Two rain-hit Moto2 free practice sessions gave Elf Marc VDS Racing’s Sam Lowes the perfect opportunity to showcase his wet weather potential at Misano on Friday.

The recently renewed asphalt seemed to be holding water at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli and while no rain fell during the morning practice, the torrential downpour just before the green light provided a sodden track for the entirety of the 40-minute session.

Lowes’ vast experience came to the fore when he finished fifth in the challenging and low grip conditions, just a tenth from the top three and with further heavy downpours during FP2 the Brit failed to complete a single lap on Dunlop’s slick rubber.

Rather than pursue a fast lap this afternoon, Lowes chose to focus on his consistency in rain conditions with more unpredictable weather forecas across the weekend. His best time of 1’50.821 secured fifth in FP2 and eighth overall.

“When it is tricky conditions it all comes down to those who want to push to find a lap time,” Lowes explained on Friday afternoon.

“I felt very good this afternoon without ever chasing a quick lap because I wanted to work on the wet setting to try and make some improvements. We’ve certainly found a good direction if it is wet again tomorrow.

“Hopefully we get to ride the bike in the dry because it is a lot more fun. I’m feeling good, the team is working well and overall, it was a very positive first day.”