Trills and Spills for EBC-Equipped Stone at Oulton Bemsee Round

“A real test of character. We made a last-minute decision to upgrade the front forks and rear shock on the back of strong rides at Snetterton. Must give massive thanks to Advanced Moto, as the speed and service we received were great. Nothing was too much trouble for Neil. I was so looking forward to getting a good setting with the new stuff.

“Test day was not ideal for this, with 60 bikes on track and only 3 x 15 minutes sessions. We had to hope it would feel right from the start in race conditions.

“Qualifying – Being way off the pace, we made no adjustment, so into qualifying we just tried to push on. Set a 1:42.8 secs. which put us 10^th on grid.  This wasn’t bad, but having to force the steering, we knew we couldn’t maintain it for a full race.

“Race 1 – We made a small change and just tried to run with it, but to no avail.  These were the hardest laps ever on the R1. Finished 12^th with a best lap of 1:42.7.

“Race 2 – Made bigger changes to try and make the bike turn quicker. It did feel a little better, but still having to wrestle it round created arm pump. Losing proper throttle control, had a massive slide coming out of Druids so pulled in after 6 laps. Early laps in 1:43’s.”

“Race 3 – We put the settings back as close to those on the old front forks and finally it started to feel like my bike again. Felt like I could do 15 laps not 4! P13 on the grid, but not the best start and we lost 4 places through Old Hall.  Soon got these places back and 1:44’s took us into 12^th with clear track and closing on the pack in front. Braking into Island Bend there was a hell of a bang. The chain had snapped and jammed in the rear sprocket. Luckily, managed to stay upright, got it stopped and parked up. Fair bit of damage including the swing arm.

“A weekend to forget, but WOW, have learnt a lot. Good to be back in the JR Performance awning with old friends – so thanks Joe. Also, thanks to Fin Arscott. We did a track walk and Fin pointed out his racing lines – very helpful.  Being stranded out on track, watched Fin and the other JR Performance boys complete the race and they were brilliant. Wish them every success in the BSB National Superstock.

“Now to repair the bike ready for Brands Hatch and get back on a good run again. Massive thanks to everyone who help make this possible – it means the world to me.”