Danny Kent passes CBT

Danny Kent is enjoying just as much success off the track as he is on it in 2012 after the rising British Grand Prix star passed his CBT this week.

Kent, who finished second quickest in last week’s final Moto3 test session in Jerez, passed his CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) on a KTM 125 Duke at the Silverstone Experience Centre.

Kent, who will ride for the Red Bull KTM squad in the new 250cc four-stroke class, said: “There are a few people who don’t understand why a motorcycle racer would want to ride on the road, but it’s quite simple – I just love bikes.

“I saw the KTM 125 Duke at Motorcycle Live last year and just had to get one; it looks mega and will cut down my fuel costs getting around. I wanted to get my CBT passed before the first round and I’m looking forward to getting on the road and making some modifications to the Duke.

“I wasn’t nervous doing the training, but I don’t think I’ve ever ridden so slow and it took me a while to get used to a ‘road shift’ – I kept trying to pull away in second gear!”

Kent is now preparing to fly to the Qatar Grand Prix next week for the start of the new Moto3 era in Doha.

The 18-year-old has been one of the star performers in winter testing and heads to the Losail International Circuit with genuine hopes of a podium finish.

See the April 4 issue of Motor Cycle News for our special 16-page MotoGP preview, which includes a Q and A with Kent on his hopes for 2012.