BSS: Simpson ready to step up to next level

John Simpson and Tom Weeden will spearhead the Trickbits FBM Performance team's attack in the British Supersport and European Superstock 600 championships on Triumph machinery this year.

Both Simpson and Weeden will embark on the team's first foray into racing in Europe, while Simpson will also bid to make his mark in the British Supersport class after wrapping up the British Supersport Cup title in 2011.

From Antrim in Northern Ireland, Simpson (21) claimed nine race wins and 16 podiums on his way to victory in the Cup class, clinching the crown with a round to spare.

His young team-mate and former GP125 contender Weeden will concentrate on the European Superstock 600cc class on a Triumph 675R as he attempts to take his career to the next stage.

In what promises to be an extremely busy season, the duo will also contest selected road races during the year, including Aberdare Park and the International Gold Cup at Scarborough.

Team principal Paul Jinks said: "We're delighted to have John and Tom on board for 2012 and moving into Europe is the next logical step for us to take. We've secured some good support the year and are extremely pleased to be continuing with FBM Performance again who helped us to win the Supersport Cup in 2011.

"Kevin Brown's engine work and technical know-how will be a great benefit to us in Europe and with John and Tom we believe we have two excellent riders who can carry us to the forefront in both of the championships we're contesting."

The team will travel to Imola on March 16 for testing in preparation for the first round of the European championship at the Italian circuit at the end of the month.

In between, they'll also be out on track at the two official BSB tests at Brands Hatch and Snetterton from March 21-22.