Peter Hickman steps up to BSB proper

Louth-based Peter Hickman is to remain with the Northamptonshire-based Ultimate Racing team and will make the step up from the British Superbike Cup series to contest the full British Superbike championship in 2010.

Last season Hickman completed his season as runner-up in the Cup and, spurred on by his success, has decided a move into the main championship is the way to go this year.

He will be riding the R1 Yamaha that brought him success in the cup last season but with the addition of some factory parts to boost his challenge.

“I am happy with the Yamaha,” he said. “The new Evo series for privateers is not on the agenda for me. I really need to build on the success I achieved last year and move into the main championship.

“The team are very near to securing a title sponsor which will help enormously with the extra costs involved but we are still seeking sponsors to help with the running costs.”

Hickman intends to get some winter testing under his belt and is hoping to travel to Gaudix in Spain within the next few weeks where hopefully the weather will be a lot warmer than in the UK.