HONDA’S WSBK TEAM COMPLETES FIRST TEST OF 2016 WINTER SEASON
Honda’s new World Superbike pairing of Michael van der Mark and Nicky Hayden have concluded a two-day private test at MotorLand Aragón today, in readiness for the 2016 FIM Superbike World Championship. With one year of experience in the series under his belt, Van der Mark could concentrate on evaluating new material for his #60 Honda including a new software code, new brake pads and a small upgrade in terms of engine character. The Dutch flyer and the team also continued working on the bike’s behaviour with a full tank of fuel as well as on qualifying tyres. Van der Mark completed 80 laps over the course of the two days. The Honda World Superbike Team will return to action next week (25-27 November) for a three-day test at Circuito de Jerez, the last outing before the winter testing ban.
Michael van der Mark: “The test was OK. It was just difficult because we had to wait a long time on the first day for the fog to clear and the temperatures to rise. Today I did 70 laps and tried a lot of different things but it all went too quick. We found some good things and some bad things but for me the aim was to give as much data as I could to the guys. I now look forward to Jerez; hopefully the weather will be better. The bike works very well there and lately we’ve scored some good results. It’s important to keep working hard and to get some valuable data before the winter break.”
In this YouTube movie, Van Der Mark reflects on his rookie World Superbike campaign before sharing his thoughts and expectations regarding the upcoming year of racing.