Ducati stays ahead of its rivals in the 2023 MotoGP preseason. However, the new Desmosedici requires small changes before the season kicks off.
Ducati returned to the track confirming its technical supremacy, even if the Desmosedici GP23 still needs to refine a few details. Pecco Bagnaia et Enea Bastianini will have to choose between two aerodynamic configurations, and between them there is maximum collaboration in this MotoGP offseason within the factory team. Evolution is moving forward at full speed, but technicians will still have to dig into the depths of the electronics to resolve some small delivery defects.
The character of the new V4 engine is certainly grittier, which is why the 2023 Ducati's air intake has been changed to a slightly smaller configuration. Changing the way air enters the airbox and then the engine can impact how the engine generates power. With the Emilian manufacturer looking for small improvements in power distribution, it is possible that this is part of the solution. The Desmosedici GP23 already proves to be a step forward compared to the previous version, whileEnea Bastianini estimates that it is still at 70% of its potential. “ We still have a lot to understand. The new bike still has a lot of potential, but it's not easy to exploit it ».
Optimism at Ducati: we have the right level to start the year
The Portimao test will be decisive for the approval of the engine and aerodynamics for the next MotoGP championship. One of the real strengths of the Borgo Panigale prototype, as the brothers also point out Espargaró, lies in the use of the rear tire when braking.
We are therefore facing a Ducati Desmosedici GP23 in the making, but without the delays of the last start of the World Championship: “ we have the right level to start the year, even if it will get better later in the season - has explained Pecco Bagnaia after Sepang-. “ The goal here was to reach the same potential and level that we had with the 2022 bike and we succeeded… I think that in Portimao we will continue with the two aero versions and I will fully concentrate on the 2023 version, because I'm happy with the new bike ».
