CIA Honda's Andrew Irwin left the Portimao test happy with his first efforts on board a WorldSSP machine but says he knows there is still plenty of work to do.

The Irishman, who stepped up from British Supersport this year, will get his first taste of global action at Phillip Island next month and says he believes the speed will come as he progresses through the year.

“It was a good first test I think.  It was a lot to take in with the new bike and new track.  Maybe the lap time at the end wasn’t as fast as I wanted but I definitely know there is more to come," said Irwin.

"I know what I need to do and I realise how much hard work needs to be done but I think it will come throughout the year.  I’m not saying I’m going to win at Philip Island but as long as we keep improving and taking it step by step we shouldn’t be too far away.”