“In recent years I have always driven a V4 engine, this Fireblade CBR1000RR-R with its inline four-cylinder engine is fundamentally different. I have to adapt my driving style and find out where the strengths of this engine concept lie. Now it’s important to find a good foundation to build on.” There is therefore a lot of work ahead for Álvaro Bautista, and a little catching up to do.
The weather in Jerez is bad, the forecast for Portimao is also poor. Does Álvaro regret not having done the first test in Portimão in December, then in the dry? “ I then had the choice of taking this test or being present at the birth of my daughter., He explains. I will still have many tests and races in my life, but maybe I will only have one daughter. That’s why I made this decision – and I’m happy about it. »
As the Jerez track never dried out all Wednesday and lap times were around 13 seconds off the normal pace, the results were not very significant. But it was still important for Bautista (tenth in 1'54.824) that it was his new teammate at Honda Leon Haslam who achieved the best time in 1'52.149.
It could be noted that it was also an important testing day, as it was the first time he could compete with his rivals. “ And we were able to collect more data to help move development forward. We started with no references and are in the process of writing a new book. »
“I haven't done many laps in the wet, but I can say that the electronics are working normally. There were no big problems. »
“It's impossible for me to compare with the old Honda because I never rode the old Fireblade. I also think the two bikes are very different. I don't even want to look at other data, we have to focus on ourselves to improve this bike. Honda works very hard and very well, there is a lot of potential. »
“Compared to the Ducati, the comparison is difficult for me because I have to get used to the concept of the in-line engine of the Honda. I was very surprised by the performance of the engine, I expected less. »
“The engine is very powerful, but you also have to put the power to the ground. We strive to make the best possible use of this power. »
“In the team, everything is still very new. We must first learn to know ourselves. I'm happy with the guys, but we still need time to figure out exactly how we can work together in the best possible way. This will be especially important for race weekends, where you don't have as much time as during a test. »
“A lot of the staff come from the MotoGP World Championship, they are very professional and have a lot of experience. That doesn't worry me. »
Photos © Alvaro Rivero Photo for Circuito de Jerez, Álvaro Bautista Arce Facebook
Source: Speedweek. com
