If we summarize the riders' comments at the end of the two days of testing which took place on the Jerez track, we say that the ideal MotoGP machine would be a Yamaha chassis powered by a Ducati engine. Thus, if the drivers of Iwata are clamoring for an M1 with a good top speed to take advantage of their chassis, those of Borgo Panigale are still waiting for a Desmosedici which does not disunite in the middle of a curve so as not to sacrifice anything to the qualities of their engine. Demands still relevant on both sides. The proof…
Andrea Dovizioso et Danilo Petrucci, like the test driver Pirro, worked in Jerez on a GP20 which was denied to Jack Miller. But the latter does not have a red jumpsuit. The fact remains that the revolution resulting from a crazy idea announced by the technical director of Ducati is still to be done on the Desmosedici. Indeed, if the best has been conceded by the drivers in the behavior in curves, there is still a long way to go to envisage a reversal of a situation known for too long.
Besides the 2020 chassis, the 2019 chassis also tested in Jerez. “ We just wanted to compare the two chassis again, which was important for us because the layout is different ", said Dovizioso. “ The improvement is not as great as we would like » continues DesmoDovi in all frankness. “ A step forward has been made for the middle of the curve, which is fundamentally positive, but we need more ". Progress which will be expected during testing in Sepang at the beginning of February.
His teammate Petrucci, had been unable to collect meaningful data on the new chassis during testing in Valencia, as he had only done half a day instead of the scheduled two due to a head injury. shoulder.
At Jerez, rain halved the available time, but on Monday he completed 48 laps, despite a few showers and several red flags. “ I can't say anything negative about the new parts, but we need more. We need to take a much bigger step. In the morning I had shoulder problems, but in the afternoon I was able to drive and do some good laps. Ducati always has a great testing program and we had lots of little things to try. »
« We won't receive the new bike until testing in Malaysia in February » Petrux finishes. “ I will also be keen to improve the condition of my shoulders with a little rest. Fortunately, I don't need an operation. With a little rest and strength training in winter, I hope to be in good shape next year. »
Tuesday results:
Results of the two days of testing in Jerez:
