Reigning British Superbike champion Ryuichi Kiyonari will begin his pre-season testing campaign this week in Spain with HM Plant Honda as he prepares to defend his title, joining new team-mate Shane 'Shakey' Byrne on track for the first time.

Kiyo returned from Japan last week and is now focused on his title defence; this track time marks his first opportunity to test the team's new Fireblade alongside returning former champion Shakey who will make his track debut with the team.

Kiyo said:

"I am a little nervous, but I always am when we first get back on the bike after a winter off as I haven't ridden for a few months. Everything will be different this season with new riders and that means new competition for me, which makes me happy as it is another challenge. In Spain we know what we did last year, so I hope for good weather and be able to improve my speed and go faster than before. We want a good test as I know it is going to be another tough season and I won't be happy unless I am winning or finishing on the podium in every race."


Team Manager Havier Beltran concluded:

"After a fantastic finish last season the team have had a hectic winter of preparation and the mechanics have been kept extremely busy with building the Fireblades over the past months. Kiyo is obviously ready to defend his title and we look forward to working with our two new riders, Shane Byrne and Jason O'Halloran in the Superstock class. The first test at Calafat is going to be a shakedown for all three riders and give them the chance to establish a base setting in order to move on the Cartagena and continue to make improvements ready for the opening round at Brands Hatch."