Rossi: Faster than Toseland slower than Crutchlow

VALENTINO ROSSI put in an impressive performance at Brno during Monday's test on a World Superbike-spec YZF-R1, posting a best time just over a second slower than Cal Crutchlow's 2010 WSB pole.

The Italian completed 46 laps of the Czech circuit on Monday, clocking a best of 1'59.135, while Sterilgarda Yamaha man Cal Crutchlow, who grabbed Superpole honours in the weekend's World Superbike action at Brno, took prime spot on the grid for Sunday's races with a 1'58.012.

It's worth noting Rossi's best lap was faster than James Toseland's Superpole qualifying time. Imagine doing that with a broken leg.

The nine-time World Champion will now wait to decide exactly when he will make a return to MotoGP; the condition of Rossi's broken leg and injured shoulder must be fully evaluated before a decision can be made.

Following his test Rossi said:

"Today was good, I felt better than in Misano but I still feel quite tired after a few laps and a race will be a much bigger question. We haven't made the final decision yet, I need to have some more x-rays on Wednesday and then my doctors and I will consider whether I can ride at Sachsenring. Once I'd understood my physical condition today, I had great fun riding the R1 and even did some work on the settings! I want to say a big thank you to the WSB Team for staying on here another day and making this test possible for me."