Lowes sets early pace in Valencia

Sam Lowes was confident that his Speed Up would work well in Valencia and the early returns are positive for the British rider. Lowes, who will join Gresini after this race, set the pace in opening practice by over two tenths of a second.

Thomas Luthi and Alex Rins were his closest challengers but having shown his consistency with a 16 lap stint to close the session Lowes has laid down a marker for the rest of the weekend.