During his first significant outing at the Buriram circuit in the 2026 MotoGP season, Toprak Razgatlioglu encountered unexpected difficulties that left him near the bottom of the timing sheets. The three-time WorldSBK champion, now part of the Yamaha Pramac team, finished second-to-last, over two seconds behind the leading riders. Instead of focusing on lap times, Razgatlioglu’s attention turned to a confounding technical issue that had never before troubled him throughout his career.
Struggles with Rear Tire Grip on Buriram’s Long Straights
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s switch to MotoGP has revealed the harsh realities of adapting to the Yamaha M1 and its unique handling characteristics. At Buriram’s fast and flowing straights, he experiences a troubling loss of rear tire grip during acceleration—even when the bike remains upright and balanced. This challenge is starkly different from what he encountered in Superbike racing, where such straight-line slipping is virtually unheard of.
I feel different sensations than I did in Sepang, but I’m just trying to adapt to this circuit. The last time I raced here was in 2019 with Superbike, but the significant difference for me lies not only in the bike but also in the tires, which are very different.
—Toprak Razgatlioglu, Yamaha Pramac Rider
This unusual sensation has disrupted Razgatlioglu’s confidence, making him question his usual riding instincts and techniques. He admitted,
This is the first time in my life that I’ve seen a motorcycle slip in a straight line. It feels very strange,
showing just how novel and baffling the experience is for him after multiple laps.
Adjusting to the Distinct Challenges of Michelin Tires
Previously accustomed to Pirelli tires in WorldSBK, Razgatlioglu now faces the challenge of mastering the Michelin tires used in MotoGP, which present a completely different set of demands. The Michelin compounds are sensitive to degradation and temperature changes, factors that play a significant role on Buriram’s hot and abrasive asphalt surface.
He acknowledged the challenge, saying,
I’m still trying to understand the Michelins, while the other riders seem to have them figured out.
The rear tire, in particular, remains a key problem area as its behavior changes dramatically under load. Razgatlioglu explained,
The biggest issue is the rear tire, which I still find very difficult to understand. Once it starts to slip, it just doesn’t stop.
Furthermore, the Turkish rider highlighted how tire wear affects more than just cornering. On this low-grip circuit, as the rear tire deteriorates, it begins to slip even on the straight sections. He described this as
very bizarre.
Ongoing Efforts to Optimize Motorcycle Setup for Better Performance
In addition to mastering tire dynamics, Razgatlioglu is also working on the physical setup of the Yamaha M1 to better fit his physiology and style. His team is evaluating changes to the handlebars and seat height in search of a more comfortable and effective riding position.
He shared,
I will go back to the handlebars. As for the seat, I’m still not sure. Tomorrow, I will try both, the higher and the lower options,
signaling that the bike setup process is still underway.
Interestingly, Razgatlioglu is currently more confident about the front tire. He reported,
The front tire isn’t my biggest problem; I’m managing it well now, I can feel it. It’s perfect on braking, but I don’t lean as much as the other riders,
suggesting cautious cornering tactics amid his adaptation process.
Maintaining Focus Amidst a Difficult Start
Despite his disappointing results, Razgatlioglu is approaching his MotoGP challenges with patience and determination. Rather than obsessing over immediate lap times, he remains focused on understanding the complex interactions between his bike and the Michelin tires.
He summarized his situation plainly:
Right now, the bike is functioning well, and it’s improving day by day. The biggest issue is the tires,
emphasizing that mastering tire behavior is crucial to his future success in MotoGP.
As the MotoGP weekend unfolds at Buriram, the spotlight remains on Toprak Razgatlioglu as he strives to convert his current struggles into a competitive edge, navigating the steep learning curve that lies ahead in this premier racing series.
