2008 Pre-Season Testing

This thread will serve as the basis for any and all comments regarding pre-season testing for the 2008 season. Riders have been on the track today at Valencia with several riders making their debut on 800cc machinery. This is also the first chance for many of those making the switch between teams to ride their new bikes.

Loris Capirossi (making his Suzuki debut).
John Hopkins (making his Kawasaki debut).
Jorge Lorenzo (making his Yamaha & 800cc debut).
Marco Melandri (making his factory Ducati debut).
Sylvain Guintoli (making his d'Antin Ducati debut).
Andrea Dovizioso (making his JiR Team Scot debut).
Alex de Angelis (making his MotoGP debut for Honda Gresini).
Shinya Nakano (making his Honda Gresini debut).
Randy de Puniet (making his Honda LCR debut).
Nicky Hayden and Dani Pedrosa (riding the 2008 RC212V).

Per motogp.com Casey Stoner currently leads the way with a 1:32.348 followed by Hayden who was second quick with a lap in the low 33's. Have not seen a complete list of times yet.

Jorge Lorenzo:

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/156889-0/schumacher_talks_motogp.html

Some not so great pics:

http://www.crash.net/gallery~cid~6~category_id~265~event_id~ValenciaTest_6112007.htm

A small pic of the new Honda RC212V. I see an undertail exhaust and it supposedly has pneumatic valves.

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/156895-0/first_pictures_2008_honda_rc212v.html

A small pic of the new Honda RC212V. I see an undertail exhaust and it supposedly has pneumatic valves.

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/156895-0/first_pictures_2008_honda_rc212v.html

I also see an 'upside down' swingarm like Yamaha have had for a few years now.

Indeed. Fairing seems a bit different as well.

Tuesday times per motogp.com

Casey Stoner - Ducati - 1:32.348 - 26 laps
Nicky Hayden - Repsol Honda - 1:33.176 - 26 laps
Chris Vermeulen - Rizla Suzuki - 1:33.186 - 49 laps
Loris Capirossi - Rizla Suzuki - 1:33.266 - 34 laps
Dani Pedrosa - Repsol Honda - 1:33.387 - 35 laps
Toni Elias - d'Antin Ducati - 1:33.508 - 42 laps
Randy de Puniet - LCR Honda - 1:33.563 - 59 laps
Shinya Nakano - Gresini Honda - 1:33.901 - 46 laps
John Hopkins - Kawasaki - 1:34.277 - 43 laps
Jorge Lorenzo - Fiat Yamaha - 1:34.330 - 50 laps
Sylvain Guintoli - d'Antin Ducati - 1:34.367 - 45 laps
Marco Mlandri - Ducati - 1:34.433 - 44 laps
Alex de Angelis - Gresni Honda - 1:34.471 - 47 laps
Andrea Dovizioso - JiR Team Scot - 1:34.760 - 48 laps
Nobu Aoki - Rizla Suzuki - 1:35.564 - 48 laps
Olivier Jacque - Kawasaki - 1:35.727 - 50 laps
Vittoriano Guareschi - Ducati - 1:36.115 - 29 laps

A better pic of the 2008 spec RC212V. This bike does nothing for me. The RC211V was a much nicer looking machine. This one is hideous.

http://www.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_208455.htm?lang=en

Bunch of quotes from day 1:

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2007/Nov/071106a.htm

A better pic of the 2008 spec RC212V. This bike does nothing for me. The RC211V was a much nicer looking machine. This one is hideous.

http://www.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_208455.htm?lang=en
It seems incredibly skeletal, there's virtually no fairing at all. Must be running pretty hot too need that much air? Or am I behind on MotoGP aero?

Or am I behind on MotoGP aero?

I dont think youre too far behind. Ducati were running fairly large fairings all year which apparently made them achieve their top speeds easier, and they went to a smaller fairing when it got windy towards the end of the season after their larger fairings were knocked around a fair bit earlier in the season.

A better pic of the 2008 spec RC212V. This bike does nothing for me. The RC211V was a much nicer looking machine. This one is hideous.

http://www.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_208455.htm?lang=en

I wouldn't mind having it in my garage :drool:

Regarding the fairing, they can't fit any more fairing bits as the bike is so small and the rider wouldn't fit on it anymore. It doesn't look nice, but it's very clever engineering (unless your name is Nicky Hayden, than you have to ask for a different fairing all year).

Andrea Dovizioso's reaction after having his first ride on the Honda RCV212V: "The electronics make a big difference. On every corner I can fully open the throttle and the traction control handles it – even on a bike with more than 100bhp more than my 250! If I did that on a 250 I would go flying in the air and it would hurt!"
:mad: :banghead: :bmood: :error: :( :hair: :hmf: :s :rant: :faint:

Wednesday Test Times:

Casey Stoner - Ducati Marlboro - 1:32.095 - 55 laps (B)
Nicky Hayden - Repsol Honda - 1min 32.434 - 92 laps (M)
Randy de Puniet - Honda LCR - 1:32.625 - 83 laps (M)
Dani Pedrosa - Repsol Honda - 1:32.718 - 88 laps (M)
Chris Vermeulen - Rizla Suzuki - 1:32.979 - 88 laps (B)
John Hopkins - Kawasaki - 1:33.058 - 59 laps (B)
Loris Capirossi - Rizla Suzuki - 1:33.163 - 64 laps (B)
Toni Elias - d'Antin Ducati - 1:33.294 - 74 laps (B)
Shinya Nakano - Honda Gresini - 1:33.465 - 92 laps (B)
Sylvain Guintoli - d'Antin Ducati - 1:33.571 - 80 laps (B)
Jorge Lorenzo - Fiat Yamaha - 1:33.588 - 69 laps (M)
Anthony West - Kawasaki - 1:33.695 - 99 laps (B)
Marco Melandri - Ducati Marlboro - 1:33.835 - 87 laps (B)
Andrea Dovizioso - JiR Team Scot - 1:33.991 - 82 laps (M)
Alex de Angelis - Honda Gresini - 1:34.060 - 84 laps (B)
Nobu Aoki - Suzuki - 1:35.043 -61 laps (B)
Vittoriano Guareschi - Ducati - 1:35.840 - 59 laps (B)

Quotes from Day 2:

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2007/Nov/071107a.htm

Of note: Hayden quicker on the old bike. Dani says bike is a bigger, but ok for me.

Only one surprise so far, Melandri struggling to adapt to the Ducati. Seems like he had to make some radical changes, like changing the wheel base.

Founds some movies on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAFBZvH-8WY

This one is great, turn up the volume: :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kT1HX8keXyk

Andrea Dovizioso's reaction after having his first ride on the Honda RCV212V: "The electronics make a big difference. On every corner I can fully open the throttle and the traction control handles it – even on a bike with more than 100bhp more than my 250! If I did that on a 250 I would go flying in the air and it would hurt!"
:mad: :banghead: :bmood: :error: :( :hair: :hmf: :s :rant: :faint:
i agree :(

Day 1 times from Sepang:

1. Randy de Puniet (M) 2min 3.033 secs
2. Chris Vermeulen (B) 2min 3.357 secs
3. Colin Edwards (M) 2min 3.406 secs
4. Andrea Dovizioso (M) 2min 3.607 secs
5. Loris Capirossi (B) 2min 3.748 secs
6. Anthony West (B) 2min 4.068 secs
7. Nicky Hayden (M) 2min 4.164 secs
8. John Hopkins (B) 2min 4.316 secs
9. Jorge Lorenzo (M) 2min 4.433 secs
10. James Toseland (M) 2min 5.438 secs

Day 1 times from Sepang:

4. Andrea Dovizioso (M) 2min 3.607 secs

Nakano's quickest lap during the race 2min 4.580
Nakano's qualy lap 2min 3.233

Impressive time by Dovizioso.

Day 2 times from Sepang:

1. John Hopkins (B) 2min 2.200 secs
2. Chris Vermeulen oGP (B) 2min 2.344 secs
3. Randy de Puniet (M) 2min 2.550 secs
4. Andrea Dovizioso ot (M) 2min 2.591 secs
5. Loris Capirossi (B) 2min 2.698 secs
6. Nicky Hayden (M) 2min 2.800 secs
7. Colin Edwards (M) 2min 2.831 secs
8. Anthony West (B) 2min 3.093 secs
9. Jorge Lorenzo (M) 2min 4.021 secs
10. James Toseland (M) 2min 4.278 secs

Fastest lap by manufacturer from 2007 Malaysian GP:
Ducati: Casey Stoner (B) 2min 2.108secs
Yamaha: Valentino Rossi (M) 2min 2.303secs
Honda: Marco Melandri (B) 2min 2.330secs
Kawasaki: Randy de Puniet (B) 2min 2.503secs
Suzuki: Chris Vermeulen (B) 2min 3.023secs


Hayden: "I smoked my first snake, the poor thing," confirmed Nicky. "I was just heading through turn 11 when the snake sat up and I saw it but I was committed on the apex of the corner. I picked the machine up and tried to avoid him but caught him with my knee. I'm pretty sure it was a cobra and I'm sorry for it."

Day 3 times from Sepang:

1. Nicky Hayden (M) 2min 0.592 secs
2. Colin Edwards (M) 2min 1.811 secs
3. John Hopkins (B) 2min 2.047 secs
4. Andrea Dovizioso (M) 2min 2.128 secs
5. Chris Vermeulen (B) 2min 2.447 secs
6. Loris Capirossi (B) 2min 2.587 secs
7. Jorge Lorenzo (M) 2min 2.643 secs
8. Anthony West (B) 2min 2.659 secs
9. Randy de Puniet (M) 2min 2.700 secs
10. James Toseland (M) 2min 3.550 secs

Hayden used a qualy today, but did manage to shatter Pedrosa's qualifying lap record of 2min 1.877 secs from the Malaysian GP.

