Baz: M 1000 RR ‘has a lot of strong points’, completes over 150 laps in Jerez
Loris Baz and Eugene Laverty have completed their first WorldSBK test ahead of 2022 for Bonovo action BMW Racing at Jerez.
Baz, who makes his return to the world championship in 2022 following a year in MotoAmerica - did replace an injured Chaz Davies at GoEleven Ducati for the 2021 rounds in Jerez and Portimao - completed over 150 laps on his M 1000 RR debut.
It was also Baz’ first time on-track in over three months, the last of those came at the above-mentioned Portimao where he claimed an impressive double podium.
Speaking after the test, Baz added: "I am happy to be back with BMW and the opportunity to be back in WorldSBK. I was really looking forward to that test to have a first impression.
"The test was a lot of work, we did a lot of laps. Also, I was back on the bike after nearly three months and it is never easy when you jump on a bike that is completely different.
"The test was about understanding how the bike works and also to try to give the best input based on the differences of all the bikes I know."
While BMW managed to take just one win out of 37 races in 2021 courtesy of Michael Van Der Mark’s brilliant wet-weather display at Portimao, Baz believes the M 1000 RR has a lot of potential moving forward.
"The M RR has a lot of strong points," said Baz. "We just need to put them together to get a bike that works well from a riding side.
"When you start working with a new bike, you have to switch from one riding style to another, but we did a good job, completing over 150 laps.
"We tried some new parts for next year and mainly a lot of things on the electronics, and with every run we went faster, and I felt a bit more confident on the bike. I am satisfied with the job so far."
While Laverty will be the most experienced BMW rider in 2022, the Irishman will also be making his competitive debut for the Bonovo team next year.
"The first test days with the team have been very positive," added Laverty following day-two. "I felt comfortable on the bike immediately after the first couple of exits on day-one.
"I feel good in braking which is an area I am always working on. I am happy with the progress we are making. There is still work to do to improve our turning in the long corners compared to the other BMW riders but I am happy that we are right there in the mix.
"There is a really good atmosphere in the box, I get on very well with Loris. He is a fast guy and that’s important, to have a fast teammate to push you.
"We work together well, and all the guys are experienced as well. It’s a great crew and I think we have a good year ahead of us."
