Shane “Shakey” Byrne and James Haydon completed more than 100 laps each during a test of their latest GSX-R1000s at the Croft circuit in North Yorkshire this week. The 2.12-mile flat, twisty and fast track is Rizla Suzuki’s chosen test circuit as its variety of corners and braking zones is ideal for proving developments to the GSX-R1000 race bikes. Both Byrne and Haydon rode the latest versions of the Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K6 fitted with a new fuel cell that is designed to optimise the weight distribution of the motorcycles. Initial reaction is the new bikes have improved stability at high speed and under braking. The riders worked through a series of chassis tests and Shakey tried a new set of forks. Dunlop was at the circuit with new tyres for the riders to try under clear blue sky and ideal conditions. Shakey was close to lap record pace and James only a fraction behind by the end of the day. The test was shared with the Vivaldi Suzuki team. Rizla Suzuki goes to Mondello Park in the Republic of Ireland for the fifth round of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship on May 21st. The team will return to Croft on July 5th and 6th for its next official test. Robert Wicks, Team Manager: “It’s been a very positive test for the team and there has been progress made on almost all fronts with the GSX-R1000. “Thank you to Dunlop for supporting the test and to the riders for putting in such hard graft all day long. The whole team is enthused and encouraged by today’s findings and will be using the information to make our bikes as competitive as possible for the next round at Mondello Park in less than two weeks time.”