DARREN Barton endured a tough time in the opening round of the World 125cc Championship in Malaysia.

The Hoddlesden man's Ditter Plastic Aprilia suffered varying mechanical problems in qualifying and the rider had to settle for 24th on the grid.

Barton started well, setting fourth fastest time on the second lap, but ran out of luck o lap four when he crashed out.

Barton is back in action tomorrow for the Indonesian Grand Prix.

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