US MotoGP: Hodgson picks up the pace at Laguna Seca

Neil Hodgson posted the seventh best time in the second practice session for the American superbike clash in Laguna Seca this morning.

The British rider, preparing for his first race since last October tomorrow in the 28-lap AMA superbike encounter, set a best time of 1.25.446 in the hour-long session.

That was 1.2s faster than he managed in yesterday’s opening session, with Hodgson rejecting the chance to ride the Gresini in the American MotoGP race to accept a deal with the Corona Honda team in the AMA superbike series.

Former American champion Mat Mladin topped the timesheets this morning with a best of 1.23.970 that just edged out factory Suzuki team-mate and reigning champion Ben Spies.

Spies clocked a best of 1.24.002 as the dominant Suzuki duo were comfortably ahead of Jamie Hacking in third spot.

James Ellison was 15th this morning with a best lap of 1.26.419.

Qualifying for the AMA superbike race will take place tomorrow morning local time.