Vermeulen backs Hopkins' absence

Hopkins will fly to Jerez to join the team from Friday's running, but is doubtful to get on his Rizla Suzuki bike following the broken toe and bruising he suffered in a high speed crash at Qatar last week.

Although missing the test will limit the amount of development work the team will be able to do with their GSV-R800, Vermeulen believes that it is more important Hopkins is fit and ready for the start of the campaign.

"It's such a shame that John might not be fit, but it is more important to him and the team to make sure he's 100% for Qatar," said the Australian. "I know he'll be helping us as much as he can and wishing he was out there."

Vermeulen says he is quite happy with the progress of the GSV-800, although admits that there is always room for improvement.

"This is the last chance that we have to make any significant improvements to the bike in a test environment. The bike is pretty good at the moment but we are always looking for a bit more."

Vermeulen will be joined at the test by Kousuke Akiyoshi, who will be a wildcard entrant for Rizla Suzuki at the second round of the series at the Spanish track.

"I am very much looking forward to testing at Jerez," said the Japanese rider. "I was always coming here so I could learn the track for next month's race.

"It is now even more important for me to be here as John has some problems. I want to do very well and will give Rizla Suzuki MotoGP my best performance."