The nation’s premier motorcycle racing series - the Bennetts British Superbike Championship (BSB) - heads to Silverstone on 27-28 September for the penultimate round of the 2008 season. The championship boasts an all-star rider line-up which is currently led by Shane Byrne. The Airwaves Ducati rider leads the chasing pack by 94 points and, with just 100 points available over the final two race weekends, Byrne is widely expected to be crowned 2008 Champion at the famous Northamptonshire circuit.
The British Superbike Championship is also renowned for featuring the latest racing machinery from world-class teams such as Airwaves Ducati, Rizla Suzuki and HM Plant Honda. However, this year’s round at Silverstone will feature more than just the current crop of bikes. As part of Silverstone’s 60th anniversary celebrations, the circuit has gathered a stunning collection of iconic race bikes to represent the best of British motorcycle racing.
Legendary race bikes from the 50s through to current day will be featured in a Classic Bike Display, next to the open paddock, on the Sunday of the race weekend. Bikes currently confirmed for this mouth watering display include:
- A 1954 John Surtees Rennsport BMW
- A 1960 Surtees 500cc MV Agusta
- A 1961 BMW R69s
- A Mike Hailwood 350cc 4 cylinder Honda
- A Hailwood 500cc 4 cylinder Honda
- A 1971 BSA Rob North 3 cylinder
- A 1976 Mick Grant Kawasaki KR 750
- A 1978 Steve Parrish RG 500cc Suzuki Mk2
- A 1979 Stan Woods RG 500cc Suzuki Mk5
- A 1980 Barry Sheene and Steve Parrish RG 650 Suzuki
- A 1981 Yamaha TZ350 G, as ridden by Damon Hill
- A 1985 Joey Dunlop RS 250cc Honda
- A 1986 Cagiva V4 500, later ridden by Randy Mamola
- John Reynolds’s 2004 Championship winning Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000 K4
- And, representing the stable of new and restored bikes from Hailwood Motorcycle Restorations Ltd, an HMR Egli-Vincent and an HMR Norvin
Additional bikes are due to be confirmed during the lead up to Silverstone, as are a host of legendary riders who will be jumping on board the majority of these bikes for a lunchtime demonstration Parade*.
This unique display and parade of classic bikes and legendary riders will appeal to bike fans of all ages - as will the battle for this year’s BSB Championship. Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne may be close to wrapping up the series, but young guns Leon Haslam, Tom Sykes and Cal Crutchlow will be riding for more than just pride at Silverstone.
A host of fiercely contested support races will also keep fans on the edge of their seats. In addition to two Superbike races, action from the British Supersport Championship, National Superstock and British 125GP will ensure a packed weekend of top class racing.
Silverstone is also pleased to announce that, in addition to having free access to any of the trackside grandstands around the 2.213 mile International Circuit, fans will be able to watch all the drama unfold on three giant TV screens, located at Luffield, Abbey and Copse.
Away from the track there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained. In addition to the Classic Bike Display and lunchtime Parade Lap, Silverstone’s open paddock policy will enable fans to get up close and personal with teams and riders, and make the most of the scheduled rider autograph sessions.
Race day (Sunday) Tickets are available to purchase in advance for as little as £23. Tickets will also be available to purchase on the day, priced at £30 for the Sunday and £15 for qualifying on Saturday. All tickets include general admission, a roving seat and free parking. Admission is free for children aged 15 and under**. Race day hospitality, situated at prime viewing locations around the circuit, is also available from £149 (+VAT) per person.
For further information, or to book tickets for the penultimate round of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship at Silverstone on 27-28 September, visit
silverstone.co.uk , or contact the ticket hotline on 08704 588 260. Race day hospitality can be booked by calling 08704 588 230.
* Parade Laps, bikes and riders are subject to confirmation and potential delays in the race schedule.
** Children must be accompanied by a full paying adult – maximum of 6 children per adult.Featured in the accompanying slideshow of images: Iconic bikes that will feature in a Classic display and demonstration Parade Lap at the Silverstone round of BSB (Sunday 28 September), including a 1961 BMW R69s, Mike Hailwood 350cc and 500cc 4 cylinder Hondas, a ‘78 Steve Parrish RG 500cc Suzuki, a 1985 Joey Dunlop RS 250cc Honda, an Egli-Vincent and an HMR Norvin. An ex-Mike Hailwood 500cc 4 cylinder Honda being ridden at a Silverstone preview.
