FHO BMW’s Peter Hickman will get his first crack at the new M1000RR at Silverstone today as the Bennetts British Superbike series begins its testing tour and he has targeted a championship top-three finish.

Hickman, with team-mate Xavi Fores, will make their debuts this morning at the Northamptonshire track with the new/old team that was borne from Smiths Racing.

“I’m really excited for the new season with FHO Racing BMW – it’s a stunning looking machine! It’s all new, even though a lot of the team crew are the same,” said Hickman.

“It’s great to be here for the first test with a new bike and a lot of excitement in the team. This will be the first time I’ve ridden the M 1000 RR, so it’s more like a shakedown, and we’ll be working on getting the team gelled and working on finding a good set up.

“Our target for the season has to be podiums and wins. I’ve previously made the Showdown three years in a row and had race victories, and I want to achieve more.

“Top three would be a great result and winning the title is of course the ultimate goal. Together with Xavi as my main reference for the season, I’ll give it my best to be at the front when the season starts.”