Neukirchner second on Monza grid

From Team Alstare Suzuki

It took a new lap record by World Superbike series leader Troy Bayliss (Ducati) to deprive Alstare Suzuki rider Max Neukirchner of a Superpole win at Monza Saturday.

Bayliss smashed Noriyuki Haga’s 2007 time by well over a second with a 1:44.931 to take his third Superpole win of the season.

Suzuki Alstare rider Yukio Kagayama thought his Superpole lap was a fast one, but was disappointed to find out he’d set the fifth quickest time instead.

His teammate Fonsi Nieto made a big improvement in Saturday’s practice and qualifying sessions and will start Sunday's pair of 18-lappers from the second row of the grid.

"I’m really happy today because I think we have a good bike set-up and I’m ready for the races," said Neukirchner, who turned a 1:45.280. "My engine felt strong today and although I made a small mistake in Superpole I’m happy to be on the front row of the grid."

Results
1. Troy Bayliss (AUS-Ducati) 1:44.931
2. Max Neukirchner (D-Alstare Suzuki) 1:45.28
3. Noriyuki Haga (J-Yamaha) 1:45.665
4. Carlos Checa (ESP-Honda) 1:45.766
5. Yukio Kagayama (J-Suzuki Alstare) 1:45.777
6. Ruben Xaus (ESP-Ducati) 1:45.795
7. Fonsi Nieto (E-Suzuki Alstare) 1:45.942
8. Ryuichi Kiyonari (J-Honda) 1:45.975
9. Max Biaggi (I-Ducati) 1:46.039
10. Karl Muggeridge (AUS-Honda) 1:46.065