Marquez digs into Honda's World Superbike data for Thailand debut

Marc Marquez says he’ll dig into Honda’s World Superbike data as part of his plan to get up to speed at the new Buriram circuit ahead of the Thailand MotoGP test.

The reigning MotoGP world champion will join his rivals on track in Thailand for the second official pre-season test this weekend as the Buriram circuit makes its MotoGP debut ahead of its maiden race weekend in early October.

The Repsol Honda rider has completed a familiarisation lap of the new MotoGP track on a scooter and says a key preparation tool has been reviewing the data compiled by the factory Honda World Superbike squad at the Thai circuit. The production-based series made its debut at the circuit three years ago and provided an important test on the track’s capabilities of hosting MotoGP.

Marquez feels assessing Honda's current data and getting gearbox settings spot on will be vital for a productive three-day test in Thailand with his Repsol Honda RC213V.

“The most important thing is to do good work with the team as we analyse the data we have, including that from World Superbike, so we can try to start with good base,” Marquez said. “Especially the gearbox setting, because if you’re very far off with that, it takes a long time to recover. We’ll see. I’m eager to get on my bike tomorrow and get started.

“Today we did a lap on a scooter, which of course is very different from our bike, so to get a real impression is difficult. Still, all in all, I like it based on what I saw.

“Many people compare this place to Malaysia, but while it’s true that it’s definitely hot here, it’s also different, with a different type of humidity.

“It’s a short track, fast in some areas like the two straights that require good acceleration, but in the middle there’s a tight, technical part that I expect to like. Anyway, tomorrow we’ll see what it’s really like.”