The latest episode of the Paddock Pass Podcast is out, and after a week of testing at Jerez over four different classes of bikes, Steve English, Neil Morrison, and David Emmett get together to discuss what happened, who brought what, and what it all means for the 2019 season.
We start first with a rundown of how the various factories fared in the MotoGP test, starting with Yamaha, and their development dilemma, and the very different opinions which Valentino Rossi and Maverick Viñales have of the 2019 Yamaha M1. We then move on to discuss Ducati, and the myriad tricks Gigi Dall'Igna has up his sleeve, including the return of the torque arm for the rear brake and aerodynamic additions to the rear seat.
We talk about Honda and Suzuki, how both of those brands look to be in good shape, with Marc Marquez able to run the medium front tire, and Joan Mir showing real promise alongside Alex Rins. Then we discuss Aprilia and KTM, and how those two factories appear to be struggling, and how they might be able to fix their problems.
We also take a look at the WorldSBK test, with our first chance to take a look at the Ducati Panigale V4R, how Kawasaki fared (and whether anyone can stop Jonathan Rea), and Yamaha, now they have expanded to four riders, with Marco Melandri and Sandro Cortese joining the GRT Yamaha squad.
We round off with a look at Moto2, and how the Triumph engine has changed the class, and why KTM seem to be in a lot of trouble compared to Kalex. And finally, a few thoughts on the MotoE championship, whether the racing is going to be any good, and what this means for the future of motorcycle racing.
As part of this show, we have a separate special show for our Patreon backers, featuring Valentino Rossi and Maverick Viñales. In the Yamaha special, you can hear Rossi and Viñales share their thoughts with the media on the two days of testing at Jerez, and how they see the development of the 2019 M1. If you want to hear this, sign up as a Patron and support the Paddock Pass Podcast, and help us improve the show.
Enjoy the show!
If you don't want to miss out on these episodes as they are released, make sure you follow The Paddock Pass Podcast on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to it on Apple Podcasts or Soundcloud. If you do use Apple Podcasts, please remember to rate the show and leave a review, as this helps other MotoGP fans find it. We now also have a Patreon, where you can support the show financially, and get access to exclusive content, such as rider interviews, debriefs, and more. Enjoy the show!
