Kiyonari, Bridewell joins Bennetts Suzuki
Bennetts Suzuki has unveiled an all-new rider line-up for the 2016 MCE British Superbike championship with three-time BSB title winner Ryuichi Kiyonari joining alongside Tommy Bridewell.
After receiving continued backing from Suzuki GB, Halsall Racing has signalled its intent for next season by signing a potent rider line-up as Kiyonari prepares to switch manufacturer from BMW to Suzuki, the same machine he rode at this year's Suzuka 8-Hours.
The Japanese rider is thrilled to remain committed to the British Superbike championship and is already aiming for a fourth crown in 2016.
"I have been racing in the BSB longer than any other series in my career, so I am happy to be able to continue in the championship next year," Kiyonari said. "I have raced the Suzuki GSX-R1000 for the first time this year at the Suzuka 8-Hour and it's a great bike.
"I am happy that I am able to join Bennetts Suzuki for next year, the Halsall Racing team is a great team, and with the factory support I am confident that I will be racing for my fourth BSB title next year."
Bridewell, who switches from Tyco BMW to Bennetts Suzuki, is relishing the prospect of returning to racing with Japanese manufacturer.
"I'm looking forward to riding for Bennetts Suzuki next season, and looking forward to enjoying my racing again. I'd had a few conversations with Martin [Halsall] towards the end of last season, and it became clear he wanted me onboard and I wanted to ride for the team," Bridewell said. "The team is capable of winning races and winning championships, and has a good structure in place, and that was important for me. I'm happy to be getting back on a Suzuki again.
"I started my career on a Suzuki and have ridden a few GSX-Rs in the past, and my brother rode a Suzuki as well, so we're a bit of a Suzuki family. I'm excited about riding for them next season."
Martin Halsall says he feels he has one of the strongest rider line-ups currently announced on the BSB grid and has set both his riders the targets of reaching the Showdown.
"In Kiyo and Tommy we've got two riders who have proven they have what it takes to run right at the very front in BSB, and as a team we're looking forward to getting started," Halsall said. "It was our first year with the GSX-R1000 last year but now we've spent some time learning the bike and gathering data and information, in 2016 we're aiming high.
"Our target is to get both riders into the Showdown, and hopefully be in a position to challenge for the title come the final round. We'll work hard to get the bikes prepared over winter, ready for testing."
