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As we reported in our update on the second and final day of SBK testing at Jerez, the Honda riders ended their work on the track early. The first pre-season tests of 2022, therefore, can be said to be over for Team HRC. The team had originally planned to test for two days, but, according to the team, having already completed the entire work programme during Wednesday's sessions, the decision was taken not to take to the track today and keep the second day for use at another time.
Lecuona and Vierge therefore worked on their CBR 1000 RR-R Fireblade at the Jerez circuit, which is always very dear to the Japanese manufacturer, to collect data and evaluate set-ups and innovations. The work of the two new HRC riders was mainly about adapting to the bike and the SBK electronics, which are different to MotoGP and Moto2, as well as the bike's geometry and tyres.
Xavi Vierge
“It’s been a very good test session indeed, with great weather which allowed us to start early and make the most of the time available until five in the afternoon. We were able to lap very consistently as we continue to adapt to the bike. We worked through many things on the electronics side and with the set-up, while also evaluating the Pirelli Tyres that work differently from the ones I was used to, which took many laps to reach optimum performance. While here, we put in a fresh tyre and had a lot of grip to exploit right away. Overall, I liked the fact that, with everything we tried, I was able to understand the way to go faster. I know the Jerez track very well of course, and this meant it was the best track for me as I start learning about this category. Now it will be important to see what our feeling is like at a different circuit.”
Iker Lecuona
“I’m honestly very happy because I felt really good and strong on the bike. My hand was not yet 100% ready, but I could manage OK and was able to work well with the team. We were able to test everything anyway and complete our entire work schedule. It was an intense day in which we were able to complete many laps of the track, also because we were very lucky with the weather. By the end of the day, I was experiencing some pain in my hand but, all in all, it’s been a really satisfying test so we will save the second day for another time. Now the focus is on preparing for the next session and ensuring that I’m back to full fitness with my hand”.
