While the most of the WorldSBK pack were worried about how long their tyres would last in the opening race at Phillip Island, Eugene Laverty had to contend with having way too much air in his.
A problem with the generator the Goeleven Ducati team took to the grid meant that Laverty did not have the correct pressure in the rear Pirelli on his Panigale V4. As the race progressed, tyre temperature ballooned as did the pressure - to more than 2bar - resulting in a serious lack of grip.
Laverty managed to pick up 12th place and is looking forward to the second and third races Down Under tomorrow.
“We have reason for optimism today after the performance in practice this morning. We posted the fifth fastest time and I was able to make a very consistent rhythm," said Laverty.
"Unfortunately during the race there was a big problem, due to the power generator, with the rear tyre pressure and so I had no rear grip. Our potential was much higher today but anyway, tomorrow we have another opportunity. This is the beauty of the World Superbike Championship.”
