AMA Superbike legend Josh Hayes will wildcard at the upcoming Australian Superbike opener which supports the Phillip Island WorldSBK round.
The four-time AMA Superbike champion will ride a Yamaha YZF-R1 in the three 12-lap races against local superstars such as Mike Jones, Troy Herfoss, Wayne Maxwell, Josh Waters, Cru Halliday and Aiden Wagner.
“It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful setting for a racetrack than Phillip Island,” said Hayes.
I have always liked fast racetracks, and Phillip Island definitely fits that bill. Though it’s not extremely technical, it’s a busy layout that is fun to ride.”
Hayes has no illusions he’s in for a tough time at Phillip Island.
“The Australian Superbike field has an immense amount of talent, and I’m not surprised as many gifted Australians have come to race in America, with great success.
“Several of the current Superbike riders are familiar to me. Josh Waters came to America and was very impressive in a debut test a few years ago.
“I also chatted to Wayne Maxwell and Troy Herfoss at the Island Classic, as well as meeting Aiden Wagner. I definitely remember seeing the Phillip Island Superbike races last year, and I enjoyed Wagner’s last-lap battle with Maxwell.”
Hayes will race under the Queensland-based ‘Addicted to Track Team’ banner, with two YZF-R1s at his disposal.
