Elias tests BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike

Toni Elias got his first World Superbike test underway at Misano today. The 28 year old Spaniard rode the BMW Motorrad Italia S1000RR as a replacement for James Toseland who announced his retirement last week.

Elias currently rides for the LCR Honda team in MotoGP and despite enduring a tough season, isn’t expected to make a mid season swap to WSB.

Serafino Foti  said: “The test is in no way aimed at finding a replacement for James in the Championship, because Toni is already involved in MotoGP. In the next few days we’ll communicate the name of the rider who will ride the bike in the last three races”.

“James’s retirement from racing was clearly a big disappointment, after all he’s a champion! Obviously we now have to look ahead. The test on 13/14 September had already been planned and we decided to invite Toni to satisfy his curiosity and capitalise on his experience and sensitivity as a rider. I would also like to personally thank Lucio Cecchinello for his availability and that of Honda for granting this request”.

Elias is on track alongside the BMW Motorrad, Castrol Honda, Althea Ducati, Alitalia Aprilia and Kawasaki WSB teams.