Suzuki chose Phillip Island to gather its final information before the winter test ban due to the technically demanding nature of the 4,448km seaside circuit.
Both
Chris Vermeulen and new signing
Loris Capirossi carried out a huge test schedule over the two days - covering nearly 400 laps or 1,800km between them on the 2008 GSV-R - and were able to assess the new machine without the distractions of other riders on the circuit.
As a result of their considerable efforts, Suzuki's engineers claim to have a clear idea of which direction they need to go in - not just at Phillip Island, but also at the other 17 circuits on the 2008 calendar.
"This has been a very positive test for us and we have got through loads of stuff during the two days!" said Vermeulen. "It's quite difficult to gauge how well you are doing with no other riders here, but that has also been a positive thing as we have been able to get on with our job and not worry about other riders or lap-times. I know my pace on the new bike was better than the race here in October, but that was not what this test was all about.
"We were here to find out what would make the bike work better and we have certainly made big steps towards doing that, we have learned a lot that will help us not just at Phillip Island but elsewhere as well. It's now just a shame that we have seven weeks off as I would like to continue working with the new bike and making sure we are as competitive as we can be when the season starts next March!" added the Le Mans race winner.
"It was a very good test for me," stated former Ducati rider Capirossi. "I did nearly 200 laps and got through an incredible amount of work and we have found a good direction to go in. We got though our full test schedule and although we still have some things to improve, we now have a clear idea of what is needed and we are confident that we know how we are going to get there.
