Alex Marquez says understanding the characteristics of the Honda RC213V is key during the Valencia test as he transitions to the MotoGP class, the rookie overcoming a fall on day one in Spain.

Admitting he made a ‘rookie mistake’ in his first run that saw him crash at turn 10, the Moto2 world champion reflected positively on the day where he recorded a total of 53 laps.

“First I want to say thank you to Honda for this opportunity to join them as the Moto2 world champion,” Marquez stated. “Each lap we were able to improve which is important and I was able to enjoy my time on the bike. I’m very happy, it has been a positive day for me apart from the rookie mistake I made in the first run.

“My rhythm was quite good, and I know where I need to improve and focus on for tomorrow. The plan for tomorrow is to just make more laps so I can understand the bike better, learn how to manage it more.”

Repsol Honda signed Marquez, younger brother for multi-time world champion Marc, to replace the now retired Jorge Lorenzo in 2020.