Hill on record pace

The Virgin Media Yamaha team sneaked in one final day of testing at Cadwell Park on Friday (March 30, 2007) in preparation for Easter Monday’s BSB season opener at Brands Hatch.

Although a cold overcast day, the track remained dry to allow all four of the team’s riders complete a full day of testing.

Tommy Hill was on lap record pace with the brand new 16-valve R1.

He said: “It was another successful test in the bag. The track was cold but I managed lap record pace, which is obviously very encouraging.

“I guess the proof will be in the racing and this time next week it will be the real thing.”

The test allowed James Haydon more time to get used to the Pirelli tyres and he said: “This extra test has been especially positive for me.

“I’ve been playing catch-up, having never ridden the bike on Pirelli’s before. Today we narrowed the parameters.

“We’ve found a much improved bike set-up and I’m much more confident on the bike now. I’m feeling really competitive compared with our early tests, I just can’t wait to get to Brands next week.”

The test was also positive for the Virgin Supersport team of Billy McConnell and 2006 R6 Cup Champion Tom Grant.

McConnell said: “It’s been a good day. We’re really close to race times from last year.

“My wrist is so much better and I’m feeling very fit. The Supersport bike continues to amaze me, we have a great package now and we are planning to stay at the top of the time sheets all season.”

Grant added: “What a great learning curve it’s been for me. I love the Supersport bike and am chuffed that I made the decision to ride in the series this year.

“It’s encouraging that Billy and I are both on the pace and that the bike has been so strong through all our tests. The race season can’t come soon enough for me, I just want to get racing.”

This weekend’s BSB round at Brands Hatch begins with free practice on Saturday, April 7, Qualifying on Sunday, April 8, and a full race programme on Bank Holiday Monday, April 9.