And before we could catch our breath, the rumour was confirmed as Jorge Lorenzo returned to the Iwata marque, now as test rider. Can Viñales pick up where he left off? Will Quartararo turn up the wick now he’s a sophomore? Meanwhile at Honda, there’s a touch of déjà vu for reigning Champion Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team). Honda and Yamaha have targets on their backs, and so do Suzuki and Ducati. The factory pecking order, the rookies, the tech, the return of a five-time World Champion…the Sepang Test promises plenty as action begins on Friday.

Follow MotorMouth on social media:

• 
• 
• 
•