Max Biaggi put in another headline-grabbing performance during qualifying for the latest round of the World Superbike Championship, the Italian briefly breaking the lap record before settling for third on the grid.
A second straight front row start for both himself and the new Aprilia Racing team, Biaggi has made stealthy progress so far this weekend, but hinted at his potential when he secured a provisional third position on the grid heading into Superpole.
Evidently enjoying a revival at the Italian team, Biaggi broke Troy Corser's Superpole record during the second phase of qualifying before securing third position on the grid in the deciding shootout session.
Delighted to prove his one-lap pace at Phillip Island was no fluke, Biaggi extended his praise to the Aprilia team.
''I'm very happy again to be fighting for the pole position, I think we did a very good job today. We tried to find the best set-up on both bikes, and I'm going to chose the one that feels the most comfortable.
''I have already made my tyre choice and feel quite comfortable so thanks again to my squad, they are great guys.''
Team-mate Shinya Nakano completed Aprilia's impressive day with sixth position on the grid.
