Despite a late crash, Jorge Lorenzo has firmed as the man most likely to triumph in the Australian motorcycle grand prix with a strong showing in Friday’s practice.
The Spaniard charted the fastest practice lap of the day with a 1:29.602 around the Phillip Island circuit.
With his quickest times achieved early in his practice run, the two-time champion came off his bike around the hairpin turn four, producing an early end to his session but no injuries.
Despite the fall, no rider was able to match his time, with 2014 title winner Marc Marquez coming closest with a 1:29.752.
Lorenzo’s crash came while using asymmetric tyres developed specifically for the Australian track.
While the title was won by Marquez in Japan last round, Lorenzo has won the previous two MotoGP races – and carries the mantle of reigning Australian GP winner into Sunday’s race.
The quick practice time can only help Lorenzo, who is battling Valentino Rossi and Dani Pedrosa to finish second in the championship.
The trio are separated by just three points, with Rossi (5th) and Pedrosa (10th) within a second of Lorenzo’s best practice time.
The only Australian in the MotoGP field, Broc Parkes, overcame an early fall to finish 21st of 23 riders.
Parkes – who fell into turn one in Friday’s morning session – wasn’t the only local to head off the track during a tricky day for Australians.
Moto2 rider Anthony West was thrown from his bike early in the morning session but recovered to finish 13th, with Moto2 wildcard Aiden Wagner also crashing late on Friday.
Wildcard Moto3 entry Olly Simpson was sent sprawling into the gravel trap on Lukey Heights during his debut grand prix run, but the 16-year-old had a composed afternoon session.
The Moto2 riders had the toughest time, with several riders losing control of their bikes.
Finnish rider Mika Kallio walked away from a particularly spectacular crash with the tyre wall, somersaulting onto his feet.
Spaniard Esteve Rabat was dominant in Moto2 practice, finishing top of both the morning and afternoon sessions by some distance.
Australian Moto3 hope Jack Miller finished top of his division’s time charts in Friday’s afternoon practice, with Remy Gardner – the son of world champion Wayne Gardner – an impressive 23rd.
