WSB: Camier positive after Red Bull Honda debut

Leon Camier has said he was pleasantly surprised by Honda’s Fireblade after testing with his new Red Bull Honda team for the first time in Jerez today.

Swinging his leg over his new steed for the first time at the Spanish circuit, the 2009 British Superbike Champion was confident of progress despite the poor reputation the latest Fireblade has developed after a tough debut year.

Still riding with Cosworth electronics before the team switch to Magnetti Marelli ahead of next year, Camier says he was surprised by the bike’s strong points while the negative aspects he pointed out were already on the team’s radar.  

“We’ve had a lot to learn!” he told MCN at the track. “I didn’t know what to expect to be honest because it’s best not to come in with too many pre-conceived ideas. It’s taken a while to figure out where the bike is, it has some really strong points, braking and corner entry, which surprised me, but then there are other things that are a little bit strange.

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“The good news is the team were already aware of those areas, so it’s nothing new and they know they need to work on it. It’s difficult to say exactly what the weaker point is, but it could be a combination between engine and electronics.

“We have to find the strong points and minimise the weak points, but I also need to ride the bike how it needs to be ridden. First impressions are good, I’m really impressed with how people are working. There’s a nice, good calm atmosphere and everything is working in a good way so we’re hopeful of making progress.” 

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