Honda is working on the Fireblade’s major weakness at the WSBK test in Jerez and seems more competitive than before after switching to Öhlins
WSBK 2025 is Honda’s sixth season after returning to the factory. Internally, the pressure is growing to finally deliver results. After a promising second half of the season last year and some top-6 results, as well as Iker Lecuona’s podium at Estoril, the form curve continues to point upwards. Honda made a positive impression at the test in Jerez.
HRC rider Xavi Vierge finished P7 in the standings. “It was two productive days of testing,” said the Spaniard, who had to do without teammate Iker Lecuona. Lecuona was injured in training, but according to team manager Jose Escamez, he should be ready for the next test in Portimao.
The most noticeable change for 2025 is the switch of suspension units. Honda is ending the experiment with Showa and returning to Öhlins. “It’s a big change,” notes Vierge. “On the positive side, this change will have a positive effect on our biggest weakness, traction. We think we can make a good step if we can find something more in that area.”
Vierge worked in Jerez with a new crew chief and rode in both dry and wet conditions with the new Öhlins suspension. “I’ve never ridden Öhlins in the wet before, so it was important to gain experience,” he said, explaining the Thursday session.
According to Xavi Vierge, the Honda Fireblade has only one weakness left
Vierge is quite satisfied with the development of the Honda. “We have found a good compromise for corner entry. We are really strong in this area. Now it’s about accelerating properly. That’s what we’re focusing on because we think that’s where there’s still the most potential,” reveals the former Grand Prix driver.
Vierge is relieved that Honda now only has to solve one specific problem instead of many small ones. Team manager Jose Escamez also appeared satisfied in Jerez. “We’re not happy yet, but it went pretty well,” sums up the HRC representative.
HRC explains switch to Öhlins: More performance and better feedback
The switch to Öhlins went smoothly, according to Escamez. “We have pretty quickly found a good way to continue improving,” he notes. “It will help us give the drivers a better feeling so that they can improve their lap times. There are some differences in the suspension elements used so far. It’s about recognizing the differences accurately.“
”The performance is a bit better. In addition, the drivers get better feedback. These are the reasons for the change,” says Escamez, who also emphasizes the importance of working on the electronics, which he still sees as a weakness.
