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Start from a new project to aim for the top of the British Superbike championship in grand style. With these prerogatives and, especially with the M1000RR model, the BMW supported teams are preparing to embark on the 2021 season of BSB with the clear intention of bringing an end to what has become a bit of a taboo. Ambitious and already tested programs, alongside experienced riders, all the right conditions are there to amaze.
Below-par Performance
Since its full-time debut in the UK top class, the Munich manufacturer has experienced periods of ups and downs: a tiny number of victories, few podiums and occasionally access to the Showdown. So far, the only one able to take BMW to the top positions has been Ryuichi Kiyonari back in 2014 thanks to a second place finish. The triple BSB champion (then Buildbase Hawk Racing Team rider), either thanks to his proverbial talent, or his great experience, managed to amaze everyone with six wins.
After that, a series of rather disappointing results. The updated version of the S1000RR was of no use, because it struggled a lot in adapting the ShiftCam system (it varies lift and valve timing of the intake valves, identical to that of the 1250cc boxers) to the one-make MoTec control unit: a poor third place was the best finish in the last two years.
Redemption Time
Shocking figures that do not fully reflect the investments of the German colossus in the UK series. With the 2017 the last time a BMW got onto the top step of the podium (Peter Hickman in Race 2 at Thruxton), BMW has decided to further revolutionize its plans with the introduction of the M1000RR. Although it has yet to be tested in BSB configuration, the potential of the bike has caught the eye of various protagonists right from the start.
Four Teams for Eight Riders
There will be four teams (as in 2020) to take the model in question to the track, each of which will have the financial commitment of the British subsidiary. The TAS Synetiq Team, in addition to remaining the benchmark team with direct support from BMW UK for the sixth consecutive time, has formed a line up as fascinating as it is sparkling, with Andrew Irwin and Danny Buchan (in the main photo).
Having taken over the management of the glorious Smiths Racing, the well-known entrepreneur Faye Ho has built a first-rate structure, namely the FHO Racing Team. It will rely on two experienced riders such as Peter Hickman and Xavi Forés, the latter returning after his 2019 experience with Honda Racing UK.
At the same time, all eyes will be on the Rich Energy OMG Racing Team, on its second adventure with BMW. After a complicated season, for 2021 it was opted to rely on Kyle Ryde and Bradley Ray.
Without forgetting the "small" team PR Racing, ready to double its commitment with the reconfirmed Joe Francis alongside the two-time British SS600 runner-up Brad Jones. With 2021 the season of truth looming, the objectives are clear: success in BSB.
