Ducati GP10
Both Nicky Hayden and Casey Stoner rode the new 2010 Ducati Desmosedici GP10 at the Sepang MotoGP test held on February 4th and 5th. Ducati is working hard to regain the competitive advantage they brought to their championship-winning 2007 season. The GP10 prototype tested has some major changes from last year’s GP9.
Stoner finished the test second fastest to Valentino Rossi while Hayden was eight fastest on day one and seventh fastest on day two. Vittoriano Guareschi, Ducati Team Manager and test rider, took a few minutes to explain some of the differences on the GP10. As well, both Nicky and Casey had comments on the new motorcycle that Ducati will continue to evolve through the 2010 MotoGP season.
Vittoriano Guareschi Speaks…
"The bike has many new things. The biggest difference is the engine: the new engine is a big bang, whereas the Ducati engine has been a screamer for the past three years."
"Another important change is the seat support – this is completely new and is stiffer compared to last year, which is much better for the feeling. It’s possible to understand the rear tire better."
"There is a new front fork, which is the same brand Öhlins, but it’s completely new. With this fork it’s possible to push more in the braking. We think this is a good advantage."
"We have a further important point, which is the swingarm. In this case it is aluminum but we have a choice of carbon fiber. With the swingarm in carbon it is possible to improve the bike in different conditions."
"These are the big differences and we want to see the results on the track!"
Casey Stoner Speaks…
"We have definitely improved the set-up of the bike, trying some different things with the swingarm."
"Considering that we are using a different engine to the one we’ve had for the last three years and some other new parts that we still need to get the best out of we certainly can’t be unhappy with where we’re at."
"There is work to do but we have two more test sessions before the season starts for real. In general I am really pleased with how it’s gone."
Nicky Hayden Speaks…
"This morning we got the chance to find a wet setting for the new forks and engine. "
"When we went out in the dry I could feel an instant improvement on yesterday and I set a decent pace but then we didn’t improve further."
"I would have liked to post a better lap time but just when we put some new tires in the rain came back. However, it was a very positive test and I can’t wait to get back to work at the next one in a couple of weeks’ time."
2010 Ducati Desmosedici GP10 Specs
Engine: 799cc liquid-cooled, 90 degree V4 four-stroke, Desmodromic DOHC, four valves per cylinder with more than 200hp
Maximum speed: In excess of 310 kph/192 mph
Transmission: Six-speed cassette-type gearbox, with alternative gear ratios available. Dry multi-plate slipper clutch. Chain final-drive.
Carburetion: Indirect Magneti Marelli electronic injection, four throttle bodies with injectors above butterfly valve. Throttles operated by EVO TCF (Throttle Control & Feedback) system.
Exhaust: Termignoni
Suspension: Öhlins upside-down 48mm front forks and Öhlins rear shock absorber, adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping.
Tires: Bridgestone 16.5" front and rear
Brakes: Brembo with two 320mm carbon front discs with four-piston calipers. Single stainless steel rear disc with two-piston calipers.
Dry weight: 150kg