Pata Honda’s Jonathan Rea will take a back to basics approach to this weekend’s Portimao World Superbike round in an effort to improve the electronic problems that have thrown up problems at most round this year.

The Irishman, who took a double win at Imola, tested well at the Portugese track in pre-season and intends to use that base setup to try and sort out the Fireblade’s engine braking strategies, which have caused the most issues.

“The last few races have thrown up a few problems in managing the electronics on the bike, especially engine braking, so Portimao gives us an opportunity to go back to basics. We had a good five-day test there earlier in the year when the team extended our stay there because of early rain,” said Rea,

“We got a good base setting then so I’m hoping that will be a solid starting point for the weekend. I need to be really strong in the next couple of races because they take us to about two-thirds distance on the season and it’s important to carry some confidence and momentum into the final part of the year.”