After controlling the greater majority of the 26-lap race from the front, Mladin's bike slowed dramatically as he commenced the final lap allowing Nicky Hayden (Honda) to pass and take the race win ahead of Mladin. Third home was Miguel DuHamel (Honda), closely followed by Kurtis Roberts (Honda).

"Everything was going final up until the final lap," said Mladin. "The engine just lost power and I wasn't able to stick with Nicky (Hayden) on that last lap. Fortunately we had a good lead over the next group and I was able to bring the bike home in second place. We're not sure what has happened just yet, but the team will have a look at the bike later."

"It's obviously quite frustrating to be in such a strong position and see a win slip away from you," Mladin added. "I suppose the good side is that we have actually extended our points lead over Eric (Bostrom) who had a problem with a tyre out there. I'm now focused on Brainerd next weekend and hope to leave there with some equally strong results."

While Mladin was experiencing engine difficulties, his main championship rival Eric Bostrom (Team Kawasaki) was forced to pit and change his rear tyre before eventually finishing 13th overall. Mladin now leads the championship with 332 points, ahead of the Kawasaki's of Bostrom (286) and Doug Chandler (239) with four rounds remaining.

Mladin's second place finish today comes after taking victory in yesterday's opening race of the Superbike `Double Header' at Mid Ohio. The Yoshimura Suzuki rider also scored his seventh consecutive pole position for the season and set a new Superbike lap record during the final qualifying session.