Steve Martin to continue with DFX in 2004

Steve Martin, 1999 Australian Superbike Champion, recently wrapped up his third full time World Superbike season with eighth overall in the final standings.

Steve has consistently proven to be the top Pirelli runner in recent years, normally finishing at least 30 seconds ahead of other Pirelli riders over a race distance.

Steve recently signed up for another season with the DFX squad to compete in the reshaped 2004 World Superbike Championship aboard a 999 Ducati.

Steve did look at options back in Australia for 2004, but in the end the prospect of being able to compete for the first time on equal tyres with the rest of the field was simply too inviting an opportunity to pass up.

Originally from South Australia, but now mainly residing in Melbourne when back in the Australia, Steve feels as though he has unfinished business in World Superbike.

"I am really looking forward to going out there next year on equal rubber.

"This will give me my best opportunity yet to show my wares on a more equal footing.

"Hopefully we will see a lot of podium appearances next year as I am sure I can surprise a few people, and I couldn't head back to Australia when an opportunity like that presented itself.

"It would have been good to come home, and it would be great fun to ride in the Australian Championships again but I really feel as though I owe myself a big go next year now I have the opportunity to compete on equal rubber.

"I am not sure what the championship will be like next year, but at least there will be a full factory Ducati effort with Regis Laconi and James Toseland, so with them in the race, along with Vermeulen on the new Fireblade, I am sure it won't be a slow championship, I am looking forward to it that's for sure.

"DFX have promised me a 999 Ducati for next year, it will be a customer bike and not a full factory machine but I'm not too worried about that holding me back. The tyres are going to be the same for everyone, so 2004 could well shape up to be a great year indeed..."

Steve Martin in action at Magny Cours during the final round of the 2003 World Superbike Championship - Image by Rob Mader