Ryuichi Kiyonari is all too well aware that the defence of his Bennetts British Superbike crown in the coming months will provide tough challenges. The HM Plant Honda rider takes his place on the starting grid amid an intriguing mix of experienced riders together with some of the sport’s most exciting young-guns in the battle for honours.
Cal Crutchlow, the British Supersport champion, graduates into the top flight alongside the vastly experienced Chris Walker in the Rizla Suzuki team, while Tom Sykes has signed to ride for the Stobart Honda team with former champion Shane Byrne.
Jonathan Rea is team-mate to Kiyonari while Leon Camier, a former Supersport title winner, rides Honda, as does Karl Harris. Michael Rutter, twice the runner-up in Superbikes, heads the MSS Discovery Kawasaki challenge. James Haydon rides Virgin Yamaha as does Tommy Hill.
Gregorio Lavilla, eager to regain the crown he won in 2005, is back for more, with Leon Haslam again his Airwaves Ducati team-mate in the 13 round double race series that begins at Brands Hatch on Easter Monday.
The 2007 British Superbike calendar:Round 1: 9th April - Brands Hatch
Round 2: 15th April - Thruxton
Round 3: 29th April - Silverstone
Round 4: 7th May - Oulton Park
Round 5: 20th May - Snetterton
Round 6: 17th June - Mondello Park
Round 7: 1st July - Knockhill
Round 8: 15th July - Oulton Park
Round 9: 22nd July - Mallory Park
Round 10: 12th August - Croft
Round 11: 27th August - Cadwell Park
Round 12: 23rd September - Donington Park
Round 13: 14th October - Brands Hatch
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