The Anvil Hire Tag Yamaha trio of James Rispoli, Billy McConnell and Shaun Winfield were left feeling confident following the team’s two-day test last weekend.
The team spent two days testing at Almeria, Spain, to try and learn more about their new Yamaha R1 machines – following the switch from Kawasaki at the end of last season.
The 2.5 mile circuit gave all three riders the chance to feel at home with their bikes and to improve their understanding of the machine.
Rispoli commented: “The test was pretty good. We got some good valuable seat time in. This test was not for us to produce an amazing motorcycle but more for learning how to ride the R1. I really worked on learning how much edge grip there is and trying to push on new and old tires.
“The Superbike will be completely different so this should be a good stepping-stone. Overall I am happy with my learning curve and can’t wait for the next test.”
Although one of the team’s new Yamaha’s has been built to Superbike specification, this was not brought on the trip, meaning that the trio were riding Superstock spec bikes throughout the weekend.
McConnell said: “We couldn’t really do much with the stock bikes other than ride around and get used to the power and pull some wheelies and skids, but we’ve used this a team bonding exercise and I’ve got a great working relationship with Lee my crew chief already.
“It was a busy track day this weekend and we’ve met some great people in the garage who were taking a great interest in us which is mega. Our next test should be on the full superbike spec machine so I really can’t wait until then to get out on the superbike and do some proper testing.”
Winfield was particularly happy with the progress he made over the weekend as he looks to build on a strong debut season in the MCE British Superbike Championship.
He said: “We made some big changes on the bike and picked up pace throughout the two days finishing on a positive note with a good lap time, just off the back of my team mates. I’m really looking forward to getting out on the full Superbike as now I feel comfortable on the R1.”
The team’s next test is scheduled to take place in February – where the three riders will be able to get their hands on the superbike spec Yamaha R1 for the first time.
