Pirelli National Superstock front-runners IMR have unveiled plans to move into the Bennetts British Superbike class for 2020.

Team principal Ian Moffitt believes his squad are now better positioned than they were a year ago when the same switch was discussed, with a change of manufacturer and a more permanent team setup on the cards.

“I feel the time is right now to make the move into the premier class. We’ve had talks with our existing sponsors who are happy to take the team up to the next level, and some historic partners are also keen to come back into the fold,” Moffitt told bikesportnews.com.

“We are in discussions with two manufacturers at the moment and one looks favourable to help us with the move as we plan to also run bikes in the smaller classes too.”

Moffitt wants to grab a share of the bright spotlight which shines upon the BSB teams as he believes IMR can be more than also-rans.

“We will run a single-bike team to start with and talks with various riders, including our current man Alex Olsen, are in progress. We will have a much more permanent setup when we move with some of the crew working full time and that will definitely help.

“We are not going to just make up the numbers and a big thanks must go to everyone who has helped us get to where we are so far, none more than the McManus family. Also, the team’s thoughts are with Aaaron Clifford and his family at this time.”