Michael Laverty moves to Honda squad for 2012 British Superbike Championship – BSB news
Former Swan Yamaha rider Michael Laverty signed a deal with Honda British Superbike squad for 2012 season.
The British rider ended his BSB 2011 season in fourth place.
Laverty is teamed up with former Samsung Crescent Suzuki rider Jon Kirkham at Honda squad. After the move out of Suzuki team Kirkham was left with no seat for 2012 BSB season.
So far, the team’s title sponsor is not sure, whether HM Plant will be funding the team or not.
While talking to Bikesportnews.com Laverty said, “It really was a tough decision for me because both the teams are so equal and I don't think anyone will start next season on anything like the same bike they finished this one so it really will be all to
play for from the first round with no favourites.”
Team Boss of Swan Yamaha, Shaun Muir shared the information that Laverty has moved out of the team. Despite Muir’s interest to continue with the Brit was not enough for him to reject the deal from Honda’s squad.
The Brit added, “I wanted to be a team leader and I knew that, as with last year, staying with Swan would have meant it was 50/50 between Tommy and I. It is an exciting prospect for me to be joining Honda for 2012.”
After signing the deal, he expressed that it was an abrupt decision to make the move. He further added that it is not an ease to make a sudden jump into another team, especially after having a successful season.
He thinks himself lucky to have a great option. He reckons that it is a move from one winning team to another.
Honda has a great pedigree in racing world including the BSB championship it has gained a strong image. The team and the rider are looking forward to hit a good start for the 2012 BSB campaign.
Laverty says that the change in the rules motivated his step of moving to Honda team. Referring Honda’s performance in the 2011 season he feels that it will be a strong machine in the 2012 season.
He is sure that Honda Fireblade has great potential to take the title next season.
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