Nice to see the Honda's back up at the front even if it is just in testing.

can't wait for the GP8 to roll out.

Apparently HRC are very impressed with Dovizioso's testing and application. Perhaps he'll get better parts sooner if he keeps that up next year...

What is with Edwards being so quick, goshdarnit?

Colin is always really quick in testing,

If they raced on monday...

:(

Weather circumstances where a lot better than during the GP weekend, that is why everybody is quicker.

Hayden set that time on this years bike. His comments on the new bike were the same as the ones he used a year ago for the 07 bike.

Dovizioso has been bloody impressive these 3 days at Sepang. He will ride the 07 bike at Jerez later this month and will than get the 08 bike back at Sepang in January.

Another man being very impressive was John Hopkins. He's already smokin West (whose been very dissapointing since the Malaysia race). Hopper was quicker than the racepace (although better weather than during GP weekend). De Puniet finished 4th during the race less than 4 secs off of Stoner.

Pro Racer, the GP8 will debut in Jerez I've heard! I suspect very little changes...

Dovizioso has been bloody impressive these 3 days at Sepang. He will ride the 07 bike at Jerez later this month and will than get the 08 bike back at Sepang in January.

Really? I thought the Repsol team would start the season with the '08 bikes while the customer teams would carry on with the latest '07 spec bikes.

I must say, I was surprised to read that. Maybe they mean the latest 07 version? I was under the impression they were already using that.

Montiron's only goal for the remaining 2007 test, at Jerez from November 27-29, is for Dovizioso to further understand the existing machine - before riding the '08 at Sepang in January.

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/157393-0/dovizioso_top_rookie_-_can_he_stay_there.html

But would they want the '08 bike?

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/157390-0/hondas_2008_gamble_-_exclusive.html

Hayden set that time on this years bike. His comments on the new bike were the same as the ones he used a year ago for the 07 bike.

That's what I meant :laugh:.

Sometimes I think Hayden works to hard (like me), which might sometimes give a negative result...

I believe I read a quote from Rossi once saying that exact thing about Hayden. But I also think Honda/Michelin take advantage of Hayden's willingness to work so hard.

as he cant test yet with Bridgestone .. rossi decided to have some fun in rallying .. and just won a rally in Italy .. Automobile Club Milano 5° MONZA RALLY SHOW
24-25 November

I would rate Hayden as the hardest worker in MotoGP at the moment, and he does get taken advantage of because of that. In `06 Honda made him continue to develop the bike even though it was putting the Championship at risk.

Motogp teams will test from 27 til 29 November.

Here are the first times (times set this morning)

1. Casey Stoner (Ducati) 1.40 932 (22 laps)
2. Valentino Rossi (Yamaha) 1.41.472 (21)
3. Dani Pedrosa (Honda) 1.41.610 (23)
4. Colin Edwards (Yamaha) 1.41.714 (18)
5. Nicky Hayden (Honda) 1.41.991 (25)
6. Jorge Lorenzo (Yamaha) 1.42.093 (38)
7. Shinya Nakano (Honda) 1.42.121 (33)
8. Randy De Puniet (Honda) 1.42.178 (25)
9. John Hopkins (Kawasaki) 1.42.269 (22)
10. James Toseland (Yamaha) 1.42.634 (32)
11. Andrea Dovizioso (Honda) 1.42.677 (27)
12. Alex De Angelis (Honda) 1.43.670 (16)
13. Marco Melandri (Ducati) 1.44.029 (29)
14. Anthony West (Kawasaki) 1.44.722(32)
15. Tadayuki Okada (Honda) 1.44.895 (16)
16. Niccolo Canepa (Ducati) 1.45.130 (30)
17. Vittoriano Guareschi (Ducati) 1.45.527 (20)
18. Shinichi Itoh (Ducati) 1.46.329 (20)

Still amazed to see Melandri that far down the order.

Yeah me too. If I'm not mistaken I believe Stoner was quick from the get go when he first mounted the Duc last year...

I wonder what Suzuki are currently doing??!!!!

:Shrug: No clue. Surprised they're not there.

Jerez Test Day 1:

1. Casey Stoner (B) 1:40.221
2. Dani Pedrosa (M) 1:40.355
3. Valentino Rossi (B) 1:40.514
4. Colin Edwards (M) 1:40.790
5. Nicky Hayden (M) 1:40.923
6. Alex de Angelis (B) 1:41.111
7. Jorge Lorenzo (M) 1:41.230
8. Shinya Nakano (B) 1:41.277
9. Randy de Puniet (M) 1:41.313
10. John Hopkins (B) 1:41.414
11. James Toseland (M) 1:41.776
12. Marco Melandri (B) 1:41.889
13. Andrea Dovizioso (M) 1:42.033
14. Nicola Canepa (B) 1:42.666
15. Tady Okada (M) 1:43.051
16. Anthony West (B) 1:43.576
17. Shinichi Ito (B) 1:44.530
18. Vittoriano Guareschi (B) 1:44.588

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/157649-0/jerez_motogp_test_times_-_tuesday.html

Per crash.net Suzuki are at Phillip Island.

Comments from Stoner & Melandri:

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2007/Nov/071127n.htm

Comments from Pedrosa, Hayden, Lorenzo and Rossi:

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2007/Nov/071127g.htm

well the GP8 has started off the same way the GP7 World Championship winning bike did :cool:.

Did Stoner drop the GP7 in his first test as well? :cool:

well it is best to get the dropsies out of your system in testing and practice ;).

hey guys will casey have #1 on his bike next year or will he stay with 27 does anyone know this may be off topic but i really couldnt find anywhere else

I believe he'll carry the #1, based on earlier comments ive read regarding his opinion of the matter.

Stoner was still carrying the #27 at the Jerez test yesterday.

Rossi talking about his Bridgestone debut:
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/mcn/2007/november/nov26-30/nov2707motogpjereztestvalentinorossitalksbridgestone/

“The tyres are exactly what I expected. Sincerely following the other Bridgestone riders this year, I expected to have this feeling with my bike. The tyres fit very well from the beginning."

Valentino Rossi said the bigger step appeared to come from the rear tyre, with sources claiming that his exit speed, which was being monitored by Kawasaki, showed Rossi almost identical to Casey Stoner’s factory Ducati coming out of the final corner.

Saw on motogp.com that the Suzuki riders did 400 laps over two days at the island. Chris Vermeulen said that his pace was quicker than his race pace at the grand prix, but no lap times were disclosed.

Supposedly, Casey Stoner has crashed again today (Wednesday). He has highsided in turn 3 (while I've just posted in the electronics thread that highsiders arent that common anymore). He's been taken to the medical centre, just out of precaution.

Pedrosa was quickest at the time.

Jerez Test Day 2:

1. Dani Pedrosa (M) 1:39.993
2. Valentino Rossi (B) 1:40.134
3. Shinya Nakano (B) 1:40.251
4. Alex de Angelis (B) 1:40.332
5. Andrea Dovizioso (M) 1:40.650
6. Nicky Hayden (M) 1:40.692
7. Randy de Puniet (M) 1:40.820
8. Casey Stoner Team (B) 1:40.833
9. Colin Edwards (M) 1:40.838
10. Jorge Lorenzo m (M) 1:40.883
11. John Hopkins (B) 1:40.939
12. James Toseland (M) 1:41.278
13. Marco Melandri (B) 1:41.424
14. Anthony West (B) 1:41.729
15. Nicola Canepa (B) 1:42.188
16. Tady Okada (M) 1:43.143
17. Vittoriano Guareschi (B) 1:43.399
18. Shinichi Ito (B) 1:43.869

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/157680-0/jerez_motogp_test_times_-_wednesday.html

Stoner will not finish out the test, as he injured his shoulder ligament.

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/157681-0/stoners_year_ends_in_injury.html

Jerez pics:

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/image/2007/mgp/jerez-test-nov/1/

Jerez Test Day 3:

1. Dani Pedrosa (M) 1:38.562
2. Nicky Hayden (M) 1:38.848
3. Jorge Lorenzo (M) 1:39.464
4. Andrea Dovizioso (M) 1:39.747
5. Shinya Nakano (B) 1:40.121
6. Colin Edwards (M) 1:40.184
7. Alex de Angelis (B) 1:40.185
8. James Toseland (M) 1:40.213
9. Randy de Puniet (M) 1:40.398
10. John Hopkins (B) 1:40.984
11. Valentino Rossi (B) 1:41.538
12. Marco Melandri (B) 1:41.619
13. Tady Okada (M) 1:41.715
14. Nicola Canepa (B) 1:41.793
15. Anthony West (B) 1:42.343
16. Vittoriano Guareschi (B) 1:42.850
17. Shinichi Ito (B) 1:43.001

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/157712-0/jerez_motogp_test_times_-_thursday.html

Interestingly enough, the Repsol boys set their quickest time on the 2007 bike. Hayden said he was instantly 4 tenths faster on race tires when he got on the 2007 spec RC212V. I think Honda have their work cut out for them over the winter, because Stoner was quick on the GP8 Ducati.

Local radio here is reporting that the injury to Stoner's shoulder sustained on day 2 of testing at Jerez, may be worse than first thought. :(
Apparently the pain worsened overnight and he is now on his way back to Australia for further treatment. He will now miss the celebrations planned at Ducati this weekend to celebrate their successful season.

Let's hope the injury is not too serious and everyone starts 2008 fit and healthy.

