Casey Stoner, former double MotoGP Champion completed the provate Honda test at Sepang on Saturday. Stoner spent time on both 2014 and 2015 RC213V machines and did a comparison and analysis of new parts. Sepang marked Stoner’s first HRC test outside of Japan. Stoner has tested ccasionally for Honda since his retirement from racing at the end of 2012.
“Overall it’s been a good test, very positive and we got a lot done!” Stoner said. “On the first day we worked on the base setup and tested some small things before the rain arrived and we had to stop.
“Then on day two I spent a lot of time doing a back-to-back chassis comparison from last year’s bike to this year’s and I also tested different variations of the chassis. Brembo brought some new aluminium callipers for us to try and Honda had several other test items which we managed to get through before the rain came once again.
“On the final day we confirmed some feelings from yesterday and tried a few electronic packages as well as some different suspension.”
On the final afternoon, HRC engineers asked Stoner to take out a few laps on the Suzuka 8 Hour CBR1000RR Superbike and Stoner gave his feedback.
“Riding the CBR was very different, I’ve never really ridden that kind of bike, the shifting, riding position, engine power, weight characteristic etc was quite difficult and took some getting used to,” said the 29-year-old. “After a few exits I had more of an understanding and was able to give some feedback. In general it was a lot of fun and I enjoyed being able to feel the rear of the bike step out!”
Stoner’s Repsol Honda replacement and current reigning double champion Marc Marquez will be in Sepang for their opening test from February 4th to 7th.
