KTM launch new road racing team for 2010 with Shannon Johnson and ESG
Victorian racer Shannon Johnson and KTM Australia have teamed up with Evolution Sports Group (ESG) to launch a new road racing team for 2010, which will see Johnson take on the Australian Superbike Championships in the premier class on board the KTM 1190 RC8 R.
The team will be managed by ESG members Wayne Hepburn and Greg Epis, who are former racers themselves. Wayne and Greg bring to the team a range of logistical knowledge for bike set up, dealership marketing and race preparation.
The 2010 Australian Superbike Championship will be eight rounds with four of the rounds held in conjunction with the V8 Supercars. The season starts 27-29 February at Phillip Island as part of the World Superbike Championship.
Commenting on the new team, Shannon Johnson said, “I’m really very excited about this joint venture with KTM and ESG.
“For me as a rider I have the best of both worlds, not only am I continuing a relationship on a motorcycle I enjoy immensely, I’m also doing the same with my technical crew from ESG. Furthermore, Rob Twyerould who was also a big part of the team this year, will also contribute to the technical guidance required on behalf of KTM for the 1190 RC8 R set up, which I personally believe is invaluable.”
KTM General Manager, Australia Jeff Leisk comments, “We had tremendous success with Shannon racing on the KTM 1190 RC8 R this year with victories at the Formula Extreme Superbike Championship, and with the support of ESG, we feel we can further develop the bike and Shannon’s ability on the race track.”