Dover’s Jake Dixon goes into this weekend’s Moto2 French Grand Prix in buoyant mood after topping the testing times with a track record at Jerez.

Aspar Team rider Dixon has endured a frustrating season so far, missing the opening two races after a heavy practice accident in Qatar, followed by crashes in the USA and Spain to leave him without a point ahead of round five at Le Mans.

However in testing last week he set the fastest Moto2 time seen at Jerez - 1min40.394sec - for some much-needed cheer following his difficult start to 2024.

“I was really looking forward to this test because during the weekends there is usually not a lot of time to try new things,” Dixon said.

“We've tried a lot of things, I wouldn't even know where to start, but right now I feel very, very good.

“The team, Kalex and WP have done a very good job and together we have found a very positive direction.”

Dixon won twice last year as he fought for a top-three place in the championship, finishing fourth overall, and he added that the good vibes are returning after a morale-boosting display.

“I have been able to be very fast and I have started to feel like I felt last year,” he said. “I am very happy, it is incredible.”