Suzuki boss expectant ahead of Qatar test

Suzuki boss Paul Denning has told MCN the acid test of how much the 2010 factory GSV-R machine has improved will come during this week’s final winter test session in Qatar.

A major target for Suzuki in the winter has been to make its V4 contender a bike that works in a wide range of performance.

Last year’s GSV-R was highly competitive in hot conditions but was left floundering in cold and cooler temperatures.

Having been competitive with Italian veteran Loris Capirossi at two tests in baking hot conditions at Sepang earlier this year, a two-day test in Qatar later this week will be vital for Suzuki.

Run at night under the Losail International Circuit’s floodlights, temperatures will be considerably cooler and Denning emphasised the importance of the test when he told MCN: “That (Qatar test) is going to be a real important test for us where we can hope that the bike works well.

“That will be more of an indication of where we’re at. We’ve gone well at Sepang but we did 12 months ago and its not any real guide just as yet.

“We know we have got two fast riders and the bike goes well round Sepang, but that’s not a clue that it will work well everywhere which is the target.

“So Qatar should give us a clue of our potential.”