BSB: Haslam quickest at Monteblanco test

Leon Haslam topped the timesheets at this week’s private Bennetts British Superbike testing at Monteblanco.

The circuit, just outside Seville, played host to three of BSB’s leading outfits in Honda Racing, JG Speedfit Kawasaki and Be Wiser Ducati for a three-day test ahead of the first round of the 2018 season kicking off later this month.

However, the poor weather conditions currently battering Europe hampered the test with all three days hampered by poor conditions. Monday saw rain and high winds, Tuesday was a wash out and while teams woke to perfect weather on Wednesday, the track remained wet from the previous day’s precipitation until lunch time. Further rain at around 5pm brought an early halt to the test.

Despite the lack of track time, all three teams left happy with their progress with the trio of outfits now heading for one final Spanish test in Guadix before returning to the UK.

Haslam’s time of 1’36.3 is thought to be the quickest ever two wheeled lap of Monteblanco, placing him 0.3 ahead of Be Wiser Ducati’s Glenn Irwin who thrived at the technical track.

Jason O’Halloran, one of only two riders to have ridden here before given it’s Honda’s traditional test track, went quicker than he’s been here before while testing a number of new components to place third quickest ahead of team-mate Dan Linfoot, who also bettered his previous best at the track.

Shane Byrne suffered with a number of problems with getting his Panigale stopped and turning into corners, but was happy not to be too far away considering the issues.

Luke Mossey, who continues to build confidence after his nasty crash at Thruxton last year, rounded up the field with a 1’37.1.

Bennetts BSB Test Monteblanco – Lap Times

All times are unofficial and provided by teams

1. Leon Haslam – JG Speedfit Kawasaki – 1’36.3
2. Glenn Irwin – Be Wiser Ducati – 1’36.6
3. Jason O’Halloran – Honda Racing – 1’36.6
4. Dan Linfoot – Honda Racing – 1’36.8
5. Shane Byrne – Be Wiser Ducati – 1’37.0
6. Luke Mossey – JG Speedfit Kawasaki – 1’37.1