Buriram, Thailand – Toprak Razgatlioglu’s transition to MotoGP is proving to be a learning process, one marked by initial struggles and a crucial realization: the racing style that brought him three World Superbike Championships doesn’t directly translate to the world’s premier motorcycle racing series. The Turkish rider, now competing for Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP, initially attempted to adapt his Superbike techniques to the demanding world of MotoGP, but quickly discovered the need for a different approach.
Yamaha Racing Managing Director, Paolo Pavesio, highlighted Razgatlioglu’s progress during the Thailand Grand Prix, noting that a key turning point came when the rookie understood the need to embrace the unique characteristics of MotoGP machinery. “I sense Toprak has done a highly good job,” Pavesio said, according to motogp.com. “He had to learn. During the winter, he tried – if I may say so – to change MotoGP into Superbike, to feel comfortable. Then he understood that MotoGP is MotoGP, and there are things he shouldn’t compromise on.”
Razgatlioglu, a three-time World Superbike Champion (2021, 2024, 2025), initially attempted to replicate the setup of his successful Superbike machines on the Yamaha M1. This approach, though, led to challenges in maintaining corner speed and created technical issues related to aerodynamic configuration. The shift in mindset became apparent at Buriram, where the team reverted to a more traditional MotoGP setup, including the full installation of rear aerodynamic components.
Pavesio emphasized that the team intentionally provided Razgatlioglu with the space to experiment during his adaptation period. “After many years of success in SBK, I think he was looking for a way to make MotoGP more similar to Superbike. We supported him because we thought it was the right thing for him to have the opportunity to do that,” Pavesio explained. “And finally, as you can observe, he put the (aero) back on, and the handlebar became more normal. He is learning that to race in MotoGP, you need to do certain things the same way as the other 21 riders.”
The learning curve isn’t unique to Razgatlioglu; transitioning between the two disciplines presents significant challenges. As Wikipedia notes, Razgatlioglu is the first Turkish Superbike World Champion, and his success in Superbike came from a very different riding style than what is required in MotoGP. The differences in motorcycle design and the demands of each series necessitate a fundamental shift in approach.
MotoGP legend Jorge Lorenzo echoed Pavesio’s sentiments, stating that the “Superbike style” is demanding to implement in MotoGP due to the fundamental differences between the two types of motorcycles. “It’s difficult for Toprak because he has spent his whole life on street bikes (Superbike), which are completely different from MotoGP,” Lorenzo said. “These prototype bikes are very rigid and need to have high cornering speed. He tried to ride, as I saw in the corners, like a Superbike, braking very hard, moving the bike, making a ‘V’ line (stop and go). Very extreme.”
Razgatlioglu’s early struggles were likewise reflected in his crash tally. According to motogpnews.com, he equaled his entire 2025 crash count during the opening rounds of the 2026 season, a clear indication of the challenges he faced in adapting to the MotoGP bike.
The shift in approach, however, appears to be yielding positive results. By embracing the characteristics of the MotoGP machine and moving away from a purely Superbike-based riding style, Razgatlioglu is beginning to unlock the potential of the Yamaha M1. This adjustment isn’t merely about bike setup; it’s about fundamentally altering a deeply ingrained riding style, a process that requires both courage and a willingness to learn.
Born on October 16, 1996, in Alanya, Turkey, Toprak Razgatlioglu, now 29 years old, represents a significant step for Turkish motorsports on the world stage. His move to MotoGP with Prima Pramac Yamaha is a highly anticipated one, and his progress will be closely watched by fans and experts alike. The transition is a testament to his talent and determination, and his willingness to adapt will be crucial to his success in the years to arrive.
As Razgatlioglu continues to refine his technique and gain experience in MotoGP, he is poised to become a formidable competitor. The early struggles have provided valuable lessons, and his commitment to learning and adapting suggests a bright future in the world’s most competitive motorcycle racing series.
The next race on the MotoGP calendar is the Grand Prix of the Americas at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, scheduled for April 14-16, 2026. This event will provide another opportunity for Razgatlioglu to demonstrate his progress and continue his adaptation to the unique demands of MotoGP.
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