’19 IS SHAPING UP NICELY
It’s almost the New Year, which means we’re one step closer to the new racing season… and I for one am bloody excited as BSB is promising to be back and bigger than ever. Now yeah, I know people always seem to say that, but with Haslam and Shakey (probably) out of proceedings, it really is giving that little extra breathing space for the rest of the grid to get their guns on show. Although it will be far from easy…
So what’s been happening since the last time I put pen to paper? Well the first little nugget is that the JG Speedfit Kawasaki squad have already been out spinning some laps, giving Irwin and Currie their fast taste of the ZX-10RR – albeit not the new one they’ll actually be spanking come round one. Even so, both of the lads went incredibly fast and this will only be made easier when the new (faster) bikes arrive for their next outing in March, and if we dig a little deeper, let us not forget that Irwin was incredibly fast and consistent at the end of ’18, and Currie took the fight right to the very end in Supersport on what is now essentially an eight-year-old bike. Bets on for those two to be in the Showdown?
Well not just yet. The rumour mill is still roaring and by the time you cast your eyes on this column, all should be clear – but it looks like there could be another world class addition to the grid in the shape of Xavi Fores. This could be a monumental move as this isn’t just any old World Superbike throwaway – this is a European, CEV and IDM champ, not to mention the fact that he’s stuck his second rate Barni Racing Panigale on the box in WSBK where it should’ve been nearly impossible. I just hope if he does make the switch, he can get dialled in quickly with the lack of any proper electronics and the insane rollercoasters we call our tracks as other big names have struggled.
But then again, it’s not just about the new dogs as the old guard are still out there. Rumour has it Ellison is going to be back to try and get that illusive title on a brand new Beemer, while Wilf and the squad at Moto Rapido have not only secured some cash backing with a title sponsor of Oxford Products, but also retained the services of a stupidly-fast and utterly committed Tommy Bridewell. For me, if they can nail down the development of the V4R quickly, they could be the real underdogs – and with some help in the budget, it’s more likely than ever.