The reigning constructors' and teams' title holders will be a force again, with world champion Stoner out to defend the crown he won in only his second MotoGP season.

The 22-year-old Australian racked up an incredible 10 wins last season and is determined to show it was not down to having superior tyres or traction control.

Melandri, 25, a former 250cc world champion, joined from Honda Gresini and will hope to add to his five race victories in his five-year career in the premier class.