Kawasaki runs 'four GPs' with new tyres, exhaust.

The Kawasaki Racing Team devoted the opening day of the Catalan Grand P rix weekend to a comprehensive test session evaluating the latest Bridgestone tyres and a new exhaust system.

Team riders, Shinya Nakano and Alex Hofmann, completed a combined total of 99 laps in the two free practice sessions, almost the equivalent of four grand prix race distances.

The 4.72 km Catalunya circuit was resurfaced during the winter and Bridgestone have brought a wide range of new concept tyres to this race. The tyres feature different constructions and compounds and are already showing improved performance compared to the pre-season IRTA test.

"Today was only for testing, mainly for the new concept tyres from Bridgestone and to check chassis settings against the different constructions and compounds," confirmed technical director Ichiro Yoda. "We had five rear and four front tyres for the test programme today plus the different specification exhaust. Tyre performance is already noticeably improved from the IRTA test and the riders also checked the smoother throttle response from the new exhaust."

The revised specification exhaust, produced by Akrapovic, was tested back-to-back with the standard system, by both Nakano and Hofmann. More rider friendly throttle response is one benefit of the latest exhaust and Yoda said he expects both riders will use the system for the race.

Nakano recorded his fastest lap of the day, for 11th overall, in the morning free practice session, in which the Japanese rider was unhurt in a crash when he lost the front end. "This was very a productive day, especially this afternoon when I did some endurance runs on the new tyres; we have gathered a lot of useful data," said Shinya.

Hofmann, 17th at the end of the day, also posted his best lap in the morning session. The German ace is quickly regaining 100% fitness as he faces his second race after an eight-week lay-off with a fractured left wrist.

"It's a little frustrating when you look at the times, but our focus is on the race on Sunday and a perfect set-up," said Alex. "I tried some different set-ups at the rear and I am still chasing some more grip, but I think the new surface is a factor; it is different from last year. My wrist is holding up okay, although there is a bigger strain on the left side with the corner layout at this track."