• Bikes for Sale
  • News
  • Buyer’s guide
    • Buy a Motorcycle
    • First Rides & Reviews
    • Specs, Prices & Others
  • Lifestyle
    • Concepts & Custom
    • Electric Motorcycles
    • Events
    • Motorsport
    • Tips & Stories
    • Travel
  • Locals
imotorbike logo
  • Bikes for Sale
  • News
  • Buyer’s guide
    • Buy a Motorcycle
    • First Rides & Reviews
    • Specs, Prices & Others
  • Lifestyle
    • Concepts & Custom
    • Electric Motorcycles
    • Events
    • Motorsport
    • Tips & Stories
    • Travel
  • Locals
  • Facebook

  • Instagram

  • X (Twitter)

  • YouTube

  • LinkedIn

  • RSS

Motorsport

Zarco Takes Pole with Suzuka 8 Hours Lap Record

Zarco Takes Pole with Suzuka 8 Hours Lap Record
Michelle Liew
August 2, 2025

Johann Zarco secures pole for Honda HRC at the 2025 Suzuka 8 Hours with a record-breaking 2’04.290 lap in the Top 10 Trial.

Johann Zarco secures pole for Honda HRC at the 2025 Suzuka 8 Hours with a record-breaking 2'04.290 lap in the Top 10 Trial.
Source: Suzuka 8H – Honda HRC 

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for instant updates!

The Honda HRC team stamped their authority on the 46th edition of the Suzuka 8 Hours by claiming pole position in spectacular fashion. Johann Zarco delivered a sensational 2’04.290 during the Top 10 Trial, setting a new all-time lap record for the storied endurance event. His performance secured the #30 Honda CBR1000RR-R SP a front-row start for Sunday’s race, set to begin at 11:30 am JST.

Intense Heat and Final Preparations

With temperatures soaring above 36°C, teams took to the track at 2:15 pm for the final 45-minute free practice session. Honda’s Takumi Takahashi completed 10 laps, clocking a personal best of 2’06.883. Zarco followed with six more laps, improving to 2’06.377—good enough for fourth fastest overall in the session.

The main event of the day, the Top 10 Trial, determined the first ten positions on the grid in Suzuka’s unique one-lap shootout format. Each team fielded two riders, with the best lap from either rider setting the final position.

Drama Unfolds in the Top 10 Trial

BMW’s Michael Van Der Mark set the benchmark early with a 2’05.508. Among the top five teams, Jack Miller’s crash at the chicane derailed Yamaha Racing Team’s run, leaving the door open for Honda. Takahashi set a strong 2’05.223 before handing the baton to Zarco. The Frenchman stunned the paddock with a blistering 2’04.290—snatching pole and making history.

Zarco: “Winning Is More Legendary Than Pole”

Despite downplaying expectations before the session, Zarco maximised the performance potential of the new rear tyre and leaned on his extensive experience to deliver the record-setting lap.

“I wasn’t really expecting pole… I thought mid 2’04s would be the limit. But when I saw we had the best time, I felt great joy. I’m glad I could give Takumi the opportunity to start from pole tomorrow.”

Zarco also acknowledged that while records are nice, the ultimate goal remains winning the race. “Winning this race is more legendary than taking pole or setting a lap record.”

Takahashi Eyes Seventh Suzuka Victory

Veteran Takumi Takahashi, who has already claimed six Suzuka 8 Hours victories, emphasised his focus on performance rather than milestones.

“Every year I just focus on the current race. That’s how I’ve managed to win six times. This year is no different—just doing my best again.”

Takahashi also noted the extreme heat will be a major factor. “It’s even hotter than last year. Managing physical endurance and recovery will be key tomorrow.”

Race Day Ahead

With Honda HRC leading from the front, Sunday’s race promises high drama, scorching temperatures, and fierce battles over eight gruelling hours. For Zarco and Takahashi, pole is just the beginning. The real test starts at the green flag.

Related ItemsfeaturedHonda HRCjohann zarconewnewsSuzuka 8 Hours
To read the full story
login with google
login with facebook
or
Create an account for free
This won't cost you.
by clicking this button you agree to iMotorbike's visitor agreement
Already have an account? Sign in here
Click here to get notified on every new article
Motorsport
August 2, 2025
Michelle Liew

An avid fan of motorsports bringing you top-notch content from the two-wheeler world! Gear up for the latest updates and news with top speed delivery

Related ItemsfeaturedHonda HRCjohann zarconewnewsSuzuka 8 Hours

More in Motorsport

Davey Todd Joins AutoRace Ube Racing Team for 2025 Suzuka 8 Hours

Hazique ZairillJuly 31, 2025
Read More

MotoGP Confirms 100% Non-Fossil Fuels by 2027

Hazique ZairillJuly 31, 2025
Read More

Stefano Manzi to Step Up to WorldSBK with GYTR GRT Yamaha in 2026

Hazique ZairillJuly 30, 2025
Read More

Zmarzlik Replaces Stolen Gear for Young Rider

Michelle LiewJuly 29, 2025
Read More

Hakim Danish Takes P4 in Aragon, Retires in Race 2

Michelle LiewJuly 29, 2025
Read More

Xavi Vierge Replaces Injured Iker Lecuona at 2025 Suzuka 8 Hours

Hazique ZairillJuly 29, 2025
Read More

Seewer Takes Sixth as Ducati Progresses at Czech MXGP

Michelle LiewJuly 28, 2025
Read More

Young Riders Dominate Tangkak in FIM MiniGP 2025

Michelle LiewJuly 28, 2025
Read More

Rabat Scores First Point for PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda

