Fog meant the riders couldn’t get on circuit until noon but after that they didn’t waste any time, with both of them lapping close to record pace.

Rizla Suzuki’s new signing for the 2007 season Cal said: “It has been a brilliant day; I’ve really enjoyed my first taste of riding a Superbike. The Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000 is incredibly quick. I found myself going much faster along the straights than I was used to and had to rethink my braking markers compared to anything I’ve ridden previously.

“I’ve found a base setting that is OK and we can use it as a starting point for the races on Sunday and more importantly, for upcoming tests. The power, speed and handling of the Rizla Suzuki are intoxicating and I’m loving every minute of being a Superbike rider, I can’t wait for the race on Sunday.”

Chris, who is riding this weekend with a view to securing a seat with Rizla Suzuki in 2007, was also upbeat. He said: “The Rizla Suzuki is a very fast motorcycle, that’s for sure. Today has been my first time riding at Mallory Park for six years and not only am I learning a new track layout, but I am having to adjust to Dunlop tyres after a three year break as well.

“We have tested parts, tyres and settings and by the end of the day the bike was comfortable for me. Whatever changes I have asked for have been made and it’s great to be working with such a professional team. I’m looking forward to the race on Sunday and will be doing everything I can to make an impression and convince Rizla Suzuki I am the rider for the job in 2007.”

Rizla Suzuki Team Manager Simon Buckmaster said: “It has been an exciting and positive day for Rizla Suzuki with new staff and riders getting their first chance to work with each other. I also think it has been a big success with the riders testing their way through a lot of different chassis, suspension, tyre and engine changes and finding useable base settings.

“It has been the first time for Cal and Chris on their Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000s and it has been a good run out for them, especially as both have come close to the lap record on race rubber.

“Cal is already building for next season and there is no pressure on him for the race on Sunday, we simply want him to learn and improve with every outing. Chris is riding for a place on the team and today has shown maturity and speed and has impressed.”

The Race of the Year takes place at Mallory Park in Leicestershire on Sunday, October 15th, with first practice starting at 0930.