Jeffrey Herlings’ Honda HRC debut was one that saw some misfortune with his CRF450R in the opening race of the International Italian Championship in Mantova, as a stone got caught between the sprocket and chain. However, a strong start in race two, followed by a solid ride behind Tim Gajser and Ruben Fernandez, saw ‘the bullet’ claim 11-3 moto scores.

Here is what the bullet had to say via social media.

Not the Honda HRC Debut I was hoping for, 1st moto I got a stone between the sprocket and chain and after it took allmost a lap to get it out, I managed to get P11 and the 2nd moto I got P3. Need to get back some race intensity, and I still look a bit rusty so it’s good to get some races in. The team did a great job, it was a brutal day for the bike. Poor performance from my side after all the work we have put in. But looking forwards to the next gate drop in 7 days again. Thank you to all my partners.

Image: Lucio Buselli