How Joan Mir compensates for Honda's braking weaknesses

Throughout the preseason MotoGP In 2026, Johann Zarco has consistently praised the potential of his new Honda. The Japanese manufacturer has indeed made significant progress over the winter and can start the season aiming for consistent top-10 finishes, something that was unattainable at the beginning of last season.

Nevertheless, the Frenchman is still struggling to push the RC213V to its limits and translate its potential into results. The Thai Grand Prix allowed him to identify some areas for improvement, with his self-analysis highlighting a weakness in braking.

After spending a few laps behind Joan Mir, whose braking technique is completely different, the number 5 driver re-evaluated his approach. The Cannes native has never been the hardest braker on the grid, but it's precisely this aspect of his riding that he will now focus on.

However, Johann Zarco will not be copying his HRC teammate. While he acknowledges the Spaniard's superiority when it comes to stopping the bike, he refuses to adopt his technique.

Johann Zarco chooses patience

"I think Joan Mir piloted very well, he admitted after the Sprint of the MotoGP Thailand Grand Prix. Since qualifying, he's had a good feel for braking, and that helps him when he has to fight in the race. If you know how to brake, you make the difference. But I don't want to adopt his braking technique, because for me it's not the best; I want to find another solution.

The Honda remains a tricky bike to ride, but Mir seems to have found a way to compensate for some of the machine's overall performance deficit by riding aggressively. For Johann Zarco, the 2020 world champion's technique is too uncertain. "He brakes very, very hard," He continues. He lifts the motorcycle. Then he puts it back on the ground and brakes in three stages. For me, that's too unpredictable. He makes the motorcycle work better this way. He doesn't lock it up, he shakes it to make it react, and it works. It bothers me; I need to find other solutions.

This self-reflection led to another questioning. In Thailand, Johann Zarco regretted his riding style, which he felt was more focused on qualifying efficiency than on maximizing the bike's potential in the race. He therefore aims to evolve this style. While he hasn't yet identified the solution he will adopt, he wants to avoid rushing things. Where his impatience has led him astray in the past, he will take the time to research and implement solutions that suit him, without skipping any steps.

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