From a press release issued by Ducati Corse:


Czech GP, Brno
Thursday, August 14 2003

IMPORTANT NEW PARTS FOR DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM

Ducati Marlboro Team riders Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss will have important new parts at their disposal for this weekend’s Czech Grand Prix.

Their Desmosedici MotoGP machines will be equipped with a new fairing that features improved cooling, both for engine and rider. The modified bodywork, designed by Ducati Corse’s aerodynamic specialists, has new air intakes in the upper fairing to cool the rider for improved comfort, plus new air outlets in the fairing lower to extract hot air for improved performance. These upgrades should prove particularly crucial in hot weather.

Capirossi and Bayliss will also have a new chassis to compare against the existing Desmosedici chassis. Geometry is unchanged but rigidity has been optimised. New, larger diameter Ohlins forks are also available, as well as new triple clamps.

All these upgrades are thanks to the ongoing dedication of Ducati’s MotoGP test team. Test rider Vittoriano Guareschi has already evaluated all the parts during various test sessions in Italy, and their adoption by the Ducati Marlboro Team should help maintain the impressive progress made by the Italian marque’s MotoGP project.