Matt Hoyle tests new Maxtra 125GP bike

British rider Matt Hoyle impressed during test appearances on the new Maxtra 125GP machine at Snetterton and Donington Park recently.

Hoyle, who currently leads the British 125 series and is lying third in the Red Bull Rookies Cup that runs on the MotoGP support race programme, shared time on the new bike with experienced test rider Michael Wilcox.

Hoyle, who has claimed five successive podium finishes in the 2008 Red Bull Rookies Cup, ran a few laps during a lunch break on a track that was wet in patches.
Hoyle is one of several names to have been linked with the Maxtra project, which is being spearheaded by British motorsport icon John Surtees.

Team boss Garry Taylor said: “We wanted an opinion from a fast young rider with good knowledge of the track. Of course we were also interested to see how he would work with the bike and the crew. He pleasantly surprised us with a very mature approach to the test, and his very clear ability to express himself. His times were very good and it is hard to believe he is only 17.”

Taylor said he was unsure whether Hoyle would be one of two riders that Maxtra is looking to recruit for its debut season in 2009, but he added that the Bradford rider will be given another testing opportunity.

Taylor added: “It is too early to say where this might lead, but we may well test with him again. His input was invaluable.”