Toprak Razgatlioglu, the 2021 Superbike World Champion, recently had his first experience with the BMW M 1000 RR as part of the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK team. Despite a mechanical issue after only two laps, Razgatlioglu’s initial impressions were extremely positive, marked by a bright smile and enthusiasm.
Razgatlioglu’s test was initially scheduled for December 4, but was moved to Sunday due to unpredictable weather conditions. The rider completed half a day of testing, managing to do 11 laps. He expressed his excitement about finally riding the BMW, mentioning the strong engine braking of the bike and the warm atmosphere within the team.
He mentioned the need to adapt his setup to the BMW, as it is different from his previous bike. Razgatlioglu encountered an oil issue that caused some delay, but his last outing was very positive, allowing him to learn more about the bike’s characteristics.
Razgatlioglu was particularly impressed with the power of the BMW, especially coming out of the last corner and uphill, where the bike continued to accelerate. He had to adjust his braking style for the first corner and navigate through an oil spill on the track, making Turn 1 a challenge. However, he found that each lap helped him better understand the bike and its traction. He was pleased with the improved throttle connection and is looking forward to trying out many new parts on the bike.
‘First, I say: finally! We were waiting for my contract to end but, finally, I am riding a BMW. For me, it is very positive, I like strong braking, but the engine brake was working very well. Within the team, I feel very good and everyone is very nice, so I am happy about that. The first day is completed, but I think the total was only 11 laps, but it was important to get an idea. The first lap was very good and positive’, said before continuing his analysis:
– We tried to set up my configuration, but today we didn’t start because the bike wasn’t ready. We used half a day from 12pm. We had a problem and everyone said it was the engine, but it was actually an oil issue. I lost time because of that, but my last outing was very positive, as I did eight laps. I learned to use the bike, because this one and my old one are different. I am very happy because with each lap I am improving and learning the bike’s style. I need my style, but in slow corners I feel better now.
This test marks a new chapter in Razgatlioglu’s career, with the transition to his third manufacturer in WorldSBK, after previously racing with Kawasaki and Yamaha. His initial reactions suggest a promising start with BMW and potential for strong performances in the upcoming season.
‘In the first lap, I was just smiling’, summarized Razgatlioglu, still smiling, and continued: ‘Especially on the exit of the corner. I know my old bike very well after 4 years, but on the exit of the last corner I felt an unbelievable power and, on the uphill, I was still going. This bike is getting faster and faster. I had to adjust the braking in the first corner because I was trying to do it like before, but I stopped too much. Also, after the issue in Turn 1, there was oil on the left side of the track, so we used the middle. It wasn’t easy for me to turn in Turn 1. Anyway, with each lap I was improving, understanding the bike and the traction. The throttle connection is much better. I am very happy and we have many parts to try out’.
