A lot of attention focused on the Honda garage today, where Jorge Lorenzo was making his debut on the new bike. The Majorcan was unable to make any comments due to the agreement between Ducati and the Japanese manufacturer. But Marc Marquez took the opportunity to say a few words, the Spaniard having closed second just three tenths from Maverick Vinales on the Yamaha.

“Today was a little strange due to the weather– commented Marc - I didn't have chance to talk to Jorge. What I can say is that the first time on a Honda is always tough for any rider, particularly the first lap. Morbidelli impressed me today, he was really fast on the Yamaha and that confirms the growth of the bike and also how easy it is to ride.

Marc then analyses his own Tuesday.

“I'm not 100% fit. I'm one of those riders who likes to stay out on track all day but today that wasn't the case, and I only completed a few laps. My priority was my fitness and so I didn't take any risks”.

The Spaniard was out on the new bike.

“The most important thing is that the new Honda is at a slightly better level than the previous one already. That's exciting, though it's almost always like that at first. There are many aspects of the bike to evaluate of course and so it's not easy to offer a clear opinion yet”.

A new steering plate solution has been tested.

“As I've said, it's hard to understand where the steps forward derive from. We have various engine and frame specs here, and we're also working on the balance. I can say I've had a better feeling since starting work with the new bike”.

A final comment about the engine.

“There are various aspects to analyse closely, but let's say it's already at the level of the last one”