I think the media make it sound worse than it is. He'll be fit for the January test, I'm sure.

Regarding the Honda, yes it is not as quick as the 07 bike, but I see a lot of potential there. The 07 bike was up there at the end of the season and the 08 bike isn't that far back.

I think Yamaha and Kawasaki should be worried. Yamaha as they haven't ridden with the 08 bike at all yet (yeah, I know there have been some new parts on Edwards his bike) and Kawasaki cause they have not been up there at the sharp end (yet).

However, the person going to have the worst Christmas must be Melandri. How many days has he had on the bike now? I think 5.. He still hasn't found a good set up and hasn't even come close to Stoners times...

Only reason Yamaha havent used 08 bike yet is because Vale will want to get a feel or the Bridgestone tyres first. Once he knows how the affect the bike and how they affect the suspension and otehr areas he will let Yam engineers know and they may be able to include detail Brigestone led improvements on the 08 bike.

You ahve to remember that in reality Yamaha dont really care about anyone else but Valentino, he is their winner and champion and he utterly leads teh design of the new bike, thats why it will be late, so they can incorporate his ideas, I image its pretty much finished otherwise

That doesn't make it any less worrying (if that is an English word). Look at where Honda are with the new bike (according to Nicky peace Hayden and Daniel Pedrosa).

If Yamaha only care about curly boy, Colin Edwards would still be his teammate (and probably also riding on Bridgestones). They also know the contract ends at the end of this season.

Sure VR will lead the development for the 08 bike, but there are still parts that don't have any influence on the tyres and visa versa that could have been tested by Edwards. I haven't heard that has happened.

Good call on Kawasaki. Hopkins hasn't looked too convincing yet.

He may regret his move from Suzuki.

Nice to see the Repsol Honda's at the top of the time sheets and lapping signifcantly quicker than this years pole time, will be interesting to see if they can carry this sort of form over into next year. Nice too to see Lorenzo doing well, it really does seem as though the 800's suit the ex 250's riders riding styles. Toesland has really impressed me so far, the only rider of recent years to have made the switch to Moto GP from WSBK sucessfully. (So far). Sure Hodgson and Xaus made the switch but neither really lasted long in the top flight, still Xaus did have some sucess though I guess.

Define successful though. I think Toseland is a long way from being successful in Moto GP. But I am keen to see how a current WSBK rider does in Moto GP. I suspect we wont know till the end of next year. If he betters Edwards I'd call that a successful start.

Gerbs, Tech3 would never ever have got Michelin if it wasnt for Edwards, he is their main man for testing tyres coz he never crashes and as a test rider he is metronomic in his times and only a teeny bit off the pace of the quick men.

He has no influence in the design of the bike!

You thought Yamaha only care about Rossi. I just pointed out, that was not the case.

In the past Edwards has had influence in the design of the bike! I know he has been testing parts for the 08 bike (in Sepang), so he still has...

Hmmm...


He just can't get the best out of it. :)

No surgery is required on Stoner's shoulder injury but it will require 6-8 weeks rest to recover. This is bound to adversely affect his training regime and "may" keep him out of the January test.

See Here (http://www.crash.net/motorsport/motogp/news/157987-0/stoner_surgery-less.html)

I think what you will see over the coming year from Yamaha is a switch in focus, it will off course depend on how well and how fast Lorenzo develops, but looking to the future he is the one that Yamaha will develop their bikes for.

Rossi is now coming to the end of his career, even if he stays in MotoGP in `09 it is unlikely that it will be on a Yamaha so I don't think they will go out of their way to make the bike suit him or the Bridgestone tyres. The fact the Yamaha has moved Edwards to Tech3 and put a rider the Rossi doesn't want into the factory team shows that he is no longer the golden haired boy and that Yamaha is looking to the future.

Colin Edwards has always had a massive input into to design of the bikes, he is one of the best development riders there is, he is also a far better racer than he has ever shown in MotoGP.

I saw some talk from Edwards that he thinks it could be a positive for Michelin that Rossi has made the switch. Apparently Rossi's bike preferences dictate a much different type of tire that is not so suited to other riders.

Problem is about all this that Valentino is the one that wins races on the bike, not Edwards, Toseland or Lorenzo!

And as for the fact that people dont thini Yamaha will have achange of focus, hogwash!! Tey want to win titles and the only way theya re going to do that is with Vale, Lorenzi isnt ready yet and wont be for a year.

Rossi on Bridgeys is the only way Vale thinks they can win and he is the man that knows.

People seem to forget him even though he hasnt had a dominant season, rememebr in 06 he was the quickest!

Ok last year noone could have beaten Ducati and Stoner, (note the order of supremacy) but Rossi won as did Dani, its not unsurmountable

Ok last year noone could have beaten Ducati and Stoner, (note the order of supremacy)

noted :rofl: - how did they beat ducati & loris :nyah2:

it's all good...

According to Loris it was because Ducati was focussing on Stoner.

Read here: http://www.motogp.com/en/motogp/motogp_news.htm?menu=news&news_id=21728&championship_id=3&section=1

Loris was unable to steer with the backwheel with the GP7 bike.

This raises two questions:

1. Will Loris be able to get the Suzuki dialed in to his liking? (according to himself the new bike suits his style better than the GP07)

2. Will Ducati be able to get both Stoner and Melandri at the front? Up until 07 it was Capirossi who was at the front with Ducati and this season it was Stoner. However there have never been two Ducatis fighting at the front.

Melandri hasn't exactly impressed to this point. This may not have been such a brilliant career move.

Yeah, but you know what he can do when he gets a good bike. I agree he hasn't impressed on the Duc yet (and I would be worried if I was him). But the bike doesn't suit him yet. Melandri and Ducati have to make it work. Is Ducati capable to get two riders with different riding styles at the front?

Melandri's style is nothing like Stoner's. I'd say he's in trouble.

Im not sure about that, Loros is a front end then rear end rider much like the old scholl guys liek mick and Valentino, whereas Marco is muce mroe front end orientated like Casey would be.

I think the big trick with Ducatis seems to be getting your head round the fact that you can now do things on that bike that were impossible on older bikes, opening the throttle etc, the electronics oin the Desmo machines really are amazing.

Marco is funny though, he flits in and out of form so badly.

Yeah I dunno, there have never been two solid riders at Ducati, not since the early days ;).

I think Marco will struggle, but I hope he prooves me wrong.

Holidays are over, Motogp testing has resumed at Sepang, which is somewhere in Malaysia.

These are the times at 15.00hr local time.

Rossi, Lorenzo and Pedrosa all had light crashes.

1. Pedrosa (Honda-Repsol) 2.01.864 (34 laps)
2. De Puniet (Honda-LCR) 2.02.536 (38)
3. Edwards (Yamaha-tech 3) 2.02.549 (24)
4. Capirossi (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.02.689 (30)
5. Lorenzo (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.02.871 (27)
6. Dovizioso (Honda-Scot) 2.02.902 (32)
7. Vermeulen (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.02.950 (33)
8. Hopkins (Kawasaki) 2.03.129 (32)
9. Rossi (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.03.295 (22)
10. Toseland (Yamaha-Tech 3) 2.03.344 (35)
11. West (Kawasaki) 2.03.387 (32)
12. Hayden (Honda-Repsol) 2.03.487 (51)
13. Nakano (Honda-Gresini) 2.04.006 (33)
14. De Angelis (Honda-Gresini) 2.04.049 (22)
15. Stoner (Ducati-Marlboro) 2.04.985 (5)
16. Elias (Ducati-Alice) 2.05.113 (30)
17. Canepa 8Ducati) 2.05.580 (27)
18. Jacque (Kawasaki) 2.05.701 (27)
19. Melandri (Ducati-Marlboro) 2.05.817 (22)
20. Guintoli (Ducati-Alice) 2.06.00 (22)
21. Serizawa (Kawasaki) -

interesting hope Ducati lift and what happened to Hayden dosn't happen to Stoner.

UPDATE:

At the end of testing Pedrosa had a fall and might have broken his wrist. His new bike went up in flames:

http://www.gpone.com/DB/Foto_2008_01/20082201fuoco_G.jpg

http://www.gpone.com/DB/Foto_2008_01/20082201fuoco2_G.jpg

Final times of day 1:

1. Randy De Puniet, HONDA LCR - 02:01.377 / 68 laps
2. Dani Pedrosa, REPSOL HRC - 02:01.864 / 47
3. Chris Vermeulen, RIZLA SUZUKI - 02:02.074 / 57
4. Loris Capirossi, RIZLA SUZUKI - 02:02.416 / 61
5. Casey Stoner, DUCATI MARLBORO - 02:02.457 / 36
6. Valentino Rossi, FIAT YAMAHA - 02:02.490 / 44
7. Colin Edwards, YAMAHA TECH3 - 02:02.549 / 29
8. Nicky Hayden, REPSOL HRC - 02:02.558 / 85
9. Jorge Lorenzo, FIAT YAMAHA - 02:02.563 / 43
10. Shinya Nakano, HONDA GRESINI - 02:02.622 / 63
11. John Hopkins, KAWASAKI RACING - 02:02.628 / 62
12. Andrea Dovizioso, JiR TEAM SCOT - 02:02.783 / 52
13. James Toseland, YAMAHA TECH3 - 02:03.264 / 45
14. Alex De Angelis, GRESINI HONDA - 02:03.301 / 47
15. Anthony West, KAWASAKI RACING - 02:03.387 / 51
16. Olivier Jacque, KAWASAKI RACING - 02:03.863 / 53
17. Toni Elias, ALICE TEAM - 02:03.954 / 55
18. Marco Melandri, DUCATI MARLBORO - 02:04.414 / 52
19. Niccolo Canepa, DUCATI TEST - 02:05.580 / 48
20. Sylvain Guintoli, ALICE TEAM - 02:06.000 / 36
21. Tamaki Serizawa, KAWASAKI RACING - 02:23.590 / 6

I know it's just testing, but Melandri :?

