Rob Mac Racing's massive contingent of Superbike and Supersport riders have had a first crack at their 2009 bikes at a cold Donington Park with Chris Walker, Michael Rutter and Graeme Gowland on the 2009 R1s, and Dan Linfoot aboard the R6.

The test was only for the riders to get to grips with their new bikes and to put in a few cautious laps before serious testing gets under way at Mallory Park and Oulton over the weekend.

"It all about the guys just basically acquainting themselves with their bikes," said team boss Rob McElnea.

"The day went perfectly and they are all beaming with smiles, the brand-new, revolutionary R1 totally amazed our Superbike riders and gave my back-room team a major sense of achievement and relief. Seeing their bike built from ground up and now on the track is very satisfying to them and I really appreciate all their hard work. This year will be pay back time and they will get the pat on the back they deserve."
 
NW200 Coca-Cola teamster Michael Rutter said: "What an amazing bike. The very first run on a new bike is always a bit nervy, the hype around this bike has added more pressure and I am really impressed with the first feeling. We have lots of miles to do now and the hard work will start, but first impressions mean a lot and I am very happy."
 
"I have been waiting for that for a long time. That bike is gorgeous. We heard the hype and have seen Ben Spies in action but to get on our own bike and feel the engine first hand is awesome," said Chris Walker, who is in the Motorpoint side of the garage.

"Since joining up with Rob I have been totally committed to his team and the 2009 championship. That first ride has given me even more determination. I can't wait."
 
Walker Superbike team-mate Graeme Gowland added: "I can't stop smiling! To tell you the truth I was pretty nervous about my first ride, I have only tested the 2008 bike for one hour and it left me a bit scared. It was a beast and I was expecting something similar but how wrong I was. The new R1 is unbelievable and I cannot stop grinning. Rob's team have put together a great bike and I am so excited about the season."
 
Rutter's team-mate Dan Linfoot, who is on the Supersport 600 bike, said: "Let's get going. I have been itching to get on my bike for so long and at last we have started our preparation for 2009. It was only a short test but more than enough to get all of us fired up. I love the R6 and cannot wait to get to Oulton and Cadwell at the weekend."

You can meet the team at its official launch at Derby's Motorpoint HQ, Chartwell Drive, West Meadows, Derby, DE21 6BZ. Click here for details