The move to the V4 engine marks a decisive turning point for Yamaha. After years of domination of in-line four cylinders, the tuning fork brand is preparing to revolutionize its MotoGP. Max Bartolini, technical manager at Yamaha, shed light on the reasons for this strategic choice and the challenges ahead.
Yamaha is preparing to make a major technical evolution with the introduction of a V4 engine, a decision which could upset the tradition of the in-line four-cylinder which has always characterized the M1. Max Bartolinithe new man in charge of technology at Yamahaexplains the reasoning behind this bold change.
« With the V4, everyone thinks about the engine itself, but I think the biggest advantage lies in the layout of the motorcycle, more than in the engine », declares Bartolini. According to him, in terms of pure power, there should not be a big difference compared to the previous architecture. However, the V4 makes it possible to manage the motorcycle more efficiently, in particular by optimizing the work of the tires. “ It's always a matter of working the tires », he adds on crash.net.
Yamaha has already shown good performance with Bridgestone and Michelinmore Bartolini points out that Michelin tends to put more stress on the rear tires. This is where the design of the V4 engine could really make a difference, allowing the bike to be built to better meet the demands of the rear tire. “ Honestly, making the V4 engine is difficult, but it is even more crucial to design the motorcycle around this engine “, he says.
Max Bartolini : « we can't guarantee anything until we put a performance bike on the track »
Regarding the new architecture, Bartolini note that the V4 will be narrower from 10 to 15 centimeters, which will improve aerodynamics. Moreover, weight distribution will be optimized, thus providing easier management of the motorcycle. “ In general, these two points should give us an advantage. Additionally, a V4 engine is generally lighter than an inline four-cylinder engine. “, he specifies.
However, he remains cautious about V4 release schedule. AlthoughAlex Rins mentioned a potential launch at middle of next yearBartolini tempers expectations. “ Right now we can't guarantee anything until we put a performance bike on the track. Building a new motorcycle requires completely new parts, and we will take almost nothing from the current oneexcept maybe the brakes, suspension and electronics “, he explains.
Finally, he highlights the logistical challenges the team faces. “ We have limited resources and limited human capacity. Even if the company is big, the competition department is not as extensive as some might think », concludes Max Bartolinihighlighting the hard work that remains to turn this vision into reality on the track.
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