Neukirchner: "It's good to be back at Honda"

New Ten Kate Honda signing Max Neukirchner maintains he is back to fitness and is set to get his first ride on the CBR1000RR Superbike in a two day test at the Parkalgar circuit after the final round of the championship.

The 26 year old German will return to Honda following time onboard a Pedercini Ducati in 2006 and three years riding for Alstare Suzuki. Neukirchner shot to fame in his first WSB season riding the Klaffi Honda at Phillip Island in 2005 when he battled with Chris Vermeulen for the final podium place before claiming his first WSB podium in race two.

Since then he has established himself at Germany’s number one rider and has two WSB race wins to his credit, both secured during 2008.

Neukirchner said: “I have to say that my feeling is really good right now. The Ten Kate team is so big and experienced and the CBR1000RR is clearly such a strong package. Jonathan has proved that with his victories this year and I’m really looking forward to being his team-mate as we are good friends. It feels really great to be back on a Honda; I am feeling fit and I’m determined to put a good season together next year.”

Team Boss Ronald Ten Kate has revealed that signing Neukirchner to ride alongside Jonathan Rea has given him a dream team for 2010.

He said: “As much as anyone else, we were caught by surprise when we found out about Max’s availability. We immediately saw a ‘dream team’ line-up with Jonathan Rea, which is probably the youngest pairing ever in a World Superbike championship team, with both riders already having wins under their belts. We understand that Max may need some time to find his full race-craft again but we are quite sure that his talent, motivation and determination will get him quickly back up to speed.”

 

 

Max Neukirchner – career history

1997: ADAC Junior Cup – Aprilia 125cc
          National 125cc championship (Honda)
1999: 4th German road-racing championship
          National 125cc championship (Honda)
2000: 10th German 250cc championship (Honda)
2001: 5th German 250cc championship (Honda)
2002: 2nd Ger man 250cc championship (Honda)
          10th European 250cc championship (Honda)
2003: 3rd European 250cc championship (Honda)
2004: 9th World Supersport championship (Honda)
2005: 12th World Superbike championship (Honda)
2006: 18th World Superbike championship (Ducati)
2007: 9th World Superbike championship (Suzuki)
2008: 5th World Superbike championship (Suzuki) – two wins
2009: (prior to final round)16th World Superbike championship (Suzuki)
          Only first four rounds contested, due to injury.