Lowes quick despite injury restrictions

Alex Lowes says he is in 'positive spirits' ahead of the second World Superbike Championship round at Motorland Aragon after overcoming his injured ankle during testing at Jerez.

The Voltcom Crescent Suzuki rider was back on the GSX-R1000 for the first time since he was diagnosed with a broken ankle, the legacy of an accident during the opening round of the WSBK season at Phillip Island.

Though the reigning British Superbike Champion admits he wasn't sure how he'd fare in Jerez - or even ride at all -, he was nonetheless pleased with the progress made.

"It has been a very difficult test but that's good coming off an injury, and a difficult round one. I have learned so much over the past month, and feel a lot better for it. We improved the bike on the final day even though the conditions were not as good, and I'm leaving in positive spirits for Aragon."

Despite the gap between races, Lowes admits he may still fall just short of 100 per cent fitness for the second event in Spain.

"A week ago I wasn't even sure I would be able to test, so everything learned this week is a big bonus for me, and I am hoping to be even fitter or close to 100% when I turn up to round two. The whole team has worked so hard over these three days, and I really appreciate their efforts."

Lowes set his fastest time on day one of the test, a 1min 41.821secs