During recent testing at Misano, Alex Rins took Yamaha’s latest V4 MotoGP bike prototype for a trial run, revealing surprising capabilities that could reshape the manufacturer’s competitive edge. Highlighting the bike’s potential contrasted with current drawbacks, Rins underscored areas needing improvement while expressing cautious optimism about Yamaha’s new machine.
After riding the current M1 model equipped with an inline-four engine, the 29-year-old Catalan rider noted a marked difference when switching to the V4. He expressed enthusiasm about the bike’s overall handling and braking, signaling significant advantages over Yamaha’s traditional four-cylinder setup. The Yamaha V4 MotoGP bike’s ability to manage deceleration impressed Rins especially, noting improved consistency and predictability on rear brakes.
Detailed Comparison Points Between V4 and Inline-Four Yamaha Models
Rins provided a nuanced comparison between the two bikes, stating the V4 allowed him to brake more effectively and enter corners at higher speeds:
“When it comes to braking, I’d choose the V4. I was able to reduce speed better and enter corners with more velocity.”
This capability is critical in MotoGP where every fraction of a second can determine race outcomes. The enhanced rear braking reliability complements Yamaha fans’ hopes for a more competitive future.
Despite these advantages, Rins candidly admitted that the Yamaha V4 currently trails the existing M1 model by about 3-4 km/h in outright speed, marking power as a key area for development. Acknowledging the unfinished nature of the prototype, he tempered expectations:
“It’s too early to declare the new bike as the definitive answer.”
Still, he emphasized the inherent promise found in fresh machinery:
“But there’s a lot of potential here. A new bike typically offers better performance than one that’s been extensively developed.”
Rins Reflects on Past Experience and Riding Style Adjustments
Drawing on his previous experience with a V4 engine at LCR, Rins indicated the new Yamaha bike resembles prior models in terms of acceleration but remains difficult to compare due to varying conditions:
“For a rider, it’s hard to compare bikes due to many factors, including tires and weather.”
This acknowledgment underlines the complexity of evaluating prototype performance during early-stage testing.
Rins also touched on how the updated machine affects Yamaha’s traditional cornering characteristics. Known for its emphasis on agility, the Yamaha DNA remains intact, but adapting to the V4 demands a shift in rider technique. He explained,
“This bike feels quite lively. The DNA of Yamaha lies in cornering speed, and this model requires a different riding style, more Stop & Go.”
This evolution highlights Yamaha’s attempt to blend its hallmark traits with innovative engineering.
Prospects and Next Steps for Yamaha’s V4 Development
As anticipation mounts across the MotoGP paddock, Rins provided concrete lap time comparisons to illustrate the performance gap: “I lapped in 1’31”2 with the current M1 and 1’32”1 with the V4, so there’s still about a second difference.” He made clear that closing this gap remains vital and that approval hinges on future speed gains:
“Once I improve and go faster, I’ll say yes.”
The significance of this development phase extends beyond a single rider’s assessment; Yamaha’s future competitiveness in MotoGP could depend on successfully refining the V4’s power output and handling characteristics. As Rins and the Yamaha team prepare for upcoming challenges, the racing world remains eager to see whether the new V4 will become a frontrunner by the 2026 season.
The test at Misano marks only the beginning of a critical journey for Yamaha, a journey that may redefine its standing in an increasingly intense MotoGP landscape. Fans and competitors alike will be watching closely as engineering progress and rider feedback shape the next chapter of Yamaha’s MotoGP story.
I’ll Say Yes When It Goes Faster!
– Alex Rins, Rider
I’m quite happy with how the bike operates,
– Alex Rins, Rider
When it comes to braking, I’d choose the V4. I was able to reduce speed better and enter corners with more velocity.
– Alex Rins, Rider
We can use it more consistently and predictably,
– Alex Rins, Rider
It’s too early to declare the new bike as the definitive answer,
– Alex Rins, Rider
But there’s a lot of potential here. A new bike typically offers better performance than one that’s been extensively developed.
– Alex Rins, Rider
Improving maximum speed could lead to significant advancements,
– Alex Rins, Rider
For a rider, it’s hard to compare bikes due to many factors, including tires and weather,
– Alex Rins, Rider
This bike feels quite lively. The DNA of Yamaha lies in cornering speed, and this model requires a different riding style, more Stop & Go.
– Alex Rins, Rider
