BMW's Leon Haslam has spent today lapping Portugal's Portimao circuit on the 2012-spec S1000RR. He did five laps on the 2011 bike to get his eye in and then switched to the new bike which has a new engine spec and some chassis modifications.

A team insider said noises have been made about changing from their own electronics to Marelli either for the next test at Jerez or when they return to Portimao next month but nothing had been confirmed as yet. The fairing at the rear has been shortened and modified according to the new 2012 production RR design in aerodynamics.

The front fairing is slightly steeper compared to the 2011 bike in order to optimise the aerodynamics and riders’ ergonomics. A new radiator, adapted to the modified geometry and body parts, has been installed for better thermodynamics. The 2012 RR also features a new engine spec which improves rideability and grunt.

"The new engine spec is a progress; you can feel a difference there. We now need to push more in that same direction. The main thing we were working on today was the chassis set up. The new bike needs to be set up a little bit differently than the 2011 one. I am confident in that area, too. Overall, I am glad to be back testing, looking for next year. We do not have to go out and race but can only focus on improving the bike. That is always good," said Haslam.