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Friday, 24th February 2006

The biggest loser during today's Superpole session at Qatar was Winston Ten Kate Honda's Karl Muggeridge, who had set the second fastest time - behind only Troy Bayliss - in regular qualifying, only to fall spectacularly during his Superpole lap.

"My entire previous Superbike career, even the year I did in British Championship, has been conducted on twin-cylinder bikes. But as we know, with the Ten Kate Hondas there has never been a lack of speed. If you have the speed then that's half the battle, and the Honda is a great package. The team has welcomed me with open arms, and we are working well together," he added.

"We were looking in good shape for Superpole," reflected team manager Ronald Ten Kate. "James did quite a good job getting used to the machine, adapting himself to his new role, and the team was working hard on his race set-up, rather than going for one crazy quick lap. His Superpole performance was really excellent, so very big compliments to him.

"We all could see how Karl's lap was; unfortunately he didn't take it to the finish. We can also all see that Karl has already made a big step from last year to this year. The majority of people know what our ambitions are for 2006 now, which are clearly to run with the front guys."

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