BMW Motorrad's Leon Haslam says he has taken some steps forward with the electronic software in his S1000RR during testing at Portimao and was able to set consistent, fast laptimes which is something he hasn't been able to do before at the Portugese track.

Rumour has it the factory have installed PI software after putting a planned switch to Magneti Marelli on hold but whatever the changes, Haslam seems more comfortable and able to go quickly on the qualifying tyres which he previously couldn't.

“I am very happy. It was very good to come back to Portimão and set constantly quick lap times on this track, on which we were not so competitive last season. This shows that we have taken a really good step forward, particularly in regard to the engine characteristic and the electronics. We also found very good settings with the new chassis," said Haslam.

"The team will now use the coming two months to prepare everything for Australia. If we continue in this direction, everything is looking good for Phillip Island. I will now return to England and have an intensive fitness programme with my trainer lined up for December and January. And I am really excited about the birth of our first child very soon.”