HRC managing director Kosuke Yasutake has spoken out about how far behind the new version of the firm's MotoGP motorcycle is in comparison to the opposition.
Speaking to Motosprint magazine, Yasutake said there had been improvements between the 2007 and 2008 bikes, but added that there was still work needed.
He said: "We've solved many of the problems the first RC212V had, even though we aren't at a satisfactory level with the new bike.
"In its first version, the new engine had a very aggressive power output. After the November test we gathered the indications of the riders and now the engine on track has evolved a lot. All the bike has changed: maybe it can't be seen from the outside, but by carrying on modifying details the bike is very different now."
The comments of Dani and Nicky are now a lot more positive than before. Even Pedrosa, who was always very critical and sceptical, has started to be more positive.
Hayden's recent comments about the engine feeling slower than last year's version got this reaction from the big boss:
"It is only because we haven't yet found the right set-up. That's the problem. This engine has a much bigger potential: it has more power and the revs are higher. The situation has already improved after this three-day test at Sepang."
