Fast start for Marco Simoncelli in Valencia

Reigning world 250GP champion Marco Simoncelli kicked off preparations for the defence of his crown in positive fashion when he logged the quickest time in Valencia yesterday (Thursday).

The Italian clocked a best time of 1.37.2 to comfortably beat Honda rival Hector Faubel by 0.5s.

Only six 250 riders are present at the test in Spain, with 2009 title contender Alvaro Bautista still sidelined by a broken collarbone he suffered last month.

Times
1 Marco Simoncelli Gilera 1.37.2
2 Héctor Faubel Honda 1.37.7
3 Alex Baldolini Aprilia 1.38.3
4 Roberto Locatelli Gilera 1.38.4