Guintoli makes debut on Crescent Suzuki.

Sylvain Guintoli has enjoyed his first taste of the Crescent Suzuki GSX-R1000 after getting a chance to test the 2008-specification bike at Brands Hatch.

The Frenchman made his official switch from MotoGP to the British Superbike Championship when he completed a total of 88 laps around the Indy configuration of the Kent circuit.

Riding the machine that took Tom Sykes to three wins and fourth in the overall BSB standings this year, Guintoli admits that adapting to the Superbike was his primary concern, even if he still pleased with the initial impression of the package.

"Today has been a very positive first ride for me," he said afterwards. "It was not about setting lap times, but more about getting used to the characteristics of a Superbike.

"Having not raced at Brands Hatch before there was quite a lot to take in, but I still managed to end the day feeling very comfortable. The GSX-R1000 is an impressive package and I'm now very eager to start the new season with Crescent Suzuki."

Although no lap times were released by the team, Crescent Suzuki team manager Jack Valentine was suitably impressed with his new star signing.

"We've all been impressed by Sylvain's attitude and ability to switch so easily to the Superbike today. While he's had to ride the 2008 model, it gives us all a good base to start with, before we commence track tests on the 2009 bike."

Guintoli will continue testing with the team in Spain early next year when the 2009-specification machine makes its debut.

Look out for a special video Q&A with Sylvain Guintoli to be broadcast on Crash.net later this week.....