The HM Plant Honda team returned to action Friday for free practice on the new Snetterton 300 circuit ahead of this weekend’s sixth round of the British Superbike Championship.

Shakey was fifth fastest in the morning session and he was able to improve his lap time but with the times so close on the new layout he was eighth fastest. Kiyo suffered a technical problem in the opening session which left him sidelined for the second half of the session but he was feeling confident after making improvements to run tenth that he will be able to close the gap.

Shakey said:

“This morning I had a run out on Knockhill tyres and was just getting everything in order really. You could see who had tested at the circuit and I was reasonably happy. This afternoon we had a much better session and the lap times were coming easier for me with a few changes that we had made from the morning. Tommy (Hill) was fastest and he is only about a tenth quicker so I am not too worried. The new circuit layout is good and a challenge for all of us this weekend so with some more improvements I think we should have a good qualifying session tomorrow.”

Kiyo said:

“I am happy; I was just unlucky in the second session I got dropped down in the last part. I am still getting used to the new section, I am trying different lines and braking markers to see which is fastest. Lap by lap today we have been getting faster and improving the times and I feel confident. It was a shame this morning we had a technical problem as I only did six laps and that meant in the second session the other riders were a bit ahead but I know we are coming better. Today is not Sunday and that is the day that will be important for me.”

HM Plant Honda Team Manager concluded:

“It has been a good start to the round for HM Plant Honda. The times here on the new Snetterton 300 are so close that the positions don’t really reflect the performances of both Shakey and Kiyo today. Both riders had a few small issues with the chassis set up but they had a positive session this afternoon and we are confident that we can resolve this before qualifying Saturday afternoon.”