Aitchison's new WSBK adventure

Australian hard-charger Mark Aitchison isn’t expecting miracles when he saddles up with a brand new team and motorcycle in the Superbike World Championship season opener at Phillip Island from February 24-26.

Instead, it will be about laying the building blocks for what he hopes will ultimately be a successful 2012 campaign with the Italian-based Team Grillini, a new kid on the WSBK block.

As well as a new team, Aitchison has also switched brands for 2012 – from a Kawasaki to a BMW. Those are massive hurdles to deal with in such a competitive racing environment, but one that he’s embracing with enthusiasm.

“We have only really just started to work for the season ahead, so it’s natural that we must view everything at the moment as development for the future,” said Aitchison. “This is not only limited to the bike, but also the team.

“We are all new to each other and I'm new to the BMW, so it will take time to build the relationship and also time for me to build confidence on the new bike. We have spoken about the first few races and we know that it's important not to rush the process, so we don't have any expectation of results yet. It's all about building for future races.

“But what I do know is that I love racing at Phillip Island and in front of the Australian fans! I will give everything I have during the weekend, and if I do this, I'll know I've done the best job possible.

“I have a goal in mind about where I would like to be at the end of the season, championship wise, but I am not worried about that yet. This season is shaping up to be very competitive, so aiming for top 10 performances by mid season onwards is a big target of mine.”

Aitchison was impressive on the Pedercini Kawasaki in 2011, but he is desperate to unleash his full potential in 2012.

“Each race I learned something new in 2011,” he said. “Whether it was about the bike, a certain track or learning some more Italian slang!

“I really enjoy that side of racing; learning how to work as a team. But I also believe I have lot of potential still to show. Hopefully this year, once we get rolling we can see the benefits of our hard work.”

Aitchison will be joined on the Phillip Island WSBK grid by countrymen Bryan Staring (Kawasaki), Josh Brookes (Suzuki) and David Johnson (BMW), and it world Supersport it will be Broc Parkes (Honda) and Jed Metcher (Yamaha). The world championship events will be joined by a huge undercard of national-level classes, including Superbike, Supersport, Historic and 250cc Production.

The opening round of the 2012 World Superbike season will be held February 24-26 at Phillip Island. Fancy a weekend at the world superbikes? It’s super easy to book. Visit www.worldsbk.com.au or ring the SBK toll free hotline on 1300 728 007.