Source: Supplied.

Five-time premier class motorcycle grand prix world champion and Australian legend Mick Doohan says Marc Marquez would have no problem racing a 500cc machine from his era, highlighting his ability as one that could be successful on any platform in the prestigious series.

Doohan and Marquez share the record of five world championships in the premier category, both earning all five crowns at the Repsol Honda outfit.

“I’m sure he would have had no problem on a 500cc bike,” Doohan commented. ‘The great riders like him, which we saw with Valentino and others, are able to adapt to the bike that they have. That was already the case in my time – there were riders who changed manufacturers, but their results were the same.

“The rider, the organic part of the bike, is the thing that usually makes the biggest difference. Marc could win for practically all of the factories.”

Doohan, now aged 53, believes Marquez’ flair as a rider has contributed greatly in attracting and engaging fans in MotoGP racing, explaining his talent to pull off incredible manoeuvres and win championships at the same time go hand in hand.

“His riding is impressive, there is no doubt about that,” he continued. “He makes it exciting for everyone watching, including me. But if he didn’t ride like that, he wouldn’t have won those titles.

“At the same time, it’s what gets the fans glued to the television. This year we have seen a great season of racing, with many riders at the front and a lot of fighting for wins, which has given us races like Assen.”

Marquez collected the title at Japan’s 16th round, while his campaign at the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix was cut short due to a damaged motorcycle last Sunday. He’ll be back in action this weekend at Sepang in Malaysia.