Valentino Rossi: Altering ride position important to improve front-end feel – MotoGP news
Ducati rider Valentino Rossi feels that the front-end feel on the Desmosedici GP11.1 can be improved with an altering ride position.
After a disappointing aluminium frame debut at the Motorland Aragon Grand Prix, Rossi is looking forward to solve his problems.
Valentino Rossi told Motorcyclenews.com, “We tried to work on the weight distribution and especially to move my position on the bike. This was the biggest work we did in Jerez because we think that this is the main problem of this bike. I want to be more
forward. I don't like my position on the bike and it is for a long time since I say this to Filippo.”
The Italian veteran was expecting to run for a podium finish at Motorland Aragon with the new FTR aluminium chassis but the penalty, severe tyre wear and unfamiliar bike ruined all the expectations.
In order to develop the 2012 Desmosedici GP12, Rossi has tested the next season prototype at the Jerez circuit. It is said that Rossi has tested the newly built Deltabox frame developed by British chassis company FTR.
However, Rossi and his team have denied the rumours of testing a full aluminium Deltabox chassis. The Italian rider said that the Jerez test was held only to readjust the riding positing aboard the GP12.
During the test session, the bike was ran with different weight distributions to gather more weight on the front wheel. It was done to enhance the road feel from the front end. It is felt that by changing the centre of gravity, traction and feedback from
surface will improve.
Rossi further added, “We need time to build a new part and I hope that it arrive as soon as possible and we have to understand if it makes the difference.”
The Italian rider added that the difference between carbon fibre and aluminium is not significant, but it might be better with an altered weight distribution.
Rossi feels that he needs to be working on the bike setup for the next season and the initial step was taken at Jerez. Some new parts are also in development process that will help to move other components, he said.
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