Takahashi “needs more time”

MotoGP Rookie Yuki Takahashi has a large learning process ahead of him to adjust to premier class riding -the horsepower at his disposal doubled and the competition even fiercer than what he has experienced in 250cc. The adaptation continued in Sepang last week, and the Japanese rider felt that steady progress was made at the Malaysian track.

Takahashi was fourteenth fastest over the course of the three-days in Asia, with a quickest time of 2’03.474. Riding the Scot Racing Honda, the 800cc newcomer was pleased with the steady steps forward taken with his new bike.

“It was really hard, but I tried to make the most of as much time as possible to get more confident with the Honda,” said Takahashi of the hot and humid test. “We have done a very good job and I’m beginning to have a quite clear idea how to set up this bike, even if I need more time to reach the real limits.”

The 24 year-old will compete in his first premier class race at this year’s season-opener in Qatar. Data from the Sepang test will be evaluated over the next month in preparation for a night test at the Losail Circuit, which takes place on March 1st-3rd.