Moto2 Champion Remy Gardner’s first day as a Tech3 KTM MotoGP rider was a painful one after aggravating his rib injury further.

Upbeat and full of praise for his new steed, the Australian was also a little tentative after re-injuring himself on the powerful premier class machinery at the Jerez Circuit - Angel Nieto.

Gardner, however, remained his laid-back self in his analysis of his opening day of pre-season testing admitting he was taking it step-by-step in his current state but impressed once again by the power on display.

“It was a fun day,” Gardner said positively. “In the morning I was starting to feel pretty good with the bike and started to improve a little bit. Just in a fast change of direction, I was just pulling on the bike on the handlebars and one of my ribs just popped and cracked big time and it started to really, really hurt so came back in the box. Something maybe broke again or whatever, I don't know, just trying to ride the bike. So in the end, I took some painkillers and just tried to finish off the day trying to ride a bit smoother but it's been a painful day riding!

“The power is pretty gnarly,” he continued. “Already I knew what was coming from the test in Misano but yeah, the brakes as well are crazy! Honestly, comparing to the other guys in the factory, the braking is not too bad for us so for sure, it's just a little bit of confidence as well on the front tyre and a bit of corner speed. The electronics as well is another big thing I'm trying to wrap my head around but step by step. Also like I said I don't want to be crashing at the moment, I'm tender.

“Still got plenty of days to go and just want to finish the season in one piece at this point. Hopefully I don't wake up too sore after today, with whatever’s moved around my ribs and I'm sure we wouldn't do too much more than 50 laps.

“Just take it step by step and learn the bike and enjoy a little bit this little treat at the end of the season and then go into the winter and get healed up and ready for next year.”