Suzuki brings forward performance tests

Factory Suzuki duo John Hopkins and Chris Vermeulen will test new engine parts immediately after this weekend’s Spanish GP in Jerez.

The initial plan had been to test new V4 motor performance parts after the Turkish GP in Istanbul next month, but the factory has flown them to Europe early and Hopkins and Vermeulen will evaluate the new upgrades at a test on Monday at Jerez.

Rizla Suzuki boss Paul Denning said: “The factory have decided to bring the tests forward, giving us more time to react for faster circuits like Istanbul and Shanghai.”
Every manufacturer is preparing to test a raft of new engine upgrades in the near future to try and close the huge advantage enjoyed by rivals Ducati.

Casey Stoner’s stunning debut win in Qatar exposed the horsepower and top speed disadvantage of Japanese factory bikes and Honda is also working on urgent performance upgrades.

Yamaha bosses recently confirmed to MCN that it was testing a motor in Japan with pneumatic valves to increase rpm and horsepower.