Round 1 - Oulton Park

This weekend marked my debut in the BSB paddock—an exciting but challenging experience, with plenty of new things to adapt to.

Saturday began with FP1, which proved to be a tough session. The suspension was far from ideal, making the bike difficult to handle. As the session progressed, I managed to chip away at my lap time, though I was still off my personal best. After a call with TW Suspension Tech, I made some key adjustments based on their advice. In FP2 later that afternoon—an important session as it can determine grid positions if qualifying can't go ahead—I could already feel the difference. The bike felt much better, and I got my times down closer to my PB.

Sunday afternoon brought qualifying. I felt confident on the bike and kept improving throughout the session. Near the end, I came in for a new rear tyre, hoping to push further. Unfortunately, a mix of arm pump and a red flag meant I only got 1 good lap in which was an important one setting a new PB of 1:40.879. 

Monday afternoon was race time. I started 33rd on the grid and made up several places in the opening laps. By lap 7, I was up to 26th and pulling a gap on the rider behind. On lap 8, I was shown the black and orange flag for smoking. The bike felt fine, and I couldn't see or feel anything wrong, but I had to pull off the track, resulting in a DNF. Once we got the bike back, there were no obvious signs of what caused the issue. We have investigated further this week and found that the oil cooler was leaking; a new part has been ordered and should be here in time for the next round.

It wasn’t the ideal start to the season, but I really enjoyed racing in the Superstock class. Onwards and upwards to Donington Park in a couple of weeks’ time!

Big shout out to Stumpy Racing and Steven Butterworth for helping us out on the grid, and to TW Suspension  for always being on hand for suspension advice. Thanks also to Chell, Ashley Coulson, Chris, Jamie and my family for supporting me this weekend.

As always, massive appreciation to my 2025 sponsors.

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