Chassis set-up was a major focus for Marquez on the final day of the three-day Sepang test. The Repsol Honda rider set his best time of the event, a 2:00.843, on Tuesday and was able to set a 2:00.883 on Wednesday during his 45 laps on track.

The Spaniard’s Tuesday time saw him end the test in fifth overall – over a second off the best time of Movistar Yamaha’s Jorge Lorenzo. Despite the gap, Marquez leaves Sepang feeling positive, but aware there is still room for improvement.

The 22-year-old said: ‘The last day went quite well because we improved every day here in Sepang. We are still far from where we’d like to be, but I think we have taken a good step forward and slowly we’re getting there.

‘We are working hard and there is room for improvement, which is what we have to focus on. Today I worked a lot on the electronics and the chassis, understanding what setup for the bike is best for the new tyres.

‘We also tested various types of front tyres with different profiles. Overall, these three days have been positive.’

The MotoGP paddock will now head to Phillip Island in two weeks for the second of three off-season tests. It is unlikely that Honda will bring another major engine upgrade for the factory team, but a change of circuit will allow Marquez and Dani Pedrosa to verify their Sepang findings.