Steve Martin and the DFX Honda World Superbike team ventured out on the Spanish track of Valencia for a further pre-season test over the last few days, making further strides forward with development and set-up of the Honda CBR1000 which now sports its full 2007 livery. Steve said, “It’s been another trouble free test mechanically which is great as we’ve been able to maximise the track time. I was still using an old spec engine so there wasn’t anything we could do in terms of development and mapping in that area, but we did get some more positive work done on set up and handling. “I’m a little disappointed I didn’t get my lap times to where I want them to be, although I did manage to improve on my previous test lap time from last month. But we’re still waiting for some new spec parts such as the 2007 rear shock and a few electronic elements, so once those are in place I’m confident the bike will be in very good shape and my lap times will be up there. “I was able to do some long distance runs though over the few days, which I’ve not done before on this bike, so that gave me a good feel for riding it over a longer stint. It’s been a hectic few months for the Aussie, flying to and from Australia to test at Valencia over the winter, but Steve is revved up for the opening race of the season in just 10 days time. “Valencia has been good for our testing programme but it would have been good to have the opportunity to get a feel for the bike at different circuits before the season starts. “So I’m really looking forward to the Qatar and Philip Island opening rounds and just getting back into racing mode. I feel in top form physically and mentally and so now can’t wait to get going. Steve now flies back to Australia for one week before heading to Qatar for the first round of the 2007 World Superbike Championship on Saturday 24 February, then returning to Australia for round two the following weekend. Steve, Sandra and Axel will then say their goodbyes to Aussie family and friends as they head back to Europe for the next eight months, with a further three day test planned in March followed by the first European round at Donington Park on 1 April.