Johann Zarco edges Sam Lowes in Valencia Moto2 test

British rider Sam Lowes kicked off preparations for his second season in the Moto2 world championship in style today.

The former World Supersport champion was second fastest at the Valencia track in Spain, with a best time of 1.35.106 putting him 0.352s behind French rider Johann Zarco.

Lowes, who is riding for the Italian-based Speed Up squad again in 2015, was just faster than reigning world champion Tito Rabat, who completed the top three with a personal best of 1.35.145.

Thomas Luthi, who won two out of the final three races of the 2014 campaign, was fourth fastest with Xavier Simeon and rookie Alex Rins rounding out the top six.

Reigning Moto3 champion Alex Marquez was down in 26th position with a best time of 1.37.773 leaving him just over three seconds away from Zarco’s best pace.