Moto2: Fastest Navarro 'incredible feeling, good rhythm'

Jorge Navarro and Speed Up head into the Qatar Moto2 season-opener - elevated to main-event status by the cancellation of the MotoGP class - among the favourites, after leading the final test at the same Losail circuit.

The Spaniard, fourth overall with eight podiums during his debut Speed Up season, is full of confidence after finishing the three-day test 0.135s clear of Ajo Kalex rider Jorge Martin.

"Super happy with how the test went," said Navarro, who completed 173 laps over the three days. "We rode well and fast from day one.

"During [the last day] we focused on the set-up and in the last session, with the same race conditions, I found an excellent feeling. We started the session by trying to make a simulation of the second part of the race with the used tyre, then I went back to the garage to put the new tyres and petrol to simulate the first part of the race.

"The results were really positive, incredible feeling and good rhythm. We finished these pre-season tests with a lot of information."

Team-mate Fabio di Giannantonio, preparing to start his second Moto2 season, backed up Navarro's performance by setting the fourth fastest overall lap time (+0.311s).

“Super satisfied with the work done in these three days because we have always been growing," said the Italian, who was ninth overall with two podiums during his rookie Moto2 campaign.

"We worked well and concentrated on the race. The bike improved a little in all aspects and in the end a great time came without looking for it. All positive, I feel really ready for the Qatar Grand Prix!"

Aron Canet (Aspar) made it three Speed Up machines in the top ten, with the other places filled by reigning champion's Kalex.

The top NTS was Bo Bendsneyder in 16th (+0.860s) and leading MV Agusta Stefano Manzi in 22nd (1.218s).