Peter Hickman to race for MSS Kawasaki in British Superbikes

Louth superbike racer Peter Hickman has joined the MSS Kawasaki team for the 2012 British Superbike Championships.

The 24-year-old finished ninth for Tyco Honda in 2011 and took his maiden BSB podium finish at Thruxton.

He told BBC Lincolnshire: "They're one of the bigger teams in the paddock and it's great to be involved with them.

"The bike's got a lot of potential and I'm looking to improve on what I did last season. It's a really strong package and it's all looking good."

And Hickman hoped to add to his tally of podium finishes after his second place at Thruxton in May 2011.

"I've got a taste for it now and I enjoy it," he added.

"Towards the end of the year I was getting front-row starts and battling with the guys at the front and I want to start this year where I left off."

Hickman's team-mate at MSS Kawasaki will be Michael Rutter, who made his BSB debut back in 1993.

"He's a really strong competitor," said Hickman. "I'm hoping to learn from his experience, but at the same time be beating him."