Johann Zarco ‘always using’ Ducati’s front ride-height device

Pramac rider Zarco has played a key role in development of the front lowering system since winter testing and, although the technology will be outlawed at the end of this season, remains convinced of the acceleration advantages.

The downside is added complexity in terms of bike set-up and a change of front feeling under braking.

“Me, I’m always using it, so I’m getting used to it. But we need to have a good set up to use it well,” Zarco said after finishing fifth fastest during Friday practice in Germany.

“It’s an interesting development to do, even if we won’t use it next year. But we believe it can help. If you use it well, then you can get an advantage, but it’s not too easy to find it.”

The Frenchman added: “The benefits are getting a better acceleration. But this can change the feeling on the front because the height of the bike is not the same way when you brake, so that can be the only weak point [of the front device].”

Factory Ducati's Jack Miller denied he was using the front ride-height device on Friday, despite his bike appearing to have at least some of the extra equipment thought to be linked to the system.

"I'm not on the front ride-height device," Miller said. "I literally said to the guys, 'why have I got those [fork] covers on?' I'm not using that system... I don't use it. I don't like the system at all."

Rear ride-height devices, plus front and rear holeshot (start) systems, which also contribute to lowering the centre of gravity and reducing wheelies, will remain legal in 2023.

Zarco, who starts this weekend’s Sachsenring round holding fourth in the world championship, was one of five Desmosedicis in the top six after day one.

“We know Ducati has this high potential here,” said Zarco, on pole in Germany one year ago. “Last year we were already quite fast and to have this many [Ducati] riders [going fast], you can compare and improve a lot your own style.

“I was pretty happy to get immediately a good pace and be able to have a good lap time. Keeping the pace is another story [and] I hope I will do this step forward in pace to think about the podium during the race.”