Richards adds a roadbike to his KTM repertoire
Handed the key to a 1190 RC8 RFord Performance Racing V8 Supercar driver Steve Richards has always been an intrepid motorcyclist - a passion passed down from his legendary father Jim and one he currently shares with a number of his four-wheel contemporaries.
In fact, if you're a V8 Supercar driver and don't ride a motorcycle, you're in the minority…
This morning, Richards, who has a formal collaboration with KTM, was handed the key to a 2010 model 1190 RC8 R by superbike rider Shannon Johnson, which will his roadbike of choice for the next 12 months or so.
"We shared a joke of taking our KTM streetbikes to the track for a spin, and I could tell he was up for the challenge," said Johnson. "I guess when you race for a living it doesn't matter if you're on two wheels or four, if you have a love for speed, racing and fast engines it's in your blood no matter what your machine."
Adding to the jocular mood, Richards said: "I definitely think I could keep up with Shannon, at least for one lap. His corner speed may be a little faster than mine on two wheels, but I'd definitely run with him on the straight.
"Jokes aside, I just really enjoy riding the KTM and getting out when I'm not racing V8 Supercars, there's no better feeling of the wind screaming past your ears as you accelerate, I don't get that on four wheels.
"I have a passion for speed, and the best thing about the KTM 1190 RC8 R is how fast it is straight off the showroom floor, without any modifications."
Johnson will race a RC8 R in this year's Viking Group Australian Superbike Championship, which begins at Phillip Island from February 26-28.
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