Edwards confused by lack of pace

While his Yamaha teammate Valentino Rossi started from pole and fought for victory, Edwards slumped from sixth on the grid to the midfield in the race.

It marked the fifth consecutive frustrating GP for the American. After his podium finish at Jerez, Edwards was taken out on the opening lap in Turkey and has subsequently struggled for speed in the next four races, finishing no better than 10th.

"Today was pretty much impossible for me; I had no grip in the rear from the start and I just couldn't get into a rhythm," Edwards said.

"Basically I couldn't load the front or turn the bike how I wanted.

"We've done everything this weekend, changed all the settings, springs, load etc, but we haven't been able to crack the problem.

"Qualifying was okay but today I just couldn't ride it."

Edwards believes the post-race test at Catalunya will be crucial for him.

"Tomorrow's our last test until after Brno and the only thing to do is use every single possible minute we have on track to get to the bottom of the problem so we're in better shape for the next few races, which are at some of my favourite tracks," he said.

Team boss Davide Brivio said Yamaha were determined to get to the bottom of Edwards' difficulties.

"With Colin we've had a difficult weekend but now we have two of his best circuits to look forward to," he said.

"We'll look at the data from the last two races and use it to try to find the right package for him so that he can transmit his good qualifying performances to the race."