And that one race is coming right up mid month. And then there will be some "test" sessions and some practice before the new season begins in early March. Now is when any available rider or seat is news, as most contracts have been agreed to by now, but there is always some wrinkle that will likely show up and disturb the calm. The New Year is the beginning date for most of the new contracts and the ending date of the old ones. Contracts can be tricky, and this year most all of them are "up" for renewal . . . or not.
Johan Zarco finished the last race ahead of factory rider Jorge Lorenzo, on virtually the same bike. Lorenzo seems to be having some issues with the Honda, but I recall him having issues when the tires weren't working right, or there were mixed conditions on the track, or something else. Lorenzo likes something easier to ride, and could be a title threat if he got it. I think he could have been the champion this year if he was riding the Suzuki, even if they didn't have the money he wanted, the championship would be big. At this time of the season it is easy to second guess with hind sight.
What will Honda do to make their chassis more user friendly, or maybe it's more than just the chassis. Honda has horse power now, and it looks like Yamaha has squeezed a bit more out of their motor. KTM and Aprillia are still trying to get into the game, and I think they will if they persist, KTM especially, as they are used to winning when they go dirt racing. It's a big step, but if they want to go racing and win . . . . . . I hope they show significant improvement this coming season.
