The dark horse

Age 34 Bike Ducati Panigale V4 R Alvaro Bautista arrives in WSB slightly miffed at having to leave MotoGP after an impressive premier class swansong in 2018. And while there’s no doubting his raw speed he’s adamant he comes with no aspirations to be Spain’s first WSB champion since Carlos Checa. It also won’t have escaped him that Checa’s 2011 win was also the last time a Ducati clinched the crown. After close to two decades in GPs, it’s a total change of scene for Bautista: fewer trips away, fewer media obligations but still a desire to succeed. He was 125cc world champion in 2006 but it’s been been five years since his last MotoGP podium. What’s more, Ducati’s V4 is Gigi Dall’Igna’s first production superbike with technology direct from MotoGP.

“I’m going from carbon to steel brakes, different electronics and less power. Because speeds are lower you can have softer tyres which give more grip, but I need to get used to it. We need to improve turning, especially exiting corners.”

This week’s Phillip Island test is a chance to find the best compromise ahead of the opening three races at the Australian circuit.

“I know Phillip Island well and I like it, but we’ll focus on the best set-up ready for the race itself. Leading the MotoGP race in Australia last October helped show people I still have it. Superbikes aren’t followed in Spain, probably because no Spanish rider is winning. I want to change that. I plan to fight at the front and put on a show. I want to show people how great WSB is, especially with three races every weekend. Let’s fill the grandstands with fans.”