Preparations: BMW Motorrad factory rider Marco Melandri gives it full throttle off-road. During the winter break from the Superbike World Championship, Marco Melandri is keeping his concentration in shape on the Husqvarna TC 250. Munich, 13th January 2012. BMW Motorrad factory rider Marco Melandri (ITA) still feels the need for speed on two wheels, even during the winter break from the FIM Superbike World Championship. His preparation programme for the 2012 season includes off-road training sessions on a Husqvarna TC 250. In order to be fit for his World Championship outings on the BMW S 1000 RR, Melandri can regularly be found on the Husqvarna 250cc Motocross bike. “I ride a lot, almost every week,” says Melandri. “I like riding with friends, mainly just to have fun. We find nice routes, enjoy the views and stop somewhere for lunch. I really enjoy riding the bike. I love it. It is perfect for me it is easy to ride. I also like the fact that it does not have a kick-starter, but an electric start, as I am quite small.” Off-road tours on the Husqvarna TC 250 are more than just a pleasant leisure activity for Melandri: they also play an important role in his preparations for the Superbike World Championship. “It is the best way to train my concentration,” Melandri explains. “In the gym you can chat with other people or think about other things. On a bike, however, you have to remain focussed. While the test ban is in place during the winter, riding an off-road bike is the best opportunity to practice this.” Away from off-road riding, Melandri has resumed his intensive fitness regime following a short Christmas break. “Let the season begin, I am ready,” says the Italian. The first races of 2012 will be held in Phillip Island, Australia, on 26th February. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport will also be testing at the same venue in the week running up to the season’s curtain-raiser. Husqvarna Motorcycles is a 100 per cent owned subsidiary of the BMW Group and oversees the off-road motorcycle sector within the group. In 2011, Husqvarna launched a product offensive in the on-road sector. Having won 82 World Championship titles, Husqvarna is already one of the most successful off-road motorcycle constructors in the world.