The cold and rain that characterised most of last weekend's test in
Barcelona now remains only a distant memory as clear skies and
favourable temperatures welcomed the Ducati Marlboro Team on the first
day of the second official IRTA test session at the Spanish circuit of
Jerez.
Having set the pace throughout today's sessions, Loris Capirossi and
Sete Gibernau concluded the day aboard their Desmosedici GP6's at the
top of the time-sheets with first and second fastest times respectively.
The Borgo Panigale flag-bearers took advantage of the good track
conditions to carry out set-up and tyre tests, making steady progress in
the lead up to the first, important race of the season which will take
place at this circuit.
Vittoriano Guareschi continued to make a significant contribution as
official test rider and will work alongside Loris and Sete until Sunday.
Loris Capirossi 72 laps - Best 1'40.914;
"It's been a positive day. We finally had good weather conditions and
were able to work calmly all day. From the minute I went out I felt at
ease on the GP6 and we were able to improve throughout the sessions,
making only minor modifications to the set-up. The bike has improved a
great deal and the tyres are very good. Tomorrow we hope the weather
will allow us to do a race distance test."
Sete Gibernau 72 laps - Best 1'41.176;
"We return to Jerez after testing here by ourselves last November and
perhaps this helped us a bit today. The closer we get to the first race,
the more important testing becomes. This session is extremely important
because we know that we must gain ground on our competitors. Today we
can be satisfied with our work as the bike is continuously improving and
the tyres confirm the progress that we made in Barcelona. But, we must
keep on working hard!"
Weather permitting, the weekend tests will concentrate on frame,
electronics and tyre set-up.
