'It was a huge shock to everyone how uncompetitive we were' - Rea discusses Yamaha's latest developments

01/28/2025 09:46 AM

Jonathan Rea is expecting further development from Yamaha ahead of the 2025 season.

A shock move from Kawasaki to Yamaha turned into a nightmare 2024 World Superbike season for Jonathan Rea.

The six-time World Champion ended his debut year in Yamaha blue in 13th place in the standings. Rea only ventured onto a podium throughout the year after he finished in third at Donington Park.

After the 2025 Jerez World Superbike Test Rea has claimed that it was a 'huge shock' how uncompetitive he was with Yamaha. But he has also provided some hope for his second season with the Japanese manufacturer.

"All over the bike we're trying to improve," Rea told WorldSBK.com. "The engine, the chassis, electronics, the total package," Rea explained.

"Also from my side as well, I tried to take off some weight in the offseason with a bit of success in order to put everything together."

When speaking about future developments the Northern Irishman confirmed that he is expecting new parts from Yamaha for the Portimao and Australia Test.

"More new parts in Portimao and I'm sure Australia," said Rea.

"We're still in a period of development, it's still a period of development, we're still analysing things and it's good to be a part of a team that's forward-thinking now.

"I think it was a huge shock to everyone how uncompetitive we were last year but we've reacted in a positive way and I'm intrigued to see how competitive we can be when the lights go out."

The next test is scheduled for the 28th and 29th of January at Portimao, before the team's official launch on the sixth of February.

The final test of the year will take place on the 17th and 18th of February at Phillip Island ahead of the first round of the season between the 21st and 23rd of February.

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