Rea looking forward to warmer conditions in Sepang

Jonathan Rea is looking to make a return to the top step of the podium at Sepang this weekend after being beaten by Chaz Davies in both races at Imola.

Davies was unstoppable on the Ducati Panigale R at the Italian circuit, leaving Rea for dust in both races to take a lights to flag victory, but the championship leader is keen to build on his 35 point advantage this weekend to further fend off the charging Welshman.

Rea and Davies shared one win apiece at Sepang last year, but the Malaysian circuit has been resurfaced and changes have been made to the banking of corners since, completely changing the track’s profile.

“We have some good memories from Sepang last year,” said Rea. “We were able to be really strong, especially when it came to tyre life.

“In race two at Imola, although we had some small issues, we found a lot of positives. I think for Sepang we will have really good information. I have also watched the race from last year a few times. The most exciting part about this weekend is to go somewhere with a lot of heat. Aside from the two flyaway races the weather has been so inconsistent. I enjoy working in the heat and consistent temperatures will be better for everybody. That should also make the tyre choice much more straightforward and we can work better on our race set-up. I am just looking forward to working again to help take the new Ninja forward.”