Yamaha has taken a daring step by retiring its renowned inline-four engine in favor of a new V4 configuration, thrusting Alex Rins into the role of lead test rider for this significant change. Rins, who previously raced with Suzuki and Honda, recently completed several test runs at Misano that revealed both promising features and serious challenges with the V4 engine’s performance.
Promising Handling but Noticeable Time Deficits
During the Misano trials, Alex Rins expressed cautious approval of the V4-powered bike’s dynamics. He noted,
“I am quite happy with the operation of the bike. It has a lot of positive points.”
Particularly, Rins praised the braking system, adding,
“In terms of braking, I would choose the V4… I can reduce my speed better and go more laterally in corners with more speed.”
These comments highlight the improved control the new engine offers in corners, a crucial aspect for Yamaha’s traditional strengths.
However, despite these positives, Rins revealed a troubling lap time gap: the current M1 with the inline-four engine recorded a lap of 1’31”2, while the V4 lagged behind by nearly a full second at 1’32”1. This difference raises serious doubts about the V4’s ability to compete at the highest level. Beyond lap times, the new engine’s peak velocity also appears compromised. Rins conceded,
“We are lacking a bit of power at the moment… Even on television, it could be seen that the V4 was 3 or 4 km/h slower.”
V4 Engine Forcing a New Riding Style, Challenging Yamaha’s DNA
Yamaha’s identity has traditionally revolved around superior cornering speed and fluid bike behavior. According to Rins, this new V4 instrument requires a dramatically different approach:
Image of: Alex Rins
“The DNA of Yamaha is cornering speed… this bike forces you to ride differently because you need more Stop & Go.”
This shift disrupts the legacy that fans and experts associate with Yamaha’s M1, creating uncertainty about whether the team can maintain its competitive edge.
Rins Reflects on Past Experiences and Current Uncertainties
Drawing from his previous tenure with Honda’s V4 machines, Rins acknowledged some similarities in engine acceleration but recognized the difficulty of making direct comparisons. He explained,
“For a rider, it is very difficult to make a comparison… but the way the engine accelerates is very similar.”
He also noted that external factors like weather, tire choices, and bike setup complicate any straightforward evaluation of performance differences.
Despite the setbacks, Rins remains somewhat optimistic about the potential for development. He admitted,
“A new bike is always less performing… We were quite far off… But there were so many positive points.”
While the V4’s readiness for the upcoming MotoGPseason has yet to be confirmed, Rins emphasized that the overall test at Misano showed encouraging signs.
High Stakes and an Uncertain Road Ahead for Yamaha’s V4 Project
The future of Yamaha’s V4 engine hangs in the balance, with a critical need to close the power gap and improve lap times before it can be deemed competitive. Rins starkly summarized the situation:
“When I go faster, I will say yes.”
Until that milestone is reached, the risk remains that this innovative machine will falter as an overhyped prototype with limited impact on the championship.
As Yamaha aims for a resurgence by 2026, Rins’ experience at this pivotal junction underlines the enormous challenges involved in reshaping the brand’s MotoGP fate. His alarm signals not only technical hurdles but also the pressure on the team and rider alike to adapt swiftly and successfully to this new V4 era.
