LCR Honda confident in Stefan Bradl’s MotoGP potential

LCR Honda boss Lucio Cecchinello believes Stefan Bradl is destined for a big future in MotoGP after the German impressed during the latest pre-season test in Sepang last week.

The reigning Moto2 world champion was ninth fastest at the end of a rain-hit three day test in Malaysia, but he was just over a second away from the best pace set by dominant Aussie Casey Stoner.

Bradl was quicker than factory Ducati duo Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden having quickly adapted to the RC213V 1000cc machine.

LCR Honda endured a torrid 2011 campaign with Spaniard Toni Elias struggling to even establish himself as a consistent top 10 finisher.

But team owner Cecchinello is confident results will be significantly better following Bradl’s move from the Moto2 series.

The Italian said: “Considering that everything is new, Stefan has done an impressive job. He has improved every day with his understanding of the bike. 

“We have to realise that it takes time to understand these bikes in MotoGP and we’ve seen this with riders like Andrea (Dovizioso), Cal Crutchlow and Hector Barbera. 

“You need to have a debut season to get some experience, but what I can see is that Stefan is a very intelligent rider with a very professional approach, especially considering his young age. I have a very positive feeling about his future in MotoGP.”