Another wet WorldSBK test in Portimao presented few opportunities for development, but for inexperienced riders there were still chances to learn.

This was the case for Jake Dixon, whose adaptation to WorldSBK from Moto2 continued in the rain in Portimao on 28–29 January after a rain-affected first test of 2026 in Jerez a week before.

Dixon was strong on the times, finishing third-fastest behind the factory Ducatis of Nicolo Bulega and Iker Lecuona, the pair both taking the chance to understand the updated Panigale V4 R in wet weather.

For Dixon, the wet weather gave an opportunity to try to increase his understanding of the WorldSBK-spec CBR1000RR-R in rain conditions.

“Good,” Dixon summarised after the second day of the Portimao test, which he ended third-fastest, speaking to WorldSBK.com.

“Obviously, it would’ve been nicer if the weather was a little bit kinder to us over these two days, but we decided to go out today [Thursday] and use one of our days, just because we needed to work on riding the bike in the rain and obviously I’ve not done too many laps. 

“So, really productive, I’m really happy with where we’ve just finished the test with the wet bike, so just a massive credit to the team and everyone working hard behind the scenes as well.”

Although the conditions didn’t allow for testing many development parts, for a rider like Dixon – new both to the team and the championship – he was able to use the time to find some additional comfort on the CBR1000RR-R.

“Several points,” Dixon said when asked what he focused on during the test.

“It isn’t just one point, it’s the overall balance of the bike. 

“Just trying to get me a little bit more comfortable in the riding position”.

WorldSBK testing continues next month on 16–17 February at Phillip Island before the first round of the 2026 season at the same venue on 20–22 February.