Australia’s newest full time World Superbike contender Mark Aitchison admits that his opening day of testing with the Pedercini Kawasaki squad yesterday was a challenge, but remains optimistic entering day two of testing today.

Aitchison, who has a World Supersport podium to his credit, was a last minute addition to the Italian Pedercini effort alongside Roberto Rolfo, making his debut on the all-new ZX-10R yesterday morning.

“The first day with my new team and bike was a big learning experience,” the Gosford local explained. “It was the first time I’ve ridden a Superbike and the first time I’ve had to work with my new mechanics.

“I can say that it was a challenging first day, with some electronic problems during our time on the track, trying to understand some elements of the new Kawasaki ZX-10R.

“It was great to ride again after my break over the winter and I enjoyed working with my new technicians. Tomorrow I will start to focus on refining the balance and setting of the bike, to better suit my riding style.”

Aitchison set the 22nd best lap of the test yesterday, marginally faster than factory Kawasaki test rider Akira Yanagawa, with a 1:35.306 – around four seconds off the blistering pace of Spaniard Carlos Checa.