Ryo handed European GP rides

Akira Ryo, the Japanese rider who took Suzuki’s GSR-V four-stroke GP bike to a debut podium in Suzuka this year, will return for the factory for a handful of European rounds – starting with the Catalunya Grand Prix.

The 34-year-old makes his return to the GP circuit to help push forward the development of the GSR-V project alongside Kenny Roberts and Sete Gibernau.

Ryo, who’s the reigning All-Japan Superbike champion, will be a wildcard for the Catalunya race on June 16, followed by the Assen GP on June 29 and finally the British GP at MCN Donington Park.

Ryo said: ” I’m very happy – the GSR-V is an incredible bike and we’re very pleased with its performance after such a short time.

” But Suzuki wants to win and we need to accelerate the development of the bike. That means having another rider competing at the highest level and giving more feedback to the factory. That’s my job in these races. ”