MoToGp News

Ducati Marlboro completed their test at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit on Wednesday with Casey Stoner and Nicky Hayden having made good progress on their Desmosedici prototypes.

Both were pleased with the changes made to their machines by Filippo Preziosi, with Stoner’s best lap of 1’31.900 the fastest of all riders across the three days, as he tested a new engine configuration.

“We were able to understand the bike a little better today and the fantastic weather conditions certainly helped. It was a pleasant surprise when we got up this morning and it allowed us to work well,” said Stoner. “I’m satisfied with this three-day test and with the new characteristics of the bike, in particular the extra traction in corner exit. It is still difficult to figure out exactly the best time to open the throttle, but we’re getting there and it is a case of more practice and improving the set-up.”

Hayden, whose 1’32.805 was the third quickest lap of the final day, was also content with what had been achieved.

“We worked on confirming a few things today and I think we found what we were looking for,” he said. “I like the changes we’ve introduced to the bike; the power delivery is definitely more progressive although we still need to find the ideal setting for it. I’m happy – I think we’re on the right track and have had three important days here that should help us make a lot of progress in the next test, and close the gap to the front guys down even more.”