Ducati MotoGP Testing
Following a seventh-place finish at the Czech Grand Prix Sunday, round 12 of 18 in the 2012 MotoGP Championship, the Ducati Team headed to Misano for a two-day test.
During the test, nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi completed an “intense period of work” with Ducati Technicians, attempting to make the GP12 Desmo more competitive. During the test that wrapped up Wednesday, Rossi completed 80 laps, working on chassis updates. These updates included a new chassis and swingarm, both of which Rossi will use during the next round in Misano Sept. 14-16.
Valentino Rossi (Ducati Team GP12 MotoGP) says: “We carried out a series of tests with the chassis, and the results were interesting, though they still have to be checked against the other riders. We also worked on the bike’s setup, with the goal of trying to limit the drop in performance that we usually suffer after some laps, as the tires wear. We had some promising signs there as well, and we’ll check them again in a race context.”
Filippo Preziosi (Ducati Corse Technical Director) says: “Over these two days with Valentino, we focused on chassis testing. Based on the feedback he provided, we’ll bring a new frame and a new swingarm to the next race. In the meantime, the Corse department will continue working according to the development plan that was established following the June test at Aragon.
“Over the remainder of the season, the Test Team and the factory riders will have the opportunity to try further chassis evolutions, which are currently being produced.”
Rossi worked alone during the Misano testing, though, considering his teammate Nicky Hayden was back home in America recovering from severe hand injuries sustained during Indy qualifying.
But Hayden says his recovery is going well, and the Kentuckian is expected to return for the San Marino Grand Prix at Misano.
Nicky Hayden (Ducati Team GP12 MotoGP) says: “It was pretty tough to be home while my rivals were racing, and testing is also something that I hated missing, as we had some parts that we could possibly use this year. Everything else is good news though. Bones don’t heal in ten days, but the swelling is down in my hand, and the feeling is much better with both that and my head. Everything’s right on schedule, and I’m really looking forward to getting back on the bike.”
