Tsingtao Kawasaki sign Kirkham for 2014 BSB

Tsingtao kawasaki have secured the services of Jon Kirkham for the 2014 MCE British Superbike Championship, as the former race winner shifts from BMW to Kawasaki machinery.

Two-time race winner Kirkham narrowly missed out on a place in the Showdown in both 2011 and 2013, winning the Riders’ Cup both years, but his sights are firmly set on a top six spot for 2014.

Kirkham said: “It is exciting to be part of a relatively new team and to ride a Kawasaki as it has been proven at both World and British level that it is a really strong package; our job now is to make the team an established contender. Last season I missed out on the Showdown on the race count back as it was equal points so hopefully 2014 is the year we can crack it!”

Team owner Dave Tyson concluded: “Last season we made our debut in the Superbike class and now for 2014 we want to build on that and hit the ground running when the season starts at Brands Hatch. We believe that with the combination of what we have already learnt as a team, plus Jon’s ability we have the chance now to move forward next year and we will be pushing hard to try and secure a place for the first time in the Showdown.”

For the full story see this Wednesday’s Motorcycle News.