Max Neukirchner to Ten Kate Honda

Max Neukirchner is poised to make a dramatic switch to the Hannspree Ten Kate Honda squad in 2010. MCN understands that the 26 year old German is set to leave his current position in the Alstare Suzuki squad and will ride alongside Britain’s Jonathan Rea in the two man Honda team as a replacement for Carlos Checa.

The two times WSB race winner is regarded as one of the championships hottest prospects, but has had his 2009 season wrecked through injury after crashing at Monza and then again in testing at Imola in July.

In recent weeks he has faced a battle to regain full fitness, but after undergoing further examinations this week has declared himself fully fit.

The deal is expected to be signed early next week and will give Ten Kate an impressive rider line-up for next season.