Moto Rapido and Smart team up with Ducati

Ducati dealer Moto Rapido today announced their entry for the 2009 Metzler National Superstock series with the experienced Scott Smart leading the challenge.

The Winchester dealer will compete in this year’s Championship with the new Ducati 1198 S. The Ducati L-twin will make its competitive debut in British Superstock and will be a welcome entry to a series dominated by the four cylinder machines.

The team will be officially supported by Ducati UK, Ducati Corse and their loyal sponsors including Solent Scientific.

Superbike Championship rider Scott Smart, currently on his honeymoon in Dubai, is flying home early to attend a Ducati VIP evening on Thursday 29th at the MCN London Motorcycle Show where the team will be officially unveiled on the Ducati stand.

Steve Moore, Team Principal said “As soon as the specification for the 1198 S was unveiled last November, the preparation for a Superstock team began and the search for an experienced and talented rider. We are therefore delighted to have secured Scott Smart’s services for the team, he will be involved not only with riding the bike, but also the technical development of the 1198 S.”

Tim Maccabee, Managing Director of Ducati UK was equally enthusiastic about the new team “With specifications closer to the machines available in dealer showrooms, Superstock really is a fan’s favourite. Having been unable to compete in the championship last year it’s great to be back in 2009 with such a strong combination of a great bike in the new 1198s and a great team in Moto Rapido Racing. The skill and experience that Scott will bring to the team really is the icing on the cake for us.”

The Ducati VIP evening will take place between 5pm and 7pm on Thursday the 29th January. VIP tickets can be obtained through Ducati dealers for those who already have entry tickets for the show on Thursday.