Yamaha Motor Germany debuts new R6.

Yamaha Motor Germany completed a promising two-day test at Valencia on Thursday, the first track outing for the team's 2006 model YZF-R6.

Experienced Australian Kevin Curtain was satisfied with the performance of the new machine, recording a best lap time of 1min 38.6secs to lead the Supersport timesheets by 0.2secs from team-mate Broc Parkes.

The 39-year-old was able to enjoy two dry and trouble free days on the circuit, allowing him to complete a full test programme, evaluating numerous suspension and tyre options on the R6.

"I'm really happy with how things went over the past two days," said Curtain. "The guys did a really great job to get the bikes ready in time and running without any problems, although it shouldn't be a surprise as they are such a meticulous team. The temperatures were still a bit low but we were able to get through pretty much everything we planned.

"I've been really impressed with the bike. The engine has so much more mid-range than the R6 I rode last season and the chassis, especially the levels of front end grip, is amazing. I'm going home to Australia confident that the bike can challenge for the title next year," he added.

Meanwhile Parkes was only able to complete a handful of laps in on day two after crashing at the final corner on his first session of the morning. The 24-year-old lost rear end grip, probably due to the low track temperature.

Parkes took a knock to his ankle but escaped serious injury, although his bike fared less well and his test was curtailed due to a lack of spare parts. His best lap time was thus set on day one.

"It was a big crash I'm hurting all over and I can't move my left ankle much, but at least it seems that nothing's broken," said Broc. "It was early and cold and I got caught out, lost the back end and that was it. It's a shame I wasn't able to get more time on the bike but at least we were able to get through most of what we needed to yesterday.

"Despite everything though it's been a good first test and we've already got a good base to work from. I'm heading back to Australia and the boys will no doubt have made some more developments for our test in Australia next month. After three days in Phillip Island we should be in good shape for the start of the season," he declared.

Three other R6 riders were also in attendance at the Valencia test. David Checa rode a machine fitted with prototype YEC 2006 kit parts while the Lorenzini by Leoni squad was also out on track. The Yamaha Motor Italia supported squad only received their bikes last week, although Massimo Roccoli and Gianluca Vizziello recorded respectable times despite their machines being virtually stock.

Yamaha Motor Germany's next test is scheduled to take place at Phillip Island in Australia next month. Round one of the 2006 Supersport World Championship takes place at the Losail circuit, Qatar, on 25 February.

Valencia test - best lap times:

1. Kevin Curtain Yamaha Motor Germany YZF-R6 1min 38.6secs
2. Broc Parkes Yamaha Motor Germany YZF-R6 1min 38.8secs
3. Massimo Roccoli Lorenzini by Leoni YZF-R6 1min 39.7secs
4. Gianluca Vizziello Lorenzini by Leoni YZF-R6 1min 39.9secs
5. David Checa Yamaha GMT94 YZF-R6 1min 39.9secs