BMW Motorrad GoldBet SBK Team launched in Munich
The winter break is drawing to an end, the countdown is on to the 2013 eni FIM Superbike World Championship, and the BMW Motorrad GoldBet SBK Team is under starter's orders. With just three weeks to go until the season-opener in Phillip Island, the realigned BMW Motorrad works team was presented to the public in Munich, Germany, on Monday. The international media launch took place in the Double Cone building at BMW Welt near the BMW Group's headquarters.
BMW Motorrad Italia is now responsible for the works team's race and test outings, as well as work on the chassis. The power train and electronics are developed by BMW Motorrad in Munich. Marco Melandri lines up in his second season as a BMW Motorrad works rider alongside his new team-mate Chaz Davies. As General Manager BMW Motorrad WSBK, Andrea Buzzoni is the man with overall responsibility for the Superbike project.
"We are looking to follow on from the success BMW Motorrad achieved last season" explained Andrea Buzzoni. "The various parts in the restructured team became attuned to one another very quickly. Two very experienced teams, which have already shown in the past just how strong and professional they are, have merged into one team. In order to be successful, however, you also need good riders and an outstanding bike - and we have them in the form of Marco, Chaz and the BMW S 1000 RR. Another important 'ingredient' is the speed. The speed, which is one of the most important factors on track, is also essential for the work of the team: to react and act fast is crucial to reach the target and to be competitive."
Works rider Marco Melandri played a major role in the success of BMW Motorrad last year. "Going into the season we certainly didn't expect to pick up six wins and be in contention for the title right down to the final race. This year I am primarily looking to improve my own performances. I don't want to make the same mistakes as I did in 2012, and want to make the podium more consistently" said the Italian, outlining his goals for the 2013 FIM Superbike World Championship.
Britain's Chaz Davies is in his first season as a BMW Motorrad works rider. "This is a big step for me, as it is the first time I have been directly involved in a works project. That means an awful lot to me" said the 2011 Supersport World Champion. "I am very proud, as it is not just any works team, but BMW - a powerful brand. I want to take full advantage of this opportunity. My goal is to continue improving, become more consistent, and end the season in the top five."
