BSB: Suzuka breakthrough for Linfoot

While Jason O’Halloran has been able to enjoy a number strong results with Honda’s now infamous 2017 Fireblade so far this season, team-mate Dan Linfoot struggled to find that same breakthrough.

However, after a strong test with the Moriwaki team ahead of the Suzuka Eight Hour race, Linfoot was able to transfer some of what he learned in Japan to his BSB machine this weekend as he went on to lead the opening race at Brands Hatch before taking the new Fireblade’s best result so far in second. 

“While Jason has been strong and consistent in recent rounds I’ve still been struggling in the background,” Linfoot said after the race. “I’ve been happy for him as it’s shown the potential the bike has, but I just couldn’t do the same.

TOP STORIES

• Bigger BMW F700GS on the way
• HJC add Spider-Man to Marvel range of helmets
• MotoGP: Angel Nieto in serious condition after quad crash
• News podcast episode 7
• Roads: Honda confirm cause of McGuinness crash

“When I rode the Moriwaki in Japan, I immediately like how it felt on the initial touch of the throttle which is where I’ve been struggling with BSB. I was able to ride that bike in a normal way so it’s something we’ve tried to replicate on the BSB bike since our Cadwell test.

“While it’s not that straightforward as the bike is very different, it’s given us a direction to go in. There are still improvements to make, but it’s a good step as we’ve been able to have a strong weekend.”

However, Linfoot’s strong weekend would take a turn for the worse as he crashed out of third place in the early stages of race two.

“Crashing out wasn’t ideal as with drops of rain in race one I wanted to see where we’d be in a fully dry race, but I can’t be too down as things have been so much better this weekend. My showdown chances are almost over, but I’m hoping we can have a strong end to the season because it’s been a disaster until now.” 

Have a browse for your next bike on MCN Bikes For Sale website or use the MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.