The weather during the tests was generally good, with temperatures roundabout the 17-20 C mark, and this time they did not have problems with strong winds - as they did when they tested there late last year. 

Then, Muggeridge and Fujiwara were on the 2000 GSX-R600 Suzukis, but this time both riders had use of the new 2001 bikes. Most of the test was taken up by the riders getting to know the new for 2001 bikes. This was a complete success with lap times around three seconds faster than using the old bike. 

Both riders found the 2001 GSXR600 Suzukis better handling than the 2000 models and now are looking forward to the start of the season with eager anticipation. 

Karl Muggeridge - "The new bike feels much better then the 2000 one and we soon got down to some really good times. I had a little electrical problem - which restricted the number of laps I did - but I'm happy with the way the test went. Kats and I are very close - in lap times - so I think it's going to be a great season for the team. My best lap was done on soft rubber, but on regular stuff I was still over two seconds quicker then before." 

Katsuaki Fujiwara - "I'm really enjoying myself on the bike and this new GSX-R600 Suzuki is great. It steers better and changes direction better then the 2000 bike. I'm happy that I lapped much quicker here then before and I think Karl and I will be challenging for the title for sure. I'm really looking forward to the start of the season and seeing how we get on against the competition." 

Karl Muggeridge - best lap, 1:40.3 
Katsuaki Fujiwara - best lap, 1:40.4 

Read our test on the standard 2001 GSX-R 600