Positive first test on 2008 Honda Fireblade for Gregorio Lavilla

Gregorio Lavilla completed a successful two day test onboard the all new 2008 specification VentAxia VK Honda CBR1000RR this week.

Riding at the Albacete circuit in central Spain on Sunday and Monday, Lavilla got two hours of track time on day one before completing a full day on Monday.

Lavilla completed the opening two rounds of the championship onboard the teams 2007 spec BSB Honda’s and currently holds tenth in the championship standings.

Lavilla’s initial impression of the new bike has been positive and the former BSB champion believes that the all new machine is already at an equivalent level to his 2007 machine, despite the team only having a matter of day to prepare the new bike.

Speaking to MCN from Spain, Lavilla said: “On the first day it was really just a shakedown, but the bike is running well and my initial feeling is good.

“I’ve been working to get basic things like handlebar, foot rest and seating position right so that when we get to Valencia we don’t need to worry about these things.

“Compared to the old bike it is not a big difference at this stage and it’s not going to set the world on fire but there are some positives.

“On the old bike there was a lot of weight transfer and pitching, but with the new bike the chassis seems more predictable and its easier to ride.

“At the moment the engine performance is about the same, which is good as it is only the teams first attempt with the new motor.

“The actual power delivery is smoother, which helps not upset the bike on corner exit.

“All in all it’s very positive because the team have built the bike from zero in a few days and already its at the same level as the old one.”

Lavilla is hoping to get more track time tomorrow (Wednesday) at the Calafat circuit before heading to Valencia for this weekend’s race on Thursday.