Chris Walker delighted with the new GSX-R1000K7

Chris Walker and Cal Crutchlow completed 293 laps over the two-day test. © Rizla Suzuki. Chris Walker and Cal Crutchlow completed a two-day test at the Valencia circuit. Stalker tested the new GSX-R1000K7 while his young team-mate tested the 2006 Rizla Suzuki during both days, finishing just one second behind Walker.

Walker rode the 2006 Rizla Suzuki at the Mallory Park Race of the Year and for the first morning of the Valencia test to get up to speed before trying the new fledgling GSX-R1000K7. Despite it featuring numerous standard production parts, within 15-laps he had comfortably bettered his previous best lap time.

“I started out on the 2006 bike so I could compare with the new GSX-R," said Chris. "On the K7 the engine is in development specification and there were road bike parts being used but even then it was a noticeable improvement over the old race bike."

“The new bike was easier to ride," added Chris. "Accurate and took less effort to hold its line and do what I wanted it to do. It's really encouraging as my lap times were good and there still remains a lot of untapped potential. It's a fast user-friendly bike and the team will now be working to make it even quicker. I'm smiling.”

Cal Crutchlow tested many parts and Dunlop tyres and is champing at the bit to ride the new GSX-R1000K7 at the team's next test, scheduled for late January 2007: “It's been a good test and I've learnt a lot about what you can adjust and change on a Superbike – there is a lot more than I have ever had to think about before. PJ, my Chief Mechanic, has also learnt a lot so from that point of view it's been a great test."

“Personally I am a little disappointed to have been beaten by my team mate but we all know the 2007 bike is at least a half second or more better than the 2006 GSX-R, so I'm okay with it. I can't wait to get my hands on the new bike so I can test it. January can't come quick enough.”
(Rizla Suzuki)

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