Imola Michelin day one report

Bostrom tops times as Xaus on prowl again

Ben Bostrom sets pace with fastest time at Imola as Ruben Xaus (Ducati Infostrada - Michelin) shows again he's a true title contender with thrilling last lap display for second place. Colin Edwards (Castrol Honda - Michelin) and new champion Troy Bayliss (Ducati Infostrada - Michelin) complete provisional front row.

Superbike

Ben Bostrom returned to form to take provisional pole position for Sunday's 13th and final round of the World Superbike championship as the talented Ruben Xaus (Ducati Infostrada - Michelin) continued his recent run of good form to take second place with a dynamic last lap around the 4.892km (3.04-mile) Imola circuit.

Spaniard Xaus - a winner in Germany four weeks ago and runner-up in both Dutch races three weeks ago - is again proving his worth as a title contender for next year's campaign, putting the Michelin Superpole tyre to good use on his final lap of the one-hour session.

Despite losing the world title, Colin Edwards (Castrol Honda - Michelin) proved he is ready to battle it out for victory at Imola on Sunday in the first ever World Superbike races at the picturesque and historic circuit as the Texan took third place - setting his best lap on Michelin race rubber.

Troy Bayliss (Ducati Infostrada - Michelin) celebrated his world title by switching the livery of his normally-red machine for silver paintwork and black leathers. The 32-year-old Australian took fourth place and looks ready to confirm his first world title by battling for final round victory.

Supersport

Pere Riba on a Ten Kate Honda heads the Supersport grid after taking provisional pole position for Sunday's 11th and final round. The Spaniard leads a front row which includes championship leader Paolo Casoli, Vittoriano Guareschi (Dienza Ducati Racing - Michelin Pilot) and Riba's team-mate Fabien Foret.

-Michelin Sport-