Suzuki commit to 2012
Added on Friday, July 29th, 2011 by Carole Nash Editor
Suzuki commit to 2012
Suzuki has claimed that it will compete in MotoGP in 2012, although the team may run with an 800cc prototype engine rather than a new 1000cc unit.
The Rizla Suzuki team, which has been plagued by rumours of a withdrawal from MotoGP altogether, appeared to reaffirm their commitment to MotoGP in 2012 via partners Motul, who spoke of the challenges ahead for the coming year.
“With the move next year towards 1000cc machines, Motul’s engineers and their Suzuki counterparts have started to work on new projects to ensure that the Rizla Suzuki team have exactly the right products available from the outset,” read a statement. “MotoGP provides the challenge of real-time research and development for Motul’s products and the testing they undergo is rigorous; prototype machines operate at 18,000 revs per minute and produce 250bhp!”
It is expected that Suzuki will continue with an 800cc engine in the GSV-R, allowing them to take advantage of greater fuel efficiency and a 3kg weight advantage compared to the 153kg minimum weight for 1000cc machines.
Speculation also surrounds the team’s rider for 2012, with John Hopkins rumoured to be joining the team as part of a two rider line-up, partnering current rider Alvaro Bautista.
