Rea was runner-up in last year's British Superbike Series

Starting from the front row of the grid, after qualifying in fourth place, Rea got off to a flying start and was lying second when he high sided.

The Ballyclare rider also took out his Hannspree Ten Kate Honda team-mate Andrew Pitt in the accident.

Australian Yamaha rider Broc Parkes won the race with Joan Lascorz second and British rider Craig Jones third.

Parkes' team-mate Fabien Foret ran out of fuel on the final lap while leading.

Rea had also crashed in Friday's second qualfying session but recovered to post a quick time.

The next round of the series is at Phillip Island on 2 March.