Suzuka test awaits Sarath, Sethu
Having scored points in the previous two rounds, Sarath Kumar along with Honda Racing team mate Rajiv Sethu hope to put in an improved performance in the third round of the FIM Asia road racing championship at the historic Suzuka circuit this weekend.
Chennai-based Sarath and Sethu are a part of the five-member team spearheaded by Japanese ace Tiga Hada.
Sarath, in his second season in the Super Sport 600cc class, said: “Last year, I did not have a good outing in Suzuka as I was able to participate in only Race 1 and had to sit out of Race 2 due to injury. This circuit is very demanding on bikes and I feel I am much fitter this year and I want to improve my timing and position for sure.
“On this circuit, it is important to get into a rhythm and from the very first session, our goal is going to get the flow and have the right setup for the race. My target it to stay within 1.5 seconds of the top lap time so that I can finish in the top 15.”
Sethu, in his debut season in the Asia Production 250cc class astride a Honda CBR 250, had a forgettable second round in Buriram, Thailand, in April, following a crash in the pre-race practice session and is eager to make up for it.
“Yes, Buriram was a big disappointment for me, but I hope I will do far better at Suzuka. The track here is one of the most technical in the calendar. Since I have already raced the twohour endurance in 2016, I know the track. For me, the goal is going to be a topeight result in both races though there is much more to learn from the competition and fight,” said Sethu.
Chennai-based Sarath and Sethu are a part of the five-member team spearheaded by Japanese ace Tiga Hada