough to be a rounding error or a chain adjustment difference rather than indicating any substantial change to the chassis or setup.
    The post Redesigned KTM 790 Duke incoming appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    R‑Experience packages will soon be available at Sydney Motorsport Park from $599, including bike rental and track
    Yamaha Motor Australia and MotoSchool are set to lift the supersport training experience with the introduction of a YZF-R9 hire fleet and an exclusive Yamaha customer day. The pair has confirmed the extension of its strategic partnership into 2026, a move aimed at reshaping how riders connect with the Yamaha brand, build skills and experience track performance.

    Building on the success of the 2025 program, the expanded partnership signals a longer-term commitment to rider education, community and accessibility, while also delivering a major new step in Australian rider training: an all-new Yamaha YZF-R9 hire bike fleet, alongside deeper integration of Yamaha’s performance and genuine accessories ecosystem.
    The changes see MotoSchool positioned not only as a training provider, but as a national rider-experience platform—bringing customers, machines and brand culture together in a way not previously offered in Australia. Following record attendance, strong customer demand and industry recognition throughout 2025, MotoSchool’s training environment will fully integrate:
    A new, purpose-built R-Experience, available exclusively to MotoSchool customers Yamalube oils, lubricants and maintenance products across all operations Yamaha racing components from the proven performance range of GYTR accessories Akrapovic exhaust systems from Yamaha Genuine Accessories Continued collaboration with Dunlop Tyres via Ficeda Accessories, ensuring race-proven grip and consistency The goal is a unified, professional training environment that remains accessible to everyday riders.
    The R-Experience: Performance without barriers
    Central to the 2026 program is MotoSchool’s R-Experience, a premium, track-based immersion designed to give riders access to Yamaha’s high-performance R-series platform in a structured, professional and race-inspired setting. Headlined by the all-new YZF-R9, the Yamaha R-Experience is intended to deliver Yamaha’s next-generation supersport technology as a brand-led experience rather than a straightforward rental-bike arrangement.
    Each motorcycle will be fitted with a GYTR Akrapovič titanium race exhaust system and prepared to professional standards, giving riders the chance to experience Yamaha’s engineering as intended. Participants in the Yamaha R-Experience will also have the option to run either:
    Dunlop race slicks for advanced training, or Dunlop treaded slick track day tyres for high-performance road-based track riding MotoSchool says the R-Experience package is being designed for accessibility, allowing riders to arrive, ride and immerse themselves in a premium race-inspired environment without compromise. More details will be announced shortly.
    YamaFest customer day at Sydney Motorsport Park
    As part of the expanded 2026 partnership, Yamaha Motor Australia and MotoSchool have also announced an exclusive Yamaha Customer Day on Sunday 29 March, using Sydney Motorsport Park’s Grand Prix Circuit. Details are yet to be finalised.
    The one-day event will bring together Yamaha riders from across the country, offering Yamaha motorcycle customers the chance to ride alongside like-minded enthusiasts in a professionally run, inclusive and supportive environment.
    The event will cater to:
    All Yamaha road-going models All rider experience levels Riders seeking community, connection and fun through the Yamaha brand It will also mark the first public opportunity for customers to participate in the R-Experience and hire a YZF-R9—positioning it as a milestone event for Yamaha customers and MotoSchool alike.

    “What we’ve built with MotoSchool goes far beyond a traditional partnership,” says Mathew Ferry, General Manager Sales & Marketing, Land Mobility at Yamaha Motor Australia.
    “It’s a platform that brings riders closer to our brand, our technology, and our philosophy. Extending this partnership into 2026 and launching the YZF-R9 hire fleet and Yamaha Customer Day, allows us to offer something truly unique to our customers.”
    “What Yamaha Motor Australia has created through this partnership is something truly special,” says Haydan Parker, Managing Director and Founder of MotoSchool. The Yamaha team has shown what’s possible when a manufacturer genuinely commits to riders through experience, education, and community. This partnership is a blueprint for how brands can invest in the future of motorcycling in a meaningful way. Together, we’ve built a model that removes barriers and opens doors. An environment where world-class machinery and elite coaching are no longer reserved for the few. The 2026 program proves that when motorcycle distributors and rider development organisations work in true partnership, the result is not just better riders, but a stronger, more connected global motorcycle culture. For the first time, riders can step straight into a race-inspired Yamaha environment, ride the new YZF-R9, train with elite coaches, and be part of a community that’s built around learning and passion. We aim to offer riders the chance to experience something completely new.”
    Yamaha R-Experience packages will soon be available at Sydney Motorsport Park from $599 inclusive of bike rental and track access. For more details, email MotoSchool at vip@motoschool.com.au or visit https://motoschool.com.au/
    The post Yamaha and MotoSchool to launch YZF‑R9 R‑Experience appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Aprilia Tuareg Racing has wrapped up its 2026 Africa Eco Race campaign, with Jacopo Cerutti finishing fourth in the +650 twin-cylinder class and fifth overall at the seventeenth edition of the rally-raid event.
    The 2026 Africa Eco Race concluded in Dakar, Senegal on 7 February following twelve stages covering more than 6000 kilometres from Morocco through Mauritania to Senegal’s Lake Rose.

