Nakagami unveils 2018 MotoGP livery

Takaaki Nakagami received a special surprise during the Honda Thanks Day event at Motegi, when he was shown his 2018 MotoGP livery.

After six seasons and two race wins in Moto2, the Japanese is stepping up to the premier-class with LCR Honda.

"Honda, Idemitsu and LCR prepared this special surprise for me and the new livery is absolutely fabulous," Nakagami said of his 2018 colours. "I am sure that all the fans liked it too and it was nice to spend the day [at Motegi] with Marc, Dani and all the HRC riders."

Having now completed two test sessions on the RC213V, Nakagami said of his machine:

"The power is incredible. Every time I jump on my new bike I can not believe the potential. And the thing I like most is the seamless gearbox."

Nakagami made clear that he has his sights set on beating Moto2 rivals Franco Morbidelli and Thomas Luthi to the 2018 Rookie of the Year title and is enjoying life alongside experienced team-mate Cal Crutchlow.

"Great feeling with Cal. He has a lot of experience with the MotoGP machine. I think I’m very lucky to have him in the garage for next season. I will try to learn as much as possible from him. And he is also a very funny person."

Nakagami will next be on his LCR Honda during the official Sepang test at the end of January.