Stauffer tops times with defending ASBK champ Jones close behind (updated)
The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit provided all of the goods today, with riders given the opportunity to stretch their legs at the Australian Superbike Test Day, ahead of the upcoming rounds of the World Superbike Championship and Australian Superbike Championship on February 26-28, 2016.
In what were perfect riding conditions, close to 30 riders took full advantage of the track time, allowing some of Australia’s fastest Superbike and Supersport competitors to gain valuable experience on what is known as one of Australia’s fastest racing circuits, Phillip Island.
Crankt Protein Honda Racing’s Jamie Stauffer, showed impressive form today topping the overall Superbike test times with a lap time of 1.33.546.
“I am getting use to being back on a bike again, just trying to get back into the swing of things. I think the bike is pretty good for the first round in a couple of weeks time. We just have to keep getting out there and doing laps, hopefully moving forward,” he said.
“It was good conditions today there was not much wind. Around half way through the day we got a couple of sprinkles around the track but it wasn’t too bad.”
Close in toe was ASBK defending champion Mike Jones on his Desmo Sport Ducati machine with a lap of 1.33.738 in the last session of the day.
“The conditions here at Phillip Island today are really good. I think that the circuit isn’t quite so quick today,” said Jones.
“In terms of setup, we are making good progress and I think we are moving in the right direction,” he said.
“I’m starting to get a lot more comfortable on the Ducati, particularly with the more laps I spend in the seat.”
Callum Spriggs topped the Supersport test times, putting down a fastest lap of 1.37.928, proving the value of the track time here at Phillip Island was paying off.
Today was an ideal chance for riders to test tyres, bike setup, and improve on speed, while tomorrow teams and riders will be provided with a second opportunity to test when they hit the track for day two of the Australian Superbike Test.
To stay updated with information regarding the World Superbike Championship Phillip Island round, or to stay up to date with the ASBK, head to www.ma.org.au or www.asbk.com.au
Image – Mark Bracks
