Current BMCRC F400 backers EDIasia have confirmed they are to back the class again for 2009 and will be putting up £11,000 in prize money throughout the season.

The Hong Kong based software company will be the series' title sponsor for eight rounds at six different circuits from March to October 2009. Formula 400 has proved to be an exciting class with some of the best racing possible but without the massive expense that some of the larger bikes demand.

EDIasia boss John Saunders said: “All businesses, including ours, are going to find 2009 a tough year but we are determined to continue supporting club-level motorcycle racing in the United Kingdom.

"We have put together a package that we think will make our Formula 400 Championship very attractive for riders at all levels. What we are doing this year fits in with our belief that, even in the worst of times, if we believe in ourselves we can reach our own goals.”

Stars of the future, like last year’s Champion Adam Lyon, use Formula 400 as a tough training ground where they can prove themselves to potential big-time supporters whilst honing their skills against the cut and
thrust of experienced riders who remain in the class either because they just enjoy the battles or because they simply cannot afford to buy and maintain the newest and biggest machines.

On top of various money prizes through the season that could as easily be won by the last finisher as much as a race winner, the EDIasia Formula 400 Champion, and the Top Rookie, will both be awarded made-to-measure leathers to start their next season and the second through ninth in the Championship will all receive financial rewards.

Additionally the EDIasia F400 Rider of the Year will receive a Golden Helmet valued at some £1200. Saunders added: “Whether the winner decides to wear the EDIasia Golden Helmet to protect himself, or indeed herself, or decides to give it pride of place in their trophy cabinet will be for the winner to decide.

"My only decision will be which rider has given most to the Championship throughout the season so deserves to be recognized. As well as sponsoring the EDIasia Formula 400 Championship we are providing major support to the British Motorcycle Racing Club in their Centenary Year which we hope will show that Bemsee is the club that caters for everyone who enjoys motorcycle racing, as I do, and who believes, also as I do, that club racing is the backbone of our sport.”