DARYL BEATTIE goes into action for the first time this season at the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday determined to break Honda's monopoly of top honours in the motorcycle world championship.
The Australian Suzuki rider suffered head and neck injuries during testing before the season started. While sidelined, he has seen Hondas race into the lead in the 500cc world title rankings.
"I feel fit and fine. I hate to make predictions but if I finish on the rostrum I'll be happy," the 25-year-old said.
Fellow Australian Michael Doohan, the reigning world champion, took the Indonesian Grand Prix two weeks ago. Another Honda rider Alexandre Barros of Brazil finishing second in both races.
Beattie, who is already 40 points behind Barros and 36 behind Doohan, added, "It will be a good race but really I may need a little more time to get back my confidence."
