Be Wiser Ducati’s rookie-rider Glenn Irwin completed a successful MCE British Superbike test at Donington Park and is feeling optimistic that he can get into the points in the first round at Silverstone next week.

His crew tried a lot of different set-ups with his Panigale, particularly with the tyres and in the final session on Thursday the Northern Irishman was able to put down a 1’30.162, that placed him well inside the top ten fastest times, and eighth overall.

Irwin is enjoying his time with the Paul Bird team, and also sharing a garage with the experienced Shane Byrne. After a busy pre-season testing abroad and at Silverstone and Donington, Irwin is confident that he can do well on the Ducati.

“Donington has been a load of different set-ups. We went for a stiffer front end and then we did the opposite and the guys have sent me out on new tyres - then we would stay on existing tyres and try both and then come in. We made the right calls and we work good as a team,” said Irwin, speaking to bikesportnews.com at the track.

“In Spain the bike was an animal and now I go into a corner and I am happy opening the throttle now. I am really confident on the Ducati, and I am not stupid to say that we are going to win just yet. I think a realistic target is to chase our first points at Silverstone. The other day points would have been tough, and I think it will still be tough but it is now more achievable.”

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