As the MotoGP season progresses, anticipation builds for the upcoming race at Balaton Park in Hungary, a circuit that hasn’t hosted the event since 1992. The Ducati team, including riders such as Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia, recently tested the track on Panigale V4S bikes, sharing their insights on the challenging layout. Michele Pirro, a seasoned Ducati test rider and V4S developer, is among those who have weighed in with their feedback.
Pirro commended the efforts to prepare Balaton Park for MotoGP and Superbike competitions, noting significant improvements to the asphalt following tests in June. The unique characteristics of the circuit, particularly its demanding sections like turns 2 and 3, have captured the attention of riders. Pirro highlighted the need for caution, citing a past accident in the Superbike category as a reminder of the track’s challenges.
Contrary to WSBK star Alvaro Bautista’s assertion that MotoGP riders might not require sixth gear due to the circuit’s layout, Pirro dismissed this claim based on his experience in both series. He emphasized the adaptability of MotoGP riders in adjusting gear ratios to suit different tracks, emphasizing the ample room for maneuvering in MotoGP compared to WSBK. Pirro confidently stated that riders would indeed reach sixth gear at Balaton Park, albeit at lower speeds.
While Bagnaia showed promising speed during the tests, Pirro cautioned against drawing premature conclusions, citing various factors like track conditions and tire choices that influence performance. He advised against comparing lap times with other riders, emphasizing the unique variables at play during testing sessions.
As the Hungarian Grand Prix approaches, the excitement among fans and teams continues to grow. The prospect of MotoGP returning to Balaton Park after decades adds a layer of intrigue to the competition, with riders gearing up to tackle the technical challenges posed by the circuit.
With the Ducati team actively preparing for the upcoming race, the insights shared by Pirro and other riders offer a glimpse into the strategic considerations and meticulous planning that go into competing at a new circuit. As the MotoGP season unfolds, the performance at Balaton Park promises to be a captivating chapter in the ongoing saga of high-speed racing and skillful maneuvering.
📰 Related Articles
- Test Riders Praise Safety and Challenges at Balaton Park
- Young MotoGP Talent Fermin Aldeguer Eyes Ducati Factory Team
- Toprak Razgatlioglu’s MotoGP Move Sparks Excitement Among Riders
- Tech3 Eyes Ducati: Potential Shift in MotoGP Manufacturer Partnerships
- Pedro Acosta Eyes Ducati Amid MotoGP Team Shuffle