Former MCE British Superbike runner-up James Ellison has made a shock switch to the GBmoto team which will be an official Kawasaki supported effort this season.
The Kendal man, who finished fourth in this year's championship, said he had been in touch with team principal Mark Smith-Halvorsen since his return from MotoGP but the team's acquisition of Kawasaki power sealed the deal.
"I'm really happy with this move and I am one hundred per cent sure we are capable of challenging for the championship next season. I have raced against the Kawasaki and can see just what a package it is even though it is still a relatively new bike," said Ellison, speaking to bikepsortnews.com this morning.
"The bike was very hard to pass last year and I am very aware of where it is strong. It's the best package for British circuits and it suits them all whereas last year, I struggled in some places.
It’s great to get a deal done so early, it gives us time to plan and test. Matt Llewellyn is a great crew chief so there are so many positives. It’s an exciting time for me with a new baby on the way and I’ve had so much support this season, plus my personal sponsors SRS Rail UK are already committed and excited for next year’s BSB assault.
"I’ve had lots of nice offers but I’ve done my research on the team and I genuinely think together we are capable of fighting for the title.”