Joan Mir expected to struggle at the Dutch Grand Prix. He finished 12th in Friday's practice sessions.
What happened?
The Honda rider was just under a tenth of a second from making it into Q2. He was 0.702s off the fastest lap set by Aprilia's Marco Bezzecchi.
Why it matters for Joan Mir
Mir said the track layout was a challenge for Honda. He struggled in sector four, losing six tenths of a second.
What comes next?
Mir will try to improve his position on Saturday. He was happy with his performance, considering he rode alone.
The Japanese manufacturer had a strong showing at the Czech Grand Prix. Diogo Moreira ran at the front early in the races, while Joan Mir completed the top five.
But the Dutch Grand Prix has been tougher for Honda. Mir is its leading rider, with LCR Honda's Moreira just behind him.
Moreira noted that the RC213V lacks stability through the long, fast corners at Assen. This makes it difficult to keep the line and maintain pace.
Mir was 0.702s off the fastest lap. He will try to close the gap on Saturday.
The two KTMs were very strong on Friday. This conditioned Honda's day, making it harder for Mir to reach his goal.
Mir was happy with his performance. He rode alone and made a strong day, despite the challenges.
The Dutch Grand Prix will be a difficult weekend for Honda. Mir and Moreira will try to improve their positions on Saturday.
Mir finished 12th on Friday. He will try to make it into the top 10 on Saturday.
The track layout is a challenge for Honda. Mir struggled in sector four, but was strong in sectors one and three.
Mir will try to understand what is happening in sector four. He lost six tenths of a second in that sector.
The Dutch Grand Prix is a tough event for Honda. Mir will try to improve his position on Saturday.