Misano WorldSBK test: Crocked Redding riding with compressed disc

BMW’s Scott Redding managed to stay within a second off Misano WorldSBK test fastest man Alvaro Bautista despite being on painkillers for a back problem.

Redding led a M1000RR trio in sixth place, lapping nine-tenths down on the man who replaced him at Ducati but says he is pleased with work done by his factory team over winter.

“Tne team have done a good job on changing some parts on the bike to make me more comfortable so this is a very big improvement, but we also had to change the setting a lot so these two days were very important for us,” said Redding, speaking at the track.

“We made some positive steps and I have the bike in a position now where I can ride it comfortably so now we have to increase the speed and reduce the laptime.

“we have made some big steps so now the wheel is changing we need to look in other areas. The electronics have been better and I feel better with them but we need to be faster.

Redding is riding with a compressed disc in his lower back which he experienced on his first run.

“On the bike it’s OK, off the bike I am in a lot of pain, which is not nice which yo’d know if you have ever done it but painkillers are doing their job and I have to get the work done.

“I got off the bike after the first exit and I couldn’t move any more, couldn’t bend down. Most of the pain is in the straight, corners are OK.”