Honda Gresini rider Marco Melandri took fifth place in the Grand Prix of China with a determined performance in a race that proved to be particularly demanding because of the characteristics of the circuit.
After getting a good start Melandri moved up to second place on the second lap and fought hard to stay with the lead riders. The Italian rode with his typical grit and determination to combat technical problems as the race wore on, eventually crossing the line in fifth place to move up to fourth in the World Championship standings on 41 points
It was an unfortunate race for Toni Elias, who was forced to retire after a crash on the first lap. The Spaniard now lies sixth in the championship on 35 points and is keen to put this race behind him as he looks forward to better fortune in the next round at Le Mans.
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