Former National Superstock man Jon Kirkham has finally made the jump to British Superbikes after signing with the Lloyds British Jentin Yamaha squad for this season.

Kirkham, who stepped in for Karl Harris aboard the Rob Mac Yamaha at the final Brands Hatch round in 2008, has been looking for a ride in the top flight and finds himself in Simon Andrews boots. He put in a stirling performance on the Yamaha R1 and was thought to be a dead cert to join McElnea's team.

It is believed that Kirkham narrowly beat Scott Smart to the Jentin ride, which now leaves the former British 250GP Champion in the wilderness for 2009 – although there is speculation he has been offered Superstock and Supersport seats.

The team are due to make Kirkham's position official in the next couple of days.
Comment on this story