By Craig Neve’s 2024 Northwest 200, TT ventures will follow a similar theme to that in 2023, following tonight’s confirmation of him remaining in the Bathams Racing fold.
Looking back on roads course outings during 2023, the ambitious rider kicked on strongly at the NW200 and TT, with notable achievements such as swooping up top eight finishes and most tellingly a first 130 Mph lap of the fabled, mythical Mountain Course.
Immingham’s Neve machinery stable for 2024 comprises of his 2023 mounts, Fireblade Hondas and a Daytona Triumph.
Commenting about his new deal with Michael Rutter’s formidable team, he stated:
“Joining Bathams Racing last year was fantastic for me. Having Rutter (Michael) as your teammate was priceless when it came to working through what were brand new bikes at the time to get to a set-up which helped me get into the ‘130mph club’.
I’ve already had him on the bike this winter testing in Spain to try some more ideas out, and his feedback and input has been brilliant.
Last year was difficult at times with the new bike, but it ended on a real high with a couple of 130mph laps, and my first top ten finish at the TT, so sticking with Bathams Racing is a no brainer for me.
A massive thanks to them, Bathams Ales and Zeeco for having me back. I’m absolutely buzzing and can’t wait to get going. I’m going to do the first couple of rounds of the British Supersport championship, then get to Ireland and the Isle of Man to hopefully pick up where we left off last year.”
Team Owner of Bathams Racing, Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix wins record holder Michael Rutter added:
“When we expanded the team last year with Craig, we wanted to bring an up-and-coming rider into the team and help develop them, and that’s exactly what happened.
Last year we achieved everything on our dream scenario that we hoped we would with Craig, so it really was an easy decision to carry on that commitment with Craig, as we feel there’s more to come from him and the bikes.
He’s had me out testing some ideas that he’s had for his bikes which was interesting, and I think we’ve found something that’ll help him a lot this year on the bike. So, we just need to get to Ireland for the Northwest 200 and get racing again.”
Quotes via Bathams Racing press release.
Photo credit: Nick Wheeler
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
