LCR Honda rider Johann Zarco insists he is “not panicking” despite a noticeable dip in results since receiving Honda’s upgraded RC213V from the Japanese Grand Prix onwards.
Honda’s major updates after the summer break showed immediate promise, with Joan Mir finishing third at Motegi. Zarco, however, has struggled to replicate that pace. He managed ninth in Japan and could only finish 12th in Indonesia after a clutch issue, while Luca Marini secured fifth on the factory bike.
Zarco explained that the set-up from the pre-upgraded bike had given him confidence, but adapting his style to the new package has been difficult.
“We will find a new base with the team to work with this new bike. I was improving a lot with the old bike, but with the new one I can’t get the advantage I had before. That’s why we need to rebuild a base to give me the confidence again. Once it’s back, I’ll be fast,” he said.
He also detailed the clutch issue that hampered his Indonesian GP:
“My start was ok, but the clutch was spinning from the first to the fourth lap. I tried to manage it manually, but it didn’t help much. Once it settled, I was already near the back. Still, I collected valuable information on the bike and salvaged points.”
Despite setbacks, Zarco remains optimistic, highlighting the importance of open discussions with Honda and his team.
