Like most of the MotoGP team debuts that we see ahead of the Qatar preseason test, what is offered as a first look at the 2019 racing platform is really more like the 2018 bike with next year’s livery.
That doesn’t make the sight any less fantastic though, as detailed photos of these apex predators is always a treat.
Next up on our list from the MotoGP paddock is the ECSTAR Suzuki squad (check out Ducati and Honda too), which includes Alex Rins and Joan Mir.
Not much changes for the livery in the 2019 season, though we do see Suzuki has updated the fairings a touch. The tail section has a more dramatic drop as it comes to a point, and the vents on the front fairing have slightly different shapes than what was shown to us in 2018.
Of course, the most obvious difference between the two unveilings is the aerodynamics package, which progressed quite a bit during the 2018 MotoGP season.
While we expect the entire package to continue developing, Suzuki is without its concessions for the 2019 season. However, that seems to matter not.
A new more powerful engine is in the platform, and so far the feedback has been very positive about the revised GSX-RR race bike – more power, but still great handling.
Expect to see the ECSTAR Suzuki closer to the front of the pack, if not a race-winner in 2019…especially if the woes at Yamaha continue.
Alex Rins has shown himself to be very competitive on the Suzuki now, and the racing potential for Joan Mir is certainly there.
Will 2019 be Suzuki’s year? That doesn’t seem to likely, but the Japanese brand is on an upward trajectory, and more forward momentum – a handful of race wins – could put them in contention for the 2020 title. Very exciting times, indeed.
Comments