Ducati already impressed with Rossi

Rossi was eighth-quickest as he acclimatised to the GP11 bike in the test, which was his first outing on a Ducati after completing his hotly-anticipated deal to move from Yamaha.

"It has been an exciting day for sure," said Preziosi. "The main thing that hit me today was Vale's positive feedback and his capacity for analysis."

Ducati is using the test to decide whether it should opt for a 'screamer' or 'big bang' engine configuration for 2011, with Rossi taking a key role in the choice.

"He tested the GP11 with the big bang engine on a standard setting, which he modified step by step to adapt it to his riding style," said Preziosi.

"His first comment when he lifted his visor up was a positive one about the power delivery and then he gave some impressive technical details.

"At the end of the session he went out on the screamer version but we will make more of an analysis between the two engines tomorrow because they deliver the power in very different ways - the big bang has a more regular power curve whereas the screamer is more aggressive but also more powerful."

Preziosi said it was clear that Ducati would have to make changes for Rossi, but thinks the experience of developing the bike with the seven-time MotoGP champion and his long-time crew chief Jeremy Burgess will be great for the team.

"We certainly have a lot to do to adapt the bike to his riding style but it is really nice and very interesting to work in this way," said Preziosi.

"We worked on the geometry and setting today to see how the bike responded and to get a bit of experience working with both Vale and Jeremy."