Source: Supplied.

Multi-time MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi is still understanding the improved performance from the Movistar Yamaha YZR-M1 at the weekend’s maiden grand prix of Thailand.

Following a number of dismal showings in recent rounds, Rossi and teammate Maverick Viñales were highly competitive all weekend long, finishing fourth and third respectively.

The Italian is assessing whether the results came from a forward step in development, or if the Chang International Circuit played into favour of the Yamaha’s characteristics.

“During this weekend we improved a lot,” said Rossi. “Unfortunately, I wasn’t strong enough for the podium, but it was still a much better race than we had at the last three or four rounds.

“I always stayed at the front, in all the sessions, I started from the front row – we were competitive, and it was a good weekend, but it’s still not enough. Our main rivals were a bit faster and we need to understand if this track helped us or if, in reality, we made a step.”

Rossi sits third in the series rankings as the MotoGP World Championship heads to Twin Ring Motegi in Japan on 21 October.