R1 champ makes jump to BSB
Added on Friday, January 23rd, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Kirkham dominated the R1 championship last year.
Yamaha R1 champion Jon Kirkham has stepped up to the British Superbikes Championship after signing with the Jentin Yamaha team for 2009.
Kirkham will step up to the highest level of British domestic racing on board the Lloyds British Yamaha after impressing in both the Yamaha R1 Cup, winning by a margin of 38 points, and the Superstock 1000 series, in which he finished runner up to Steve Brogan.
The 24-year-old was understandably pleased about the deal and told the BSB website that believes that podium finishes are well within his grasp next season.
“I am feeling really confident ahead of the new season,” he said. “I had a really good set of results in 2008, with the championship win in the Yamaha R1 Cup and then also strong results in the Superstock 1000 class. That was on equal machinery in the Cup and pretty equal in the Superstock Championship and I am under no illusions that BSB is going to be a challenge. I had a taster of BSB at the final round and I can’t wait for the first race of 2009.
“I am pleased to be staying on a Yamaha with the Lloyds British Jentin team. They are a brilliant squad and because they only have one rider, the team are completely focused on working with me. I think we have a really good chance of getting the results next season, my first aim is to be running in the top five and then like everybody else, will be looking for the podium.”
Team Manager Bernie Toleman added: “On behalf of everyone in the team I am delighted to welcome Jon on board.
“I have been watching Jon very closely throughout the 2008 season and have certainly been impressed. Without doubt he has proved that he is more than capable on a Superbike scoring two strong results at Brands Hatch after stepping in, quite literally at the very last minute, to take over the factory backed Yamaha team ride.
“I genuinely believe that the timing is now right for JK to really make his mark on the BSB championship and we have every intention to provide him with both the equipment and team support to do just that.”
