Named the GP11, it features an engine that’s an evolution of the one used last year. The main objective for this season has been to get a flatter torque curve.
As far as the aerodynamics are concerned, the revised design is meant to increase top speed, reduce fuel consumption and minimise front-end lift. To help with that final item, the GP11 sports a development of the fairing-mounted winglets that were first seen during 2010.
Other significant changes from the GP10 include smaller front forks (42 mm, down from 48 mm), while the carbon fibre chassis has more flex for improved feel when the bike is leaned over.
The testing schedule for the GP11 commences at Jerez, Spain on January 17, 18 and 19 with riders Franco Battaini and Vito Guareschi on board. The programme then moves to Sepang, Malaysia, where Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden are due to put the new bike through its paces on February 1, 2 and 3.
The 2011 MotoGP championship, which consists of 18 rounds, starts with the Grand Prix of Qatar on March 20.
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