Source: MotoGP.

NGM Mobile Forward Racing Team’s Aleix Espargaro was fourth overall at the Sepang MotoGP test in a stunning performance aboard the FTR Yamaha Open class contender.

Espargaro was the final of four riders to dip beneath the elusive 2m00 bracket during the three-day test, posting a 1m59.998.

It was an early indication that the talented Spaniard will challenge the top factory entries in 2014, potentially targeting podiums following two seasons as top performing CRT rider.

“I’m really happy with the bike and the team,” said Espargaro. “We made a good step forward with the setting of the machine, but there is still a lot of work to do. Today we did a long run, but we are still struggling a lot when the tyres drop down.

“I’m confident because this is just the first test. We will all continue to work and I also have to adapt my riding style to the new machine – I couldn’t leave Sepang with a better result!”

Espargaro’s bike features the engine, frame and swingarm from Yamaha’s official YZR-M1, the remainder manufactured by FTR.

The NGM Mobile Forward Racing Team will be back on track at Sepang from 26-28 February for the second test session in preparation for the 2014 season.