P28
IN
THE
WIND
SUZUKI BACK TO TESTING
T
he Suzuki MotoGP test team
completed three-days of testing at the Misano circuit in Italy
last week with Randy de Puniet
and Nobuatsu Aoki evaluating
several new parts, including a
new chassis, new engine-specifications and revised electronics,
plus a new-styled cowling.
De Puniet and Aoki put in more
than 200 laps of the 2.48-mile
circuit before moving to the next
test at Mugello this week.
The team initially encountered
some issues due to low rear-grip
and braking, but over the duration of the test much-needed
data was acquired and the team
was positive in advance of the
Mugello test.
De Puniet's best lap time on
the opening day was a 1:35.097
after completing 74 laps. After a
wet Tuesday - when De Puniet
did not go out and testing was
deputized to Aoki - this improved
to a 1:34.882 on the final day after 102 laps.
"I'm pleased because we have
improved our bike throughout
Randy de Puniet
at speed on the
Suzuki MotoGP
bike during testing
last week in Italy.
this test," de Puniet said. "The
rear-grip has improved and so
has the braking stability. We also
worked a lot on traction control to
adjust to the new engine specifications and I found a better throttle connection and improvement.
We also kept a good pace with
used tires, which is very important, and we have also greatlyimproved the turning by the end
of the test. Now it is important
to go to Mugello, where we can
continue to work on any weak
points and try to improve there
as well. I'm interested to see how
the wheeling control and engine
brake will work there as there
are few interesting points for
that, but having the Mugello test
so close, it keeps up in the pace
and momentum with the Suzuki
MotoGP Test Team program and
development."
KNIGHT TO SHERCO
T
hree-time World Enduro Champion and two-time GNCC
Champion David Knight has inked a deal to ride for the factory
Sherco team, through U.K. importers Malcolm Rathmell Sport.
The 35-year-old Knight, who received an MBE in 2001, will
compete in the Indoor World Enduro Championship as well as
the top extreme enduros.
Off-road legend David Knight has signed to race Shercos.
