Former 500GP star and all-round decent chap Niall Mackenzie believes a sub-two minute lap could be achieved at this year’s Silverstone MotoGP, given the number of lap records that have been broken in 2016.

Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez holds the current pole record at 2’00.234s but the ideal lap constructed from the fastest split times is agonisingly close at 2’00.009s

“I think this year’s Yamaha has improved top speed, which is obviously important at Silverstone, and they’ve probably got the best out of the Michelins so far,” said the Scotsman.

“Honda seemed to struggle earlier in the season with corner entry and front feel but this has since improved. And I always think Dani Pedrosa is the true level of the Honda as Marc Marquez’s exceptional talent can sometimes mask machine or set up issues. And as a result of that you never know what Marc can achieve over a single lap.

“Corner exits onto the fast straights are important. However, having a nimble bike through the fast changes of direction can also be a contributing factor. Focus in machine set up needs to be on mid corner and exit grip so good electronics and chassis settings are crucial.

“Turn one at Copse is important as it builds towards the very fast left and rights of Maggotts and Becketts. Good momentum out of Chapel and onto the Hangar Straight is required then the next decent chunk of time can be gained by getting the perfect run through the kink and onto the Wellington Straight.”

Mackenzie concluded: “In the final corner at Woodcote you need stability, good grip and to hold a perfect line to the finish of the lap. And if Lorenzo is on form I reckon he’ll be the man for the first 1'59s lap.”

Ideal sector times for 2’00.009s lap

Best sector 1: Andrea Dovizioso, 2014 23.606s
Best sector 2: Marc Marquez, 2015 38.717s
Best sector 3: Marc Marquez, 2015 27.387s
Best sector 4: Marc Marquez, 2015 30.299s

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