Aprilia is still developing its MotoGP machine as the 1000cc era approaches its conclusion. Marco Bezzecchi appeared at Sepang on Friday with a new aerodynamic swingarm add-on, positioned beneath the earlier panel at the rear of the motorcycle.

The update comes with only four race rounds left before the championship moves to 850cc engines. Aprilia is therefore continuing to pursue gains from its current motorcycle while chasing the final 1000cc crown. Ducati has also run aerodynamic boards on the side of Marc Marquez’s swingarm, and the Aprilia and Ducati devices are thought to aid rear-tire grip in corners.

Marquez described the exchange of technical ideas as a normal consequence of racing competition. He said manufacturers and riders watch rival solutions in search of improvement, rather than simply copying another design outright.

Marquez set the pace in both Friday sessions at Sepang. Ai Ogura was the leading Aprilia rider in third, while Bezzecchi ended the day sixth fastest. Injured Aprilia rider Jorge Martin was 21st and last after cutting the afternoon session short to rest his injured wrist. Marquez holds a ten-point advantage over Martin in the standings.