From a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM TESTING CONCLUDES AT MUGELLO
(Italy), 11 September 03

The Ducati Marlboro Team has concluded two days of testing at Mugello, during which Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss were able to evaluate a series of new components in view of the 2004 season, as well as various solutions that may be used in the remaining races.

During the test, the development team bikes were used because the regular race Desmosedicis have already been air-freighted to Brazil for the grand prix at Rio de Janeiro.

The test was held in fine weather conditions (air 25°/track 35° C), enabling the Ducati Marlboro Team to complete the scheduled lengthy session at the Tuscany circuit.

Loris Capirossi, whose best time was 1:52.1, continued to test the new larger-diameter Ohlins front fork he used in the Portuguese Grand Prix. The Italian rider succeeded in establishing a better feeling with the front fork during the test.

Troy Bayliss, who tried out the front fork for the first time, recorded an excellent time in 1:51.7, quicker than the Italian Grand Prix pole mark in June at the same circuit.

Both riders, who lapped in race set-up, also tried out a number of new rear tyres in collaboration with Michelin tyre engineers.