Max Biaggi made a promising start to his time with the Aprilia World Superbike team as he lapped consistently quicker than he did with Sterilgarda Ducati on the Portimao race weekend.

Conducting his first proper test aboard the new RSV-4, Biaggi scored the third best lap on the second day of testing in Portugal with a time of 1min 44.1secs – six tenths better than his best race lap on the Ducati.

One half of a high-profile rider line-up that also includes MotoGP refugee Shinya Nakano, Biaggi got two days on the bike and was impressed with Aprilia's immediate competitiveness. He also pronounced himself happy with the surroundings in his new team.

"The second and last day of the Portimao test has now finished," Biaggi wrote on his official website. "The two days have been very important for us, given that we have a completely new bike.

"The impression is that the indications already given have been accurate, and now we have to wait for the next test in December. The technicians have time to make the necessary modifications.

"I've got a good feeling with the guys in the team and we're motivated to do well. I can't wait to get back on the bike again, but unfortunately I've got to wait a month. I'll conclude by saying that I'm happy to be with this team and to be working with Aprilia."