New boy Cluzel hails 'fantastic' Suzuki

New Fixi Crescent Suzuki signing Jules Cluzel was raving over the performance of the GSX-R1000 after getting to grips with the machine for the first time at Almeria.

Cluzel is participating in a two-day test with teammate Leon Camier at the Spanish venue, which concludes today.

The French rider, who impressed in the World Supersport Championship in 2012 as he won four races on his way to the runner-up position in the series on the PTR Honda, said he was forced to alter his riding style to adapt to the Yoshimura-powered GSX-R1000.

"It was fantastic to be able to ride the FIXI Crescent Suzuki GSX-R for the first time.

"It was a big difference from my last bike and it has so much power compared to the weight, so I have to alter my riding style because everything is happening much faster," said Cluzel.

"The bike also enters the corners much quicker, but it feels good and I'm enjoying it.

"I am also having to learn how the tyres, electronics and the chassis work and just understand what's happening," he added.

"I used only the hardest compound tyres today as I need time to learn, but my lap-times were not too bad and I was happy for the first day on a completely new bike on a new track.

"I'm really looking forward to tomorrow and I'm sure as I get more experience I will be able to go faster."

The 2013 Fixi Crescent Suzuki boasts a new-spec engine, plus updated electronics and improved aerodynamics.