Van Der Mark, Redding conclude final WorldSBK test of 2021 for BMW
Michael Van Der Mark and new Motorrad BMW WorldSBK rider Scott Redding have completed their final testing of 2021.
Van Der Mark and Redding were on-track for the first time as teammates, although it was Redding’s third test on M 1000 RR machinery since the season finale at Mandalika last month - second on the full factory WorldSBK package.
While the Jerez test consists of three days, BMW have already wrapped up their test program with today being the final day.
"It was good to have a test even if it was so late in the year. We had a lot of new components and items to try on the bike," said Van Der Mark following the test.
"At this test we barely played around with the set-up of the bike, we mainly tried new parts to figure out what brings improvement and what does not.
"We need to get some ideas and start producing new things. It has been a really good test and I am really happy with a lot of new things.
"It was great to gather good information and now I am looking forward to a short Christmas break."
With team-mate Redding still contracted to Ducati until the new year, the British rider was unable to speak about the test, however, Team Principal Shaun Muir discussed Redding’s adaptation to the bike and team.
Muir added: "It has been a successful test for both sides of the pit box. We have a new rider with Scott. He had a lot of things to work through but most importantly for him was to find that comfortable setting feeling with the bike.
"I am really pleased about his work ethic in the pit box. He has put a lot of laps in and he acclimatised very well.
"On Michael’s side, we worked on similar development parts to what Scott has and he has been working through that very well as well.
"Comparing both riders’ feedback it is very similar and I am very pleased about that. I think it is proving that the set-up direction we are going with the BMW M 1000 RR is aligned between both riders which is very important.
"Equally important is that we got new team-members within the group and I am really pleased to see how all these guys are working together.
"There has been a lot of overlapping, a lot of chassis changes, a lot of engine changes and everybody has been working as a group, so I applaud all the team and all the guys working very closely together.
"Overall I think we can leave the test here at Jerez with our heads held up high, we have done a good job and we can go into the Christmas break with a lot of confidence and get ready for our next test in the new year."
