Honda tried the Jerez card again after last week’s tests were canceled due to bad weather. However, Alvaro Bautista and Leon Haslam had no luck this week either and had to deal with rain and fog. Only yesterday afternoon the two drivers were able to get on their CBR1000RR-R with the track under dry conditions, while the conditions kept them in the pits today and the team had already left the track by early afternoon.
However, it was a useful test for Alvaro and Leon, who were able to shake off some of the rust and give the engineers guidance on how the bike would evolve for the new season. It was basically a shakedown where they got to try out some new parts from Japan.
It is not yet known when Honda will return to the track for further testing as the coronavirus epidemic has made it difficult to make plans.
“We weren’t very lucky with the weather, it was either rain or a wet track, but we finally made the most of half a day and tested some new items that HRC has brought back for the coming season – said Bautista – – We were able to compile some useful data and gain references and at least give the technicians the pointers so that they can continue their development work. So in that sense It was an important and very positive test, albeit a short one. Now we need to follow the instructions to take the next steps in future tests. ”
His team-mate Leon Haslam was also on the same wavelength.
“The weather here was insane, but honestly, I think this test was very important as we had to evaluate some things for HRC – added Haslam – even though we ended up only having half a day, We were able to complete a few laps and give the engineers and team the information they needed. Now they can continue their work to prepare for the next tests. Getting back into my CBR was really good, the feeling was good and the new items we tested were very interesting. Now I have even more motivation before my training camp in the coming weeks. Hopefully we can test again soon so that we are well prepared for the start of the season. ”