British Super Bikes “The Decider” Brands Hatch 30th September 2006
This weekend was the deciding round of the British Superbikes series, with the final round at Brands Hatch. With double points at stake, as an earlier round was cancelled due to bad weather anyone of three riders could win the championship.
The previous evening, the three leading contenders Ryuichi Kiyonari, Leon Haslam and Gergorio Lavilla together with other members of the paddock and media attend a charity evening held to raise money for the Chris Jones Memorail Fund.
The two races were affected by the weather and red flags but in the end the championship went Ryo, with Leon runner-up and Gregorio finishing third.
Leon Haslam - could this be his last raid on the Airwaves Ducati ? strong rumours abound that he is likely to end up in the Moto Gp paddock riding a Honda.
The new champion Ryuichi Kiyonari. Surely the young Japanese rider will be back to defend the title next season - or do Honda have other plans for him ?
Shane “Shakey” Byrne despite some almighty crashes this season (including a near on 150mph get off at Snetterton) still finished strongly in his first year back in BSB - must surely be a strong contender for next years title.
Jonathan Rea - confirmed he’ll be riding a Honda next season but in which colours ? Impressive start to BSB in his rookie season.
Tommy Hill is staying with Virgin Yamaha, another strong contender for next season especially with his performance at World Superbike level as a wild card - will have a few more outings at WSB level next season including Assen as well as Brands and Silverstone.
Karl Harris - has lost his ride with HM plant Honda - no news on where he’ll be next season - let’s hope he gets a decent ride.
Gregorio Lavilla - Almost certainly his last ride in BSB as he is rumoured to be moving back up to WSB next year. Shown real class in the last two seasons in BSB and with a decent ride will go well at the world level.
