Tristan Palmer is spearheading Tena Honda’s British Superbike campaign for 2008. After clearing off with the Superbike Cup last year, he feels now is the time to go and play with the big boys. We caught up with him for a brief chat:
You’re in the British series with a new team, how does it feel?
It’s great to be in the main championship after winning the cup last year. We have got top bikes and a really keen sponsor for the new season.

How much support have you got from Honda?
Not sure, you would need to ask the team that question.
What do you think to everyone running on one make of tyre?
I think the racing will be closer. The factory teams will still be at the front but it gives smaller, lower budget teams the chance to close the gap. My tyres last year in the superbike cup were a lot different to the front runners.

Which tracks are you looking forward to?
Knockhill, Cadwell, Oulton Park and Mallory (because it’s my local track)

And which do you hate?
I don’t hate any, but Croft is not one of my favourites.

Do you think you are capable of running top 10 all season?
Yes, with the bike I’m riding and the tyre rule I should have my best chance yet of finishing in the top 10. Also, the team I have around me with Tena for men as sponsors worked really well last year when we won the superbike cup.

Who do you think you will be racing against most regularly?
Every other rider in the race.

Any traction control on your bikes?
Yes we have traction control.

How did you get into this racing lark in the first place?
I had a Yamaha PW50 age 4, rode around the fields on the farm where we lived.
Schoolboy motocross from age 6, started road racing at 14 with the junior racing association.

Was there much giggling when you told people who your sponsors were?
Some, but most people are very supportive of new sponsors.