The test at Sepang last week was the sole time LCR Honda competitor Randy de Puniet took to the circuit on the 2010 version of the RC212V prototype, the feedback from the squad confirmed much important data was received.

De Puniet worked on the fresh machine along with a variety of settings, including chassis and suspension modifications.

LCR Honda Team Manager Lucio Cecchinello gives his ideas on the new engine after Sepang.

“It has been a positive development that Honda has changed their policy. We have a bike that is completely new and we are working a lot because it is more complicated than last season,” begins Cecchinello.

“The bike is a work of art; it is very meticulous in every detail and has many possibilities for adjustment. It has a new software management programme for the traction control system and another set of parameters for fuel consumption etc, which are also types of software that are actually very complicated. I think that the engineers will have fun!”

Cecchinello adds: “The bike is very different, because it is shorter and the weight distribution is different. It has transferred much of the weight to the rear to gain traction, and the centre of gravity is also higher. Right now it is giving us a lot of work because we must find the correct setting for Randy.”

The next test is due on February 24-26 at Sepang once more, Cecchinello and his squad have much to do in between.

“We’ll continue working, and also try to resolve some problems with ‘chatter’ that we have found unexpectedly and for the first time whilst working with a Honda. So the work continues with the fine tuning part of the process as a basis for further benefits.”