NW200: Harris in late Ducati Panigale deal

'I have never ridden a Ducati before but the Panigale seemed very strong for a Superstock machine' - Karl Harris

10 May 2013

British Superbike rider Karl Harris has rescued a deal to compete in the Superbike and Superstock races the North West 200 road races, where he will make his debut next week.

Harris was due to ride for the PR Kawasaki team at the international roads meeting but the ride fell through as a result of financial restraints.

However, 'Bomber' will now ride the Superstock-spec Ducati Panigale 1199R for Team Rapido Sport in both Superstock and Superbike races at the event.

"I have never ridden a Ducati before but the Panigale seemed very strong for a Superstock machine," Harris said.

Harris tested the bike for the first time at Kirkistown in Co Down in Northern Ireland on Thursday.

National Superstock 1000 rider Lee Johnston was due to ride the machine at the North West but after breaking his leg in a crash at Thruxton will focus instead on riding his 600cc Honda in the Supersport class plus a Kawasaki ER6 in the Supertwin races.

British championship stalwart Harris made his road racing debut at the Isle of Man TT in 2012.