Sepang GP test starts

The MotoGP teams have begun testing at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, with Carlos Checa and Ducati test rider Shinichi Itoh starting work a day early.

Spaniard Checa wanted an early start having missed the final two days of testing at the circuit in January. He posted a time of 2:03.60 on the Desmosedici GP5 bike on only his second day of riding in 2005. Shinichi Itoh was on a GP4 machine to concentrate on Bridgestone tyre testing, and posted a fastest time of 2:04.30.

Today, Friday February 11, will see the new Honda RC211V take to the track for the first time with riders Max Biaggi and Sete Gibernau. Valentino Rossi has already tested the 2005 Yamaha YZR-M1, but expects to make big improvements, while Loris Capirossi will return on the Desmosedici GP5 with which he posted the fastest time back in January.

Also making a debut will be the d’Antin Ducati squad with Roberto Rolfo riding the Dunlop-sho Desmosedici GP4. Also at the test are the Suzuki and Kawasaki MotoGP teams.