Iker Lecuona used a Pirelli qualifying tyre to set his third-placed time aboard HRC’s 2022 Fireblade at the Barcelona WorldSBK test and says that although he needs more time with the new brand, he is getting better every day.

The Spanish former MotoGP rider is new to the whole Superbike setup but is learninfg fast under the tutelage of team boss Leon Camier. The youngster now has one more test at Aragon before the season kicks off.

“On day one, we worked on every aspect of the bike setup in order to adapt to the Montmelo circuit, looking to improve particularly in terms of the braking, and corner speed too,” said Lecuona.

“The feeling has been different compared to Jerez and Portimão, and the weather was not as good as it was during previous tests, but we worked really hard on the bike all the same. I’m also focusing on myself, in terms of adapting to the aspects of this category that are very different to what I was used to, like the electronics for example.

“I also need to understand the Pirelli tyres a bit better, but we are getting there. Day by day I feel better on the bike and I’m also very happy with the team; they support me at all times and in every way. On Saturday it was good to have a dry morning session, during which we worked to fine tune the set-up before putting in a soft tyre to make a flying lap.

“I was happy with that lap time but of course it’s just a single lap and in a race you must be fast from start to finish. After lunch the rain came, so let’s say that the afternoon was a good opportunity to learn more about the wet tyres and wet settings. We have room to improve there, so we must keep working.

“We will now approach Aragón with an open mind, well aware that we still have work to do but also that we have worked well in recent months and will continue to do our best to keep improving throughout the season.”