Bayliss improves his 2008 Ducati , Fabrizio tests new 2009 spec machine

The Xerox Ducati World Superbike squad of Troy Bayliss and Michel Fabrizio have concluded three days of testing at the Mugello circuit in Italy this week.

With Bayliss focussing on an improved chassis set-up, Fabrizio completed his first test on the 2009 machine.

In an effort to resolve the handling problems experienced at the Nurburgring race last weekend, Bayliss spent three days working on suspension and chassis changes.

Last time out at the Nurburgring the World Superbike series leader was unable to get the rear of his Xerox Ducati 1098 F08 dialled in for the German track, which meant he was forced to push over the limit to stay with the dominant Yamaha of Noriyuki Haga and subsequently made mistakes.

Bayliss said: “It’s been very useful testing here this week, ahead of the Misano race. We’ve worked on the settings of the bike to overcome the problems I felt I was having at Nurburgring.

“The high track temperatures meant we weren’t so fast but I completed a lot of laps. The sessions have given us some important data and so I hope the work we’ve done here comes to fruition next week in Misano.”
 
Fabrizio had two solid rides in Germany and completed 220 laps of the Mugello circuit onboard the 2009 machine. Although the new motorbike is not believed to be radically different it’s the first time one of the official riders have ridden it, with all previous testing being carried out by Ducati’s official test riders.

Fabrizio said: “The testing here has gone well. I’ve been riding the F09 and have really done some laps, 1154 kilometres, that’s 220 laps over three days!

“We’ve been working hard and so I’d say we’ve learned a lot about how to continue with the development of this new bike.

“We’ve definitely had a productive few days, also in terms of my own professional growth as it’s been great having the opportunity to work so closely with the development team.”