Chris Walker is to return to the World Superbike Championship after Paul Bird Motorsport confirmed that it has signed 'The Stalker' to ride its second bike for the remainder of the 2008 season.
The former PSG Kawasaki man has endured a difficult season to date in the World Supersport Championship but will now return to superbike competition alongside Gregorio Lavilla in the Vent Axia VK line-up.
Walker enjoyed a day of testing his new Honda Fireblade at Oulton Park ahead of his return to the series at Brands Hatch early next month, and the 36-year-old admitted that he couldn't wait to get back on track on the Superbike stage.
"When I set off on the bike, it very nearly pulled my wig off and it reminded me of just what I've been missing in Superbikes!" he said. "It's a massive opportunity for me and one which I don't intend to waste. Everyone knows this team has pedigree and they build awesome bikes so I know it will be competitive.
"I nearly signed for Birdy a few years ago and didn't so now I'm really looking forward to working with the team and also Greg whom I have a lot of respect for. I love Brands and Donington and my aim is to give the crowds something to cheer about so make sure you come along and support me!"
Team boss Paul Bird said the time was right for the team to bring out its second bike, having spent the season to date focusing on getting up to speed with Gregorio Lavilla following the move up from the British Superbike Championship.
"Running a second bike was always in the plan but we felt it best to help concentrate on giving Greg the best package possible," he said. "But now we have a couple of races at tracks both he and the team know, the time is right to introduce Chris who like Greg, knows his way round Brands and Donington.
"The plan thereafter is to go to the final three rounds full of confidence and get some results abroad that we know the bike and riders are capable of. It's important for the organisers that we bring a British rider to the series and I'm delighted to have Chris on board."
