As the new MotoGP season nears, Ai Ogura has publicly voiced his dissatisfaction following the recent testing sessions at Sepang. Preparing for his second year in the premier class, Ogura’s candid remarks reveal concerns about his performance and the bike’s setup, highlighting issues just before the championship’s launch.
Challenges with Performance Gains and Lap Times
Sepang tests traditionally serve as a crucial stage for riders to fine-tune their machines and build momentum. However, Ogura’s experience diverged from this norm. He stated,
“I expected better. That’s why I am not particularly satisfied,”
referring to his inability to improve his lap times despite feeling more connected with the 2026 Aprilia RS-GP compared to the previous model. He added,
“It’s always about the rider and the bike. I expected to gain a few tenths of a second. But I couldn’t find that time,”
underscoring his frustration at being unable to make meaningful progress.
Struggles in High-Speed Corners Highlighted
Ogura also revealed a specific weakness in high-speed cornering, an essential skill in MotoGP racing. He noted,
“I’m particularly at a disadvantage in the fast corners. Bezzecchi can maintain a higher speed and lean the bike better at high velocity,”
illustrating the challenge he faces when compared to competitors like Marco Bezzecchi. This admission is particularly significant given Aprilia’s reputation for stability in long curves and braking zones, which are key performance areas in this highly competitive environment.
Implications for the Upcoming Season and Competitive Outlook
With the season opener fast approaching, Ogura’s outspoken feedback may prompt deeper discussions on how riders and teams address performance hurdles. His dissatisfaction raises questions about whether he can adapt quickly enough to overcome these difficulties or if struggles will persist as the championship unfolds. MotoGP followers and rivals alike will be paying close attention to his progress and potential breakthroughs during the coming races.
