Suzuki has become the latest MotoGP team to unveil its 2018 challenger, the Japanese manufacturer pulling the wraps off the new GSX-RR at a launch in Malaysia.
After ending its nine-year win drought in 2016 courtesy of Maverick Vinales, Suzuki endured a tough 2017 as it brought in an all-new line-up of rookie Alex Rins and former Ducati rider Andrea Iannone.
Iannone found adapting to the GSX-RR a difficult task and failed to register a podium finish, while Rins' year was hindered by a wrist injury sustained in Texas. The pair finished 13th and 16th respectively in the standings, with Suzuki ending the year fourth in the manufacturers' table.
While the new bike mostly resembles last year's GSX-RR, the team's Technical Manager Ken Kawauchi says the focus over the winter has been on regaining the bike balance lost in 2017.
“During this off-season, we [have] prepared many, many test items,” Kawauchi stated.
“Our bike looks similar to last year, but [there are] very small things, [with] effective changes. So I'm looking forward to trying tomorrow.
“The most important thing is our bike balance. Last year we made bike changes, but our bike balance was a little bit missing.
"Now, [compared to] the data from last year, our bike is getting better balance now.”
With 2017 yielding no podium finishes for the Japanese marque, Suzuki will regain the technical concessions it lost at the end of the 2016 campaign.
Last year's troubles were largely blamed on a misdirection with the new engine, which was sealed according to the regulations prior to the Qatar Grand Prix. Having its concessions back means Suzuki will be able carry out in-season engine development.
Official 2018 testing begins at Sepang on Sunday.