EDIT: LOL, some pics (watch them really quickly in a row):
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206494/images/rossi01.jpg
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206494/images/rossi02.jpg
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206494/images/rossi03.jpg
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206494/images/rossi04.jpg
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206494/images/rossi05.jpg
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206494/images/rossi06.jpg
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206494/images/rossi07.jpg

Same old same old.

Wait..De Puniet?!?!

Good to see the Suzuki guys up there.

Randy for champ ?? ;)

Randy on qualies? ;)

My apologies for this rather boring post, but didn't Randy prove last year that besides crashing he can be rather fast on one flying lap???

Now, the more interesting thing is that during last years test after the last race de Puniet was testing Ohlins suspension on a Honda. Until recently Yamaha had a majority stake in Ohlins (I think it was in December that Ohlins bought a majority back). To my knowledge a Honda is usually fitted with Showa suspension in Motogp. Everybody knows that last years bike wasn't very front-end happy. Maybe Ohlins have found a solution?

Nicky has already stated that he doesn't like the front end feel on the revised RC212V prototype, which he tested for the first time today. Lots of work to be done it would seem. With Pedrobot out Nicky will be left to do the work load. And judging by Dani's comments to the Spanish press last year, he wont be pleased with Nicky's input. All is just peachy in the Repsol garage!

Gotta admit I find it amazing that Honda are allowing De Puniet to use Ohlins forks, surely the team must ahve got HRC's blessing!

Rememebr years ago when the likes of Gardner and Pons wanted to use different parts, they were simply told you had to use what was there, then JJ Cobas fitted stuff to Pons bike and said up yours, won two titles!!

And remember Max was very critical of the stuff Honda used and seemigly will never be allowed back as a result!

Yamaha own Ohlins just about remember!

And Suzuki used to always use Kayaba?

Randy is the one lap man, he was ALWAYS the first to use quallies for past two years!, Maybe why he crashes all the time, cant ride on worn tyres!

And Dani bot HAS broken his wrist.

In case you didn't know that.

Times from day 2:

1. De Puniet (Honda-LCR) 2.01.139 on lap 22° (63 laps)
2. Edwards (Yamaha-Tech 3) 2.01.327 on lap 4° (46)
3. Rossi (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.01.437 on lap 48° (60)
4. Lorenzo (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.01.583 on lap 31° (54)
5. Stoner (Ducati Marlboro) 2.01.638 on lap 8° (34)
6. Hopkins (Kawasaki) 2.01.874 on lap 23° (50)
7. Capirossi (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.01.917 on lap 21° (59)
8. Dovizioso (Honda-Scot) 2.02.006 on lap 54° (54)
9. Nakano (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.095 on lap 20° (54)
10. Hayden (Honda-repsol) 2.02.102 on lap 24° (66)
11. Toseland (Yamaha-Tech 3) 2.02.276 on lap 56° (59)
12. Vermeulen (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.02.371 on lap 26° (44)
13. West (Kawasaki) 2.02.579 on lap 28° (59)
14. De Angelis (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.914 on lap 14° (41)
15. Elias (Ducati-Alice) 2.03.311 on lap 30° (57)
16. Melandri (Ducati-Marlboro) 2.03.380 on lap 26° (46)
17. Jacque (Kawasaki) 2.03.462 on lap 30° (36)
18. Guintoli (Ducati-Alice) 2.04.217 on lap 9° (37)
19. Serizawa (Kawasaki) 2.04.382 on lap 7° (49)
20. Canepa (Ducati) 2.04.427 on lap 24° (47)

PS. de Puniet set his fastest lap on race tyres yesterday!

Will he do a Casey, crash one season, win the other? I remember some of his 250cc days, where he beat some guy called Pedrosa.

PS2. Melandri :Shrug: (same for Guintoli really)

it would be some feat on a customer bike.

Colins done well for Tech3 beating the factory squad he really is a testing expert maybe DePuniet is the same.

It would appear that Melandri is in real trouble given the end of year testing and two days of testing in 2008. I know it's just testing, but that time difference can't be a good thing.

Stoner with the #1:

http://www.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_209566.htm?lang=en

The Doctor:

http://images.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_209573.htm?lang=en

#69:

http://images.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_209595.htm?lang=en

Loris:

http://images.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_209590.htm?lang=en

Expensive bonfire:

http://images.motogp.com/en/motogp/popup_1000/popup_1000_209627.htm?lang=en

Yamaha own Ohlins just about remember!

As Gerben suggested, Yamaha no longer have a controlling interest in Ohlins. Although I would imagine that there is still come colaboration between the two companies.

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/21december07_ohlinsracing.htm

As I mentioned in another thread HRC will be back (I didn't think it would be this quick) ;)

Times from the last testday at Sepang:

1. Hayden (Honda-Repsol) 2.00.326 on lap 25 (77 laps)
2. Stoner (Ducati-Marlboro) 2.00.660 on lap 6 (27)
3. Lorenzo (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.00.766 on lap 63 (63)
4. Edwards (Yamaha-Tech 3) 2.01.179 on lap 12 (34)
5. Hopkins (Kawasaki) 2.01.198 on lap 15 (42)
6. Rossi (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.01.425 on lap 46 (48)
7. Dovizioso (Honda-Scot) 2.01.447 on lap 50 (51)
8. Toseland (Yamaha-Tech 3) 2.01.745 on lap 39 (45)
9. Vermeulen (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.01.748 on lap 46 (70)
10. Capirossi (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.01.778 on lap 15 (62)
11. De Puniet (Honda-LCR) 2.01.873 on lap 56 (56)
12. Nakano (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.032 on lap 38 (38)
13. De Angelis (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.198 on lap 23 (37)
14. Melandri (Ducati-Marlboro) 2.02.725 on lap 10 (58)
15. West (Kawasaki) 2.02.978 on lap 15 (39)
16. Elias (Ducati-Alice) 2.0.995 on lap 31 (67)
17. Jacque (Kawasaki) 2.03.030 on lap 15 (40)
18. Guintoli (Ducati-Alice) 2.03.628 on lap 17 (39)
19. Canepa (Ducati) 2.03.703 on lap 17 (49)
20. Serizawa (Kawasaki) 2.04.354 on lap 24 (27)
21. Aoki (Suzuki-Rizla) –
22. Akiyoshi (Suzuki-Rizla)

Lorenzo beats Rossi.... that's nice :laugh:

Yep, it seems he can't use the full potential of a Bridgestone qualifier yet. Although Stoner won the BMW last year I did think Michelin had the better qualifying tyre in 2007.

Once again Hayden can perform miracles on a qualie tire. If he can get close to that kind of feeling with the front end on race tires he could win races.

The fast guys on race tires all look pretty close. Good stuff. Here's hoping for closer racing in 2008.

Looks like Hayden's fastest lap on a race tire was 2:01.6.

Melandri still not happy.

Rossi has a good feeling with the pneumatic-valve motor. I thought that Yamaha weren't going to use that configuration? :Shrug:

Oh look chunder, a link. ;)

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2008/Jan/080124a.htm

It must be early in the morning in California ;).

This link is for you JH :p
http://www.ten-tenths.com/forum/showpost.php?p=2111778&postcount=25

Pedrobot continues to shoot his mouth off about Hayden. He had this to say at a press conference following his recent surgery:

"He has been in charge of developing a machine before, and traditionally it hasn't gone so well."

I have tried to like this guy, but he has no class (along with Puig). He said similar things through the Spanish Press at the end of year tests.

Nice to see Toesland up near the front of the times today, sure he isnt the quickest Yamaha but he has certainly done a impressive job so far. IMO.

Damnit.

I forgot we have to put up with the Toesland love in MotoGP...

Hopefully the "King james" jokes have gone away and died...:)

(Just kidding you guys, just kidding!)

Can't be worse than a Colin Edwards love in... ;)

Got me there. :)

how come Stoner is the only one to be competitive on the 800 Duc over last year and the begining of this year? good job by some of the boys Hoppa's Braining "super-sub" West.

how come Stoner is the only one to be competitive on the 800 Duc over last year and the begining of this year?

It is an interesting thought isn't it? And it's not like Melandri and Capirossi suck. Stoner and the Ducati (including tires and team) are just a perfect match. And obviously Stoner rides the thing darn well.

As an aside, Capirossi said the power delivery of the Ducati did not allow him to ride as he wanted to. Melandri seems to be saying the same thing.

I am really happy to see Lorenzo being the fastest Yamaha, more than anything I want to see him beating Rossi.

Not sure where Dani gets off saying that Nicky is not a good development rider, nothing could be further from the truth in fact.

I like Toesland, but I think he is going to struggle, in his whole time in WSBK I never really saw anything in him that suggested that he was good enough for MotoGP, he is a very come and go sort of rider, he really only managed to fall over the line to last years championship, had Haga had a competive bike from the beginning of the season there is no way James would have won.

Pedrobot continues to shoot his mouth off about Hayden. He had this to say at a press conference following his recent surgery:

"He has been in charge of developing a machine before, and traditionally it hasn't gone so well."

I have tried to like this guy, but he has no class (along with Puig). He said similar things through the Spanish Press at the end of year tests.

I've been building some respect for the guy, but with these kinda comments he ruins it all again.

