Portimao test – Rea on top, lap times tumble

Jonathan Rea starts the second day of WSB testing in Portimao today in optimistic mood having dominated proceedings on day one.

Rea who claimed a double podium in Sunday’s races has shown unrelenting and his lap time set yesterday afternoon was the fastest ever lap around the Portuguese circuit.

Speaking to MCN this morning he said: “I’ve done some laps around here in the last few days I can tell you. The races obviously went well and this test is really important for us.

“So far I’ve tried three different sets of forks and we’ve cured some of the problems I had in the race.

“The temperature is much cooler this morning so we might even be able to go quicker today.

“We’ll see. Our plan for the day is to do some work on the rear of the bike and then move on top electronics this afternoon.”

Sunday’s race two winner Michel Fabrizio went second quickest with Cal Crutchlow in third despite feeling the effects of his heavy crash in the morning session.

New Suzuki signing Leon Haslam spent the day back to back testing Ohlins and Showa suspension.

Using Kagayama’s settings, Haslam posted quick times and will get to make more changes to the set-up of the bike today to suit his riding style.

WSB returnee, James Toseland was satisfied with his progress on the opening day and remains confident that he can improve the bike and his lap times during day two.

Day one lap times (unofficial)

Jonathan Rea (Honda) 1.42.156
Michel Fabrizio (Ducati) 1.42.362
Cal Crutchlow (Yamaha) 1.42.795
Noriyuki Haga (Ducati) 1.43.098
Leon Haslam (Suzuki) 1.43.2
Max Biaggi (Aprilia) 1.43.4
James Toseland (Yamaha) 1.43.7
Max Neukirchner (Honda) 1.43.8
Sylvan Guintoli (Suzuki) 1.43.8
Leon Camier (Aprilia) 1.43.9
Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki) 1.43.9
Carlos Checa (Ducati) 1.43.9