BSB: Honda back on the pace with new Fireblade

There was light at the end of the tunnel for Honda Racing at Brands Hatch as they showed a significant step forward with the new-for-2017 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade.

After lapping severely off the pace and struggling to get into the top ten at Donington Park two weeks’ ago, both Jason O’Halloran and Dan Linfoot were able to push to the front across the weekend at Brands Hatch after a breakthrough at a quick test at Mallory Park early last week.

The team had been struggling with the electronic fly-by-wire throttle connection new for the ‘blade this year, but after going in an entirely new, simpler direction the duo were able to push on with the bike for the first time this year.

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“This weekend has pretty much been square one for us,” explained O’Halloran. Although we’ve done all the testing, been to Spain and had some UK tests this weekend is the first time we’ve really been able to change the chassis or give any feedback.

“It’s the first time we’ve actually been able to push and work in the way we normally work instead of coming in and telling the team we can’t ride the bike. Of course, we’re not happy with the results and there’s still work to do but we’re happy with the progress.” 

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