"The most important thing for me is that the team now understands what I need and are working in that direction," he explained. "Every time we go out we try something different and this is a really good way to improve. Sometimes we go the wrong way, but often what we try is better and that is why we have improved our lap times a lot each day."

Nine years may separate Capirossi and team-mate Chris Vermeulen, but both have similar characters and the #65 has plenty of experience of riding alongside Australians.

"I have a great relationship with Chris," said Loris, now the most experienced rider in the premier-class. "This is my third Australian - the first one was Troy [Bayliss], the second one was Casey and now Chris. I always have a great relationship with Australian guys because they are so friendly and it is good to work with them."

Capirossi will be back in Australia later this week, when he and Vermeulen will be among the teams testing at Phillip Island - an outing that will have particular significance for Suzuki, since the high-speed seaside circuit was one of its toughest racetracks in 2007.

The team will also be able to make direct comparisons with its form during the private November test.