Alex Lowes will return to World Superbikes in 2014 after signing for the Voltcom Crescent Suzuki team. Lowes, the reigning British Superbike champion, tested the GSX-R1000 at Jerez shortly before Christmas and has now been officially announced as Eugene Laverty’s teammate for the new season which starts in Australia on February 23rd.
Although Lowes is sad not to be defending his BSB crown, the Lincolnshire rider cannot wait to test himself on the world stage again.
“This is just mega for me! I am coming to the Voltcom Crescent Suzuki team off a great year and making a step up to the World Championship, it’s just a fantastic opportunity and I can’t wait to get started properly. I did a couple of shake-down tests to get to know my crew and the bike and I want to thank Honda for letting me do that, as it gave me an early insight into what WSB is like. The GSX-R felt great straight away; I think I will enjoy racing this bike a lot. I am really looking forward to the new season and I will try to learn as much as I can from Eugene and then try to beat him! I know this will be a learning year for me, but I am eagerly anticipating it. I also want to say thanks to Suzuki and Paul for giving me this opportunity; now it’s time to repay their trust.”
Team Manager Paul Denning admitted the decision to sign Lowes was made some time ago and is predicting big things from his new rider line-up.
“Alex was the first rider decision we made for 2014 and having experienced his commitment, ability to learn and raw speed at the two tests we’ve completed so far, it only strengthens our belief that we have a very special talent riding for the Voltcom Crescent Suzuki team for next season. Alex rode a spectacular year in British Superbikes and showed incredible tenacity and maturity – considering his young age – to win the championship. He appears to fit the Suzuki GSX-R well, looks comfortable and has an inner confidence that never comes over as arrogant. Eugene’s experience and speed will be another help to Alex as he enters his first season of World Superbike competition and we couldn’t be happier with the overall rider line-up and the opportunities that are in-front of us.”
