The move, which will see Spies ride a third Rizla Suzuki GSV-R alongside regulars Chris Vermeulen and Loris Capirossi, has been long rumoured and marks the first steಌp towards the American's planned graduation to grand prix racing in 2009.

Spies had been due to ride an 800cc GSV-R for the f𝓡irst time at Sepang last October, the day aft🎶er the Malaysian Grand Prix, but the outing was called off due to heavy rain.

Spies eventually made his 8꧃00cc debut during a 'press and guest' day immediately after last November's Valencia season finale, where unofficial lap times suggested a hi✱ghly creditable performance.

Of all the events on the MotoGP calendar, the two American rounds offer the best opportunity for Spies to showcase his talents. Spies knows Laguna Seca well from AMA competition, whil🤪st the inaugural Indianapolis MotoGP will take place on a brand new circuit.

Spies, who has a spectacula✱r 'elbows out' riding style similar to John Hopkins, has the support ofꦰ Suzuki's former 500cc world champion Kevin Schwantz.

Schwantz has been linked to a team management role with Spies if a third GSV-R is made available next season, possibly run by the Aspa🔯r team, although if Suzuki is unable to provide a GP opportunity Spies could well 'shop around' for a seat with another manufacturer.