bMoto

The MotoGP activity on track definitely closed today with the last day of test at Jerez de la Frontera with mild temperatures perfect to test the new 800cc.

Shinya Nakano covered a total of 69 laps setting the fastest lap in 1’41.142”. The KONICA MINOLTA Honda Team technicians could carry out their working programme completely continuing the development of the new Honda RC212V, equipped with Michelin tires, the Japanese rider will use next season. At the end of the Spanish three days test, both technicians and riders are completely satisfied with the work done, especially for the big quantity of data obtained that will be extremely useful to plan the work of winter preparation.

Shinya Nakano – KONICA MINOLTA Honda Rider (1’41.142” – 69 laps) - “This morning we started focusing our job on the gear box and trying to find the ideal suspensions setting without pushing to be fast. In the afternoon, our efforts were oriented to the research of the best set up and then we tested different types of tires. I feel satisfied of the fastest lap time I got. The first contact I had with the new working group was good; during next winter, we will have all the time to refine our collaboration. On the whole, I am happy about how things have gone during this first experience in the KONICA MINOLTA Honda Team. Shortly I’ll fly to Japan and spend time with my family and friends; on half December I’ll attend a “Training Camp” with my personal trainer, afterwards I’ll spend the time left recovering energies for the demanding 2007 pre-season activity.”

Giulio Bernardelle – KONICA MINOLTA Honda Technical Director - “We are happy we found the conditions to carry out all we planned for this Spanish test session and for the working method and the professional competence Shinya demonstrated to have. Today, in particular, we programmed a large amount of tires and suspensions tests and at the beginning of the day we had to finish the gear box and engine set up we started yesterday. For this reason, we obtained the right conditions to permit Shinya to push only late in the afternoon, when the temperature on track was already lowered.”

Press release courtesy of Konica Minolta.