Yamaha turned heads in Tuesday’s official MotoGP test in Barcelona as it introduced a significantly overhauled version of the M1.
As the Japanese manufacturer revealed, further improvements have been made to the chassis, engine and the aerodynamics on the back of some promising updates at the end of the season.
The most striking and macroscopic change was the new front end, including a complete redesign of the wing that it raced in the latter part of the season.
Once again, it’s a triplane element, but with a changed centre of pressure. The aim is to increase the front downforce with three elements that are decidedly more arched.
The cantilevered part of the main element is already at the maximum value permitted by MotoGP regulations, so only the chord has changed, and is now increased to a gull-wing shape that is clearly accentuated.
The above image clearly shows the updated Yamaha M1 featuring a more protruding and cantilevered three-element front wing than the race-spec 2024 bike.
Interestingly, the engine air intake, which previously rested on the second spoiler, now features two carbon supports that extend to the first element and act as airflow carriers.
During their work in the wind tunnel, Yamaha engineers have also attempted to build a more efficient fairing, which is now more hollowed out.
Armed with the updated M1, factory rider Fabio Quartararo finished a strong second in the Barcelona test, four tenths down on pacesetter Alex Marquez of Gresini Ducati.
Team director Massimo Meregalli branded the test a success, saying Yamaha was able to exceed its own expectations as the results backed up the feedback provided by the riders.
The Japanese manufacturer was also able to collect additional data from the Barcelona test, as Pramac began work as its new satellite team after ending a two-decade relationship with Ducati.
