Motorcycles and news

Laconi lost some track time after finding a problem on the machine he crashed on day two, and missed part of the final morning session, but both riders made marked improvements on their previous best times, and found better set-up then ever before.

Troy Bayliss left Phillip Island with a new Superbike track best, 1′30.7.

REGIS LACONI: 4th equal ­ 1′32.2:

“Not so bad, but the last day was difficult. We had a very small problem with the bike after yesterday’s crash and until 11.30 or 12 I could not get my best chance to set a fast time and I missed the best track conditions. But I did a 1′32.2 and I am happy because I am sure in the right conditions it could have been better. We did not get the chance to do a big race simulation but I did many laps.”

FONSI NIETO: 6th equal ­ 1′32.3:

“Our bike is largely the same as last year but every test it is getting better and better. We have new suspension here and at the last test, different from last year, and it is working well. Every test we are nearer the strongest guys and we hope to fight for the podiums. Honestly, a two rider team is much better for us, for the team, we can work more clearly as a team. It makes things easier, and for sure it is much better.”

Pirelli Test laptimes:

SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Pirelli Diablo SBK - 16,5″ slick tyres
1. Bayliss (Aus-Ducati) 1′30″7; 2. Lanzi (Ita-Ducati) 1′31″2; 3. Toseland (UK-Honda) 1′31″7; 4. Corser (Aus-Yamaha) 1′32″2; 5. Laconi (Fra-Kawasaki) 1′32″2; 6. Kagayama (Jap-Suzuki) 1′32″3; 7. Nieto (Spa-Kawasaki) 1′32″3; 8. Biaggi (Ita-Suzuki) 1′32″4; 9. Haga (Jap-Yamaha) 1′32″8; 10. Rolfo (Ita-Honda) 1′33″2.