Haslam unable to find same feeling as pre-season ‘tests’, struggles in Misano

A 14th in race one, 11th in Superpole and a DNF in race two, brought Leon Haslam’s round three of the 2021 WorldSBK championship to a disappointing end. 

It was Haslam’s lowest scoring round of the 2021 season as he continued to struggle with ‘issues’, that have plagued the CBR1000RR-R Honda’s season to this point.

The 2018 BSB champion did not elaborate on what those issues were, but both he and Alvaro Bautista have mentioned at various stages this season the front-end being a problem - many of their crashes have been caused by a lack of front-end feeling. 

Traction has also been an issue for Haslam, but the Brit is hoping their upcoming ‘tests’ can help to resolve some of these problem areas. 

"Obviously the last race was a bit of a disaster as I lost the front in turn one, ran onto the green to try and save it but ultimately crashed. We have struggled with a few issues throughout the whole weekend, things we’ve been carrying since the first race actually," added Haslam. 

"It’s a little strange as I’ve felt very positive during all the tests we have done. So yes, it was a less than ideal weekend here in Misano but we will work together as a team to seek a solution. 

"We have some tests in a few days’ time before my home race at Donington where I hope to arrive feeling more like I did at the beginning of the year."