MOTOGP » Valencia MotoGP test times - Tuesday.

But where is Spies? Interesting to see how is he lapping.

I don't think Spies is participating in the official test. I think he was only a guest rider Monday. Not sure though!

What about Toesland and Edwards?

JT isn't on the M1 until the Sepang test later this year.

A bit ominous.
From what I could see from these stories, the Ducati was the 2007 model just with some new forks, and it was way quicker than all the other 'new' 2008 models on test.

Spies did a 1.34.8 by the end of day 1.Never saw the track neither had ridden the bike.Hope to see him on the grid!

Not ominous at all PhilW, you talk about a fully developed bike
against a group of unpainted prototypes that get their shakedown test, some of them with new riders.
If one of those would beat Stoners proven bike straight out of the box they have a real winner on their hands!
That makes for instance Loris Capirossis pace on day one remarkeable!
However, this is just Valencia, finding a good base setup takes testing on different tracks,
Malaysia is one of the best measurement points.

BTW, don't know him but that Spies guy sure has a great riding style!
Fun to watch, he would be an asset to the field

Well, it seems as if we have heard from all of the teams that have new riders except....JOHN HOPKINS! Everyone was expecting him to lead the timing sheets?? What gives? I sure would like to hear his initial thoughts on the Green Machine.

I sure hope he hasn't made a 'bad move'...

And, yes...Spies does have a rather unique riding style let's just hope and pray he can adjust to the new style of MOTOGP bike. This isn't the old days when the American riders came over and dominated the buckin-bronco 500cc bikes with their wheelspinning, sliding styles. Those glory days are over :(

I think Spies has the natural speed and abilty to adapt his riding syle, it will be interesting to see if he can better his time today!

I for one look forward to Toesland and Spies shaking things up!!! I think these two riders are capable of challenging for podium finishes at some point during the season, if not straight away providing the machinery is up to task.

Optimistic I know!

Err... I believe Spies just tested the Suzuki on monday,
he wont be a regular rider for 2008 (or am I wrong?).