PBM Aprilia's Michael Laverty almost couldn't have asked for a better start to his MotoGP career.
The Irishman polished off a successful three days of testing at Sepang by landing the 15th fastest time overall and finished second only to Aleix Espargaro in the CRT sub-class. Not bad for a man learning Bridgestone tyres and carbon brakes.
"I shouldn't be, because we have worked with him for three years previously and know how talented he is, but I'm surprised at just how well Michael has gone given his lack of experience with the bike, brakes and tyres at a track he's never seen before," said team boss Paul Bird.
"The new bikes are nearly ready so we'll have them at the next test and hopefully we can continue this great start. I'm more than happy, especially as we now have silenced a few of our doubters."
