Sylvain Guintoli heads to Imola with a handy 28-point lead over Tom Sykes. Image: Aprilia Racing.

The Aprilia Racing Team heads to its second home round of the 2013 World Superbike Championship with the goal of seeing both of its riders on the rostrum.

The Imola circuit holds special significance for the Italian marque, and Sylvain Guintoli and Eugene Laverty are only too eager to ensure their current momentum is maintained.

Guintoli rides a 28-point lead into round seven, built upon class-leading consistency. He has just one race win to his credit but has only finished off the podium three times in twelve attempts.

“I always have a special feeling to go and race in Imola,” said Guintoli. “The track is very challenging and the history of this place makes it so unique.

“Last year, I had a first row Superpole qualifying but a crash in race one left me with a broken rib.

“After this, race two was one of the most painful experiences of my life! Fighting spirit level is high.”

Laverty heads to Imola in third, bolstered by four race wins but trailing his teammate in the consistency stakes with three non-finishes.

The winner of the second race at Portimao has momentum behind him and is hopeful of more podium finishes in order to close in on current number two, Kawasaki’s Tom Sykes.

“This season has been a series of highs and lows with many race wins but also non-finishes,” explained Laverty.

“In Imola I would like to secure two podium finishes, as in Phillip Island and Monza. This is my main goal for the weekend.

“As an Aprilia rider I receive great support from the Italian fans and so I always look forward to the Italian rounds.”

Aprilia also leads the manufacturer stakes heading to its home race, enjoying a 42-point advantage over BMW.