Vision Express Kawasaki rider Sam West is proving to be a bit of a dark horse in the Pirelli National Superstock 1000 championship. The young rider from Wilmslow made an impact earlier in the year during the official British Superbike testing days, where he topped the timesheets on numerous occasions.

During yesterday’s free practice session the rider was quickest again, but this time at Oulton Park. West is determined to make an impact in the series this year, and to be battling with the other more experienced riders in the class.

“It has been going quite well for me, especially in the wet and we are starting to get a good set up on the bike and I am feeling comfortable on the Kawasaki. I would like to go a bit quicker and there is more I can improve on for qualifying,” said the student, speaking to bikesportnews.com, at the circuit.

“Everyone in front of me I want to beat, but this class is so competitive. I would like to be up there with Hudson Kennaugh, because I have ridden with him a few times in the past so I would like to give him a good run for his money, and I have always looked up to John McGuinness, and I would like to be up with him as well, and I think Steve Brogan is great too.

“I think I am giving it a good go for the privateers, there are a few other fast riders around here, but I am giving it a good go, and I am going to give the top teams a run for their money.”