Danny Buchan joins Moto Rapido Ducati for 2016

Danny Buchan will become Moto Rapido Ducati’s sole rider for the 2016 MCE British Superbike championship, as he joins the Moto Rapido squad to replace the departing John Hopkins.

The 22 year old made his mark on the series last season first on the Be Wiser Kawasaki and then on the PBM Kawasaki, taking two podium places in his first full season in the championship.

“This really is a great opportunity for me and I think the Ducati should really suit my style. It is a great feeling to have signed for the team at this stage of the year and I can’t wait to start working with them because they are a really close knit and hard working team so I feel that together we can achieve big things – we have seen how strong the Ducati can be towards the end of last season.

“I learnt so much during this year and my first full season in BSB. My approach to it did change slightly during the season where I was learning more and starting to set realistic goals and that is when the results started to come at the end of the year. I learnt a lot more race craft this season so I really think we can be stronger in 2016 because I can build on my previous experiences.

“We have a really good test programme already scheduled and we are all really behind this project – I feel the whole team is like a family. I have ridden a Panigale before when I was in Australia and I absolutely loved it, so I can’t wait to get on the Moto Rapido one for the first time. I want to thank Moto Rapido, Ducati UK and everyone else who has made this possible – I can’t wait to get started now!”

And, with the news of the youngster’s signing, team boss Steve Moore says that they’re on track to build from their strongest ever season – one that saw the privateer squad take their first podium finishes at the season-ending Brands Hatch round.

“2016 is set to be our best year yet, the continued backing and support from Lloyds British has allowed us to move forward and commit to next season early.  We have had our eye on Danny for a while now because he really has taken some big steps forward in recent seasons and we are utterly convinced that he will really suit the Ducati. He knows all the circuits and now has Superbike class experience so the time was right to get his signature. 

“We have a good base to start off with, so I think this is a really good match with a lot of promise. We truly believe that we have signed one of the biggest young talents in Britain right now and with our comprehensive winter testing programme, we will be ready for the start of the new season.”