Kawasaki riders confident for race

After a strong showing in practice and early in qualifying, de Puniet looked set for a top five position on the grid. But traffic on his final fast lap meant that sixth, last position on the second row, was the best he could achieve.

"I'm a little bit disappointed because even just on race tyres, I was very fast," said de Puniet. "Unfortunately I came across some traffic in T2 on my last run out on qualifiers, and lost some time, so it was impossible to improve my position on the grid.

"But most importantly we've got a good race setting and tyre for tomorrow; that's why I feel confident. If Anthony and I can fight in the top eight, that would be great for all of us.

"I like this track, and the bike's working well, so I really hope I can repeat the success of Japan tomorrow."

His teammate Anthony West was also a little disappointed with his final grid position, but thankful at staying upright after nearly crashing on his final fling in qualifying.

Like his teammate, West is happy with his race set-up and is looking forward to a good result tomorrow.

"I thought I was going to be able to put in a faster time on my last qualifying tyre but I nearly lost the front at turn 10. My foot came off the peg as I was trying to save it and nearly went in to the back wheel.

"It smashed the rear mudguard though, so I was just lucky to stay on the bike. One of those near misses... Anyway, the set up's looking pretty good now: I did about ten laps on a race tyre, and felt quite strong, so as long as no-one else goes too fast it'll be alright!"