Rossi: Hamilton must visit my Ranch after Superbike run

Hamilton was out on track at Jerez on Saturday with Yamaha World Superbike racers Alex Lowes and Michael van der Mark on a plain black YZF-R1 bike bearing his racing number 44.

The Briton reportedly suffered a crash at Turn 5 but was uninjured and was able to continue running.

Rossi was asked about Hamilton's exploits on Sunday at his Ranch after taking victory in the '100km dei Campioni' race alongside his protege and fellow MotoGP rider Franco Morbidelli.

He said he would like to see Hamilton pay a visit to the facility, which is situated in Rossi's hometown of Tavullia and acts as the base for his VR46 Riders Academy junior programme.

The 1.8-mile dirt track also serves as a training venue for the seven-time premier class champion.

"Hamilton is a big bikes fan," said Rossi. "He follows the races and is always texting me. He exaggerates a bit, as he praises bike riders saying we are the ones taking real risks.

"He has to come to the ranch one day."

Following his Superbike run, Hamilton posted on Instagram saying how much he had enjoyed his Yamaha experience.

He wrote: “Good morning. Woke up feeling great today, miss riding the super bike [sic] already. FYI I’ve always loved 2 wheels more than 4.

“Always wanted a motorbike since I was a kid however am super grateful my dad got me a kart. But current new love is out on track on my bike.

“I have the highest regard and respect for these motorbike riders. It’s a much different discipline however requires some of the same basics such as time, patience, fearlessness, focus, agility and risk taking. All of which make a sport exciting.

“And yes, I’d love to race bikes. But these guys are on another level so I think I’ll just enjoy riding and testing the limits on track. @valeyellow46, I need to come to the ranch asap.”

Writing on Twitter, Lowes said of Hamilton: "Very quick and impressive. Top bloke and genuine 2 wheel fan."

Lewis Hamilton is testing the Yamaha Superbike

Photo by: Monster Energy