From a press release issued by Suzuki:

Team SUZUKI MotoGP optimistic for forthcoming tests

Team SUZUKI MotoGP is in an upbeat mood for the forthcoming tests at Sepang in Malaysia and Phillip Island in Australia.

After an encouraging test at Sepang last month, Team SUZUKI MotoGP manager Paul Denning has discussed how pleased he is with the progress of the Suzuki GSV-R race bike and his hopes for the upcoming tests.

Denning said: “I was very happy with the first test, the whole team worked flawlessly together with everybody putting in a huge effort to start the season off with a giant step forward.

“The existing and new team members forged strong bonds straight away. Tom O’Kane and Stuart Shenton, who are the Chief Technicians for Kenny Roberts Jr and John Hopkins respectively, formed a proactive relationship immediately. They were able to assist each other throughout the test with chassis and mechanical set-up data.

“The Suzuki technicians in Japan have worked tirelessly over the winter months to make the GSV-R competitive and I know they are still working long hours to give us the right package. The GSV-R needs more refinement and the team will be working hard at Sepang and Phillip Island to set a baseline to be ready for the Official MotoGP Tests in March. The potential with the GSV-R is enormous and I am optimistic we will make further advances.

“Kenny and John are both fired up for the new season and are eager to get back on their GSV-Rs. Kenny enjoyed his riding at the last test and put in consistent times on race tyres that were competitive with the front runners. John was riding for the first time since his operation in November when he had pins removed from his femur and both ankles. He was not as flexible as he would like to have been, but he still put in an incredible performance considering his recent surgery and set some great times.

“I have also had important assistance and guidance from the Suzuki personnel within the team, especially Imada-san and Sahara-san – their knowledge and understanding of the ethos of racing is very thorough. They know exactly what is needed for the team from a racer’s and an engineer’s perspective.”

Team SUZUKI MotoGP will be testing at Sepang between February 9th-12th, before moving to Phillip Island for further tests between February17th-19th. The team then goes to Europe for more test sessions before the MotoGP World Championship begins at Jerez in Spain on April 10th.