BMW Motorrad Motorsport Continues Preparations for 2012 with a Successful Test in Spain

Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport returned to the racetrack in preparation for the 2012 FIM Superbike World Championship. The team carried out an extensive three-day test this week (23rd to 25th November) in Jerez de la Frontera (ESP). As it continues to develop the 2012 version of the BMW S 1000 RR, which has been optimised in many areas, the team was greeted by sunny conditions and mild temperatures over 20 degrees Celsius in southern Spain.

The three-day test in Jerez passed without any problems. This allowed the team and the two riders, Leon Haslam (GBR) and Marco Melandri (ITA), to work on all areas of the RR, especially on the chassis and the revised BMW electronics. It also tested various set-up solutions for the new engine specification and modified frame geometry of the 2012 bike. Generally speaking the test confirmed the positive impression of the new bike, which the team gained while testing in Portimão (POR) in October. Numerous modifications have been made for the coming season. For instance, the aerodynamics have been optimised and modified according to the new 2012 production RR design. The new engine spec also improves rideability and low end torque.

Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport will now remain in the south of the Iberian Peninsula as it moves on to Portimão, where another three-day test is scheduled for next week (28th to 30th November).


“This test went really well,” said BMW Motorrad works rider Leon Haslam. “We made some good progress over these three days. We did a lot of development for next season and here we have been able to tick many boxes on our things-to-do-list. We also worked very productively regarding engine mapping and ride dynamic strategies. Overall, the team spirit is really high. We have a few new people in the garage and everyone is working together very well. Now we are looking forward to another three days in Portugal.”

“That was a very successful test for us,” explained BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Bernhard Gobmeier. “We were able to complete an extensive test programme and gather important data and information in all areas of the bike. We have seen that we are on the right track with our 2012 version of the RR. We have another three test days with a packed schedule ahead of us in Portimão next week. The knowledge gained in Spain and Portugal will form an important basis for the ‘homework’ that lies ahead in the coming weeks before the season starts at Phillip Island in February.”

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