Coghlan the fifth element after first day at Assen

Spanish-based Brit Kev Coghlan (DMC Panavto Yamaha) ended up fifth fastest after the first two practice sessions at the classic Assen circuit in the Netherlands.

The times were led by Frenchman Florian Marino (Kawasaki Intermoto Ponyexpres), as the dry track conditions improved after overnight rains and thunderstorms.

Second up was local hero Michael van der Mark (Pata Honda) after he had been fastest rider in the morning session, but could not improve his time in the afternoon.

Jules Cluzel (MV Agusta RC Yakhnich Motorsport) moved up to third fastest after two sessions while Kenan Sofuoglu (Kawasaki Mahi Racing Team India) dropped to fourth.

Coghlan’s fifth place was 0.611 seconds from Marino’s Friday best.

Jack Kennedy (CIA Insurance Honda) slotted in ninth overall, making him the second Honda rider in the early rankings.

The final free session and then qualifying take place on Saturday.