Bimota rider Axel Bassani admits he struggled in places but didn’t expect his results at the WorldSBK season opener in Phillip Island.
After limited pre-season testing due to poor weather in Jerez and Portimao, the Italian made the 2026 season opener his most successful WorldSBK weekend yet.
Bassani secured fourth in Race 1 before finishing second in Sunday’s Superpole Race and Race 2, claiming two podiums — his first with Bimota — and matching his career-best result.
Despite the strong trio of performances, Bassani said there are key areas Bimota needs to improve to ensure smoother corner entry and exit.
“Honestly, before the race, I never expected it to go like this,” shared Bassani via GPOne.
“We did a few laps in the wet in testing and the bike wasn’t great, so I tried to be clean and consistent, without making too many mistakes.
“In the end, I felt pretty good with the bike, but not one hundred per cent.
“I had some difficulties in controlling the bike, especially when entering the corners, but even when exiting with the rear, managing the throttle wasn’t easy but I think it was the same for everyone.
“Today we finished with a double second place, so we should be happy.”
Notably, the 26-year-old began 2026 with a new crew chief, working with Uri Pallares, who previously partnered six-time WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea at Kawasaki and Yamaha.
He said working with Pallares has already strengthened communication regarding bike setup.
“I feel more relaxed, and it’s easier to explain how I feel on the bike,” said Bassani.
“He comes from the technical side, he was a mechanic, so it’s easier to communicate with the whole team.
“It’s only our first weekend together but we can still improve.”
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