Honda set for 2013
By TMX Archives on 23rd Nov 12
The Honda World MX team returns to Europe satisfied after a positive test in Japan, with more progress thanexpected in developing a strong package for the teams attack on the 2013 World Motocross Championship.
The opening part of the test took place at a sand track in Fujisawa, which is located in the North East of the country.
The team ran through a number of engine specifications, suspension settings with Showa, chassis options and linkages over the two days with Japanese staff from Honda's Research and Development department.
During the test the Japanese HRC team also joined the Honda World duo to work as a combined effort in finding the optimum configuration for the factory CRF450R.
Both Honda World Motocross team riders have found a good feeling with the bike and went on for a one-day confirmation test at the Sugo Grand Prix circuit, where they concluded the intense week happy with the improvements made.
This test forms the base setting that the team will use for 2013, as Japanese and European staff working on the Honda World Motocross project are very satisfied with progress on the machine since the end of the 2012 season.
The team now returns to Europe to follow up development with further tests on home soil and will be joined by Japanese staff once again while the squad heads into winter training with its two riders ahead of the opening race in Losail, Qatar, on March 2.
Evgeny Bobryshev said: "The whole test was really positive. I am very happy with the bike and it was a good three days.
"It was an intense schedule from morning to evening with many hours riding, which was quite tough in a way because I only rode for a few hours before I went there with the injury I had.
"Besides that I can say that I really enjoyed every minute on the bike. We have a good chassis and the bike is very stable and handles very well, along with good power.
"When we get back to Europe we'll be testing on bumpier tracks, but it will only be when we get to the pre-season races that we can really make comparisons. Overall I am very confident and I have to say a huge thanks to everyone.
"It's been good to get to know Max better, as we've known each other a long time but only to say hello.
"He is a good, friendly guy and we should work well together.”
Honda Motor Europe Off-Road manager, Roger Harvey said: "It's been a successful trip to Japan, as both riders are incredibly happy with the progress made on the factory CRF450R.
"We are confident with the results of our efforts, as Bobby and Max have a good feeling on the bike, which has increased with the developments we've made over the three days.
"We were joined by the HRC Team, which also provided us with extra data to build a full picture for further development.
"Everyone has been happy with the result of the test, and we now return back to Europe to continue our work on all aspects of the bike with a strong direction, although we're well advanced on where we need to be.”