Here is to Hayden developing a motogp bike with dirt track characteristics, so Pedrosa can forget it :laugh:

:beer:

I am really happy to see Lorenzo being the fastest Yamaha, more than anything I want to see him beating Rossi.

I wouldn't keep my hopes up if I was you.
:beer:

I think Lorenzo is well capable of beating Rossi, he is also well capable of being the first rider to get under Rossi skin. The whole Lorenzoland thing was to get at Rossi, my guess is the hair style is the same thing.

Lorenzo is ever bit as good, if not a better rider than Rossi and best of all he has figured out the mind games.

It might take him half a season to get a proper handly on it, but I have no doubt that he will beat Rossi on a regular basis.

The 2-stroke classes started testing yesterday at Jerez.

250cc test Jerez
Times day 1

1. Alex Debon (Aprilia) - 1'44"069
2. Thomas Luthi (Aprilia) - 1'44"193
3. Mika Kallio (KTM) - 1'44"210
4. Hiroshi Aoyama (KTM) - 1'44"294
5. Marco Simoncelli (Gilera) - 1'44"453
6. Alvaro Bautista (Aprilia) - 1'44"530
7. Hector Barbera (Aprilia) - 1'44"710
8. Karel Abraham (Aprilia) - 1'44"822
9. Julian Simon (KTM) - 1'44"964
10. Mattia Pasini (Aprilia) - 1'45"220
11. Manuel Poggiali (Aprilia) - 1'45"438
12. Hector Faubel (Aprilia) - 1'45"533
13. Imre Toth (Aprilia) - 1'45"790
14. Lukas Pesek (Aprilia) - 1'45"864
15. Alex Baldolini (Aprilia) - 1'45"944
16. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia) - 1'45"951
17. Roberto Locatelli (Aprilia) - 1'45"967
18. Fabrizio Lai (Aprilia) - 1'46"536
19. Doni Tata Pradita (Yamaha) - 1'51"068
20. Eugene Laverty (Aprilia) - 1'51"376
21. Russell Gomez - 1'56"747

125cc Jerez test
Times day 1

1. Gabor Talmacsi (Aprilia) - 1'48"065
2. Sandro Cortese (Aprilia) - 1'48"634
3. Mike Di Meglio (Derbi) - 1'48"679
4. Bradley Smith (Aprilia) - 1'48"760
5. Sergio Gadea (Aprilia) - 1'48"978
6. Nicolas Terol (Aprilia) - 1'49"204
7. Scott Redding (Aprilia) - 1'49"330
8. Pol Espargarò (Derbi) - 1'49"426
9. Joan Olive (Derbi) - 1'49"492
10. Simone Corsi (Aprilia) - 1'49"559
11. Pere Tutusaus (Aprilia) - 1'49"559
12. Axel Pons (Aprilia) - 1'50"489
13. Efren Vazquez (Aprilia) - 1'50"703
14. Ivan Maestro (Aprilia) - 1'50"766
15. Dominique Aegerter (Derbi) - 1'50"843
16. Dino Lombardi (Aprilia) - 1'51"114
17. Robert Muresan (Aprilia) - 1'51"135
18. Lorenzo Savadori (Aprilia) - 1'51"202
19. Robin Lasser (Aprilia) - 1'51"279
20. Julian Miralles (Aprilia) - 1'52"149
21. Roberto La calendola (Aprilia) - 1'52"489
22. Stefan Bradl (Aprilia) - 1'52"567
23. Marco Chierrello (Aprilia) - 1'53"505
24. Cristian Trabalon (Aprilia) - 1'53"554
25. Luca Vitali (Aprilia) - 1'55"590

I think in 2008 KTM will have a good shot at the title in 250, when was the last season Aprilia was beaten, it must have been with Pedrosa.

In 125, Rabat and Marquez both rode for the Repsol KTM team. They still had to use the 2007 machinery as the 2008 bike hasn't been delivered to the team yet. For some reason their bikes didn't carry a transponder, but both their times were 1’51.1 secs.

"if Haga had a competitive bike" For Gods sake the guy ahs had a good bike for most of teh last 10 years and he still hasnt won it!

Am not gonna do teh Toes love thing as that would be hypocritical, will big up Bradders in 125 though, 4th, fair play on a new bike!

As for Lorenzo, if you really think he is gonna thrash and beat up Rossi, please think again! Unless the tyre situaion has changed dramtically Valentino ALWAYS uses this time of year to develop, NEVER to set laps times as the likes of De Puniet, Hopkins and most of teh res of them do! Jorge was probably trying some qually tyres for the first time

I never understand why people read anything into these tests, Edwards is alwasy quick at them but will continue to drone hom in 7th every race, and Rossi just tests and tests and tests! Thats what it is all about! The race isnt for a long time and what does anyone have to prove right now, they ahve a totally new engine to try out that onyl he will be testing, James has said he might not even get to try it before the mid season! Being top development man brings huge responsibility and I am sure Vale is far more bothered about getting the Pneu engine running right than if he can have different hair to Lorenzo or has set a slower lap time!

True enough. Lorenzo did set his best time on a qualie. I'm not sure about him yet. I think it's pretty bold to say he can thrash Rossi at this point in time. In reality, if Lorezno ever wins the title Rossi will probably already be gone.

I am not a huge Valentino fan, but I get fed up with people writing him off after a couple of bad years thast all.
Class doesnt fade away, rememebr Lawson and Schwantz, still quick after many years at the top,
What I do think is that Vale might ahve been a bit burned out! But still I hope he proves a few people wrong!

250:

Honda pulled out?

And those Yammies are like 5 year old bikes right?

Hazza: Yes and yes.

125cc test Jerez
Times day 2
1. Smith, 1'48.182
2. Terol, 1'48.559
3. Talmacsi, 1'48.565
4. Di Meglio, 1'48.603
5. Cortese, 1'48.763
6. Gadea, 1'48.864
7. Corsi, 1'49.208
8. Olivé, 1'49.387
9. Espargaro, 1'49.642
10. Muresan, 1'49.879
11. Vazquez, 1'49.880
12. Redding, 1'49.934
12. Bradl, 1'50.006
13. Aegerter, 1'50.013
14. Lacalendola, 1'50.713
15. Lombardi, 1'50.983
16. Tutusaus, 1'51.005
17. Lasser, 1'51.910

250cc Test Jerez
Times day 2
1.Bautista, 1:43.589
2.Luthi, 1:44.002
3.Debon, 1:44.045
4.Kallio, 1:44.049
5.Aoyama, 1:44.104
6.Abraham, 1:44.267
7.Barbera, 1:44.340
8.Simoncelli, 1:44.453
9.Simon, 1:44.479
10.Espargaro, 1:44.566
11.Pasini, 1:44.615
12.Faubel, 1:44.626
13.Pesek, 1:44.827
14.Baldolini, 1:45.030
15.Poggiali, 1:45.438
16.Locatelli, 1:45.500
17.Toth, 1:45.962
18.Lai, 1:46.284
19.Laverty, 1:47.363
20.Pradita, 1:51.068
21.Gomez, 1:56.747

Bradley Smith quickest already, that almost deserves a special thread at T/T. A knightlyhood would be the least they can do (I mean they gave CS some award for becoming champion in Motogp...). :)
:runaway:

:rofl:

:laugh: well said anything less then a knightlyhood would be underselling him.

blah blah, you hear me bigging anyone up! You are the experts at that!!

125cc Test Jerez
Times day 3

1. Smith - 1.46.869
2. Talmacsi - 1.47.113
3. Corsi - 1.47.487
4. Di Meglio - 1.47.572
5. Gadea - 1.47.655
6. Cortese - 1.48.012
7. Espargaro - 1.48.053
8. Olive - 1.48.334
9. Terol - 1.48.412
10.Bradl - 1.48.501
11.Aegerter - 1.48.513
12.Rabat - 1.48.602
13.Redding - 1.48.770
14.Vazquez - 1.49.061
15.Muresan - 1.49.312
16.Tutusaus - 1.49.837
17.Lacalendola - 1.49.993
18.Lombardi - 1.50.009
19.Marquez - 1.50.043
20.Lasser - 1.50.985

250cc Test Jerez
Times day 3

1. Kallio - 1.43.303
2. Aoyama - 1.43.517
3. Barbera - 1.43.575
4. Debon - 1.43.644
5. Bautista - 1.43.735
6. Luthi - 1.43.819
7. Simoncelli - 1.43.874
8. Faubel - 1.43.938
9. Abraham - 1.44.091
10.Espargaro - 1.44.459
11.Simon - 1.44.500
12.Pasini - 1.44.504
13.Poggiali - 1.44.758
14.Sandi - 1.44.816
15.Locatelli - 1.44.839
16.Baldolini - 1.44.936
17.Lai - 1.44.945
18.Toth - 1.45.354
19.Pesek - 1.45.961
20.Laverty - 1.46.553
21.Gomez - 1.47.509
22.Pradita - 1.48.296

I believe that KTM is the favourite for the title in 250 this year. Kallio will have to do it for them, I hope he aint gonna choke. Bautista is the best Aprilia rider out there, but Debon will have the best bike. I think both 2 stroke classes can be very interesting this year.

PS. the time set by Smith is faster than the lap record, held by Pasini. I am seriously impressed by him, a new team, different bike and he still is one of the youngest in the field.

well done to Smith.

