Jonathan Rea update on familiarity with Yamaha after Misano test

Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea said recent testing at Misano was crucial to increasing his familiarity with the Yamaha R1. After a long career with Kawasaki, Rea is still adapting to the new team and bike in this WorldSBK season.

“I’m excited to go to Misano, especially after a few days of testing where I was able to become more familiar with the Yamaha R1 and work with the team to feel more comfortable on the bike,” said Rea. He highlighted that adjustments to the bike’s balance since the first laps brought an immediate improvement in comfort and performance.

Rea’s season at Yamaha has yet to take off, and he sits 15th in the championship standings three rounds into it. This weekend, the fourth round at Misano, where WSBK riders recently tested, offers a new chance for Rea to take a big step forward. “We made some positive adjustments, and I really felt like I made progress as well,” he added.

Tom O’Kane, Andrea Locatelli’s team principal, explained how to maximise the Yamaha’s performance at Misano. “You tend to spend a lot of time looking for grip at Misano. The track temperature can be very high, and with the nature of the asphalt, grip becomes exponentially difficult to manage,” explained O’Kane. He highlighted the importance of a strong balance between braking, cornering, and acceleration.

The Misano circuit has distinct characteristics: from the last corners to Turn 6, it is very stop-and-go. From Turn 10 until the end of the lap, it’s about maintaining speed through fluid curves. “The bike also needs to brake really well, and, especially in Turn 8, where you’re braking at an angle, there’s extra centrifugal force, so you need a very stable front end,” said O’Kane.

Rea also shared his enthusiasm for Misano, a circuit where he has fond memories. “I really like the circuit, and I have good memories of Misano. I won my first race here in 2009, so I always have a good feeling when I walk in the gate,” commented Rea, also mentioning his frequent family holidays in the region.

Andrea Locatelli, currently fifth in the championship, also expressed optimism for the weekend at Misano. “Finally, we’re back for another weekend of racing, and we can enjoy competition again and battle it out with the other drivers during the sessions and races—I love it, honestly!” Locatelli said. He highlighted the improvements made during the winter and recent testing, believing the team is well prepared for the challenge.

Misano can be a difficult circuit due to the conditions and grip, especially in the heat. However, the positive atmosphere and support from fans, including their fan club in Selvino and the large Yamaha Italia crowd, increase the team’s motivation. “We need to continue in the same positive way we started this season,” concluded Locatelli.

With these updates, both Rea and Locatelli are ready to face the challenges of Misano, looking to improve their performances and climb the championship standings.