HRC Test Rider Casey StonerCasey Stoner Honda RC213V Testing NewsThe Australian Casey Stoner, who retired from motorcycle racing at the conclusion of the 2012 MotoGP Championship, wrapped up another test for HRC, Honda reported Wednesday.
During the three-day test at Sportsland Sugo in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, Stoner continued the Honda testing program for the 2013 RC213V prototype that current Repsol Honda riders Dani Pedrosa and Marc Marquez use in 2013 MotoGP, and the 2014 RC213V Production Racer.During the testing at the 3.737-kilometer circuit, which occurred under dry conditions except for some rain on the third day, the two-time MotoGP Champion tested a new frame and a new engine on the 2013 RC213V. Although he got some time in on the Production Racer, most of those testing duties were handled by another HRC test rider, Takumi Takahashi.Casey Stoner (HRC Test Rider) says: “It’s been quite a good three days and we got a lot of track time considering it gets dark and cold here quite quickly! We had a busy test schedule based on the current 2013 bike and an updated version of the 2014 bike.“Both have some very positive aspects and we’re just trying to get a better understanding of them. It was a little tricky to get a true feeling here in Sugo as we had no comparison ‒with it being the first time we’ve ridden here. All in all it was a good test and the first time we’ve not been interrupted by rain!”
This week, Senior Editor Nic de Sena rides the all new Ducati Monster. Big changes have been made by Ducati–has the company ruined the considerable heritage of the iconic Monster–or are the changes worth it? In the second part of the show, we chat with Nick Ienatsch, Founder and Head Instructor at the Yamaha Champions Riding School. He says: “We aim to change your riding life by introducing you to Champions Habits: The techniques, approaches, skills, and the mindsets of the best riders in the world. These Champions Habits are the foundation of safety and consistency to whatever speed you ride, in any venue on any bike. Street riders, this is just as much for you as track riders. The best way to make safe riders is to make good riders.“ We hope you enjoy this episode!
