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The first round of the British SuperBikes is at Silverstone, 31 March/01 April.
Heading the Team Virgin Mobile Aiwa team is Simon Crafar, from New Zealand, a truly World class talent, his huge experience in both World Superbike and GP500 Championships gives him an unrivalled respect and credibility from his peers, teams and fans around the world. One of the most exciting talents to have emerged in the 500cc class over the past few years, Crafar wowed the fans and rocked the racing world when he capitalised on his stunning form with a win at the Donington GP in 1998.
Already being tipped as a title challenger by experienced race watchers and journalists alike, Crafar knows that the combination of riding for Team Virgin Mobile Aiwa and being onboard the incredible New Yamaha R1 Superbike is a potent combination: \"I know that I can still develop as a rider and bring the new R1 on as a race bike, riding for Rob McElnea and the Team is a great opportunity to fulfil some personal goals\".
Crafar, famous around the globe for his flamboyant style, relished his first time on the bike in Spain saying: \'the bike feels absolutely fantastic. Straight away I was able to put in some fast lap times, and that is on a machine that was set up for somebody else. For the coming season, I will be able to develop the bike and it\'s set up, to suit my style. I can\'t wait to get out there in front of the British fans!\"
\"I know the British Superbike series is very competitive and the UK riders are extra fast on their own tracks. I truly love a challenge and I am really looking forward to getting started. I\'m glad to have such an experienced and strong team around me\"
\"I am very happy to be continuing my career on a Yamaha. I have a lot of experience with Yamaha\'s and I know that they are one of the best bikes around.\".
Rider Profile: Simon Crafar
Born: January 15th 1969
Lives: L\'Aldosa, Andorra
Height: 180cm
Weight: 78kg
First Road-Race: 1985-Manfeild, New Zealand
Favourite tracks: Assen (Holland), and Philip Island (Australia)
Favourite race: 1998 Australian GP
Heroes: Rossi (proves you don\'t have to be asshole to win)
Ambition: Enjoy life and be a good at what ever I do.
