Yamaha is one of the least competitive constructors in MotoGP currently, occupying the last position in the Constructors’ Championship with three rounds to go. Three third places obtained by Fabio Quartararo are the best results so far, despite the progress made on the bike.
Diego Gubellini, head mechanic of the French rider, told Australian Motorcycle News: ‘From my point of view, our bike has improved compared to last year. The step we have taken, especially with the engine, is significant. But it’s not like we need to close the gap to the constructors. The difference in terms of power is not just a question of top speed or acceleration. It generates many side effects, such as aerodynamic performance’.
For Gubellini, there is no doubt that the influence of aerodynamics and the holeshot device on performance is such that, without them, the Yamaha YZR-M1 would be a strongly competitive bike: ‘For me, the main issue with aerodynamics and the holeshot device is that it can patch up the negative aspects of the bike’s concept. To put it simply: right now, if you remove all the wings and the holeshot device, the Yamaha instantly becomes a very good bike’.
