The first 2022 launch live from the Sepang pitlane saw Suzuki Ecstar unveil its updated MotoGP GSX-RR alongside Joan Mir and Alex Rins.
A disappointing 2021 season now behind them, the 2020 champion is more determined than ever to hit the heights of the premier class championship as the calendar returns to a demanding 21-race schedule.
With test rider Sylvain Guintoli already enjoying over 150 laps of the Malaysian track aboard the ‘really interesting’ new engine, the Frenchman and former WorldSBK champion feels his factory teammates will be ‘happy with the evolutions’.
Mir was quick to admit he was ‘expecting more’ from last year but is back to ‘fight again’ this time around and ‘more prepared than ever’. Rins also reflected on the missed opportunities of 2021 but begins the new season with a fresh ‘mentality’ and ‘extra motivation’.
“I took some time during the winter to relax and shut off after a tricky 2021 season,” Mir explained from the Sepang International Circuit. “I was happy to finish third in the championship but I’m hungry for more, and it was important to reset so that I could focus 100% on achieving my maximum. My pre-season training has gone well and I’m feeling fit and ready to attack.
“I’m looking forward to getting back on my bike, the tests that took place at the end of last year showed an improved performance that I’m happy with, so now it’s time to show the new livery and put more laps in ahead of the season start in around one month’s time.”
“The new GSX-RR looks amazing, and it also performs well!” Rins confirmed. “I’m really happy to be nearing the start of a new season. I’ve done a lot of training during the break, not only in the gym but also on my GSXR1000R street bike. However, nothing compares to our race bike at the circuits.
“It's nice to reunite with the team, we are all focused on the same goal and I trust in them, we’ve all shown that we’re ready to achieve great things. The test days will be important, but we can’t wait for the first race in Qatar!”
“The off-season has been a very busy one with a lot of hard work, both in Europe and in Japan,” Project Leader and Team Director, Shinichi Sahara added. “Everybody has been putting in a huge effort to prepare for a new season where we hope to be more competitive.
“We have a lot of trust in our project, and in our two riders, and we are keen to get started – not only in testing but racing. Our GSX-RR looks impressive and with support from our key sponsors, fans, and team members we want to put it on the top step as soon as possible. During the last test in Jerez we saw great potential in the new components, and the feedback from our test rider Sylvain Guintoli, as well as Joan and Alex, was pretty positive. Because of this we started the winter break with some nice vibes and in good spirits. Let’s see what we can show in this exciting new season.”
