LCR Honda Unveils 2025 MotoGP Bikes in Bangkok
Honda’s satellite team, LCR, made a splash in Bangkok on Saturday with the unveiling of their 2025 MotoGP bikes, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the team and its riders. Following the conclusion of the intense Sepang MotoGP test on Friday, Johann Zarco and rookie Somkiat Chantra flew to the Thai capital to showcase their bikes at the team’s launch event. The event, which is part of a broader celebration of the start of the 2025 season, highlights the team’s commitment to both experienced and emerging talents in the sport.
Dual Designs and Sponsorship Details
LCR has opted for a split design for its two Honda RC213V bikes, a strategy that has been consistent in recent years. Johann Zarco, a seasoned rider with a grand prix win under his belt, will continue to ride the white-and-green Castrol-backed machine. Castrol, which has been a long-standing partner of the French squad since the mid-2010s, has now extended its relationship to become the title sponsor of the factory HRC team in 2025. Meanwhile, Somkiat Chantra, Thailand’s first MotoGP rider, will take over the white-and-red Idemitsu-sponsored bike from Takaaki Nakagami, who retired at the end of the 2024 season. Idemitsu, a Japanese petroleum major, has been instrumental in promoting Asian talent in motorsport, having supported Nakagami’s six-year stint in MotoGP.
MotoGP Launch Event in Bangkok
With the LCR launch event concluding, all teams on the grid have now revealed their 2025 bikes, setting the stage for the first-ever MotoGP launch event in Bangkok. Scheduled for Sunday, this event promises to be a thrilling spectacle for motorcycle racing enthusiasts, offering the public a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with their favorite teams and riders. However, the celebrations will be slightly marred by the absence of reigning champion Jorge Martin, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Raul Fernandez, who had to return to Europe for surgeries after sustaining injuries in separate crashes on the first day of the Sepang test. Despite these setbacks, the remaining 21 riders and all 11 teams will be present, adding to the excitement and anticipation of the event.
Buriram Test: Final Preparation for the Season
The Bangkok launch event is followed by the two-day test at Buriram on February 12-13. This test represents the final opportunity for teams to hone their new bikes and strategies before the start of the 2025 MotoGP season at the same track in March. Buriram, known for its challenging circuit, will provide a crucial platform for teams to identify and rectify any remaining issues, ensuring that they are in optimal form for the season opener. The proximity of the test to the Thai Grand Prix also offers a strategic advantage, allowing teams to familiarize themselves with the track conditions and make necessary adjustments.
LCR’s Hopes for 2025
LCR’s performance in 2025 will largely depend on Honda’s ability to improve the RC213V bike and close the gap to its European rivals, particularly Yamaha. In 2024, LCR comfortably outscored the factory HRC squad to finish 10th in the teams’ standings. This success was driven by the consistency and skill of Johann Zarco and Takaaki Nakagami, who collectively accumulated more points than Joan Mir and Luca Marini. Zarco, in particular, achieved Honda’s best individual result last year, finishing eighth in the Thai Grand Prix. His experience and track record make him a key asset for the team as they look to build on their recent successes.
Somkiat Chantra: A New Hope for Thailand
Somkiat Chantra, making his debut in MotoGP, brings a fresh perspective and a lot of excitement to the LCR Honda team. As Thailand’s first MotoGP rider, Chantra’s presence on the grid is a significant milestone for the country and a testament to the long-term investment in Asian talent by sponsors like Idemitsu. Chantra’s journey from the lower categories to the premier class is a story of perseverance and dedication, and he is eager to prove his worth in the highly competitive environment of MotoGP. The team and its supporters are hopeful that Chantra will make a strong impact in his rookie season, contributing to LCR’s overall success and inspiring the next generation of Thai motorcycle racers.
Closing Thoughts
The 2025 MotoGP season is shaping up to be an exciting and competitive year, with all teams and riders now fully prepared and eager to hit the track. LCR Honda’s launch event in Bangkok not only showcased their bikes but also highlighted the team’s strategic partnerships and the diverse talent they are bringing to the grid. With a blend of experienced riders like Johann Zarco and fresh talents like Somkiat Chantra, LCR Honda is poised to make a strong showing in the upcoming season. The events in Bangkok set the stage for the final test at Buriram, where the teams will put the finishing touches on their bikes and strategies before the thrilling start of the 2025 MotoGP season in March.
