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The first exam has been passed. Now Andrea Iannone and Suzuki are ready for the second, or rather Phillip Island. After the Malaysian tests, Davide Brivio is following the path of continuity in Australia, aware that the situation may change.
An encouraging start.
“It's true, but we can't forget that these are just tests, where everyone has their own work schedule to follow. Some riders might not be aiming to set the fastest times, preferring to focus on other aspect. We want to continue to grow, working on balance and set up and also the electronics”.
Iannone gave the frame full marks in Malaysia, but says there are still some small aspects to improve.
“We're aware that the frame and chassis are good. Perhaps we're lacking a little grip and only by working on the setting and electronics can we make that step we're looking for".
Will there be three bikes or only two at Phillip Island?
“This time just two. At Sepang we needed the 2016 version of the Suzuki to draw some comparisons and now we have a solid base on which to work we don't need to make any further comparisons”.
Did you expect Iannone to be immediately up front?
“We bet on Andrea because he's fast and we can aim high with him. We want to continue the work that we began with Vinales”.
In Malaysia were you more surprised to see Iannone so competitive or Vinales first with the Yamaha?
“Maverick is a very strong rider and we've seen this over the last two years. But I didn't expect him to be first in his very first test. We should point out though that Vinales ' jump from Suzuki to Yamaha is less complicated than Andrea's move from Ducati”.
What has struck you about Iannone over these months?
“I like his precision, he has the sensitivity needed to ride a bike like the Suzuki. After two years with Ducati, he can give us some indications as to how to proceed”.
Do you think he's rushing things?
“I don't think so, he's completing the work step by step. He's relaxed, he's tried to meet us halfway on everything”.
If there is positive feedback in Australia, will you raise the bar?
“We are challengers and thanks to the level achieved by Maverick we moved increasingly close to the podium. The aim now if for Suzuki to remain close to the top three”.
Guintoli tested the new GSX in Malaysia. Some are saying it's a revolutionary bike.
“I've heard that too. It seems fantastic, particularly the gearing, which is silent. Now it will take part in the national championships, the BSB, and the American and Japanese series”.
You said you were surprised by Vinales' best time set at Sepang. Will he be the anti Marquez?
“I hope that's Iannone” .
