Bayliss to try hand at V8s
Added on Friday, February 20th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Bayliss to try hand at V8s
World Superbikes champion Troy Bayliss looks set for a return to the circuit but on four wheels rather than two, after speaking of his desire to try his hand at V8 Supercars.
The 2008 WSB champion, who retired at the end of the season, is keen to try his hand at four-wheeled racing in the Australian V8 series, with a wildcard seat with South East Queensland-based team Triple 8 thought to be lined up for the Bathurst 1000 in March. That drive could open up a regular seat for Bayliss in 2010.
Bayliss told Australian newspaper The Courier Mail that he is “getting edgy” and eager to get back into competition.
“Cars are something that I love and I’ve been watching the V8s for many years. Bathurst would be good. I’ve done my time there on a bike. It would be my favourite place,” he said.
“I’m under no illusions how difficult it will be. I’ve been thinking about this (a full-time return) for quite a while so (racing) is not an easy thing to just pack up and stop.”
Bayliss has however ruled out any regular appearances on a bike after reportedly turning down a regular testing position with Ducati, although the occasional one-off test is an option.
“I might do a test at Mugello on the superbike and GP bike just to keep my eye in, but I won’t be an official test rider for Ducati,” he confirmed.
