BRADLEY Smith believes his Monster Yamaha Tech 3 bike is getting better, despite crashing out of the French MotoGP at the weekend.

The Oxford rider fell on lap 20 when seventh in Le Mans, but remained upbeat.

“It’s frustrating, especially as it’s clear to see it was the best weekend that we’ve had so far this year,” he said.

“The first ten laps or so were positive, but then I experienced a tricky period.

“I was getting a second wind and was improving my lap times, but I carried a bit too much corner speed so I rolled off the side of the tyre.

“At least we can now go to Mugello, one of my favourite circuits, with a bike I feel confident with.”