British Superbike team Buildbase Kawasaki will be running James Hillier in the solo four-stroke classes at this year's Isle of Man TT festival - the team's first showing on the island since 2006.

Hillier excelled on his debut last year, with 17th and 19th in the two Supersport races. His results also saw him take home the prestigious TT Newcomers Trophy.

The 23-year-old rode for the team at the end of last year, finishing third at the annual Stars at Darley event and eighth at the Mallory Park Race of the Year. This year, in addition to racing at the TT, the Hampshire rider will campaign a Buildbase Bournemouth Kawasaki in the British Superstock Championship.
 
"I really enjoyed my racing at the TT last year and although it was totally different to anything else I’d done before, I totally loved it," said Hillier.

"Once I got going, I started to piece the course together and I was delighted with the results I achieved. I just rode steady and concentrated on learning the course and steadily improving my lap times, which was an approach that paid dividends.

"Before TT '08 had even finished, I’d decided that I wanted to return and to come back with a great team like Buildbase Bournemouth Kawasaki is brilliant. Riding in all classes will give me plenty of track time and I want to build on what I learned last year and progress even more."

Team boss Stuart Hicken added: "The TT has always been the best pure road race in the world and it remains a great occasion for all motorcyclists.

"We’ve got an excellent package in place for the 2009 season and it will allow us to compete at both the short circuits and the road races. I’m delighted to have welcomed James into our team and equally delighted to be back at the TT.’

"There are some good, young road racers out there and he showed his class and talent last year with some excellent performances. There’ll be no pressure on him and we’re hoping for some good, consistent rides with a few surprises along the way."