Kawasaki UK’s Official Presence at the Isle of Man TT Undergoes a Shakeup in 2024
In a significant development, Kawasaki UK’s official presence at the iconic Isle of Man TT race will have a fresh look in 2024. The renowned Lee Hardy Racing team has been chosen to field experienced road racer David Johnson for the upcoming season.
Johnson, who made his Isle of Man TT debut in 2010, is set to compete for the Lee Hardy Racing squad at the North West 200, Macau Grand Prix, and, of course, the Isle of Man TT. He will be racing in the Superbike and Superstock classes aboard Kawasaki’s formidable ZX-10RR machinery.
The move comes as Lee Hardy Racing steps back from its British Superbike Championship (BSB) commitments, at least for the 2024 season. The team has earned a reputation for nurturing young talents, with current Moto2 World Championship rider Jake Dixon finishing as the runner-up in the 2018 British Superbike Championship.
Kawasaki’s New Partnership with Lee Hardy Racing
While new to the official Kawasaki road racing team, the Lee Hardy Racing squad is no stranger to the world of road racing. The team made its Isle of Man TT debut in 2013 and has been running Kawasaki machinery since 2017, providing them with valuable experience and familiarity with the equipment.
As for Kawasaki, the decision to partner with Lee Hardy Racing comes after the departure of Dean Harrison from DAO Racing, who has since joined Honda Racing UK. With DAO focusing solely on the British Superbike Championship, Kawasaki was in need of a new team to represent the brand on the roads.
“I’m very happy to get the Kawasaki ride with Lee Hardy Racing. I’ve always got along great with Lee, and he always prepares immaculate, very competitive bikes. I have been riding a lot out here in Australia, and since agreeing on a deal, I’ve been extra motivated to be at the top of my game come May.” – David Johnson
Lee Hardy, the team owner, shared his excitement about the team’s return to road racing as the official Kawasaki team for 2024.
“I am looking forward to being back on the roads, especially as the Official Kawasaki Road Racing Team for 2024. I am pleased to have signed Davo for the North West, TT and Macau, and am sure he is going to be a great asset to the team.” – Lee Hardy
Ross Burridge, the Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK, added, “The Road Racing season is always an incredible spectacle, and it’s fantastic to have such a strong combination of rider and team for 2024, who we’re sure will put on a great show for the thousands of fans lining the roads.”
With the new partnership in place, Kawasaki and the Lee Hardy Racing team are gearing up for an exciting road racing season, promising to deliver thrilling action and a true spectacle for Cycling enthusiasts.
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