McPhee ‘sees potential’ after maiden WorldSSP laps

John McPhee enjoyed his first taste of the Kawasaki ZX-6R at Jerez on Wednesday as 2023 WorldSSP preparation got underway.

The Scotsman joins Vince64 by Puccetti Racing for his rookie Supersport World Championship season after over a decade in the Moto3 paddock. McPhee completed 47 laps of the 4.4km Jerez Circuit - Angel Nieto on his maiden day with a personal best of 1:46.706.

“Got a big smile on my face,” McPhee said at the close of play. “Just finished up the first day here testing in Jerez. 2023 season has started with the Vince64 Racing Team. Really, really happy.

“Finished that first outlap, basically a shakedown, to see how the bike was working, see how it all felt, and delighted!

“Such a long time in Moto3, to jump on the 600, the Kawasaki, and experience the power, the way it was all going to be. To see the potential and to be working with such a nice bunch of people, it’s been a wonderful day so, really happy.

“Work to be done as always,” he admitted. “Always so much to learn. I’ve got quite a bit to adapt and change but the first day with this bike, with this team. Also first time for me riding a 600, a lot to learn and take on board, but so much potential and so excited to get a few more days under my belt before we head to Phillip Island!”