Sato
Counter rotating engines are at an output disadvantage because of the increased components, but are better at suppressing wheelies. Considering tire performance at this time, even top-class riders like Marquez and Pedrosa would not be able to handle even more output, and would not be able to win. We determined it would be better to aim for a bike that the riders could feel comfortable with enthusiastically opening the throttle and challenging their limits.
Miyagi
I started with rain setting power output on the RC213V, and ended with its full output. The more power I could use, the more lively the RC213V behaved. I felt that everything - the engine, chassis, electronics - were balanced to perfection, realizing its ease of riding and handling.
“Easy to ride” means “predictable”
Miyagi
Combining what I felt riding the RC213V and what you said, Honda’s insistence on “easy to ride,” whether it be a production bike or a MotoGP machine, can be summed up in one word: “predictable.” Am I right?
Sato
Yes, you’re spot on. Predictability. If I do this, the bike will do that. This is what we aim to achieve. A bike that does precisely what you want it to. A bike that doesn’t suddenly reject the rider, even when it goes beyond its limits. This is the kind of bike that a rider can really excel on.
Miyagi
It’s fun when you try out something, and the bike responds. You gain a more and more positive attitude. You can’t set lap records having doubts about the bike you ride. If you can, on the other hand, predict what the bike will do, you can experiment, improve, and become creative with your inspirations. This positive loop is essential in winning races.
Sato
Honda riders, including Marquez and Pedrosa, have flamboyant riding styles. They slide the rear, they lose balance, but still they don’t fall. That’s because they can predict what the bike will do. They even do things on purpose, because they will be able to go even faster.
Miyagi
I couldn’t get the RC213V to do any of that. Still, I was able to plan ahead at the speeds I felt comfortable with. I could judge what was within my limits to react if required, and what I shouldn’t do.
Sato
I think the electronic control on the CBR1000RR is a good example. It finely controls power output according to throttle operation, for example. It doesn’t thump down when suppressing a wheelie, but reacts in a manner that won’t scare the rider. That’s why the rider can ride more enthusiastically, and can judge what to do, or not to do. The electronic control for a MotoGP bike isn’t special, or specifically tuned in a particular direction, but is common to what Honda wants to develop.
Miyagi
Feeling the joy of riding. Experimenting at your own level, and developing as a rider through the joy of doing something new, and gaining experiences. I think what I felt on the RC213V today is precisely what many riders have experienced on the CBR1000RR.
Sato
You said you had fun on the RC213V. That is exactly what we wanted you to feel, so I’m truly relieved. I don’t know if MotoGP riders always have fun on the RC213V, of course, but it’s something that is vital when placing the rider’s feelings at the center of development. We’re passionate about continuing to pursue the ultimate in ease of riding and fun.
Miyagi
I’m looking forward to it. Thank you for your time.
