The opening of the Moscow raceway saw Ducati bikes sport some the fastest qualifying times.
In the first qualifying session, reigning World SBK Champion Davide Giugliano led the way, trailed by fellow Ducati riders Carlos Checa and Sylvain Guintoli.
BMW rider Marco Melandri claimed the fastest time during the free practice after finishing fourth in qualifying. Giugliano and Guintoli were close behind in the free ride, finishing third and fourth, respectively.
The track drew mostly positive reviews from the riders, who were the first to ride on it with two-wheeled machines.
“The test was not too bad," said Melandri. "The track is pretty fun to ride but I think it is quite small for Superbikes. The turns are very tight and so far I don’t think that there are many chances for overtaking in the middle of the track but we will see. The track is going to be faster day by day."
The first professional motorsports event to be held on Russian soil will continue this weekend. With a fast new track and many riders all vying for a chance to claim the championship, the event is gearing up to be one to remember.