MIST Suzuki will return to British Superbike action at this weekend's Brands Hatch triple header after a short break following the shock retirement of long term rider Matt Bond.

After concentrating on racing at the TT and other road circuits for much of the season, new signing Steve Mercer will climb onboard the team's GSXR1000 K9 at Brands, which has recently received new lightweight wheels, a new rear shock and swing arm linkage plus engine developments.

The team hopes that Mercer will be a regular on the Superbike Cup podium and take the fight to some of the factory riders.

"Trying to find a rider to replace Matt was a difficult one but we think Steve has what it takes to do well,” said team manager Mike Edwards. “We have plenty of track time at the weekend so will take it slowly so that Steve has time to adjust to the nature of short circuit racing.

“The bike development is coming along and, although we are still waiting for some parts, we are finally approaching the bike we hoped to have at the start of the season. We are hoping that Steve and MIST Suzuki can help each other and encourage new sponsorship to allow us to complete the season".