Laverty happy ahead of WSBK season opener

Eugene Laverty has hailed his Milwaukee Aprilia team after two days of testing Down Under at Phillip Island, ahead of the World Superbike season opener in just two days time. The Irishman, who came back to the series in 2017, has been looking to try and find a solution to rear-end grip issues.

“We’ve had a really good test overall, both days we made progress and got some great data. On the first run on Monday the bike didn’t feel good and I struggled, but the guys worked so hard and within a few more runs they’d transformed the bike. I think the key here has been continuity with the team and the data, and understanding the Aprilia more and more.

“Tuesday was a fantastic day for us to finish P4. In the morning session I went out on old tyres and went P1 which was unexpected, and we had good pace all day. For sure we are in better shape than last year and I feel a lot more confident on the bike.

“Everyone is excited ahead of round 1 this weekend, we’re in a good position and I’m excited to get back on track. My aim for the weekend is to be top 6 or better, considering we are in the mix more now. The thing we can’t rely on is the weather which could be wet, but it will be wet for everybody and we’ll get stuck in and I’ll push for the best result I can get.”

Laverty’s last podium for Aprilia came when he won at Jerez in 2013, whilst his last win at Phillip Island came in 2014, on the Voltcom Crescent Suzuki.