MotoGP: Suzuki look to close gap on Ducati

Suzuki’s 2008 factory GSV-R needs to improve significantly on corner exit acceleration to have a chance of challenging Ducati and reigning world champion Casey Stoner next season.

Rizla Suzuki boss Paul Denning told MCN: “We need to improve some of our electronic control strategies to the level that Ducati has.

“We need to be able to get the first jump off the corner a little bit better as well. We need to retain the durability and braking stability and rider feedback and overall handling.

“But they need to be more aggressive with the bike when it’s right on its side, so whether that comes from electronics or grip, we’ll find out, but we need to come off the corner a bit harder will help us fight a bit more.”

Paul Denning said it was going to be a tough challenge for anybody to overhaul Casey Stoner, who won 10 races during a dominant charge to the 2007 world title.

“Casey rode on a level of confidence and natural instinct that was just phenomenal. He deserved everything he achieved. For his worst result to be sixth was amazing.

“It’s going to be hard to beat him if he can repeat that,” added Denning.