Honda tests new Superbikes engine
2012-06-15 06:59
CAN'T SLOW DOWN: Despite crashing at 240km/h, Hiroshi Aoyama had a "very positive" two-day test session at Assen.
Honda World Superbike riders Jonathan Rea and Hiroshi Aoyama have concluded a “satisfying” private test session at the Assen circuit in the Netherlands ahead of their next championship meeting.
During the two-day test at the team’s nominated test circuit, Rea and Aoyama tried the latest version of their Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade engine and worked on a variety of chassis components and electronics settings.
'GOOD FEELING'
Rea said after completing the test session: “We got to try a lot of new stuff, some of which we’d be reluctant to try over a race weekend, and we ended up faster than over the race weekend in April.
“The throttle is smoother on acceleration and we also tried quite an extreme front fork setting which gave a good feeling. The new engine was a little better on the straights but we won’t make any firm conclusions until we get to Aragon with our rivals.”
'VERY POSITIVE'
Aoyama added: “I crashed at about 240km/h at the end of the back straight. I slid for a very long time on the asphalt and I think I was almost cooked by the time I eventually stopped!
“Apart from that, the test was very positive for me and we tested some things I liked. We have also improved braking stability into the corner and this gives me a lot more confidence. “
The next round on the 2012 World Superbike calendar will be Motorland Aragon in Spain over the weekend of June 29 - July 1 2012.
