And Monza is a track he enjoys, so all the signs are in place for some progress to be made. The three recent long trips have not allowed the team any time to work on the new 2002 bikes, so it's been a hard slog for all concerned. But now, Monza is the start of four races in Europe and the team are hoping to really push ahead with developing the GSX-R750 Suzuki.

"I'm so happy to be back in Europe, not because I don't like the places we've visited, but because it means that we can really start working on our bikes and analyse the data so far," commented Gregorio.

He continued, "Our bike is new this year and we have totally new suspension, so none of the previous data is of any use. Because the bikes have been flying around the continents, we haven't been able to work on them ­ as we would if we were in Europe. That has hurt us pretty bad.

"Before the season began, I said that the first four rounds would be hard on us and that our season would really only start at Monza and I still think that's right. I like Monza and I've had some good results there, so I'm hoping that we can have a really good race and come away with something really positive.

"Last year, I was on a different bike, so Monza is going to be really interesting for me. I know the Suzuki has got good top speed and if we can get it to handle well in the chicanes, then we might have a good day on Sunday."

Alstare Suzuki is in much better shape heading in to the 5th round of the World SuperSport Championship with Stephane Chambon looking to extend his lead in the series.

Chambon is at the top of the title race at present and knows that another consistent high finish is required if he is to maintain his grip on the lead. Team mate Fujiwara had his best result of the year in the last round in Japan and is confident his amazing run of bad luck is over. The Japanese rider ­ like most riders ­ enjoys Monza and believes his GSX-R600 Suzuki has the ability to be on the podium.

But the Supersport World Championship is ultra-competitive and first he and Chambon know they have to do well in qualifying to give themselves a chance of success on Sunday.

"Last year I was on a Superbike, so Monza will feel very different to me," said Chambon.

"I last raced a Supersport at Monza two years ago and finished ninth, but I'm hoping for a much better result this year and will be disappointed if I don't end up in the top four really. Of course a win, or at least a podium, is what I'm really aiming for. This class is very hard and the bikes are so close, that it's vital not to make any mistakes or crash. But my Suzuki is going well and I'm enjoying riding it, so I'm hoping for a good result. It would be nice to win and extend my series lead, but it's important for me not to crash. We'll see what happens, but I want a podium." state the French ex world champion.