BSB: Step forward gives Hopkins confidence boost at Knockhill

John Hopkins carried through the progress he made at last week’s Snetterton test to finish the opening day of the fourth round of the 2016 MCE British Superbike championship at Knockhill fifth fastest.

A step forward with the front end feeling of his ePayMe Yamaha R1 has led to a much-needed confident boost for Hopkins who returns to Knockhill this weekend for the first time in two years.

TOP STORIES

• When scooters go mad – the Bel & Bel Zero-Scooter
• Pre-1999 bikes to be banned from Paris
• Video: KTM takes on Ferrari in tug of war
• Product Review: Electrex World RR50 regulator-rectifier (£119.70)

Placing sixth and fifth fastest in the day’s opening free practice sessions respectively, Hopkins now turns his attention to making a similar step forward come Sunday’s races with his eyes still firmly set on championship glory.

“It’s been a good day, we basically started off with what we found at the Snetterton test and I was confident from that we would we able to progress forward and we’re on our way,” he told MCN at Knockhill.

“This morning was just getting used to the track again, the last time I was here was 2014 and it was wet all weekend. We’re building on a couple of things, there are a few more things we need to improve but I think we’re right in the ballpark now of where we need to be. It’s just a matter of being there come race day and hopefully fighting for top five and podiums.

“That’s what I’m here for; it would be nice to be on the podium and to be honest we need podiums if we are going to be in contention for the shootout, but if we walk away from here with some top five finishes I’ll be happy but what we really need is podiums so that is my goal.”

Looking to buy your own bike? Visit MCNbikesforsale.com