Ryuichi Kiyonari set a new lap record on the Brands Hatch Indy circuit in practice for Monday's opening round of the British Superbike Championship. The HM Plant Honda rider dominated the day and saw off a late challenge from Leon Haslam to record the day's best time, 45.974 secs, averaging 96.01 mph.
Airwaves Ducati debutant Haslam was second with triple British Supersport champion Karl Harris third.
Defending champion John Reynolds was 21st on his comeback from a broken leg.
HM Plant Honda rider Michael Rutter, who finished second behind Reynolds in last season's championship, was only fourth quickest.
"Last year we had a good package, and this year it is even better, but nothing is easy," said Rutter.
"I feel the major threat to my hopes is posed by my team-mate Kiyonari."
Jeremy McWilliams, back in domestic action after 13 seasons in grand prix action, was fifth in 46.374.
Circuit specialist Sean Emmett was sixth fastest on the Virgin Mobile Samsung Yamaha.
Practice Times:
1. Ryuichi Kiyonari (Honda) 45.974
2. Leon Haslam (Ducati) +0.314
3. Karl Harris (Honda) +0.335
4. Michael Rutter (Honda) +0.380
5. Jeremy McWilliams (Honda) +0.400
6. Sean Emmett (Yamaha) +0.485
7. Glen Richards (Kawasaki) +0.655
8. Scott Smart (Suzuki) +0.680
9. Gregorio Lavilla (Ducati) +0.703
10. John McGuinness (Yamaha) +0.884
21. John Reynolds (Suzuki) +1.700
MMIX
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