Utag Yamaha's Jimmy Hill now knows he is on a steep learning curve after stepping up from National Superstock 600 into the British Supersport Championship but is buoyant after his Brands Hatch result.
After only finishing his bike a few days before last weekend's race, and roping in Althea Honda World Superbike rider and brother Tommy as pit crew, Hill managed a 13th place finish and second in the Supersport Cup.
"For the whole of free practice one, I struggled with clutch, gearing and suspension problems. The heavens opened for the second practice session and stayed wet for the duration," said the 19-year-old.
"Learning to ride in the wet again after such a long period was tricky but managed to pull off a good strong session but still struggling with a few problems such as the clutch.
"I know that this coming year will be tough, not just on the track against other top riders in factory-supported teams and a competitive field but also on the technical side of learning this new bike.
"Its a lot different from a Superstock 600 I race last year with the new data-logging and engine management systems. It was all new to us but after a bad start to the weekend me and the team finished off on a high, and a great end to the first round."
