Josh signs for Direct CCTV Racedays Team
The second pre-season test for the Racedays Superbike Academy team saw 14 year old Josh Elliott continue learning to ride a 600cc machine. Josh spent the three days at the pro-racer only Valencia test with Racedays sports manager Jeremy McWillliams.
Having raced GP125s in 2008 Josh has adapted his style well to the Honda CBR. After mastering downshifting on the bigger bike he was able to record a time in the superpole session only 0.10 seconds behind 2007 IDM German Supersport champion Sebastian Diss, who was riding a factory supported Kawasaki 09 ZX6R. Josh was the third fastest 600 rider, just behind Jeremy and Diss. There were only 9 quicker times, these being set by WSB, STK 1000 and IDM Superbike racers. More importantly for the team; in a 16 lap race simulation Josh maintained a consistently fast pace whilst conserving his tyres for a final push at the end of the session. The IDM German Supersport championship features 2 x 45 mile races per weekend and physical fitness, stamina and tyre management play a vital role.
Only time will tell if these encouraging lap times will translate into race results but the team are very happy with Josh's ability at such a young age - both on the track and in his analysis and feedback skills. Testing continues with the full IDM supersport spec CBR600 RRs at Lausitzring in April. This will provide a more accurate comparison as Josh is currently riding a superstock machine.
Jeremy McWilliams: "I've spent a valuable couple of days working with Josh on a variety of suspension setups and track craft. He has made significant progress - beyond any of our expectations. I'm very impressed."
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