    Riding the Aprilia Tuareg 660 Rally, Cerutti secured one stage win and one class victory during the event in what proved to be a challenging competition for the Italian manufacturer’s racing program.
    Marco Menichini, competing in his second Africa Eco Race aboard the Tuareg Rally, finished seventh in the +650 class and eighth overall. Menichini showed consistent pace particularly in the second half of the rally, including a fourth-place class finish in stage seven.

    Francesco Montanari completed the manufacturer’s three-rider lineup, finishing eleventh in the category standings after a withdrawal during stage four impacted his overall campaign.
    Aprilia Tuareg Racing team manager Vittoriano Guareschi acknowledged the demanding nature of this year’s event while highlighting the team’s resilience.
    “Arriving here at Lake Rose with all three bikes is always a great feeling. It means we finished the race, and that is what matters,” Guareschi said.

    “This year’s Africa Eco Race was different from the previous two editions: overall it was tougher, with stages that were truly demanding for both the riders’ physical stamina and the bikes. Furthermore, the general level has risen significantly, and our opponents arrived in excellent form.”
    Despite facing challenges through the Mauritanian sections of the rally, Guareschi noted the team’s ability to fight back in the closing stages.

    “We were among the protagonists until Mauritania, then things didn’t go as we expected. But in the end, we reacted, and in yesterday’s stage, we returned to the positions we are used to, proving that we know we can be competitive. We have gained important insights on how to improve ahead of future competitions.”
    The Africa Eco Race represents a key testing ground for Aprilia’s Tuareg Rally program, with the manufacturer using the event to develop both machine and rider capabilities in extreme off-road conditions.
    1 of 11 Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his Aprilia Tuareg 660, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
    The post Aprilia Tuareg Racing completes 2026 Africa Eco Race appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Gresini Ducati rider sets fastest time of 2026 winter testing as field completes preparations ahead of Thailand season opener
    Alex Marquez has capped off the three-day Sepang MotoGP test with the fastest lap time of the entire pre-season, posting a 1:56.402s aboard his Gresini Ducati GP26 on Thursday morning.
    The 2025 Malaysian Grand Prix winner’s benchmark came just 0.065s shy of Francesco Bagnaia’s official lap record at the circuit, set during last year’s race weekend.

    Alex Marquez’s effort came early in the opening session, and despite late time attacks from several riders in the afternoon, his morning flyer remained unbeaten. Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia) came closest with a 1:56.526s, while Fabio di Giannantonio completed a Ducati GP26 lockout of the top three.
    Marc Marquez endured a crash at Turn 1 during the second hour but recovered to finish fourth overall, with world champion Bagnaia rounding out the top five.
    Advertisement.
    Honda emerged as a surprise package at Sepang, with Joan Mir’s 1:56.874s from Wednesday remaining the second-fastest time of the test. The Spaniard also topped the Sprint race simulation times on the final day.
    “If tomorrow was a race, we can be there in the top five,” said Mir, who completed more than a Sprint race distance and expressed satisfaction with Honda’s winter progress.
    Teammate Luca Marini finished 13th in the combined standings but remained optimistic about the RC213V’s development direction heading to Thailand.
    Advertisement.
    Monster Energy Yamaha returned to action on Thursday following a technical issue that sidelined the team on Wednesday. Alex Rins completed 36 laps across both sessions, finishing 12th on the day, while test rider Augusto Fernandez substituted for the injured Fabio Quartararo.
    The Pramac Yamaha squad also logged valuable track time, with Jack Miller and WorldSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu continuing their steep learning curve with the YZR-M1.

    Red Bull KTM used the three days to evaluate aerodynamic options and chassis configurations, with Pedro Acosta leading the Austrian manufacturer’s charge in eighth overall. The young Spaniard focused on chassis comparisons rather than outright lap times.
    “I wanted a clear image in my head of what pieces we need now for Thailand,” said Acosta, who posted the fourth-fastest Sprint simulation average.

    Enea Bastianini expressed growing comfort on the RC16 in his first test with Tech3, while Brad Binder and Maverick Vinales worked through setup options across the three days.
    The afternoon’s race simulations revealed competitive order, with Alex Marquez again leading the way with an average lap time of 1:58.028s over Sprint distance. Factory Ducati duo Bagnaia and Marc Marquez followed closely, averaging 1:58.166s and 1:58.289s respectively.

    Less than two seconds separated the top 18 riders on the final day’s timesheet, highlighting the field’s competitive nature heading into the season.
    The MotoGP paddock now heads to Kuala Lumpur for the 2026 season launch event before reconvening at Buriram for the final pre-season test on February 21-22, one week before the Thai Grand Prix season opener.
    Advertisement.
    Combined Test Times (Days 1-3)
    Alex Marquez – 1:56.402s Marco Bezzecchi – 1:56.526s Fabio di Giannantonio – 1:56.785s Marc Marquez – 1:56.789s Joan Mir – 1:56.874s Francesco Bagnaia – 1:56.929s Franco Morbidelli – 1:56.983s Pedro Acosta – 1:57.116s Maverick Vinales – 1:57.126s Raul Fernandez – 1:57.245s 1 of 21 Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his Aprilia Tuareg 660, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
    The post Alex Marquez tops Sepang test as MotoGP pre-season concludes appeared first on INFO MOTO.
×
×
  • Create New...