BSB racer confirms move to road racing

Australian star David Johnson, who raced for the Maxxis team in the 2009 British Superbike Championship, has confirmed he will move into road racing this year.

The 28-year-old, who has been competing in the UK since 2002, said racing at the Isle of Man TT is a long-held ambition.

He said:

"I've always been aware of the TT Races and it has been an ambition of mine to compete at the biggest road race in the world."

"I'd hoped to make my debut in 2009, but my BSB commitments ruled me out so it's great to be able to take part at last. I know people like Guy Martin, Conor Cummins and of course Cameron (Donald) really well and will be hoping to pick up as many tips from them as possible."

"I am also working hard at learning the circuit at the moment. The TT is a huge challenge, but I'm really looking forward to it and am confident of giving a good account of myself."

The Adelaide rider started out in the British Juniorstock series, dicing with the likes of Tom Sykes and Cal Crutchlow, before working his way through the British Superstock ranks. Johnson recorded a best finish of seventh overall in 2005. He also took second in the 2006 Dutch Superbike Championship before moving into the BSB arena, first with the PR Branson team and then with Team Maxxis.

In the last two seasons he has notched up numerous top 15 finishes, with his best result, ninth, coming at last year's Mallory Park round.

He will make his TT debut riding for the Mick Charnock-managed DP Coldplaning team, which backed fellow Aussie Cameron Donald in his debut year in 2005.

TT Rider Liaison Officer Richard 'Milky' Quayle said:

"Dave's a really talented rider and we're delighted that he's finally confirmed to race at the TT."

"He's got a good racing brain and I think he'll make a real impact at the TT and will hopefully build a long career."