Honda 'experiment' at Vallelunga test.

Honda have confirmed that they tried a number of 'new directions' on set-up with the RA106 during their three-day programme at Vallelunga in Italy this week, which came to a close on Thursday.

The main focus of the test for the Brackley based squad was development, set-up and tyre work for next week's Monaco Grand Prix, plus tyre programmes for other forthcoming races, most noticeably the Canadian GP in mid-June. Perfect sunny and warm weather, along with generally good reliability from the RA106 race cars, enabled the team to successfully complete its programme - race drivers, Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello in action along with test drivers, Anthony Davidson and James Rossiter, all four combining to complete over 760 laps.

"We have had a very positive three days here in Vallelunga," summed up Honda's chief engineer for vehicle performance, Mark Ellis. "The weather and track conditions have been perfect and we have completed our planned programme of developments and tyre programmes in preparation for the Monaco Grand Prix. The drivers have tried some new directions on set-up and are pleased with the results. We are looking forward to a competitive race in Monaco next weekend."

Honda's engineering director, Shuhei Nakamoto was also pleased with the progress made on the engine front: "It has been a productive test for the next step engine, focusing mainly on finding the best settings for Monaco, where the engine acceleration curve is quicker than at other circuits," he added.

Davidson meanwhile, who was in action on day's one and two, echoed the thoughts of Ellis and Nakamoto, although whether or not they will have made enough progress to close in on Renault and Ferrari, who are quite a way out front, remains to be seen.

"It was a good two days in the car for me this week and we had a successful test looking at the aero and tyres for Monaco," added the Brit. "We also worked on the general set-up of the car and found some interesting results for the future. The car felt good around the tight and twisty configuration that we ran here in Vallelunga so that should get me in the groove for my Friday running next week. So all in all, it's been a good test."