Toprak Razgatlioglu has discovered that racing in MotoGP is harder than he first expected. The Turkish rider came to MotoGP after being very successful in the World Superbike Championship, where he won several titles and became known for his strong and exciting riding style. Many fans believed he would be fast straight away, but his first MotoGP tests showed that the challenge is bigger than he imagined.

During the pre-season test in Malaysia, Toprak was clearly slower than the top riders. He was around two seconds behind the fastest lap times and also behind other Yamaha riders. This surprised him, and he openly said that he felt angry and disappointed because he thought he would be quicker at this stage.

One big reason for this is the difference between Superbike and MotoGP bikes. MotoGP machines are lighter, more powerful and much more sensitive. They need a smoother riding style, especially when using the throttle. In Superbike racing, Toprak could control the bike with strong braking and rear-wheel movement. In MotoGP, this approach does not work as well, and he is still learning how to adapt.

The tyres are another important issue. MotoGP uses Michelin tyres, which behave very differently from the tyres used in Superbikes. These tyres require careful control, especially when accelerating out of corners. Toprak has said that the rear tyre often slides when he opens the throttle, which makes it difficult for him to go faster.

Bike set-up has also played a role. Toprak asked for changes to help him feel more comfortable, such as a wider handlebar. Some of these changes affected the bike’s aerodynamics, and this made the bike slower on the straights. While comfort is important, it has also limited his performance for now.

The level of competition in MotoGP is extremely high. Every rider on the grid is fast, experienced and aggressive. Riders who come from other championships often need time to adjust, and it is normal for the first season to be difficult. Many riders before Toprak have struggled at the start and improved later.

Toprak himself has admitted that the early races will be tough. He knows he still has a lot to learn, especially in fast corners. Even so, his team believes in his talent and work ethic. With more laps, more races and better understanding of the bike and tyres, he is expected to improve step by step.

His move to MotoGP is a long-term challenge, not a quick success story. While the start has been frustrating, Toprak Razgatlioglu remains determined to adapt and prove that he belongs at the highest level of motorcycle racing.