Vermeulen puzzled by Laguna speed

The Australian was a double winner at Laguna in Superbikes in 2004, then took pole and led for much of the race in MotoGP at the Californian track last season.

He will start from the front row again in 2007, having qualified third.

"I guess if I knew I'd do it everywhere," Vermeulen replied when asked why he was so fast at Laguna.

"I don't know at all, it's just the bike, the tyres, everything works easily for me, but it's not that it's easy, but I'm comfortable at that pace."

Vermeulen said he was riding well within himself - and pondered whether that style might be the reason for his speed.

"Touch wood it won't happen, but I haven't run off or gone anywhere near a kerb," he said.

"I have plenty of track left. It's one thing that our data shows compared to John; I do the same track but I do 30 metres a lap less. I don't know if that's the trick for the lap time, but there's a lot of difference."

Vermeulen was on course for a podium at Laguna Seca last year before fuel vaporisation strangled the Suzuki in the last two laps, leaving him to cross the line in fifth.

He believes his race pace will be very strong again this season, especially as he is extremely confident about his Bridgestone tyres.

"Our rear looks brand new after 50 laps, while the front looks completely finished after two laps, but it stays consistent and able to ride for the rest of the race," Vermeulen said.