Hayden to use new bike in USA

Nicky Hayden will switch to Ducati’s GP11.1 bike for this weekend’s Indianapolis MotoGP. Previously, only team-mate Valentino Rossi had been using the chassis which is effectively a prototype of the team’s 2012 version.

“We’re going to Indy and we’ll see what the new track surface does," the 2006 World Champion said on Tuesday.

“I’ve ridden it and the bumps are definitely gone, although I’d say it will take some time on Friday to clean it up and get some rubber down.

“I’m looking forward to this event. I always enjoy racing at home in front of friends and family, but I need to go there and focus on my job. I want to try to have a good result while also having fun and enjoying the weekend.

“The team has worked really hard to get me the opportunity to ride this new bike and now it’s up to me to try and pay them back with a good result."