MotoGP: Phillip Island test summary

Testing is a funny business - some try to go quicker to make a statement, while others try to go slower so that they don't show their hand. One case of the former is Jonas Folger, a rookie in the MotoGP class who is riding for the Monster Tech 3 Yamaha team. He went fourth-fastest overall, raising more than a few eyebrows. Then there was Marc Marquez, who, among other things, ran over 100 laps on day 2 of the test, and at a fearsome pace, too. The only person faster than him was Maverick Vinales, but he was more intent on getting used to the bike. Marquez managed to shoulder the extra load of testing parts, covering up for an ill Dani Pedrosa during the first half of day 2, and doing a race simulation as well. 

Also notable is the fall of Jorge Lorenzo down the timesheets, but Ducati hasn't yet brought out its new aero package for testing. The Ducatis also struggle at Phillip Island, making their rise to the top in this test unlikely. Suzuki's Alex Rins, another rookie, also ended up sixth fastest overall on day 3, but teammate Iannone ended up 12th mostly because of a rigourous testing program he had to go through, being the experienced rider in the team. Valentino Rossi was one position ahead of him - eleventh on the time sheets for similar reasons. 

The seemingly second-quickest timings of Marc Marquez didn't manage to convince everyone that those were his true times, however; the old fox of the paddock, Rossi, feels that Marquez is still the man to beat. A look at the sector times reveals a lot more; Marquez seems to be really quick in some sectors during some laps, and quicker in other sectors while suddenly becoming slow in sectors previously he was quick in. Marquez, in his bid to look for that little extra at the start of the season, even took to following other riders around to see how they get around the track. This was a source of irritation for Vinales, who allowed Marquez to follow him around for five laps before aborting his race simulation. 

There's a new engine in the Hondas this year, which is supposed to make them more rideable. If Marquez remains as quick, he'll be quick out the gates in this season. One thing is for sure - we'll be watching how the competition between Vinales and Marquez develops this year.