Joe Burns will return to the Pirelli National Superstock 1000 class using Aprilia power at this weekend’s Thruxton MCE British Superbike round after a successful test last weekend.

The Geordie has had minimal time on the new factory-built Aprilia, which only arrived in the UK last week and is the first example to be racing on British circuits, but is confident of a good debut atthe Hampshire circuit.

“This was definitely an opportunity that I couldn’t turn down and one that I am really excited about. It feels pretty special to race the Aprilia for the first time at this level and to have a great team around me too,” said Burns.

“I have had some initial time on the bike and Ii have to say that it is really impressive already and I think as we continue to learn the bike, we will only get stronger. We are looking forward to this weekend at Thruxton and having a strong campaign for the second half of the season.”