MotoGP switch confirmed for Rabat

One of the paddock’s worst kept secrets was confirmed today by Marc VDS with the team announcing that Tito Rabat will move into the premier class to ride a Honda RC213v. Rabat tested the bike on Monday at Aragon as a reward for winning the Moto2 title last year but with Michelin tyres on the bike it has given him an early taste of what to expect next year.

“The objective of my life was to, first of all, arrive to MotoGP and then to make results in the premier class,” said Rabat. “I know stepping up to MotoGP on the factory Honda RC213V isn’t going to be easy, but I have all the winter to prepare, to make sure I’m strong and ready for preseason testing. It’s going to be a steep learning curve, but the goal will be to improve step by step so that we’re ready for the first race in Qatar.

“The test at Aragon aboard the factory Honda RC213V was an incredible experience. The first time you ride this bike you just aren’t prepared for it. There is so much speed, so hard acceleration and the corners arrive far too early! To be honest, it was the best experience you can have on a bike. Once I’d adapted to the speed, the power and the carbon brakes I was able to understand a little more how the bike works and go a little faster. I would like to have ridden for longer but, unfortunately, they wanted to close the track!”