The Friday weather aside, Cal Crutchlow enjoyed MotoGP's debut test at Argentina's Termas de Rio Hondo circuit - and can't wait to come back for next year's grand prix.
Crutchlow, who took his first MotoGP pole at the recent Assen round, was one of six riders to make the journey to Argentina.
After a series of PR events to promote the sport, which hasn't visited the South American country since 1999, Crutchlow and co. completed their first laps of the Termas de Rio Hondo track on Thursday.
Rain then prevented riders from venturing out until late on Friday afternoon, but Crutchlow was eventually able to complete 32 laps - to add to the 54 he had completed on Thursday - and reward the local fans for their patience.
“It was a big pity today that the rain came because people told us that there has been no rain here for more than 20 weeks! I'm really pleased the track dried out at the end and I was able to do some laps to thank the fans for being so patient and coming out to support us,” said Crutchlow.
“This test has been one of the few times when there's not been so much pressure, so I've been able to have a lot of fun with the other guys on track. Nowadays in MotoGP you have to be on the limit and giving it 100% for every lap of every test and race, so it was nice to be able to have a bit of fun on the bike.”
The fastest lap times were set on Thursday, when Crutchlow was third quickest behind Honda riders Stefan Bradl and Alvaro Bautista.
“We collected some data for Yamaha and Bridgestone but I'm not sure how helpful it will be because conditions for the race will be completely different. The track was quite dirty but some sections are incredible. Some corners are really fast and there are a lot of overtaking opportunities, so I think it will make for great racing in all three classes.
“It has been a great trip and very important for Dorna and Yamaha to promote MotoGP in such a key market like Argentina and I am proud that Tech 3 and Monster were able to play such a big part in it.
“I'd like to thank everybody involved in our visit this week. I've loved every minute of my first visit to Argentina. It is great to experience another culture and the welcome and hospitality we have received has been overwhelming and my first visit to Argentina is one I will never forget.
“The support and passion for MotoGP has been amazing to see and now I can't wait to be back next year for the race.”
The date of next year's Argentine race is yet to be announced. Round eight of the 2013 season takes place at the Sachsenring in Germany next weekend.