This week’s Portimao World SBK check was as soon as once more hit by rain, limiting driving for all riders, together with HRC check rider Jonathan Rea.
Ray was capable of end inside the prime 10 on the primary day of operating, however in the long run each days had been rained out. Whereas some significant follow befell within the morning on Monday, the monitor was moist on Tuesday and only a few riders accomplished a lap.
Rea then spoke of his frustration with the European climate, which has prompted continued disruption to testing actions at Honda since January. At the moment, Rea took half in each World Superbike Checks, first in Jerez after which in Portimao, each of which had been severely restricted by rain.
“I had a smile on my face (on Monday) simply being on the bike at this circuit that I like,” mentioned Rea.
“We had unhealthy climate once more, nevertheless it was very nice to work with the crew once more and get that feeling again.Actually, the climate was a problem all through the winter testing season.
“Up to now we have now solely accomplished about 50 to 60 laps in whole, which is lower than a full day of testing in regular circumstances, so there may be nonetheless loads to do.”
Ray added that his first impression of Honda was that the bike had nice potential however wanted enchancment.
“That mentioned, I used to be capable of perceive the extent of CBR as quickly as I arrived,” he mentioned. “We’re already higher, however there are clearly some areas the place we will enhance.
“We’re step by step progressing in direction of our objective, giving the Japanese engineers and the group right here a transparent course to observe. Bodily, I’m in significantly better form than the primary check we did in Jerez, the place I couldn’t bend my knees sufficient to run comfortably. Portimao is a really bodily monitor, so total it was a superb check. Bodily I really feel able to hold working.”
