[jmeyn]

The Curcuit fastest lap in 2002 was by Barros at about 2:04.4, and they beat that the first day of testing on brand new bikes. Looking good! And NH is coming along.

 

[jmeyn]

I don't know. Anyway, most of the riders were working on setup rather than hot laps. Nicky was probably learning one turn or turn sequence at a time. Day two should be significantly faster.

 

[jmeyn]

Early days

Rossi and Kato rode well but didn't win in their first year in each class series. All their championships came in the second year, and they are exceptional. It takes years of experience for most riders.

P.S.: Rossi was champion in his first year of MotoGP, but since it was the first MotoGP anyone who won could say that.

P.P.S.: I wouldn't be at all surprised if NH improved dramatically. Nor would Honda, I'm sure. He's showing good sense creeping up on the limits. Rubber side down forever!

 

[jmeyn]

Re: Early days

I'm sure Honda didn't place him in the Repsol team to compete with Rossi! This year is learning curve time for Nicky, and what a teacher he has!

 

[jmeyn]

Re: January Sepang times

Honda says "this". Nicky is showing real maturity. Kato is flying.