AFTER signing a deal that sees Marco Simoncelli continue with Gresini on a factory Honda next season, the Italian got to sample the 1000cc RC213V project at Motegi yesterday.
The test was a bonus for the recent contract extension and was an opportunity for Simoncelli to sample the new 1000cc prototype he will contest in 2012, along with giving any feedback to HRC.
Commenting after the private test, the Italian said: "The big day finally arrived and I was able to test the bike I will be riding in Team San Carlo Honda Gresini colours next year. It was a fantastic experience to get out on the RC213V and I would like thank HRC for the opportunity.
"I completed 50 laps and quickly felt confident with the new bike, setting similar lap times to the RC212V. At the end of the day I gave my feedback and suggestions, which I hope will be important in the development of the bike from here. Now I am taking some days off on the island of Boracay in the Philippines before the next race at Phillip Island.”
The hairy-one joins Casey Stoner and Dani Pedrosa in having tested the new bike. The third Repsol Honda man Andrea Dovizioso still awaits his go on the Honda RC213V, as contract negotiations are still ongoing for whether Dovi will join the LCR team next season.
Simoncelli renewed his contract with Gresini Honda last week and as with this year, he will ride with full factory support from HRC in 2012.
