BMW improvises at the WSBK winter tests: New signing Toprak Razgatlioglu and teammate Michael van der Mark test the M1000RR in Valencia
The BMW factory team concluded the 2023 season with a final test in Spain. New signing Toprak Razgatlioglu and teammate Michael van der Mark moved from track to track over the past week and finally found good conditions in Valencia
Originally, one day in Portimao and then two days in Jerez were planned. In the end, the team traveled across the Iberian Peninsula and their unexpected and unplanned week of testing ended in Valencia. Toprak Razgatlioglu tried to improve his feeling for the BMW. Team colleague Michael van der Mark tested new developments.
“We haven’t really had any luck in the past few days,” said Razgatlioglu, referring to the weather. “It also started to rain in Valencia on Friday morning and the track was completely wet. But this track dries very quickly and we were able to ride again in the afternoon.”
“We improved a lot, especially in the last three stints. I really enjoy the BMW M1000RR,” reports Razgatlioglu. “We have made great progress, especially with the engine brake and the electronics. I’m getting to know the bike better with every lap.”
“But I’m now pretty familiar with it, can assess the grip and know how the bike reacts. That makes me very happy,” said a relieved Razgatlioglu. The switch from the Yamaha R1, which Razgatlioglu rode from 2020 to 2023, to the BMW M1000RR has been a success.
“I’m still learning, because it’s a completely different bike, but we worked very well, especially on the final day,” said a delighted Razgatlioglu. “Thanks to all the guys, because everyone is working really hard to give me a good bike. “
Michael van der Mark tests new BMW developments
Teammate Michael van der Mark decided not to test on a semi-wet track and only rode when it was really worthwhile. “It was really nice to come to Valencia. In the end we managed one and a half days,” noted the Dutchman.
“It rained again on Thursday evening, so Friday was a bit short. But it was really good for me to finally do a few laps. Finally, I worked with the test team and the test bike, which had a lot of new parts on it for next year,” reports Van der Mark.
“It was nice to do some longer runs with the bike and I think the guys have enough data now to work over the winter and get everything ready for the end of January,” says Van der Mark, looking ahead to the first test of the new year.
BMW will be supported in the development of the M1000RR from the new year by ex-Suzuki MotoGP test rider Sylvain Guintoli and ex-MotoGP regular Bradley Smith. Guintoli will also enrich the BMW works team in the World Endurance Championship and will fight for the EWC title together with Markus Reiterberger and Ilya Mikhalchik
