Toprak Razgatlioglu has admitted that his adaptation to MotoGP feels “completely different” than when he changed to BMW machinery in WorldSBK.
Razgatlioglu is competing in his maiden MotoGP campaign after leaving the WorldSBK paddock as a three-time champion at the end of the 2025 season.
However, the Turkish rider faces an uphill battle in his adaptation to MotoGP as he has to deal with new tyres, a new Yamaha V4 engine and a “different motorcycle.”
Despite his previous experience changing from Yamaha to BMW in WorldSBK, Razgatlioglu admitted it’s not the same as switching between teams.
“When I switched to BMW in WorldSBK, it didn’t feel the same as it does now in MotoGP,” Razgatlioglu told Speedweek.com.
“Everything is different in MotoGP. In the WorldSBK, on the other hand, there weren’t any major differences; everything is very similar.
“Okay, it was a different brand, a different motorcycle, but the feeling was very similar.”
“The tires are new to me here. I feel like I’m riding a completely different motorcycle. I still need to adapt to all of this.”
Instead of a direct comparison to his BMW switch, the 29-year-old suggested his MotoGP adaptation period is more akin to his WorldSBK debut in 2018.
However, Razgatlioglu also feels hopeful that a significant improvement will come sooner than some may have expected.
“I feel like I did in 2018 in the Superbike World Championship, when I rode my first year in the class,” Razgatlioglu said.
“That’s how I feel now in MotoGP, but I will improve significantly soon. That’s my goal.”
The Pramac Yamaha rider also suggested that his fanbase that is fuelling his desire for improvement in the early rounds of the season.
Although he missed out on a debut points finish at Buriram, Razgatlioglu admitted to feeling a sense of obligation to reward his fans.
“For me, it’s important that we put on some special races,” the Turkish rider added.
“I have to give something to my fans, that’s how I see it.
“I hope we’ll start something special soon, I really hope so.”
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