The official MotoGP testing at Sepang commenced with a notable addition to the HRC team: Alex Baumgärtel, also known as ‘Alex from Kalex’, in a new role as a Technical Advisor contracted to collaborate with HRC.
According to HRC’s statement to Crash.net, Baumgärtel’s appointment marks a strategic collaboration between HRC and the chassis specialist Kalex, which he co-founded with Klaus Hirsekorn in 2008. Kalex has established dominance in the Moto2 class, clinching the past eleven riders’ titles and being a main stay across the grid.
In 2022, HRC enlisted Kalex to manufacture MotoGP swing arms, and later, a complete RC213V chassis from the last season onwards. While Kalex’s involvement primarily revolved around construction, the design aspect seemed to remain within HRC’s domain, with minimal observable differences in the chassis. However, Baumgärtel’s new role suggests that HRC is now entrusting Kalex with a more integral role in evolving the chassis design, signaling a shift in strategy for the struggling team.
Additionally, there are hints of potential changes to the Repsol Honda livery for 2024. The motorcycles ridden by Joan Mir and new recruit Luca Marini at Sepang feature a noticeable alteration, with a prominent ‘Honda’ sticker and a downsized ‘Repsol’ logo relocated to the lower fairing. This contrasts with previous winter test liveries, where Repsol branding took precedence.
Repsol has been the title sponsor of the factory Honda team since 1995. The unveiling of the 2024 team livery is scheduled for February 13 in Spain, potentially revealing further adjustments to the iconic Repsol Honda branding.
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