Lecuona and Vierge explore new WorldSBK circuit Balaton during a brief test session aboard a stock CBR1000RR-R Fireblade

The Balaton Park Circuit in Hungary will host a World Superbike round for the first time over the weekend of 25-27 July. In preparation for that eighth championship round, the Honda HRC team and factory riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge completed a half-day riding session at the track, alongside several other SBK teams.

Accompanied by Team Manager José Escamez and supported by two Team LCR technicians, Lecuona and Vierge rode a standard CBR1000RR-R on a sunny day, with temperatures in excess of 30°C. They completed 20 and 26 laps respectively, gaining some initial insights into this new track, which only opened in May 2023. It was the first opportunity for both riders to experience the 4.075 km layout.

“Balaton Park has done an amazing job – the facilities are very nice,” commented Escamez. “That said, it’s a challenging layout, and from a safety perspective, there may still be some improvements to be made. The riders completed a few runs on the stock bikes to get familiar with the layout. We’re very grateful to Team LCR for their support with this test.”

Xavi Vierge tried to make the most of the outing: “The track could be better, but at least today we managed to make some laps. Riding a bike is always a good plan, so I learned a new circuit while enjoying riding the street version of the CBR. Also, I did a bit of moto training, which was useful as I continue my recovery ahead of Donington”.

Iker Lecuona, who also took to the track for some initial laps, added: “Within two weeks I’ve ridden three different version of the CBR – my race bike, the Suzuka 8 Hour version and now the street version. It’s been fun! Unfortunately, I can’t say the same for the Balaton track, I simply don’t like it!”

Before heading to Hungary for round eight, the Honda HRC Team will next be on track for round seven of the WorldSBK Championship, set to take place at Donington Park, UK, on 11-13 July.