American ex-MotoGP number four John Hopkins made his British Superbike debut yesterday at Cartagena in Spain, marking his first official outing with the new-look Samsung Crescent Suzuki Racing team.

Starting out on the first of four days of testing, Hopkins was able to lap quickly and consistently as he settled in with the team according to reports from Suzuki.

“We’ve had a really good, productive first day,” Hopkins said. “The base-settings we started with were good and I quickly felt comfortable with the bike.

“Actually, after five months off a road racer I’ll confess I was ready to stick my leg out on the corners like I do on my dirt bike, so I probably looked a bit awkward for that first session.

“But I quickly adapted and even in the second session I was starting to chip-away at the settings.”

While Hopkins is taking his time to settle into his new role after a season in the U.S. during 2010.

“It was a solid first day – I think we can say we nailed it,” he reflected. “I feel really comfortable on the bike and I’m looking forward to getting up-to-speed and seeing what’s to be done then.”