Suzuki keen to build on momentum

Suzuki riders John Hopkins and Chris Vermeulen are hoping to keep improving on their strong start to the 2007 season

The riders have been pleased with the 800cc GSV-R machine this year, but they believe that there is still more to come from the package.

Both riders are optimistic for this weekend's race at Barcelona, as the team enjoyed a strong weekend at the circuit last year.

"We need to keep our good run going," said Vermeulen, who took his first MotoGP win two races ago at Le Mans.

"I am looking for a good result this weekend as we definitely have the bike to do it, as John and I have shown in previous weeks."

Hopkins finished fourth at the Spanish track last year, and he believes that he is capable of achieving more this time round.

"I got a fourth here in 2006 and was very pleased with that but I will be planning to go a few steps higher than that this weekend," he said.

"The 990cc bike performed well there, so I'm sure the 800cc also will - it's a huge step forward from last year's bike.

"So far this season has been good, but I know we have the package to make it even better."

Both Suzuki riders are currently in the top six in the standings this season, with Vermeulen just four points ahead of his teammate.