During recent private testing at the Brno circuit, Yamaha’s new MotoGP V4 engine prototype was recorded to be approximately two seconds slower per lap compared to the manufacturer’s current inline-four machine, according to factory rider Alex Rins. The testing took place last week with participation from Yamaha’s principal riders and test team members as part of ongoing development efforts.
Details of the Brno Private Testing Session
The Brno test involved Alex Rins and Pramac Yamaha’s Miguel Oliveira, alongside two official Yamaha test riders, Augusto Fernandez and Andrea Dovizioso, who focused on evaluating the V4 engine project. Since Suzuki’s recent exit from MotoGP, Yamaha remains the sole factory team still utilizing an inline-four engine on their race bikes, while actively exploring the potential of a V4 configuration that they have been developing since the previous year.
During the testing, Rins observed the new bike closely, even sharing a video on social media of Fernandez on track, which was subsequently taken down by Yamaha management. Speaking at the Sachsenring, Rins shared his enthusiasm and frustration regarding the testing opportunities.
It’s inevitable – and you can’t even imagine how hard I tried to get them to let me test the bike. And they told me, ‘No way’,
he said at the Sachsenring, laughing.
He also commented,
I don’t know if I can say it, but what I saw is that [the V4] is very good. As is normal, in such a new project there are always things to test. They [told me off] because I uploaded a video of Augusto going out on track, and they made me delete it.
Rins’ Impressions and Lap Time Comparisons
Alex Rins admitted to being impressed by the V4 during their initial runs, despite limited data due to the newness of the bike. He shared insights into the time differences between the current inline-four machine and the V4 prototype.
What I can tell you is that I was riding behind Augusto in the practice starts we did, and I was surprised,
he admitted.
When asked about lap times, Rins said,
I did 1m52.7s with my bike and I think they – Augusto – managed to lap in 1m54.8s or 1m54.7s,
indicating a rough two-second gap between the two machines.
However, Rins suggested the actual difference might be smaller, considering the limited track time and lack of optimal tire runs for the V4.
It’s not really two seconds, it’s less. I did 70 laps the first day and 40 the second. I think they did 30 laps between the two riders over the two days because they had to spend a lot of time stopped, assembling and disassembling things.
Quartararo Awaits His Turn on the V4 Prototype
Rins’ teammate Fabio Quartararo was also questioned about the new engine during the German Grand Prix weekend but refrained from commenting until he has personally tested the V4 bike. His debut ride on the machine is anticipated sometime in September, likely at Misano.
I will test it around September, I think at Misano,
Quartararo stated, adding,
The comments are positive, but until I test the bike, it’s just the engineers telling me things. I can’t really feel the potential until I test it.
Rins Values Preparation Ahead of the Czech GP Return
Reflecting on the recent Brno test, Rins expressed optimism about the opportunity and highlighted the track’s qualities as Yamaha prepares for MotoGP’s return to the Czech Republic. The Brno circuit has not hosted a MotoGP race since 2020, and the resurfacing adds a new challenge for teams and riders.
They gave me the option to do the test, and I didn’t hesitate for a second,
Rins said.
He further described the circuit’s characteristics, saying,
Because first of all, it’s a circuit I like, a real MotoGP track, old-school, one with speed, connected corners and hills. And we haven’t been on it since 2020. It also has new asphalt. I really enjoyed it. The track was quite good, with a lot of grip.
Implications for Yamaha’s Future in MotoGP
The ongoing development of Yamaha’s V4 engine reflects the brand’s determination to stay competitive in a changing MotoGP landscape, especially after Suzuki’s departure. Although the initial testing showed a notable time deficit compared to the current inline-four bike, the limited laps and developmental status of the new engine suggest there is room for improvement. Riders like Rins and Quartararo, who have extensive experience with Yamaha machinery, are expected to provide valuable feedback when testing resumes.
Yamaha’s focus on refining the V4 engine aligns with broader efforts to evolve its race strategy and technology in pursuit of future success, particularly at tracks demanding a balance of speed and handling like Brno. The data gathered from recent and upcoming tests will be pivotal in shaping the competitiveness of Yamaha’s MotoGP machines in the seasons ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
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A. The unfortunate truth is that entertainment usually sells more than sports, and MotoGP wants to benefit from this trend. However, MotoGP lacks personalities to make the sport dramatic and exciting.
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