Honda’s new MotoGP hope admits difficulty with ride height…read more
Somkiat Chantra, a MotoGP rookie, has openly discussed the challenges he’s faced while adapting to Honda’s advanced technology, particularly the ride height device, during his early days in the premier class. As part of the regulations, Chantra participated in a three-day shakedown test, which gave him a head start as a rookie. Following this, he joined Honda teammates and rival MotoGP riders at the official three-day test in Sepang to continue fine-tuning his machine and acclimatize to the complexities of a MotoGP bike.
Reflecting on his experience during the shakedown, Chantra described the test as positive, noting the team worked hard to improve the bike’s performance. “We had the new bike,” he explained, adding, “We were on the way to working with the bike. We were getting better.” However, the transition from Moto2 to MotoGP has not been easy for the Thai rider, mainly due to the significant differences in the machinery, including the complex electronics and the ride height device.
The ride height device has proven particularly challenging for Chantra. When asked about his struggle with its engagement, he admitted, “Very, very late! Compared to Takaaki Nakagami, he was much earlier than me.” This issue, combined with the increased physical demands of MotoGP bikes, has made his adaptation process even steeper. He acknowledged that riding a MotoGP machine requires a lot more strength, especially in fast corners like those found in Sepang. Despite the difficulties, Chantra has been working diligently on building his physical strength, particularly focusing on his back and overall body to cope with the intense demands.
Regarding his bike setup, Chantra’s team has been focused on helping him become familiar with the bike rather than making drastic changes to its settings. “My team aren’t trying to change the setting. They want me to know the bike and understand how it works, then to come back and say how it is,” he said. He recalled that after the Barcelona test, he experienced physical pain from the bike, but he has since worked on strengthening his body to prevent such issues in the future.
Another challenge has been adjusting to the intricate controls of the MotoGP machine. Chantra shared that his previous Moto2 bike had a simple braking system, with both brakes operated via his foot. In contrast, the MotoGP bike features two brakes – one on the rear and one controlled by the hand. “It is different. My team said ‘we will keep it like this,’” he explained, acknowledging the steep learning curve. Despite initially struggling with the complexity of the bike, Chantra has worked hard each day to remember all the necessary controls, including the use of different braking methods.
He found support in his MotoGP counterparts, especially from Nakagami, who visited him during the shakedown test. As Honda’s test rider this season, Nakagami’s guidance has been invaluable. Chantra also feels a sense of camaraderie with his friend, Ai Ogura, who is also making the leap from Moto2 to MotoGP with Trackhouse. Together, they are navigating the challenges of their new journey in the premier class.
