Osborne steps up ready for exciting new season

Sam Osborne testing his new bike at Cadwell Park

A stunning first season saw the Billingshurst rider’s talent spotted by top race-tune team MSG Racing and this year he’ll be riding their Suzuki GSX-R 600 in Thundersport GB.

The 23-year-old made his debut at Brands Hatch last year in the Hottrax Motorsport Championship and quickly carved out a reputation as a talented competitor.

Up against experienced riders, at the end of the season accrued points saw him ranked level first with his closest rival and with final positions decided on most wins, he came second in his class (Modern Classic Pre-Injection 600).

Now the ambitious move up to a faster class (Pre-National Sport 600) and also to a bigger club will put Osborne’s track skills to the test, with the potential to take him further than he dared dream last year.

Thundersport is just one step down from British Superbike Championship (BSB) and he’ll be riding with some experienced riders.

“I snapped up the chance,” said Osborne, whose full-time job is a carpenter. “It’s what I’d always wanted – to be on a modern bike with no expense spared. It’s a big change riding a bike 15 years newer than my old R6, which was held together with gaffer tape and cable ties!

“I’ve tested it twice now at a damp Brands Hatch and a frosty Cadwell Park, so I’m still getting used to it, with all its advanced technology, also running a race shift gearbox for the first time. I’m still working out how late I can break and how much power I can put down without high-siding.

“MSG have put their faith in me and I’ll be riding their bike with their support track side – all I need now is financial backing to get through the 2015 season, as each weekend costs around £1,000 for track fees, tyres and petrol.”

Thundersport’s nine-race calendar starts at Brands Hatch Indy this weekend. Osborne is seeking sponsorship – to find out how you or your business could get involved, contact him on 07743 931964.