With the start the World Superbike season less than two weeks away, Ducati star Regis Laconi appears in top form after dominating the final pre-season test in Valencia at the weekend.
With the start the World Superbike season less than two weeks away, Ducati star Regis Laconi appears in top form after dominating the final pre-season test in Valencia at the weekend.
The Frenchman ruled all three days of running, establishing himself a firm favourite for a potential double victory in the opening round of the series at the Spanish circuit on February 29.
The former NCR Ducati star has looked comfortable ever since stepping onto the 999, and topped the timing screens in both race and qualifying spec on Sunday.
All of which have provided the former 500cc and Superbike race winner an early psychological edge over his English team-mate, and likely title rival, James Toseland.
“The tests went really well and I’m very happy with the 999 and the times I achieved with it on Pirelli tyres,” said Laconi. “I was fastest in both qualifying and race set-up and my lap times during the long-run were consistent. We will see what happens at the first round but I really can’t wait for the season to start.”
Toseland completed the final official pre-season test in third place, behind Laconi and DFX Ducati’s Steve Martin: “It’s been a long test, I did almost 200 laps, but I wanted to do as many as possible to get on form in time for the season. The morning was good, but I was a bit disappointed that I couldn’t get the same grip when the temperature increased in the afternoon session.
“The 999 feels good, I did well in these tests and I’m pleased with my overall fitness so now I just have to prepare myself mentally for the season which starts soon,” he added.