125cc Test Valencia
Unofficial times day 1

1. Simone Corsi, Aprilia - 1'39.6
2. Sergio Gadea, Aprilia - 1'39.7
3. Gabor Talmacsi, Aprilia - 1'39.9
4. Joan Olivé, Derbi - 1'40.3
5. Pol Espargaró, Derbi - 1'40.4
6. Bradley Smith, Aprilia - 1'40.4
7. Andrea Iannone, Aprilia - 1'40.4
8. Randy Krummenacher, KTM - 1'40.5
9. Sandro Cortese, Aprilia - 1'40.5
10. Efrén Vázquez, Aprilia - 1'40.7
11. Dino Lombardi, Aprilia - 1'40.8
12. Danny Webb, Aprilia - 1'40.9
13. Nico Terol, Aprilia - 1'40.9
14. Pere Tutusaus, Aprilia - 1'40.9
15. Scott Redding, Aprilia - 1'41.2
16. Stefan Bradl, Aprilia - 1'41.4
17. Steve Bonsey, Aprilia - 1'41.6
18. Marc Marquez, KTM - 1'41.7
19. Michael Ranseder, Aprilia - 1'41.8
20. Rafaele da Rosa, KTM - 1'42.0
21. Takaaki Nakagami, Aprilia - 1'42.1
22. Robin Lasser, Aprilia - 1'42.3
23. Pablo Nieto, KTM - 1'42.5
24. Louis Rossi, Honda - 1'42.8
25. Hugo Van der Berg, Aprilia - 1'42.9
26. Alexis Masbou, Loncin - 1'43.5
27. Jules Cluzel, Loncin - 1'43.5
28. Roberto Lacalendola, Aprilia - 1'43.7

250cc Test Valencia
Unofficial times day 1

1. Mika Kallio, KTM - 1'35.2
2. Julián Simón, KTM - 1'35.9
3. Marco Simoncelli, Gilera - 1'35.9
4. Aleix Espargaró, Aprilia - 1'36.1
5. Álvaro Bautista, Aprilia - 1'36.3
6. Álex Debón, Aprilia - 1'36.3
7. Héctor Barbera, Aprilia - 1'36.3
8. Héctor Faubel, Aprilia - 1'36.5
9. Thomas Luthi, Aprilia - 1'36.5
10. Hiroshi Aoyama, KTM - 1'36.5
11. Mattia Pasini, Aprilia - 1'36.6
12. Karen Abraham, Aprilia - 1'36.6
13. Roberto Locatelli, Gilera - 1'37.4
14. Federico Sandi, Aprilia - 1'37.4
15. Lukas Pesek, Aprilia - 1'37.6
16. Alex Baldolini, Aprilia - 1'37.6
17. Fabrizio Lai, Aprilia - 1'37.7
18. Manuel Poggiali, Aprilia - 1'38.4
19. Imre Toth, Aprilia - 1'38.9
20. Eugene Laverty, Aprilia - 1'39.4
21. Russel Gómez, Aprilia - 1'41.1

MotoGP test - Phillip Island
Times day one

1. Colin Edwards - Yamaha Tech3 - 1'29.566 (77 laps)
2. Casey Stoner - Ducati Marlboro - 1'30.178 (73)
3. Alex de Angelis - Honda Gresini - 1'30.688 (70)
4. Andrea Dovizioso - JiR Team Scot - 1'30.701 (79)
5. James Toseland - Yamaha Tech3 - 1'30.864 (81)
6. Marco Melandri - Ducati Marlboro - 1'30.869 (99)
7. Shinya Nakano - Honda Gresini - 1'31.111 (91)
8. Nicky Hayden - Repsol Honda - 1'31.226 (107)
9. Loris Capirossi - Rizla Suzuki - 1'31.274 (82)
10. Chris Vermeulen - Rizla Suzuki - 1'31.317 (99)
11. Randy de Puniet - Honda LCR - 1'31.436 (103)
12. John Hopkins - Kawasaki Racing - 1'31.623 (88)
13. Anthony West - Kawasaki Racing - 1'31.786 (72)
14. Sylvain Guintoli - Alice Team - 1'32.484 (68)
15. Toni Elias - Alice Team - 1'32.573 (90)

Fiat Yamaha have chosen not to take part in this test (like they do every year). Edwards keeps up his record of being fast in testing... As usuall Suzuki isn't as fast on PI as they are on other tracks.

Fastest race lap from the last race was Rossi with a 1:30.801. So top two on qualies then? The customer Honda riders have been looking good so far. Guess it's nice that they don't have to run the new bike. LOL!

Edwards is.

I'm not sure that Stoner was.

Well Edwards HAS to be. Seriously.

Stoner wasn't, but it was the new spec from Brigdestone, 17 laps old:here (http://moto.gpupdate.net/en/news/2008/01/30/positive-day-for-ducati/)

day 1 times:
1 C. Edwards Tech 3 Yamaha 01:29.566 77
2 C. Stoner Ducati Marlboro Team 01:30.178 73
3 A. de Angelis Honda Gresini 01:30.688 70
4 A. Dovizioso JiR Scot Racing Team 01:30.701 79
5 J. Toseland Tech 3 Yamaha 01:30.864 81
6 M. Melandri Ducati Marlboro Team 01:30.869 99
7 Shinya Nakano Honda Gresini 01:31.111 91
8 N. Hayden Repsol Honda Team 01:31.226 107
9 L. Capirossi Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 01:31.274 82
10 C. Vermeulen Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 01:31.317 99
11 R. de Puniet Honda LCR 01:31.436 103
12 J. Hopkins Kawasaki Racing Team 01:31.623 88
13 A. West Kawasaki Racing Team 01:31.786 72
14 S. Guintoli Team Alice 01:32.484 68
15 T. Elias Team Alice 01:32.573 90

Day 2 times.

1. Stoner 1:29:138
2. De Angelis 1:30:449
3. Dovisioso 1:31:074
4. Nakano 1:31:316
5. Hayden 1:31:373
6. Toseland 1:31:451
7. Melandri 1:31:478
8. Capirossi 1:31:545
9. de Puniet 1:31:575
10. Edwards 1:31:593
11. Vermuelen 1:31:774
12. West 1:32:242
13. Elias 1:32:246
14. Guintoli 1:32:431
15. Hopkins 1:42:130 (wet)

They had rain until lunchtime.
Stoner's time was set on race tyres.
Hopkins had a fall in the wet and has a groin injury. He may not ride tomorrow.

125cc Valencia Test
Times day 2

1. Sergio Gadea, Aprilia - 1'38.982 (37)
2. Bradley Smith, Aprilia - 1'39.630 (60)
3. Gabor Talmacsi, Aprilia - 1'39.688 (38)
4. Tomoyoshi Koyama, KTM - 1'39.795 (26)
5. Hugo Van der Berg, Aprilia - 1'40.163 (48) (realised his time by cutting some corners) :laugh:
6. Simone Corsi, Aprilia - 1'40. 273 (44)
7. Andrea Iannone, Aprilia - 1'40.438 (57)
8. Scott Redding, Aprilia - 1'40.462 (52)
9. Sandro Cortese, Aprilia - 1'40.575 (52)
10. Nico Terol, Aprilia - 1'40.606 (64)
11. Pol Espargaró, Derbi - 1'40.694 (36)
12. Efrén Vázquez, Aprilia - 1'40.744 (50)
13. Danny Webb, Aprilia - 1'40.864 (26)
14. Marc Marquez, KTM - 1'40.877 (77)
15. Robert Muresan, Aprilia - 1'40.887 (69)
16. Stefan Bradl, Aprilia - 1'40.946 (41)
17. Michael Ranseder, Aprilia - 1'41.039 (57)
18. Randy Krummenacher, KTM - 1'41.108 (52)
19. Steve Bonsey, Aprilia - 1'41.202 (35)
20. Rafaele da Rosa, KTM - 1'41.295 (34)
21. Takaaki Nakagami, Aprilia - 1'41.347 (62)
22. Pere Tutusaus, Aprilia - 1'41.509 (37)
23. Dino Lombardi, Aprilia - 1'42.022 (50)
24. Robin Lasser, Aprilia - 1'42.497 (36)
25. Roberto Lacalendola, Aprilia - 1'42.573 (50)
26. Lorenzo Zanetti, KTM - 1'43.607 (29)
27. Joan Olivé, Derbi - 1'43.781 (9)

250cc Valencia Test
Times day 2
1. Marco Simoncelli, Gilera - 1'35.447 (64)
2. Mika Kallio, KTM - 1'35.485 (46)
3. Héctor Barbera, Aprilia - 1'35.741 (60)
4. Julián Simón, KTM - 1'35.753 (52)
5. Álex Debón, Aprilia - 1'35.841 (35)
6. Hiroshi Aoyama, KTM - 1'35.979 (33)
7. Álvaro Bautista, Aprilia - 1'36.100
8. Héctor Faubel, Aprilia - 1'36.171 (34)
9. Thomas Luthi, Aprilia - 1'36.195 (22)
10. Roberto Locatelli, Gilera - 1'36.545 (59)
11. Aleix Espargaró, Aprilia - 1'36.565 (52)
12. Mattia Pasini, Aprilia - 1'36.747 (53)
13. Alex Baldolini, Aprilia - 1'36.854 (36)
14. Lukas Pesek, Aprilia - 1'37.240 (48)
15. Federico Sandi, Aprilia - 1'37.659 (29)
16. Fabrizio Lai, Aprilia - 1'37.928 (55)
17. Eugene Laverty, Aprilia - 1'37.992 (46)
18. Imre Toth, Aprilia - 1'38.535 (32)
19. Doni Tata Pradita, Yamaha - 1'38.995 (58)
20. Russel Gómez, Aprilia - 1'39.597 (49)

Hopkins had a fall in the wet and has a groin injury. He may not ride tomorrow.

