Bradley Ray

Buildbase Suzuki

At 19 years old, Buildbase Suzuki’s Bradley Ray will be the youngest rider on the grid in 2017. Hotly tipped as one of Britain’s most talented youngsters, Ray turned heads in 2016 after a midseason turnaround in the supersport class saw him win more races than any other rider. “Superbike was the natural move for me,” Ray said, talking to MCN after his first pre-season test in Spain. “We were going to stay in supersport for another year but when the opportunity came up to join Buildbase Suzuki I couldn’t turn it down! “I spent most of pre-season testing trying to get used to the superbike. It’s bloody quick compared to my 600!” And while he’s joining some of his racing heroes on the BSB grid this year, Ray’s feet remain firmly on the ground and his expectations realistic. “BSB is going to be super-tough this season and it’s important for it to be a learning year for me. I’d like to be able to break into the top 10 sooner rather than later and then hopefully, if things go well, be pushing towards the podium later in the year.” One thing on Ray’s side will be having former Luke Mossey crew chief Ray Stringer in his corner. Stringer played a big part in Mossey’s ascent so has pedigree in developing talent.