GRT Yamaha showcases 2022 WorldSBK colours, Gerloff 'excited' to ride new bike

Ready to rediscover his rookie WorldSBK form of 2020, Garrett Gerloff and GRT officially showcased their new Yamaha R1 colours ahead of today’s opening day of testing in Barcelona. 

The American, who has so far tested at MotorLand Aragon and Misano, will be part of a 20-rider line-up, the largest of any 2022 pre-season test thus far. 

While 2021 was a disappointing season for Gerloff after having shown huge potential as a rookie, the Texan’s third year in the world championship is one he ‘cannot wait’ to get started.

On pace with both Toprak Razgatlioglu (Aragon) and Alvaro Bautista (Misano) during his two pre-season tests, a strong 2022 season for the former MotoAmerica rider is likely to put him in the shop window for a full factory seat, whether that’s at Yamaha or not.  

Speaking after the team’s official launch, Gerloff added: "I’m so glad I only had to wait 24 hours between seeing the new bikes for the first time and them being shown to the public! I couldn’t have kept it a secret much longer than that! 

"The colour scheme and the graphics are incredible, they’ve outdone themselves. 

"I’m very excited to ride the new GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team R1 on track here in Barcelona. 

"We’re still going through our pre-season campaign in preparation for the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship, and test after test we’re gaining confidence to be ready for the first round in Aragòn. 

"Just two weeks left until the lights go out and I cannot wait for a new beginning with my amazing team!"

Alongside Gerloff will once again be Japanese rider Nozane, who has yet to reach the level of performance required to challenge for regular top ten results. 

And with that being Nozane’s primary aim for the new season, the final pre-season outings in Barcelona and Aragon will be crucial in determining whether that’s plausible or not. 

Nozane also said: "I didn’t lie when I said that the new bikes and leathers were definitely something worth waiting for! 

"We’re finally underway with the new GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team and it couldn’t be much better than this. 

"We’re getting ready for the beginning of the 2022 WorldSBK season and I want to prove what I’m capable of after my rookie campaign."