According to Francesco Bagnaia, the current Ducati GP24 suits his riding style better – Jorge Martin doubts whether the bike is really faster than the previous model
With the exception of the Portimao Sprint, the Ducati GP24 has won three of the first four races. Compared to the successful predecessor model, the modified side fairing catches the eye. Since the winter tests, it has become clear that the GP24 is a step forward. But how big is it really?
“I think the bike suits my riding style better,” says World Champion Francesco Bagnaia. “I don’t know what it’s like for Jorge, but I adapted to it quite quickly. The bike gives me something that I missed on the GP23.”
But the Italian also thinks that this progress does not necessarily show on the stopwatch: “In terms of lap time, I don’t think there are big differences. It’s about how you feel with the bike.”
“If you ride a time attack, then the GP23 and GP24 are very similar.” Bagnaia was convinced by the new bike right from the start, while Jorge Martin had doubts during the winter tests and made comparisons with the aerodynamics.
In the end, he did notice progress on the GP24. “The bikes are different, but the speed is very similar,” says Martin. “The fact that I opted for the same bike as ‘Pecco’ means that I have the same chances.”
“Ducati has improved the bike a little. It’s a bit more stable, but it’s difficult to judge in terms of tenths of a second,” Martin concludes, coming to a similar conclusion to Bagnaia.
The past has shown that current models become slightly faster over the course of the season when new details are developed. According to Gigi Dall’Igna, the GP24 is a good basis on which to build.
Marc Marquez will have to ride the entire season on the old model. It is not yet known whether he will receive updates. “I have what I have,” says the Gresini rider. “I feel better than last year.”
“I feel really good with this bike. Of course, the GP24 will be better in some respects, but we have the experience from last year with the GP23. We have to make use of that.” Because there is enough data available from all the tracks.
In terms of progress, Marquez believes that he can find it in himself: “I have not yet discovered the full potential of the bike and I still need to understand how I can use the full potential. “