Rea 'on top of engine braking issues'

Jonathan Rea feels optimistic he can return PATA Honda to winning ways at its home round of the World Superbike Championship at Assen regardless of what the weather brings come race day.

A traditionally strong circuit for rider and team, though Rea starts a modest fifth after being caught out by an ill-timed shower during the crucial Superpole 2 session, he feels he has a quick bike beneath him having overcome the engine braking issues that have hampered his progress so far this year.

Indeed, though rain is forecast for race day, Rea is content with his pace on the Honda CBR1000RR come rain or shine.

"Superpole was strange because, just as we changed for the qualifying tyre, the rain came and only two riders were able to complete their laps. We didn't really get the chance to show our full potential but we did a lot of work this morning on our race set-up with the option tyres.

"We're satisfied with our pace but we'll just have to see what the weather brings because it's forecasting changeable conditions. The bike is working really well and we've got on top of our engine braking issues. Our speed is fast, but we need to be a little more consistent when the tyre drops.

"Obviously it would be better for everyone if it stays dry tomorrow because all the set-up work has been done in the dry. But, if it's wet, it's the same for everyone. We have an OK wet set-up after we did some wor k in Jerez, but what will be will be. The aim to is to get a good start tomorrow and go with the front group and then to see what that brings us."