Nakano expects improvement in Turkey

The Japanese rider has struggled to adapt to the Honda-Michelin package after riding a Kawasaki on Bridgestone tyres in recent years, but he believes that he should have a better feeling for the bike after testing in the wet at the Spanish track.

"Our test after Jerez was very good for us as we managed to get the feeling from the front of the bike that I need for my riding style," he said.

The 29-year-old also feels that the things he learned in the wet conditions will help him in the dry too.

"The test was in the wet, but this is the same feeling we are chasing for the bike in the dry conditions too," he added.

"This data is important, as once I have found a setting to give me the same feeling in the dry, then I know we will go much faster."

Nakano's team boss Gianluca Montiron is hoping that his rider can get into the top eight this weekend, so that the team can then progress from there over the summer.

"I have high expectations for this part of the season, because I'm sure we can expect a step forward in Shinya's performance," said Montiron.

"We'll go to Turkey to enter in the top eight positions, and gradually I hope we can stay in the top group."