James Westmoreland will return to the MCE British Superbike grid this upcoming season after signing for the Gearlink Kawasaki team.
The 28-year-old returns to the championship following a highly-successful season in the British Supersport Championship with Yamaha.
Westmoreland ended the season second in the championship with two victories and a further nine podiums to his name.
The Hull-based rider was last in the championship back in 2015, riding for GB Moto Kawasaki, and achieved one podium-place finish at Thruxton.
Speaking about his return, Westmoreland said: “I’m really pleased to join Gearlink Kawasaki for this season and to be back in the Superbike Championship after a really good season in the Supersport class. I’ve known Michael and Norma for many years and I’m happy to be joining their team and the Superbike project – I really appreciate the opportunity.
“The Superbike class looks to be one of the most competitive in years and I’m really pleased to be part of it. I really want to show what I am capable of and I know that the Gearlink Kawasaki team will support me all the way.”
This season will be the team’s fourth in the premier class and their 13th consecutive season in the paddock overall. Andrew Irwin, the younger brother of Be Wiser Ducati’s Glenn, and Australian Ben Currie will compete for the team in the Supersport championship.
Team owner, Michael de Bidaph added: “Having been in talks with James Westmoreland over the last month or so we are thrilled to have now secured a deal that suits both parties.
“James and I both realise that this is bound to be another tough year in the Superbike class but I am sure that we can have a competitive season especially as he rode our Superbike at the last round in 2015 so we already know how to work with each other.”
The new season gets underway on the final weekend of March at Donington Park. Keep checking the The Checkered Flag for all the latest news during pre-season testing.