Andrea Dovizioso set a new MotoGP top speed on Saturday morning, with a trap speed of 356.7 km/h (221.6 mph) fractionally faster than the 356.5 he recorded here last year.

Mugello and the next track at Catalunya regularly have the highest top speeds, so small aerodynamic improvements have a big effect, underlining the potential value of Ducati’s rear-wheel cover … although Dovizioso was not using it.

However, Honda’s next aero step will wait until after these two races are done, according to Repsol team manager Alberto Puig. Asked about an expected new fairing, he said: “Our target it to introduce it after Montmelo,” venue for the Catalan GP.

by Michael Scott

Photos GnG