Honda presented its troops for the 2022 WSBK season, which it is approaching with new blood. The young drivers coming from the Grands Prix, and therefore novices, such as Iker Lecuona and Xavi Virginie are the demonstration of this. But there are also other new features, and not the least. Thus, what had been glimpsed during the off-season tests was confirmed during the curtain raiser: Nissin and Showa will equip the CBR triple R...
From mid-December, the factory Superbike team of Honda tested the suspension several times Showa and the brakes Nissin. Showa has enjoyed great success alongside Kawasaki in the championship WSBK since 2012. In the last ten years, second place in the Drivers' Championship has been their worst result and they have won the title seven times. However, the majority of teams rely on suspension components from the market leader Ohlins.
During the factory team's first winter tests Honda in Jerez, the newcomers Iker Lecuona et Xavi Verge also drove with brakes Nissin, in addition to the forks and rear shock absorbers Showa. Since the factory return in 2019, HRC has opted for Brembo for the brakes and Öhlins for suspension elements. Two names which will disappear in 2022 to make way for the two Japanese brands.
Honda knows Nissin and has shares in Showa
The change was officially confirmed during the team presentation Honda Tuesday. The change makes sense: HRC is also working with Nissin on the prestigious Suzuka 08h00. And Honda has shares in Showa. Another benefit: the MIE Honda satellite team moved from Öhlins to Showa in 2021, so the factory team can access its data.
« The first impression during the first test was very good for both drivers ", has explained Leon Camier, HRC team manager. “ We can't use Showa's full potential yet, we will continue to improve. We have changed both suppliers because we see room for improvement. Showa and Nissin are doing a lot to improve their products. The quality is already undeniable. We want to be part of these improvements » ends the Englishman on speedweek.
