MotoGP – QP1 Assen, microphone to Bayliss and Capirossi

Ducati Marlboro Team rider Troy Bayliss (in the photo), almost completely recovered from the fall he suffered in Spain two weeks ago, achieved the fifth best time in the first test session using the traditional engine.
“Not a bad first day” – comments the Australian. “I rode a lot with the Four Pulse engine because we wanted to try some things. The after-effects of the crash in Barcelona don't bother me, only my right ankle still hurts a little because I had already hurt it in the past.

Today I didn't use the new Twin Pulse much, but I think it's a good step forward: on the Monday after the Catalunya GP we tested it and I ran interesting times even after 18 laps with the race tyres. And, at the end of the session, the tires were in good condition, even better than those used in the race the day before. The new engine is easier to ride and above all, it makes the bike more comfortable, so lowering lap times is relatively easier precisely because the bike is less tiring to ride."

Loris Capirossi finished today's practice in 11th position: knowing that the forecast for tomorrow promises improvements, he preferred not to take unnecessary risks on the wet and windswept track.

“It didn't make sense to push harder with all that rain” – states the Italian rider. “If tomorrow is nice, today's times will no longer be considered, but if it rains again I will try to lower the time. This morning I tested both engines while in the afternoon I mainly used the Twin Pulse, working on the set-up. For me, racing in the wet is difficult because I'm light and therefore I feel the lack of traction more than others, but today I achieved a good feeling. I didn't look for time at all costs: at the moment I don't care and I preferred to concentrate on the set-up for this track. I like the TwinPulse much more than the other engine, it's easier to ride and you notice it even more in the wet: today was the first time I really had fun in the rain with my Desmosedici!”

Ducati Press