JEREZ TEST - DAY 2
Ducati Desmosedici GP6 testing debut continued today with Loris Capirossi concentrating on engine management and new tyres while Sete Gibernau continued to get used to the Italian bike and the Bridgestone tyres.
Weather conditions improved at Jerez today, enabling the Ducati MotoGP Team to make the most of the second day of testing scheduled at the Spanish circuit. Loris Capirossi and Sete Gibernau first took to the track at 11.40 am due to the cold morning temperatures, but lapped until 5 pm exclusively with the new Desmosedici GP6.
Loris Capirossi, who continued engine management work aimed at improving the bike's 'rideability', was satisfied with the GP6's immediate feeling. The Italian rider was also able to take advantage of the improved track conditions to test several new Bridgestone tyres as well as new the Ohlins suspensions.
Capirossi completed a total of 60 laps, setting a quickest time of 1'41.489.
"We were lucky with the weather!" declared a smiling Capirossi. "Despite the fact that it was cold, the track was in a pretty decent condition. We were able to work better than yesterday and the positive impressions of the first day were confirmed. Today we also tested several tyres and new front and rear suspensions and the feeling was good right away. Everything is going well. Hopefully if the weather stays good tomorrow, I'll do a few back-to-back tests with the GP5 but I can honestly say that our new bike has got off to a good start."
It was a positive day also for his new team-mate Sete Gibernau, who is becoming more and more familiar with his new Desmosedici machine. Today the Spanish rider concentrated mainly on suspension and set-up work.
Sete totalled 66 laps around the Jerez track, with a best time of 1'41.466.
"Today we focussed on set-up and suspension work," declared Sete. "It was useful to get to know exactly what I need to find the right feeling with the new bike. We made progress and managed to find a path that seemed right. With this set-up tomorrow we can concentrate more on the engine mapping. We are making small steps forward to avoid going in the wrong direction. I also tested the new tyres and started to give a few indications to the Bridgestone guys. I'm pleased with what we did today and hope to continue like this tomorrow."
Tomorrow will be the third and final day of testing for the Ducati MotoGP Team at the Spanish circuit before the winter break. The team will next be seen in action at Sepang, Malaysia from 23-25 January 2006.
Temperatures: air 15° - 17°, track 16° - 24°
