Rossi impressed by new bikes

The Italian has been surprised by the performance of the bikes in comparison to the 990cc machines that were used from 2002-2006 in the MotoGP class.

"It's some kind of miracle," Rossi was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport. "The bikes weigh the same as last year, and they have less horsepower, yet the laptimes are quicker."

Rossi believes that this year's bikes will be easier to ride, and he expects that to produce closer racing.

"These bikes are more balanced," he said. "The races will be more enjoyable with many bikes close to one another. It will be a nice fight."

However, he doesn't think that the role of the rider will be significantly reduced.

"Sometimes the power of the 990cc was a disadvantage," he said. "Under acceleration the 800cc bikes are easier to control, but the rider is still decisive.

"That's because the riding line is more important than ever, and because we are a lot faster midway through the turn."

Rossi feels that this week's test in Qatar is particularly useful for the teams as they adapt to the smaller 21-litre fuel tank.

"We have to keep an eye on fuel consumption," he said. "We'll all be on the limit with 21 litres of fuel, and from this point of view Qatar is one of the most critical tracks."