Johann Zarco's tests at Jerez were uneventful: "The rider makes the difference through symbiosis with his machine."

In the aftermath of an intense Spanish Grand Prix, which Johann Zarco finished in seventh place, the Jerez circuit hosted the official tests of the MotoGPThe first of the season. In the Honda camp, the focus wasn't on major technical revolutions, unlike many other teams testing aerodynamic innovations, but rather on fine-tuning the existing machine. Johann Zarco finished the session in ninth place, ahead of his teammate Diogo Moreira, who was thirteenth.

« During testing, it's difficult to draw conclusions because you never know the wear on other riders' tires. That's why yesterday's opportunity—starting in second position and staying with the leaders for as long as possible—was the best way to analyze the gap between the bikes. he insisted to the media present at the scene, including AUTOhebdo. We need to improve our tire management over the long term, because yesterday I lost most of my lead in the last four laps. »

Lacking new aerodynamic parts, with the Japanese factory's development now projected for the 2027 cycle, or engine – only Yamaha, a D-tier manufacturer, is not blocked by the engine freeze – the LCR rider has focused on symbiosis with his machine.

« For me, it simplifies the work [not introducing any changes]. Being able to focus solely on the settings and riding style allows for greater clarity, both mentally and physically. The physical sensations remain constant. With new parts, even if they work well, there's always an adjustment period., explained number 5. I remain convinced that the rider can make a real difference when they are in perfect harmony with their machine. This year, we have the perfect opportunity to refine that feeling. It will be invaluable, even for next year. It allows us to realize that meticulous preparation and a good feel are sometimes worth more than a new swingarm, for example. »

The tests were therefore conclusive. Rather than stringing together laps, we focused on shorter outings to maximize setup testing. With no new parts to try, as HRC's development is already planned for 2027, we prioritized optimization. Adjusting your riding style to the bike's configuration is, in any case, an exercise that yields significant results. »

Off to the French Grand Prix at Le Mans

The engineers at LCR Honda are therefore leaving with a solid database to analyze before the next deadline. The weekend's fatigue is setting in. It wasn't easy to precisely perceive the impact of each setup change, but we at least gathered a huge amount of data for the engineers.he was happy. They will be able to analyze all of this from here Le Mans »

Now focused on the French Grand Prix scheduled for May 8-10 at the Bugatti circuit, Johann Zarco is eagerly anticipating this home race, of which he is the most recent winner. Our schedule is already ready for Monday. Zarco slipped in, whose schedule looks busy. It's going to be a great weekend. In any case, seeing the fans again after what we experienced last year will be fantastic. »

The Le Mans circuit, with its stop-and-go profile, could also mask the current shortcomings of the RC213V. Based on what we saw in Jerez, it seems we are having difficulties in the fast corners. " recalls the Cannes native. An encouraging prospect for those who harbor hopes of seeing the Frenchman fight at the forefront again on home soil.

Around 2027:

While the European tour has only just begun, attention is already turning to the revolution planned for next season and the future machines, lighter and devoid of certain aerodynamic appendages. I'm curious to see how powerful the bike will be [next year]. It might be a bit lighter, with different tires. he anticipated. I think we'll have excellent feeling entering the corners, but the drop in top speed could change things."

Before switching to more streamlined machines, the Frenchman is savoring the last moments of a technological era whose performance will soon be nothing but a memory. This year, I'm taking advantage of every moment I can reach 350 km/h. Johann Zarco was amused, already anticipating the lack of certain technical advantages. It is true that for the acceleration and stability of the machine, the ride height corrector is a real plus »

Interview by Luca Bartolomeo, in Jerez (Spain).

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