Source: Supplied.

A two-day WorldSBK test at the Lausitz circuit has further enhanced Marco Melandri’s feeling in Germany, who was unfamiliar with the track prior to testing.

The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati rider explained the test was crucial in developing an understanding of the circuit, which has differing characteristics to majority of the tracks on the world championship calendar.

“It was an important test for us,” Melandri commented. “Mostly because I didn’t know the track and it would have been really difficult to be competitive in Friday’s free practice sessions without a reference.

“The track itself is fun, but it’s not an easy one to learn because the corner radiuses are a bit peculiar and most of all because the bumps force you to take unusual lines. Still, we managed to almost complete our work load.”

The Italian said the the track’s surface lacked grip in the wet, so it was key to find a benchmark as the weather conditions intensified before the team called an end to the session.

“We just lacked a bit of time towards the end to fine-tune the details,” he continued. “But it was also important to lap in the rain. This track has little grip in the wet, so it’s a good benchmark, and we found a good feeling in these conditions.

“As the rain started to intensify, we decided not to take risks and ended our session. It’s been two challenging days, but we laid some good foundations to start from during the race weekend.”

Melandri sits fourth in championship standings, as Lausitz will host the ninth stop of the WorldSBK series next month, scheduled for 18-20 August.