Carl Stevens..................................
Ahell of a lot can change in a month that’s for sure, which is why I’m pretty convinced that ’ve just hit my mid-life crisis. So, as the Yamaha R6 we were meant to be getting turned up so late, we’ve binned it off anda decided to focus purely on my next venture; a brand spanking new Suzuki GSX-GR1000R to race in Superstock. Ohhhhhhh yes! This means that unfortunately I won’t be racing in the Ducati Tri-Options Cup any more, which is making me feel a bit emotional after almosta four years in the series. Madness how time flies, but to say I’m excited for the new beast is an understatement. Firstly I’d just like to say a massive thank you to Robinsons Foundry down in Canterbury for helping us sort this weapon out. We’ve just managed to pick it up as a road bike which means there’s a lot of work to be done, but I won’t be leaving out any details as it will be a project bike within the next few months. The plan is to get the thing built up ready to rock and roll, club race and test for the rest of the year, and then hit the ground running next season – but if anyone has any suggestions on learning a thousand, feel free to throw them my way! I’ve never actually raced one and I’ve only ever done roads and the odd launch, so I know I have my work cut out learning the old point and fire routine, although I’m hoping for a bit of help along the way…
So yeah, I’m really getting old now at the tender age of 22, and it definitely felt like the time to step up to the plate. This year has been pretty awesome for me so far; I’ve had two class wins in BSB and I feel pretty damn confident jumping on the big thousand now. And with the state of the 600 market it just felt like the right direction to head. And everyone loves more power, right?
All jokes aside though, I’d just like to take some time and say thanks to all the people that make it happen: Freeman Harris Solicitors, Colairo’s Coffee, ACF-50, Watling Tyres, Bossdog Graphics, and also a big welcome to Brands Hatch Place Hotel and Spa, who have given me gym membership for the year so I can be a lean, mean racing machine. Or as much as possible. It’s going to be hard work, but I know we can get there!