Thai MotoGP rider Somkiat Chantra, representing Idemitsu Honda LCR, has opened up about the challenges of adapting to the high-tech demands of MotoGP racing.
Transitioning from Moto2, Chantra highlighted the significant technological advancements and the critical role of specialized equipment such as the “Ride Height Device.”
Somkiat participated in the MotoGP Shakedown Test at Sepang International Circuit from January 31 to February 2, completing 123 laps and consistently improving his times. He finished 13th in the standings with a lap time of 2 minutes and 0.550 seconds, trailing leader Fabio Quartararo by 2.756 seconds.
“The shakedown was good; we have a new race bike,” Somkiat shared. “Our approach to working with the bike is getting better and better.”
The Thai rider emphasized the stark contrast between Moto2 and MotoGP, particularly the complex electronic systems and advanced riding aids.
“Especially the Ride Height Device—it’s critical to use it at the right points. I’m still slower with it compared to Nakagami, who uses it much faster.”
The demanding nature of MotoGP also required Somkiat to focus on physical conditioning.
“Sepang has many high-speed corners. I need to increase my body strength, especially for turning and pressing the bike. After the Barcelona test, I experienced a lot of back pain, so I worked hard on strengthening my body.”
The team’s strategy has been to avoid drastic setting changes, allowing Somkiat to familiarize himself with the 2025 version of the RC213V.
“They want me to understand the bike fully and provide accurate feedback. On the first day of the shakedown, it was hard to remember everything. After just two laps, the mapping changed, but we kept working step by step.”
Somkiat also noted the adjustment to using dual braking systems, one for the rear foot and another for the hand, a stark difference from his Moto2 setup.
Honda test rider Takaaki Nakagami and fellow MotoGP newcomer Ai Ogura provided valuable insights during the test.
“On the last day, Nakagami spoke to me, trying not to put pressure on me, telling me to just enjoy riding. Ai and I also had discussions about the power and speed differences between Moto2 and MotoGP.”
Credit Photo : Honda LCR
