Alstare Bimota rider Christian Iddon has confirmed he will not take part in the opening World Superbike round at Phillip Island in two week’s time.

The former British Supermoto Champion did not give a reason but his BB3 is still subject to homologation problems and may well not have passed muster in time for the first round.

“Unfortunately I won't be in Australia for Rd1 of WSBK. I'm sure we will be stronger for not going. Lots of hard work behind the scenes,” Tweeted Iddon earlier.

Get the new issue of Bikesport News tomorrow for our 22-page World Superbike season preview.