Parkalgar Honda's James Ellison will run a Superstock-spec Fireblade at this weekend's Race of the Year at Mallory Park on full Dunlop slicks instead of the usual treaded nearly-road tyres.

Ellison has tested the Superstock Fireblade at Mallory Park recently in a bid to help regular rider Marcin Walkowiak from Poland and was impressed by how quick it was.  In an open class race he has opted for this bike to increase his chances of winning the race overall.

"It's a cracking bike and after testing it numerous times recently I think it maximises my chance of winning The Race of the Year. A Supersport bike can make the same lap times as a Superbike - or very close to them at Mallory Park - but the way they make their laps is different and I think a good 1000cc machine will be hard to beat," said the Kendal man.

"I am going for my first victory this year and hopefully that will roll over to the World Supersport Championship and start the momentum going."