GBmoto Kawasaki will make their factory-backed road racing debut in 2015 after signing Gary Johnson to race at the Isle of Man TT, North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix next year.

The team will be building and running a new high-spec ZX-10R Superbike, as well as a Superstock version for the three main international roads events and will undertake a full testing programme supported with Japanese technical personnel after receiving backing from Kawasaki Europe.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to be working with such a great team and so closely with a major manufacturer, I’m really happy. I rode for GBmoto in 2011, they were one of the most professional teams I’ve ever worked with and they’ve obviously stepped up again since then,” said Johnson, speaking from the Chang International Circuit in Thailand.

“To see what they did this year in BSB by changing manufacturers and immediately getting podiums was incredible. Their infrastructure, bikes and kit is all mega and although this is their first time at the TT I know they will put all the right pieces in the right places, to be successful.

“Hopefully I can bring my own experience to the team from both the events side and with a good reference point from riding a Kawasaki. I have to thank the guys who have worked so hard to help me in the last few years, it’s because of them that I’ve been put in the shop window for this opportunity.

“With the support of GBmoto and Kawasaki and their testing schedule I’m the most confident I’ve ever been going into the TT and the other events, so bring it on.”