The 32-year-old Italian is currently sixth in the overall standings, just eleven points away from second place - two consecutive victories in Japan and Malaysia, and another pole position in Qatar meant a miracle recovery from a difficult first part of the season, and made all the difference in the outlook for the rest of the season.

"Since Bridgestone came up with their latest generation of tyres, I can ride the bike the way I really want to - and I feel strong enough for more victories this year," says Capirossi, who has sweet memories of Phillip Island: Back in 1990, he won his first world title there, and has enjoyed plenty more success here, including podium finishes at the last two Australian GP's. Capirossi is also the current lap record holder.

Phillip Island also marks the return of Kawasaki rider Olivier Jacque, who had dropped out of the last Grand Prix in Qatar due to lower back and shoulder pain. "Phillip Island is one of my favourites, and I have very happy memories there," says Jacque who won his 250 cc title there five years ago - as a team-mate of Shinya Nakano who is now his team-mate again. "Shinya has shown the potential of the latest Kawasaki motor and the new Bridgestone tyres, plus the ZX-RR has precise handling, which is critical at the island."

Based on the latest tyre generation, Bridgestone prepared a variety of construction and compound alterations to suit the special requirements of the track. A total of 1000 tyres were shipped to Australia, with a choice of 3-4 different front and 5-8 different rear tyres.