MotoGP | Sepang Test Day 2: Bagnaia, “I'm very happy with the new Ducati”

IRTA Test Sepang Ducati MotoGP 2022 – Francesco Bagnaia closed the Sepang test with the sixth fastest time, just 0.134s from the top occupied by his teammate Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing).

There was a big improvement compared to Day 1, but to be honest, “Pecco” wasn't worried yesterday either, when the clock wasn't on his side.

With the team he continued to work on the new engine to adapt it to his driving style and a big step forward was made.

Statements by Francesco Bagnaia Sepang Test Day 2 MotoGP 2022

“The new bike is very different from the previous one, the new engine alone says a lot about this. There is work to do, because last year's bike was a perfect bike, resulting from two years of development. The 2022 Desmosedici started at a very high level despite the new features and the many things to understand. Today we had a good time-attack and the race pace was also very good, if we had raced today we would have been fighting with the leaders. We have made progress in these two days and we must continue like this. We are moving in multiple directions but I am very happy with the step taken today, which is notable compared to yesterday. I'm really happy. The strong points are braking, entry and travel. It has many strong points and considering that it is a new bike and that it is already so competitive, it means that we can still improve. Certainly last year's bike is more competitive at the moment, but it has reached its limit, while this one has room for improvement."

Statements Francesco Bagnaia Enea Bastianini Performance Test Sepang Day 2 MotoGP 2022

“Enea was very good in these two days, he adapted very well with the bike which is very different from the one he rode last year. He had to adapt, he set the track record and was very good, while we are trying to improve a new bike and we are trying to do it as quickly as possible, given that it is no longer like it used to be when there were many days of tests. Today we took a big step.”

Statements Francesco Bagnaia Front lowering Ducati Test Sepang Day 2 MotoGP 2022

“I don't think it's dangerous to use certain devices, the important thing is knowing how to do them well. Even last year it was said that the hole-shot was dangerous, but in reality this is not the case. Indeed, it allows us to go faster with fewer risks, because it makes the bike more stable. Now all the bikes lower like Ducati has been doing for two years, I don't think it's dangerous."