Fiat Yamaha rider and Yamaha's MotoGP star of the future Jorge Lorenzo spoke out about his maiden campaign in the premier-class this season during a trip to Yamaha Spain on the eve of the official IRTA in Jerez.

The former double 250cc world champion, who has a penchant for theatrical post-race celebrations and is one of the most popular riders in his country, will start his Yamaha career at Qatar in just two weeks and recently impressed at tests in Malaysia during his first outings on the YZR-M1.

"I always believe that a good rider can adapt to a particular bike," he commented on his progression with the 800cc works machine. "I did with the 125cc Derbi and then again with the 250cc Aprilia. I am not one of those guys who believes in adapting the bike a thousand ways to get it working perfectly for me. We had some problem with front end feel but this will be sorted very soon, whether by something we alter on the M1 or a change I personally have to make."

Regarding the evolution of his style to suit MotoGP Lorenzo alluded: "Every rider has their virtues and their defects and these are difficult to change. I tend to go faster in the middle of the race compared to the start, with very good lap-times; this will always be the same."

The 20 year made his world championship debut at Jerez in 2002 and had to wait until his 15th birthday on the second day of practice for the Grand Prix before he could take to the track. He won his first race in 2003 - with a spectacular showing in Brazil - and it has been a glorious path since, as he moved classes and became the most successful Spanish 250cc rider ever. With a total of 20 Grand Prix victories he takes the 'hot-seat' next to MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi - rider with almost 90 triumphs in all categories, 62 just in MotoGP.

"Technically, I am not at Valentino's level and don't know how long it will take to get there, but I know for certain I will," he said. "His braking technique is really quite incredible."

Lorenzo's early speed on the M1 gave many people - especially his supporters - good cause for optimism and although the reigning 250cc world champ might be hoping to spring a few surprises in his apprenticeship term he is keeping his feet on the ground, "now we are learning and although we can go quickly, to make a mark in this category takes years, many races and a lot of kilometres."