Dunlops at Daytona: Eric Bostrom tests 2011 Kawasaki ZX-10R

Cycle World Technical Editor Kevin Cameron phoned on his way to the airport to update me on Team Cycle World Attack Performance and rider Eric Bostrom's first day of testing on the new Kawasaki ZX-10R at recently repaved Daytona International Speedway. Day 1 of the planned two-day test was unfortunately called off due to rain, but Bostrom and his new teammate, JD Beach, who is riding a Kawasaki ZX-6R in the Daytona SportBike class, were both able to get in at least on on-track session today.

“It runs. It’s fast. Went 186 mph through the traps,” said Kevin. “Eric was fourth-fastest in the session that I saw behind the obvious people.

“And while the motorcycle has certain issues, one of which is improved traction on the repaved surface, which makes the front end light, Eric said it was the closest to being ready of any motorcycle he’s ever ridden at Daytona. As you know, the bike was sort of just started this morning. I know it did dyno tests and all the rest of it, but it was extensively in pieces. So Richard and company have gotten it together. They’re running a second test now, and, obviously, I don’t know how that’s coming out.

“So far, pretty damned good!”