We love MotoGP 21, it's as simple as that. To check out why we like it so much, our full review. If you're new to this officially-licenced Milestone series, be sure to read our beginner's guide.
Whether you go with "full or official calendar", the Thai Grand Prix will be stop 16 of your first tour around the world. The Thailand motorcycle Grand Prix is a relatively new addition to the MotoGP calendar, making its debut in 2018. We didn't see this GP last year and we won't see it this year either, as its been canceled for two seasons in a row now.
The Thai GP takes place at the brand-new Chang International Circuit, a track that's very fun to drive around. If you want to win though, you need the right setup and we've got the guide you need right here!
Tyres
Despite the high temperatures, Chang International isn't a tough circuit on the tyres. Its smooth surface allows you to run a soft on the front axle, to help turn-in around the track's sharp corners. The rear tyre is best being a medium though, as you'll be struggling to apply the power towards the end of the race with a soft.
Suspension
The front suspension needs to be a mix of responsive and stable to make a good compromise for Chang. The front pre-load, oil quantity and front spring hardness all need to be cranked up to 8 to improve turn-in. To compromise, the swingarm compression and extension need to be as low as possible at 0.
The rear of the bike's suspension should be the same as at the front, with the exception of the pre-load value. This needs to be low at 0, to aid stability at the rear. The rear of the bike tends to get away from the rider more than the front, so you need to configure it to be more stable.
Vehicle geometry
The vehicle geometry is required to be low to aid responsiveness. Steering head inclination and trail have to be at 0 for maximum turn-in. The steering plate position and swingarm length also need to be low at 2, also in the pursuit of responsiveness.
Transmission
Chang's long back straight means that you need high gear ratios. The quick-fire medium-speed corners at the end of the lap also benefit from these.
The slipper clutch is best at 4 to strike an optimum balance between responsiveness and stability.
Brake System
Despite the high temperatures in Thailand, you don't need the strongest brakes here. The front brake is best at 320 mm high mass, with the rear sporting the 220 mm. You can go for a bigger brake at the front if you're struggling to slow down into Turns 3 and 12.
ECU
You need to make full use of the electronic aids in Thailand. Despite the track being flat and the tarmac being smooth, you will benefit from full traction control and anti-wheelie aid. Feel free to turn these down though, if these are holding you back.
Engine braking should be up at 5 to help shave speed off of your ride through the long corners. Power mapping is best at 3 for a flying lap. Although, you’ll need to turn this around during some points in the race.
All of these can be adjusted out on track using the HUD in the bottom-right of the screen.