Alvaro Bautista has continued his impeccable form around Phillip Island during practice for the season-opening round of the Superbike World Championship.
After topping the final pre-season test earlier this week, Bautista's imposing style on the new Ducati Panigale V4 R continued on Friday.
In the second practice session the Spaniard produced a sensational one minute 30.327 second lap at a jaw-dropping average speed of 177.156km/h, a new lap record.
Bautista even surprised himself with his pace around the circuit.
"I didn't expect to be so strong here but I'll take it," said Bautista, who was fourth at Phillip Island last year.
"We are really just starting to work on set-up and to match the bike to my riding characteristics. It's the first time I've really felt that me and the bike are working as one."
Despite his slick time, Bautista downplayed his chances ahead of Saturday's final practice session, qualifying and the opening race.
"I'm No. 19, and there's one rider who everyone has to beat - and that's the No.1, Jonathan Rea."
Reigning world champion Rea (Kawasaki) was second overall as he pushed his ZX-10RR to the limit to finish ahead of teammate Leon Haslam, and new BMW signing Tom Sykes.
Australian wildcard Troy Herfoss (Honda) was the leading local hope in 19th.
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