Kiyonari impresses in first HM Plant Honda test

New British Superbike signings Michael Rutter and Ryuichi Kiyonari made debut tests for HM Plant Honda Racing at Almeria, Spain, this week on 2004 Blades.

Team Co-ordinator Simon Buckmaster said: ” Kiyonari has shown he is going to be a force to be reckoned with in the British Superbike Championship. His lap times were competitive in comparison with other superbike tests and he completed more than 200 laps. I’ve been immediately impressed with his commitment.

” Rutter has had a bigger challenge in that he has been used to a twin-cylinder machine on Dunlops in recent years. However that’s the reason why we’ve come testing – to give him time to become accustomed to the four-cylinder engine and Michelin tyres once again. When you consider how little time he’s had on the bike, then I’d have to say that he’s done a good job. ” No lap times have been released.

Reigning British Supersport champion Karl Harris was also testing on his CBR600RR.

” Unfortunately, Karl had a bit of a mishap on the first day when he lost the front end and crashed, ” said Buckmaster.

” He did the same thing here last year in pre-season testing, so we’re not unduly worried. ”

Michael Rutter will be at the MCN London Motorcycle Show on Sunday, February 1.