Race simulations the next aim for MotoGP rookies Marini and Bastianini in Qatar

Avintia Esponsoroma Ducati riders Enea Bastianini and Luca Marini concluded their first MotoGP test in 16th and 18th places respectively 

Unlike the rest of the grid, both rookies and test riders had an extra day of running on Friday as part of the MotoGP shakedown test. 

Bastianini looked comfortable on a MotoGP bike from the very beginning, with the Italian finishing two out of the three days as the top rookie. 

It was a slightly slower process for Marini, who put an extensive amount of work on days one and two into the positioning on the bike due to his height.

Come the conclusion of the test, both riders looked in great form and were pleased with their efforts on their MotoGP debut. 

"I’ve ridden more smoothly and relaxed as with this bike you can’t ride aggressively. I finally got a good time in the middle of the section," said Bastianini. 

"We have started working with the electronics and set up, and the result of these three days is very positive. A goal for the next test is to certainly improve gradually and get in the best conditions for the two races."

Like his new team-mate and Moto2 rival from last season, Marini also worked heavily on the electronics of the bike. 

As the two riders head into their second official test, race simulations will be a more extensive factor, something Marini is aiming to try. 

"Of the three, today is definitely the day I enjoyed the most. I was able to ride more easily, I made a good step forward on the setting and a great job in the garage.

"I have done a lot on my riding style in braking and now I am closer to the other Ducati guys. In these days before the second testing session, we will check the data to understand in which area to focus and further evolve my style.

"The riding position is better, I can do more laps and keep a good pace. I am doing a lot in terms of electronics; I have more confidence on the front too and I have pushed more on the tires that are really very different from Dunlop.

"We have to work on many details to be 100%, but we can think of a race simulation in the next session."