Test MotoGP. Phillip Island

The Repsol Honda Team continues testing at a good pace in Australia
Both Nicky Hayden and Alex Barros improve the lap times set yesterday
The Repsol Honda riders continue with their preseason tests at a firm pace. Both have improved the lap times set yesterday and keep on making endless tests with tyres and set-ups to find a good base that will allow them to face the 2004 season with assurance.The North American rider has made a total 85 laps on the Australian track of Phillip Island, including a race simulation with very positive results. His team-mate Alex Barros, still recovering from his right shoulder injury, is steadily getting back the racing rhythm and improving his physical shape.Driver´s commentsNicky Hayden: ‘Today was OK but I still would have liked to have made more progress. We’ve been trying to find a good base set-up after the big tyre test yesterday. We changed things around a little and found a base that worked better although we still tried some more tyres today. I did a long 25- lap run that was faster than my race time (Hayden finished third in the race). I did my best lap time at the end of the day which is encouraging. I’ve got a few things to think about tonight – where I can really gain a little time – the S-corner in particular. I want to end the test on a high tomorrow and have a big day – just like the final day in Sepang.’Tuesday best lap 1m31.50; 100 laps Wednesday best lap; 1m31.18; 85 lapsAlex Barros: ‘Yesterday I made a lot of laps – many of them consecutive – and felt pretty sore this morning with the shoulder. We made quite a few changes on the machine to help it turn better – we use the 16.5 inch front rim – and everything started to feel better and it was possible to go faster. However as the day moved on my shoulder started to feel some pain so I listen to my body. I will take a good rest tonight and use the ice again that helps. Tomorrow we will start with the same settings and hope to finish this important test session in good shape.’ Tuesday best lap 1m31.78; 80 laps Wednesday best lap 1m31.59; 58 laps