FORMER 250cc World Champion Marco Simoncelli lapped almost 0.5 secs slower than arch rival Hiroshi Aoyama at Sepang during day two of the MotoGP rookie test.
The Italian, following on from yesterday's 44-lap test, completed a further 56 laps, despite torrential rain interrupting the team's programme.
Simoncelli ended the day with a best time of 2:03.70, knocking almost full second off his day one fastest of 2:04.43.
At the end of Day Two Simoncelli said:
"I'm improving lap after lap. The times from yesterday prove this. Despite the weather we were able to take positive steps, gaining vital chassis balance.
I'm pleased with today's time. What's more, I'm really starting to enjoy myself. Tomorrow we will make alterations for more front end traction. From there we will do a race simulation."
Reigning 250cc World Champion Hiroshi Aoyama, riding for the Interwetten Honda MotoGP team on the second day of the Sepang rookie test, set a best of 2:03.25, compared to a 2:04.38 on day one.
The third and final day's testing starts tomorrow.
