MotoGP Sepang test: Loris Capirossi impressed with new 2008 Suzuki prototype

Italian Loris Capirossi beat his best Ducati 800cc race lap at the Sepang circuit by 0.7sec as he got his first chance to test Suzuki’s 2008 prototype factory GSV-R machine today.

Loris Capirossi’s debut on the new machine, which features an all-new chassis designed for better handling at part lean angle, saw him set the fifth best time of the day with a 2.02.698.

That comfortably beat his best Ducati GP7 logged in last month’s Malaysian MotoGP, which was a 2.03.398.

In a 65-lap stint, Loris Capirossi posted four laps faster than his quickest pace on the Ducati, though his longest run today was only five laps as he constantly came into the pits to make changes as he gathers data and information on the GSV-R.

The prototype bike is still running the 2007 motor, though Aussie team-mate Chris Vermeulen did test some new electronics today on his way to posting the second fastest time. He posted a best of 2.02.344, which beat his best 800cc Sepang race lap by 0.6sec.

Chris Vermeulen also continued to test new 2008 Ohlins front forks and rear suspension, which Loris Capirossi hopes to debut tomorrow on the third and final day.

On the new chassis, he told MCN: “The first impression is quite positive. The bike is more reactive and it turns a little bit better.

“The engine spec is the same of ’07 but the fairing is better and the bike feels lighter. My lap time is better than Ducati and this for sure for me is good.”