Tommy Hill's crew chief moves to PBM for MotoGP

"Just want to confirm I am leaving Swan Yamaha to be chief tech for James Ellison in MotoGP this year!"

04 Jan 2012

Stoner leads, Japan MotoGP 2011
© Gold and Goose

Mick Shanley, crew chief for 2011 BSB champion Tommy Hill at Swan Yamaha, has announced that he is to move to MotoGP and work alongside James Ellison at the Paul Bird Motorsport team.

PBM is one of a number of teams using the new-for-2012 CRT rules to enter the premier-class and has signed-up former WCM and Tech 3 MotoGP rider Ellison.

"Hi all, just want to confirm I am leaving Swan Yamaha to be chief tech for @racingellison in MotoGP this year! Can't wait to get going!" Shanley wrote on his Twitter account @mickshanleysmr.

PBM will use Aprilia-based CRT machinery this season, but Shanley said they may not be present at the first official 2012 test at Sepang on January 31st. "I don't think so. Aprilia are finalising a few details. So it would be a bit early for us," he wrote.

Shanley previously worked with Ellison when the Englishman rode for the Swan Honda BSB team during 2010.

Hill, who narrowly beat former MotoGP rider John Hopkins to claim the 2011 BSB crown, is remaining with Swan Yamaha for 2012.