Nakano chez Aprilia en 2009 !

As exclusively revealed on motorcyclenews.com over a week ago, Japanese rider Shinya Nakano will partner Max Biaggi after signing to ride for Aprilia in the World Superbike Championship in 2009.

The long time 250 and MotoGP man ran out of options to stay in the GP paddock and after turning down a test rider deal for Honda targeted a ride in WSB.

His arrival at Aprilia to race the all new RSV4 is another major coup for the World Superbike Championship with another top level rider joining the already impressive 2009 provisional starting grid.

Aprilia’s decision to sign Nakano grid is well thought out. The RSV4 is believed to be a stiff, rigid package, more similar to MotoGP bike than a traditional WSB machine. This type of chassis should suit Biaggi and Nakano who have a wealth of experience in the GP paddock including years spent in 250GP’s.

Nakano is expected to arrive at Parkalgar to watch the final WSB round on Sunday, but unlike Biaggi won’t get to test the new Superbike next week. He’s expected to get his first ride on the Aprilia in Valencia next month.



For full details on Nakano’s switch to WSB and reaction from Max Biaggi see MCN out Wednesday 5th November.