Sounds like Hopkins continued at Kawasaki where he left Suzuki, quicker than his (Aussie ;)) teammate, but not saddle-steady.

Stoners time is just unbelievable.

Day 2 times.

1. Stoner 1:29:138

Stoner's time was set on race tyres.

:faint: Seriously? Source?

Day 2 times.

1. Stoner 1:29:138

Stoner's time was set on race tyres.

According to motogp.com, Stoner's fastest time was a 1:29.938, which was set on his 43rd lap of 45 total. And it was on race tires with 22 laps already on them. So maybe a typo. Stoner's time is already 9 tenths off of Rossi's quickest time from the last race. So I'm guessing this is the correct time.

Superbikeplanet and crash.net also show a 1:29.938 for Stoner.

Getting a little optimistic bestfit? :)

Getting a little optimistic bestfit?

No just a typo. :) (I have a dyslexic keyboard)

:beer:

Darn quick time though, and on well worn tires.

:beer:

Darn quick time though, and on well worn tires.

This also allows us to consider using softer tyres, at least in the odd race," said Casey, whose best time was also four tenths inside the 990cc circuit lap record set in 2005. (Crash.net)

Very quick indeed! :)

Day 3 times.

1. Casey Stoner AUS Ducati Marlboro Team (B) 1min 28.777 secs
2. Nicky Hayden USA Repsol Honda Team (M) 1min 29.734 secs
3. James Toseland GBR Yamaha Tech 3 (M) 1min 29.754 secs
4. Andrea Dovizioso ITA JiR Team Scot (M) 1min 29.780 secs
5. Colin Edwards USA Yamaha Tech 3 (M) 1min 29.795 secs
6. Chris Vermeulen AUS Rizla Suzuki MotoGP (B) 1min 30.216 secs
7. Alex de Angelis RSM Honda Gresini (B) 1min 30.438 secs
8. Shinya Nakano JPN Honda Gresini (B) 1min 30.728 secs
9. Toni Elias SPA Alice Team (B) 1min 30.966 secs
10. Randy de Puniet FRA Honda LCR (M) 1min 30.978 secs
11. Sylvain Guintoli FRA Alice Team (B) 1min 30.983 secs
12. Marco Melandri ITA Ducati Marlboro Team (B) 1min 31.377 secs
13. Loris Capirossi ITA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP (B) 1min 31.508 secs
14. Anthony West AUS Kawasaki Racing Team (B) 1min 31.957 secs

(I cut and pasted so if there are any typos there not mine. :))

All on qualifiers today.

First ever 1:28sec lap of the island?
0.957 secs ahead of the rest, There must be a few nervous shivers running through the paddock by now.

Brilliant efforts by Toseland and Dovi. The Rookie of the Year contest will be intersting this year.

WOW thats fast just over a second quicker than 2nd, good to see Hayden up there ditto the rookies.

For whom it might interest:

125cc Valencia Test
Times day 3 (final day)

1. Sergio Gadea, Aprilia - 1'38.390 (53)
2. Bradley Smith, Aprilia - 1'38.985 (32)
3. Gabor Talmacsi, Aprilia - 1'39.800 (44)
4. Pol Espargaró, Derbi - 1'39.917 (43)
5. Nico Terol, Aprilia - 1'39.922 (44)
6. Andrea Iannone, Aprilia - 1'40.008 (52)
7. Tomoyoshi Koyama, KTM - 1'40.024 (50)
8. Sandro Cortese, Aprilia - 1'40.031 (38)
9. Scott Redding, Aprilia - 1'40.133 (41)
10. Joan Olivé, Derbi - 1'40.151 (55)
11. Stevie Bonsey, Aprilia - 1'40.316 (42)'
12. Simone Corsi, Aprilia - 1'40.368 (62)
13. Danny Webb, Honda - 1'40.380 (74)
14. Pablo Nieto, KTM - 1'40.402 (49)
15. Efrén Vázquez, Aprilia - 1'40.504 (44)
16. Randy Krummenacher, KTM - 1'40.563 (42)
17. Marc Marquez, KTM - 1'40.661 (65)
18. Takaaki Nakagami, Aprilia - 1'40.721 (70)
19. Rafaele de Rosa, KTM - 1'40.899 (54)
20. Stefan Bradl, Aprilia - 1'40.979 (39)
21. Pere Tutusaus, Aprilia - 1'41.388 (51)
22. Lorenzo Zanetti, KTM - 1'41.663 (59)
23. Hugo Van der Berg, Aprilia - 1'41.671 (48)
24. Robin Lasser, Aprilia - 1'41.901 (22)
25. Alexis Masbou, Loncin - 1'42.123 (56)
26. Dino Lombardi, Aprilia - 1'42.174 (79)
27. Jules Cluzel, Loncin - 1'43.353 (61)
28. Louis Rossi, Honda - 1'45.517 (9)

I have to say quite big differences. Gadea is 1.5secs faster than Talmasci in third. There are 2 Brits in the top 9, and 3 in the top 13 (can't blame me for trying to boost the British moral ;)). Scott Redding a British rookie, where did he come from??? There's also one Dutch guy in the top 23. Go Hugo! :laugh:

And here are the 250 times:

250cc Test Valencia
Times day 3

1. Álex Debón, Aprilia - 1'35.537 (28)
2. Mika Kallio, KTM - 1'35.556 (32)
3. Julián Simón, KTM - 1'35.861 (48)
4. Álvaro Bautista, Aprilia - 1'36.135 (35)
5. Héctor Faubel, Aprilia - 1'36.145 (36)
6. Héctor Barbera, Aprilia - 1'36.158 (25)
7. Aleix Espargaró, Aprilia - 1'36.214 (54)
8. Mattia Pasini, Aprilia - 1'36.383 (63)
9. Roberto Locatelli, Gilera - 1'36.579 (59)
10. Marco Simoncelli, Gilera - 1'36.635 (34)
11. Alex Baldolini, Aprilia - 1'37.154 (30)
12. Lukas Pesek, Aprilia - 1'37.288 (32)
13. Fabrizio Lai, Aprilia - 1'38.026 (49)
14. Eugene Laverty, Aprilia - 1'38.318 (39)
15. Imre Toth, Aprilia - 1'38.875 (29)
16. Doni Tata Pradita, Yamaha - 1'39.066 (41)
17. Russel Gómez, Aprilia - 1'39.621 (49)

It seems like Pasini gets a bit more up to speed. I'd like to see him do good. I do believe he is riding for a new formed 250 team (the same team he was riding with in 125 last year). So, I do not expect such dominate rides as we saw him have during last season.

Really guys, its only testing! This might be the first tiem Casey has tried a qualifying setup? Rememebr also that he will be the main focus of Bridgestone's new stuff with Valentino, Casy knows the tyres and will probably get development stuf before anyone while Vale gest used to the rubber.

Why is anyone surprised at his speed anyway, he had this all last year! Tell me something I dont know!

There must be a few nervous shivers running through the paddock by now.
Not just in the paddock, I fear for another boring season. It really is a shame Pedrosa got injured in Sepang, cause I think he is, or was, the only one that might have been able to threaten Stoner. In the hands of Dani the Honda hasn't seem so bad as Hayden makes it sound it is. Pedrosa has been quick with it from the very first moment he got on it. However, he'll now have a lot of catching up to do at the start of the season. The same for Rossi! I think he and Yamaha will still have some catching up to do at the start of the season, performance wise. I think they'll catch up when the season progresses, but by then it might all be to late. My money (at the moment) is on Casey. He's been very impressive, especially at PI.

By the way, Melandri's time from day 1 was his quickest...

Brilliant efforts by Toseland and Dovi. The Rookie of the Year contest will be intersting this year.

Indeed! The 250 guys have been quick from the very first moment they got on the bike. It's almost eexpected from them these days. Toseland has been good at PI. He's said, track-knowledge seems to be quit important for him in Motogp.

Really guys, its only testing! This might be the first tiem Casey has tried a qualifying setup? Rememebr also that he will be the main focus of Bridgestone's new stuff with Valentino, Casy knows the tyres and will probably get development stuf before anyone while Vale gest used to the rubber.

Why is anyone surprised at his speed anyway, he had this all last year! Tell me something I dont know!

Are you saying you are not impressed with his times? Have you had a chance to look at the track records?

This will be a bit offtopic, but I was just thinking how impressive the times at PI were, realising it's only testing so they are probably not giving it 100%.

But what is even more impressive are the Superbike times from their PI test earlier this winter test season.

I'll try to put the Motogp and Superbike times next to each other. I hope this works out...

Motogp times --- Superbike times
1. Casey Stoner 1min 28.777 secs --- 1. Max Biaggi 1min31.7 secs
2. Nicky Hayden 1min 29.734 secs --- 2. Ruben Xaus 1min 32.0 secs
3. James Toseland 1min 29.754 secs --- 3. Yukio Kagayama 1min 32.1 secs
4. Andrea Dovizioso 1min 29.780 secs --- 4. Troy Bayliss 1min 32.2 secs
5. Colin Edwards 1min 29.795 secs --- =5. Michel Fabrizio 1min 32.3 secs
6. Chris Vermeulen 1min 30.216 secs --- =5. Fonsi Nieto 1min 32.3 secs
7. Alex de Angelis 1min 30.438 secs --- 7. Noriyuki Haga 1min 32.4 secs
8. Shinya Nakano 1min 30.728 secs --- 8. Troy Corser 1min 32.7 secs
9. Toni Elias 1min 30.966 secs --- 9. Regis Laconi 1min 33.0 secs
10. Randy de Puniet 1min 30.978 secs --- 10. Makoto Tamada 1min 33.4 secs
11. Sylvain Guintoli 1min 30.983 secs --- 11. Max Neukirchner 1min 35.5 secs
12. Marco Melandri 1min 31.377 secs
13. Loris Capirossi 1min 31.508 secs
14. Anthony West 1min 31.957 secs

I have taken the times from the last day of testing from Motogp and put them next to the combined fastest times of the WSBK test. I know the Motogp times were set on qualifiers and I assume this also counts for the WSBK times. Both test were not under perfect conditions. There was some rain during the GP days and strong winds during the WSBK days.

