Honda HRC reaffirm their advantage for the gruelling Suzuka 8 Hours

On Thursday, June 19, the second day of the official test sessions organized by Suzuka Circuit for the 46th edition of the 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship “Coca-Cola” Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race took place.

As with the first day, teams were divided into Groups A and B. Session 5 was held in the morning for 80 minutes per group, and Session 6 in the afternoon for 90 minutes per group. Under intense sunlight and extreme heat, riders continued to lap the circuit where track temperatures exceeded 60°C.

Honda HRC fielded Takumi Takahashi and newly confirmed Suzuka 8 Hours teammate Iker Lecuona, each completing their scheduled runs. In Session 5 (morning), Honda HRC placed second with a time of 2:06.372.

In Session 6 (afternoon), Lecuona, equipped with new tyres, recorded the only lap in the 2:05 range, topping the session with a time of 2:05.395. Seven other riders followed in the 2:06 range.

Lecuona’s time also topped the combined results of Sessions 5 and 6, showcasing Honda HRC’s strength. The top two riders were in the 2:05 range, followed closely by seven riders in the 2:06 range.

Team Manager Teruaki Matsubara commented:

“Despite a red flag interruption that forced us back to the pits mid-session, both riders managed long runs. Lecuona pushed at the end and broke into the 2:05 range. We’ll review the data and address the issues raised by Takahashi before the race.”

Takahashi, who holds high standards, said, “The machine isn’t in perfect condition,” and finished with a best time of 2:07.027.

Although track conditions differed from the previous joint test, Johann Zarco also recorded a lap in the 2:05 range.

Focusing on machine setup, Takahashi stated, “Time attack isn’t the priority right now. It’s about making the bike easier to ride.”

His ability to improve lap times is well recognised, and the speed of Honda HRC’s three riders reaffirmed their advantage for the gruelling Suzuka 8 Hours.