Motorcycling: Reynolds targets win double

John Reynolds intends to begin the defence of his British Superbike Championship title where he left off last term, with a double race victory.

But the Nottingham rider is all too well aware that he faces stiffer competition in the new-look series which opens with round one at Silverstone in Northamptonshire on Monday.

Changes to the regulations, allowing four-stroke 1000cc bikes and the introduction of a Premier Teams League, positions which decide the allocation of the £40,000-per-round participation allowance, has increased the number of riders taking part, with 15 two-rider teams contracted for the series.

Reynolds has switched from the Ducati that powered him to a dozen race victories and the title last season to ride the Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000, a big machine that he admits is vastly different to ride, but which he has tested extensively.

"We have tested four times in Spain, and then at Silverstone along with everyone else, recording a good time there," Reynolds said.

"That test was vital and shows us the direction we need to go during qualifying and for the race – we are still learning the bike and sorting out the handling, but we will be right on the pace when the first race starts, that is for sure."

Reynolds expects Steve Hislop, the 40-year-old Scot who was duelling with him for the title until injuries sustained in a horror crash in the penultimate round ended his challenge, to again be a major threat.

"Hizzie is flying again and this year will be more closely fought," Reynolds said. "There is a lot of new talent coming in and riders like Shane Byrne, who I rate highly, have got competitive machinery."

Hislop remains with the MonsterMob Ducati team for a second year as he attempts to regain the crown he last won in 1995. He is the man to beat, but his V-twin may struggle against the new 1,000cc fours.

"At the tracks with long straights, like Silverstone and Snetterton, the 1000s should have the edge because of their incredible top speed," Hislop said. "We'll have the advantage at the more technical tracks like Oulton and Cadwell. It's shaping up to be an intriguing battle."

Apart from Reynolds, the Isle of Man-based Hislop can expect a strong challenge from the New Zealander Simon Crafar, who has joined the Virgin Mobile Aiwa Yamaha team.

The 32-year-old Crafar has a proven pedigree in World Superbikes and Grand Prix racing, including a victory in the 1998 British 500cc Grand Prix at Donington Park.

Crafar did not have a happy time testing the R1 at Silverstone. "The bike was really nervous," he said. "Every little thing seems to set the thing off, but we can sort it. It is no drama, the bike's not so far off."

Another two riders to watch are the rookies Karl Harris and Glen Richards, who will be riding for Rizla Suzuki and Kawasaki respectively.

The armchair spectator can follow the series on BBC1's Grandstand, which will show highlights of both races the weekend after they happen.