Suter to test BMW powered 1000cc bike

The bike is on course for a 2011 debut should Dorna open up the entry to allow 1000cc bikes a year earlier than planned

28 May 2010

Eskil Suter, Jerez Moto2 Test March 2010
© Gold and Goose

Moto2 front runner Suter is close to making its MotoGP debut after it was revealed that plans to test a BMW-engined 1000cc machine are reaching an advanced stage.

The Swiss constructor is currently developing a prototype to hit the track in the next couple of months, possibly as early as July or August when it could join its prospective MotoGP rivals in a group test following the Czech Grand Prix at Brno.

"We think we can have the bike on track already in July," GPOne.com quotes Eskil Suter as saying. "We would like to be ready for the second MotoGP test at Brno in mid-August. Our rider would likely be Roberto Rolfo, who is already our test rider for Moto2."

The move to the premier class would coincide with the decision to revert back to 1000cc bikes from 2012, although it is anticipated the option to race a larger capacity bike could be brought forward to 2011 in a bid to boost ailing grid numbers.

The eponymous owner is no stranger to MotoGP having had a hand in developing MotoGP chassis for Kawasaki, Ilmor and Petronas in the past.

Suter is currently competing as a constructor in the inaugural Moto2 series where the chassis has proven to be a popular option with 13 customers in a field of approximately 40 riders.