Melandri tests 2011 and 2012 spec BMW

Marco Melandri begun a new era of his distinguished racing career at Portimao this morning when he got his first ride on the BMW Motorrad S1000RR he will campaign in 2012.

Having won the second race at Portimao on Sunday onboard his factory Yamaha, Melandri had a rest day yesterday before switching to the German manufacturer.

The 28 year old Italian started out riding Troy Corser’s 2011 spec bike before switching to the revised 2012 bike complete with black carbon fairings.

Melandri said: “The riding position is very different and this bike has a completely different feeling. It’s the first time I have ridden any other Superbike  other than the Yamaha.

“In some areas it is very positive which was a surprise, but for sure we have a lot of work to do.”