MotoGP: Suzuki to persevere with hybrid machine

Suzuki will continue to run a 2007/08 hybrid machine for the foreseeable future despite a relatively disappointing start to the season.

After a promising debut 800cc campaign last season when the Suzuki GSV-R V4 claimed eight podiums including one victory apiece for Chris Vermeulen and John Hopkins, 2008 has yet to see Suzuki claim a rostrum.

Following some disappointing pre-season results, Vermeulen and Loris Capirossi reverted back to a 2007 chassis and bodywork package with this year’s engine and electronics, and factory team boss Paul Denning said the hybrid machine would continue to be the base line machine at least until the summer break.

“The base package in terms of engine and chassis combination is quite clear but there some benefits of the 2008 package that the factory want to incorporate and I think the development process of this package will be quicker during the year than will normally be the case,” said Denning.

“Suzuki wants to re-introduce some of the positives of the ‘08 package while retaining the benefits of the package we have now. This is the baseline machine now and you won’t see big changes over the next few races.”

Asked in which area Suzuki wanted to re-introduce that were benefits on the original 2008 prototype GSV-R, Denning said: “There were some aero advantages in terms of top speed and lightness of handling making the bike easier to steer.

“The advantages we are looking are the same as everyone, more edge grip, smoother and easier to modulate horsepower. Our base package is reasonable and we are looking for the same as others.”