Q&A: Josh Brookes on BSB hopes in 2009

With Josh Brookes expected to be named in the 2009 HM Plant Honda line-up alongside 2008 British Supersport Champion Glen Richards, MCN spoke to the 25-year old about his one-off appearance in the BSS Championship at the final round at Brands Hatch, what his plans are for the future and a prospective switch toBSB.

What were your initial feelings about riding in BSS over the Brands Hatch weekend?

It’s been really cool. I would have copped a load of grief if I’d not gone quick because people expect me to be fast because I’ve come from World Supersport. So the pressure was on that weekend.

You’ve ridden Brands GP circuit – how did the Indy version compare?

The circuit is real small – probably too small for a superbike. I really enjoyed the big circuit when we came here with the World Championship, and it’s pretty frustrating to have that circuit there but not be able to ride it. I wish we could have turned left instead of right and done the full track.

Is BSB a serious option for you in 2009?

I’m definitely considering BSB now. I haven’t been given a contract with my current Stiggy World Supersport team and I don’t want to be left with nowhere to go. But I’d also like to stay in the Honda family. I have a few options away from Honda but I’d rather pursue my options with Honda in BSB than just go to another manufacture just because a team has offered me a ride in the World Championship.

So would HM Plant be your first port of call?

I’d like to build a good relationship with these guys and there is the possibility that they could go to World Superbikes in the future and that would be a great process to go through with these boys.

What about a Supersport ride in Britain?

I want to get back onto a Superbike ideally. Not only do I prefer riding the litre bikes, it also improves finances. Sponsors, helmets, boots and leather providers are more giving when you’re in Superbikes because there is so much more coverage. There isn’t as much publicity in supersport. I’ve also had great success on a superbike back home in Australia so I’m desperate to get back on one.