OCTOBER 24, 2005

Mike the Bike (circa 2005)

Michael Schumacher tested a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP bike at the Mugello circuit in Italy, lapping the track around 20secs off the pace of pole position at this year's MotoGP event. The bikes, which are usually ridden by Loris Capirossi and Carlos Checa, are funded by Marlboro and it was a logical marketing move to let Michael have a run, although Ferrari boss Jean Todt insisted that Michael run at a track he knows well. No doubt Bridgestone will also make the most of its F1 star riding on its motorcycle tyres.

Mike "the Bike" Hailwood was a multiple motorcycle champion, who turned to F1 in the 1960s and 1970s.