Jonathan Rea has declared himself ready for a first foray into MotoGP this weekend at Misano following three successful days of testing and says the Repsol Honda team are now looking at the gap to the front instead of laptimes.

The Isle of man resident finished the last day at Aragon under two seconds slower than team-mate Dani Pedrosa so, with another 195 minutes on the bike before the lights go out, Rea could be looking at a fourth-row or better qualifying slot.

"For me it's a big dream come true just to race in MotoGP; it's been very unfortunate for Casey to sustain such an injury when he was having a very strong season and my best wishes go to him while he recovers. Now, my job is to replace him and I will try to do the best I can. I love Misano, I've already raced there this year and I finished second, it's also where I had my first ever Superbike win in 2009 and I enjoy the circuit and the Italian fans, they are always very enthusiastic," said Rea.

"I take this opportunity like a great gift from Honda; in the few days I've spent with the team I have felt very good, they understand it will take me some time to push with this bike but I'm learning every time I get on it. It's been great to have these three days testing on the bike to prepare myself and for sure Friday morning will be less chaotic. We already have the riding position set, the base setup is set and I understand the electronics a little more. I know it's going to be busy, but I'm ready.

"Now we're not looking at the lap times so much, but the gap to the front which is decreasing every test, so I'm happy with that. I'm still not completely happy finishing the corner, but on the final afternoon I did a long run and my fastest lap came at the end, so I need to push these tyres much harder and it's a question of trust. I don’t underestimate the challenge.”