Dean Ellison’s Brands Hatch British SBK preview

British Superbikes
By Carly Rathmell
March 22 2005

27-year-old Dean Ellison is preparing himself for the first round of the British Superbike series this weekend (26th to 28th March) at Brands Hatch Circuit, Kent. Ellison will ride for Jentin Yamaha for the 2005 season, and is throughly looking forward to the task that lies ahead of him.

Originally from Kendal, the Superbike star is now more centrally based in Leicester - near his sponsors, and allowing him easier access to the main race circuits.

Having recently come back from a testing session in Spain, Ellison is feeling happy and confident as the new season approaches. Commenting, he said, “We had a really good few days in Spain and, although there are still a few adjustments to be made, I’m certainly feeling fairly content as we head for the first race. We completed over 400 laps whilst we were out there, and the new Dunlops were providing me with extremely consistent lap times over 30 laps - which is a confidence booster. I’m having to alter my riding style slightly, and there are also a few things we need to change on the bike, but they are only minor issues which should be rectified easily.”

Ellison missed a year of the British Superbikes last year and contended in a number of different events over the course of 2004 - including the British Supersport series, the World Endurance and the World Supersport, keeping him flexible with his riding styles.

Jentin Yamaha Racing won the Privateer Cup in 2004, with Dean’s younger brother James on board. James secured a ride in the élite MotoGP class for 2005, and freed up the seat for big brother Dean. Dean will be contending in the full British Superbike class, and his team-mate Gareth Glynn will be contesting the Privateer Cup.

Dean has a very tough season ahead of him and it is set to be one of the hardest line-ups in years. With a massive 36 riders entered for the series he certainly has his work cut out, but it is something that he is prepared for. “I’ve been training really hard over the winter in the gym, and have also spent plenty of time out on my mountain bike and Motocross bike, which has been keeping me trim and bike fit. I have a tough training routine, as I want to ensure that I am at my full fitness.

“The year is going to be a tough one, and now the British Superbike series is regarded as the toughest national championship in the world. I certainly have my work cut out, but I know what my aims and goals are for the year. I have a fantastic team behind me, and I’m extremely impressed by Bernie Toleman and how he runs Jentin Racing - and I feel privileged to be linked to such a professional outfit. I just can’t wait for it all the start now - I’m really looking forward to it.”

2005 British Superbike calendar:
Rnd1, Brands Hatch Indy, 28th March
Rnd2, Thruxton, 10th April
Rnd3, Mallory Park, 24th April
Rnd4, Oulton Park, 2nd May
Rnd5, Mondello Park, 15th May
Rnd6, Croft Circuit, 5th June
Rnd7, Knockhill, 26th June
Rnd8, Snetterton, 10th July
Rnd9, Silverstone, 21st August
Rnd10, Cadwell Park, 29th August
Rnd11, Oulton Park, 11th September
Rnd12, Donington Park, 25th September
Rnd13, Brands Hatch GP, 9th October