Jake Dixon, on board the RAF Reserves Kawasaki had his best-ever finish to an MCE British Superbike season with sixth in the overall standings.

The 21-year-old was the youngest rider to make it into the showdown and the highlight of the team’s year was when Dixon did the double at the Scottish circuit of Knockhill. Team boss, Lee Hardy dreamed of making it into the top six, and his rider did just that.

It has not been the easiest of seasons for the team as they had a change in personnel, but the crew brought in experienced rider, Glen Richards who took over as Dixon’s crew chief. Hardy is keeping everything the same for 2018 which includes staying with Kawasaki and having a one rider team.

They are also staying with Jordan Weaving in the Stock class too. Now it is on wards and upwards for next season with a winter testing schedule already planned, and Hardy admitted that his rider is one to watch and will be a concern for the seasoned racers in the series.

“Incredible season – it was one of those where everyone dreams and aspires to be in the showdown and for me that is a dream I have always wanted to achieve,” said team boss, Lee Hardy, speaking to bikesportnews.com.

“For this year to end sixth in the championship is fantastic and for us to be at that level is incredible, and to continue with that. The season was full of highs and lows and at one point there I thought we wouldn’t have a team as we had some issues at the start of the year and we have put ourselves on the map and keeping continuity going forward.

“We have got Jake and the same team on board next year so a strong winter testing plan and hopefully do better next year. Jake only did five rounds in BSB last year and didn’t complete a full year and we swapped from BMW to Kawasaki so that is a big thing for the team and Jake, and for a 21-year-old to do what he has done is fantastic.

“A lot of the seasoned contenders are probably thinking he is a rider of the future and they will be concerned next year for sure. We will stay with Kawasaki and things are working well. Still one rider in Superbike and Jordan is staying with us for the Superstock.”