Suzuki positive of winter progress

The pair sampled a host of prototype parts for the 2009 bike and also conducted two race simulation runs each to test next season's proposed single spec Bridgestone tyre.

"I really enjoyed the test because we tried a lot of things and were able to get through a lot, which produced very clear and positive results," said Capirossi. "We compared many things, tested two new chassis and lots of new parts, and we now understand much better how they work together.

"We were able to compare the old and new bikes and the 2009 prototype is definitely better, especially when the tyre is worn we can maintain a better lap-time, so this is a good step. We still have some work to do - especially to improve the engine still further - but it has been a really positive three days for us."

Vermeulen added: "It was a good test and I think I managed to get almost 250 laps done in the three days, which is about 1100km.

"We had a lot of new parts from Suzuki to try including, front forks, rear linkages, new frames and swinging arms and we also tested some control tyres from Bridgestone - which look like they will be the spec tyre for next year - and they worked pretty well with the bike straight away.

"We have definitely taken a step forward with the bike. I am really looking forward to the first test of next year and being able to use the new stuff that Suzuki will be able to develop from the results we have had here."