A change of machinery has made the world of difference to Beverley racer Dominic Usher (24) who rode his BMW to a fine ninth place in the opening round of the 2015 National Superstock 1000 championship.
Despite having very limited testing time on the new bike Dom jumped on board at Donington for free practice on Saturday morning to claim 26th place. He dropped a couple of places in qualifying one but after some welcome help from Clive Padgett adjustments were made to the bike and he was instantly quicker and more comfortable. The bike went like a dream and Dom completed the final session in 16th to be placed on the sixth row of the grid for Monday’s 16 lap race.
He didn’t get away to the best of starts but soon settled and began to pick his way through the midfielders to eighth position on lap 13. He was looking good to finish in that position but was caught and passed by Dan Kneen at the final corner. Despite his best efforts Dom was unable to regain his position on the short run to the flag and crossed the finish line in ninth place just two tenths of a second adrift.
“I haven’t had very much time on the bike prior to this weekend,” said Dom. “It is virtually brand new and I have had to try to get dialled in during free practice and qualifying but with the help of Clive Padgett I seem to have turned a corner with the bike and hopefully have it mastered. I am over the moon with a top 10 result today and my aim for the season is to finish in the top 10 so this is a good start. It’s Brands Hatch next time and that will give me more laps under my belt and hopefully another good result.”
The next round is at the Brands Hatch Indy circuit over the weekend of April 17-19. Being a short and twisty track layout a good qualifying position will be essential as there are few passing places. Those who get away first will have the advantage.
Photo by Dave Yeomans