Hazique ZairillJuly 28, 2025
Read More

Stefano Manzi Dominates in Hungary, Extends WorldSSP Lead

Hazique ZairillJuly 28, 2025
Read More

Toprak Razgatlioglu secures a hat-trick at Hungary’s Balaton Park

Hazique ZairillJuly 28, 2025
Read More

Remy Gardner Signs New Deal with Yamaha for 2026–2027 WorldSBK Seasons

Hazique ZairillJuly 25, 2025
Read More
We want to buy your bike Join us on Telegram
Scroll for more
Tap

Join us on Facebook

  • Popular

  • Latest

  • Comments

  • Allianz Motor Insurance
    Allianz Motor Insurance: Policy Features (Malaysia)
    Buyer's guideJuly 17, 2025
  • Zurich Motorcycle Insurance
    Zurich Motorcycle Insurance: Policy Features (Malaysia)
    Buyer's guideJuly 17, 2025
  • Yamaha R25 V2 Review: Perfect for New Riders and Seasoned Bikers
    Buyer's guideJuly 8, 2025
  • 2025 Honda ADV350 Launched in Malaysia with New Tech and Features
    Buyer's guideJuly 22, 2025
  • Modenas Kawasaki Ninja 250 ABS Review: A Stylish Entry into the “Big Bike” World
    Buyer's guideJuly 8, 2025
  • BMW F 450 GS to Launch in 2025 as Lightweight Adventure Bike
    NewsJuly 10, 2025
  • Blueshark Launches SoloEra Solo 1C EV Scooter for Just RM599 with MARiiCas Rebate
    Buyer's guideJuly 15, 2025
  • Roughchild Motorcycles reimagines the iconic BMW R80G/S, blending classic Paris-Dakar styling with modern performance and precision engineering.
    Roughchild Revives BMW R80G/S with Stunning Restomod
    Concepts & CustomAugust 2, 2025
  • Herlings Returns for MXGP Flanders Comeback
    NewsAugust 2, 2025
  • Zarco Takes Pole with Suzuka 8 Hours Lap Record
    MotorsportAugust 2, 2025
  • Schareina Dominates Sertões 2025 as Rally Reaches Alagoas
    NewsAugust 2, 2025
  • Suzuki Unveils 2026 GSX-R1000R M6: A 40-Year Legacy Reborn
    NewsAugust 1, 2025
  • Malaysian Ducati Owner to Sue Over Alleged Unauthorised Use of Panigale V4S
    Buyer's guideJuly 31, 2025
  • Davey Todd Joins AutoRace Ube Racing Team for 2025 Suzuka 8 Hours
    MotorsportJuly 31, 2025
  • MV Agusta Lucky Explorer Project 9.5: testing the Schiranna prototype - news.iNthacity: More Top Breaking News and Popular Stories To Stay Informed says:

    […] Michelle Liew […]

  • CFMOTO 450SR to enter Malaysia in March 2023 at RM29,300 - news.iNthacity: More Top Breaking News and Popular Stories To Stay Informed says:

    […] Michelle Liew […]

  • Suzuki V-Strom now available in Malaysia at RM81,900 - news.iNthacity: More Top Breaking News and Popular Stories To Stay Informed says:

    […] Michelle Liew […]

  • Colin says:

    I hope they make the Dax street legal. Love to…

  • Mohd Razi bin Rosli says:

    Adv 150cc

  • Nena Maxberry says:

    Just curious what they would retail for

  • Adam Kenny says:

    RM4159 for the front fork is it?

Categories

  • Buyer's guide
    • First Rides & Reviews
    • Specs, Prices & Others
  • cafe racer malaysia murah
  • Campaign
  • CSR Programme
  • Electric Motorcycles
  • Electric Motorcycles
  • Industry
  • Industry
  • Kedai Motor
  • Lifestyle
    • Concepts & Custom
    • Electric Motorcycles
    • Events
      • EICMa
    • Helmet
    • Motorsport
      • ARRC
      • CubPrix
      • Moto3
      • Motocross
      • MSBK
      • WSBK
    • Tips & Stories
    • Travel
  • Moto2
  • Motor Murah
  • News
    • Locals
    • MotoGP
    • Scoop
  • Review
  • Scoop
  • Scoop
  • Suzuka 8 Hours
  • Tips & Tricks

Corporate

About Us
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Disclosure Policy
Contact Us
SUBSCRIBE NOW!

2024 iMotorbike World Sdn. Bhd.(1205246-M). All rights reserved.

Schareina Dominates Sertões 2025 as Rally Reaches Alagoas
Herlings Returns for MXGP Flanders Comeback
Nak Jual Beli Motor 😊 ?
WhatsApp
Hi iMotorbike 😊
Open chat