As expected the Motogp guys are quicker, but not by much. They ride prototype stuff and are much lighter. In superbike you are allowed to change quite a lot, but it is still not a prototype. They do not have carbon brakes and aren't as light as a motogp bike.

This might actually be a small problem for Motogp. There has always been some degree of anymosity between Motogp and Superbike. I know this comparisson isn't completely fair as both test were on different days and the gap on a circuit like Yerez will probably be bigger. But Motogp will never 'allow' WSBK to become faster than them. So, this is another reason to keep all the electronic gadgets on the motogp bikes. If you lose them, the bikes will become slower and the gap between the prototypes and the roadbikes decreases even further...

One last thing. Hats off to Pirrelli. They don't have any competition, so they could have taken it easy. Instead they have delivered a really good tyre to WSBK (they had to, as there was so much criticism when the control tyre rule came into place). If there ever is going to be a control tyre in Motogp (why not Pirrelli?) the tyre supplier will have to keep the standard of quality as it is now, cause they can't have WSBK tyres catch up with them.

I have heard that the top superbikes now have as much horsepower as the Moto GP bikes in many cases. I also heard the Ten Kate superbike actually has more horsepower than the RC212V. However, it is impressive when you consider where the GP bikes are making up that 3 seconds. And let's face it, 3 seconds over one lap is still a lot.

Superbikes being quicker than GP bikes is nothing new at all Im afraid guys, in 96 or 97 when they brough in unleaded fuel for teh 500's teh RC45 actually produced more power than the NSR, in a track test of teh Castrol bike, Cathcart was keeping in the draft of Okada and sneaking out to have a look past on the straights at Suzuka or Motegi.

Those late RC45's had nearly 200bhp from 750 aswell, and 500's never really got over 190, was just the electronics and big bang that amde most of them easier to ride.

I reckon if we still had Hockenheim the Supers would easily break the 200mph barrier. Not sure about 800's, maybe the red Bullet, !

Am not impressed with Stoner really no, he is doing the same as last year isnt he, everyone else is rubbish!!

In about 96 Troy Corser went under Kevin Schwantz's 500cc lap record at Donington, I don't remember if it was qualifying or the race and it sent a panic through the Grand Prix paddock.

The same happened when the 250s started coming worryingly close to 500 times. It was enough for Aprillia to build a 400 twin.

Jeff

:gfight:

Hislop did the same thing on a Ducati in abotu 2000, broke or very nearly matched Rossis lap record from the same year in qualifying, its happened before and would have probably happened some more if Pirelli weren't running a control tyre.
I imagine the tyre war with the 800's will move the gap away again though.

Hislop did the same thing on a Ducati in abotu 2000, broke or very nearly matched Rossis lap record from the same year in qualifying, its happened before and would have probably happened some more if Pirelli weren't running a control tyre.

Damnit! Beat me to it! :D

Actually Donington is the track that polarized the 250 debate as in 93 Ruggia set a quickest lap that would have got him on the front row for the 500 race.
But then again Donington has always been THE Dunlop track, rememebr Rainey and Cadalora running away with that race, LAwson getting a pole on the Cagiva and of course Crafar walloping Mick with a perfectly setup YZR in 98.
Honda or Ducati never won that much there in WSBK despite having great bikes, and when they did it seemed a lucky deal, coz next year they would be hopeles again, very fickle track is Donington.

Times from the last testday at Sepang (24-01-08):

1. Hayden (Honda-Repsol) 2.00.326 on lap 25 (77 laps)
2. Stoner (Ducati-Marlboro) 2.00.660 on lap 6 (27)
3. Lorenzo (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.00.766 on lap 63 (63)
4. Edwards (Yamaha-Tech 3) 2.01.179 on lap 12 (34)
5. Hopkins (Kawasaki) 2.01.198 on lap 15 (42)
6. Rossi (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.01.425 on lap 46 (48)
7. Dovizioso (Honda-Scot) 2.01.447 on lap 50 (51)
8. Toseland (Yamaha-Tech 3) 2.01.745 on lap 39 (45)
9. Vermeulen (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.01.748 on lap 46 (70)
10. Capirossi (Suzuki-Rizla) 2.01.778 on lap 15 (62)
11. De Puniet (Honda-LCR) 2.01.873 on lap 56 (56)
12. Nakano (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.032 on lap 38 (38)
13. De Angelis (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.198 on lap 23 (37)
14. Melandri (Ducati-Marlboro) 2.02.725 on lap 10 (58)
15. West (Kawasaki) 2.02.978 on lap 15 (39)
16. Elias (Ducati-Alice) 2.0.995 on lap 31 (67)
17. Jacque (Kawasaki) 2.03.030 on lap 15 (40)
18. Guintoli (Ducati-Alice) 2.03.628 on lap 17 (39)
19. Canepa (Ducati) 2.03.703 on lap 17 (49)
20. Serizawa (Kawasaki) 2.04.354 on lap 24 (27)
21. Aoki (Suzuki-Rizla) –
22. Akiyoshi (Suzuki-Rizla)

Sepang Test Day 1 (05-02-08)

1. Rossi (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.00.300 at lap 62 (64 laps)
2. Hayden (Honda-Repsol) 2.02.092 at lap 77 (79)
3. Lorenzo (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.02.654 at lap 24 (57)
4. Nakano (Honda-Gresini) 2.03.022 at lap 38 (51)
5. De Angelis (Honda-Gresini) 2.03.231 at lap 33 (39)
6. Jacque (Kawasaki) 2.03.673 at lap 27 (47)
7. Yamaha Test Team 2.06.356 at lap 65 (66)
8. Serizawa (Kawasaki) 2.06.874 at lap 21 (50)
9. Yamaha Test Team 2.07.319 at lap 32 (58)

I wonder what tyres the Yamaha test teams use.

I'm seeing a few different times. These are from crash.net, which also match the times posted on motogp.com:

1. Valentino Rossi (B) 2min 0.300 secs
2. Nicky Hayden (M) 2min 1.949 secs
3. Shinya Nakano (B) 2min 2.317 secs
4. Jorge Lorenzo (M) 2min 2.654 secs
5. Alex de Angelis (B) 2min 3.231 secs
6. Olivier Jacque (B) 2min 3.655 secs
7. Bike 'T' Yamaha (B) 2min 6.356 secs
8. Tamaki Serizawa (Kawasaki) (B) 2min 6.874 secs
9. Bike 'P' Yamaha (B) 2min 7.319 secs

Rossi's time was on a qualifier, which just bettered Hayden's quickest qualifer lap from the last test. Rossi's fastest lap on a race tire was supposedly 2min 1.444 sec. For comparison, Stoner's fastest lap on a race tire at the previous test was 2min 0.964secs.

Oh no, I must be suffering from the same dyslexic keyboard as Bestfit does... :faint:

I see Rossi has two little helpers, riding around on Bridgestone stuff.

Oh no, I must be suffering from the same dyslexic keyboard as Bestfit does... :faint:

:nyah:

Am presuming this was a test booked up long time ago as there are few teams there, interesting to note Hayden there on Michelin, wonder if Vale has tried the new Michelins secretly or not!

Sepang Test Day 2 (06-02-08)

1. Rossi (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.00.472 at lap 69 (70 laps)
2. Hayden (Honda-Repsol) 2.00.900 at lap 36 (90)
3. Nakano (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.049 at lap 58 (59)
4. Lorenzo (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.02.396 at lap 47 (55)
5. De Angelis (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.646 at lap 54 (57)
6. Jacque (Kawasaki) 2.03.513 at lap 31 (50)
7. Yamaha Test Team T 2.05.647 at lap 41 (65)
8. Serizawa (Kawasaki) 2.06.027 at lap 19 (69)
9. Yamaha Test Team P 2.06.244 at lap 52 (53)

(All times verified with motogp.com) :)

Final day of testing at Sepang 07-02-08, mainly Yamaha's on track, Hayden finished and left yesterday.

1. Lorenzo (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.00.705 at lap 72 (73 laps)
2. Rossi (Yamaha-Fiat) 2.01.190 at lap 23 (48)
3. Nakano (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.135 at lap 14 (23)
4. De Angelis (Honda-Gresini) 2.02.193 at lap 12 (20)
5. Jacque (Kawasaki) 2.03.021 at lap 17 (50)
6. Serizawa (Kawasaki) 2.03.623 at lap 29 (31)
7. Yamaha Test Team P 2.06.000 at lap 26 (27)
8. Yamaha Test Team T 2.06.040 at lap 28 (44)

I know Hopkins is injured, but why is West not testing for Kawasaki? Have they sent him home, to get in shape? I know he's been criticised publicly for not been in physical shape... Otherwise I would find it very weird to not use him for these important tests.

Maybe they just let West do the wet weather testing...

This doesn't sound good for team Roberts:

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/sport/sportresults/mcn/2008/february/4-10/feb0708motogpsepangtestcluetoteamrobertsfutureinsepang/

no it dosn't, more than likely bye bye Team Roberts. :(

Bummer. An 18 bike grid is a bit depressing.