Ducati: GP4 and GP3 at Mugello.

Ducati has revealed that they will allow Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss to choose between the 2004 spec Desmosedici GP4 and a modified GP3 model at the Bologna based company's home event; this weekend's Italian Grand Prix.

Following continued problems with the GP4 in the opening three events of the 2004 season, Ducati ran a back-to-back test between the two bikes at Le Mans - the day after the French GP - and have now prepared both spec machines in time for Mugello.

The GP4 chassis has been modified, following the test, with changes to the fuel tank and the positioning of the electronics package, while the GP3 that will take to the track at Mugello has undergone suspension (2004-spec front forks) and engine component modifications.

"We are convinced that giving Loris and Troy the chance to ride two bikes with similar characteristics, but different in several details, can allow us to obtain the best possible result and at the same time give us clear indications about the development path to be followed," said managing director Claudio Domenicali (lower pic), explaining what must have been a difficult decision.

"We have important engine developments on the way and we will continue for the whole of the season to search for the competitiveness we have already proved we have and which we intend to reach again at all costs," added the Italian.

Capirossi and Bayliss will try both spec bikes at Mugello, before deciding which to race in the most important event on Ducati's sporting calendar.