BMW complete WSB test at Valencia

THE BMW pairing of Leon Haslam and Marco Melandri have completed a two-day test at Valencia.

Preparing for the 2012 season, the BMW team focussed on developments made to the latest version of the engine, as well as the updated electronics and sampling various new parts.

Commenting on the positive test on board the S1000RR, Haslam said: "We got through everything that we needed to go through, so I am very positive. These two days were important. We have a lot of new things for this year and it was good to test before we go to Phillip Island. In addition, it was good to get a few laps under our belts and get up to speed again.

"We definitely made big steps and are much further ahead compared to last year. It really is a stronger package and we still have five more days to test in Australia to dial it all in."

Melandri was pleased to be back on the bike after the winter break, the Italian added: "The testing of the updated electronics was very encouraging. We checked if everything is working well before we go to Australia, and the result was good. Of course we still need to improve in some areas.

"In entering corners, I still need some more confidence on the bike in order so I am to push properly, but we are all working very hard and I am sure that we will find a solution at the next test in Australia. Phillip Island is not an easy track, so it is important to be confident with the bike to be able to go into the corners very fast."

BMW will next test at Phillip Island on the 13th to 15th February and will then be joined by the rest of the grid for the official test on 20th and 21st February. The first round will take place at the Australian circuit on 26th February.