Source: Supplied.

Aruba.it Racing Ducati’s decision to sign Marco Melandri is already appearing a wise one after the veteran Italian shined during this week’s Jerez World Superbike test.

Melandri managed to marginally out-pace teammate Chaz Davies for fourth overall following two days, his 1m40.313s around half a second from pace-setter Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team).

“It’s been a really positive test,” Melandri reflected. “I expected some more difficulties after the meniscus surgery, but actually I felt quite well. The team is doing a great job and everyday I feel more comfortable on the bike.

“We still struggle a bit on fresh tyres, also because with the cold climate it’s more difficult to warm them up, but we’re heading in the right direction.

I would have liked to do a race simulation, but we’ll wait until Portimao because I had some blisters in my hands after such a long break. Physically I feel fine though, I recovered completely and I’m sure I’ll be 100 percent fit for Phillip Island.”

Alongside Davies, both Ducati riders followed a detailed program to evaluate various engine, electronics and chassis upgrades developed for the Panigale R, making several set-up comparisons.