Suzuki duo await engine upgrade

Loris Capirossi and Chris Vermeulen are anxiously waiting news on whether Suzuki will be able to deliver a new GSV-R motor in time for the Italian GP race in Mugello.

Suzuki is readying a new improved V4 motor but it’s not expected to be delivered from Japan until the Catalunya MotoGP race in mid-June.

But veteran Italian Capirossi and Aussie Vermeulen are desperate for the new motor to be shipped early in time for the Mugello clash on May 31.

At 0.709 miles, Mugello has the longest straight on the MotoGP calendar where top speed is essential.

And the 2009 GSV-R has been criticised for its lack of top end performance, with the V4 easily outpaced by Honda, Ducati and Yamaha in a straight line.

Rizla Suzuki team boss Paul Denning told MCN that Japanese factory engineers were acutely aware of Capirossi and Vermeulen’s demands on having the motor ready for Mugello.

Denning said: “Barcelona is the target but Suzuki are doing their best to see if anything can be advanced, but I doubt it with parts delivery that anything can come earlier.

“The target for the new engine is to make it faster, simple as that. The riders have requested to have it from Mugello because of the need for top speed on the long straight, but I think Barcelona is more realistic.”