Whatley to Kawasaki
By TMX Archives on 17th Feb 09
Kristian Whatley has announced a move to Kawasaki machinery for the 2009 season as part of his bid to capture his first British championship. In a deal which sees Kawasaki Motors UK providing machinery, the 19-year-old from Reading will be competing on KX450F machines in several major championships this year.
Son of ex-multiple British champion and former GP rider Jem Whatley, the talented youngster is part of the Hanson Racing rider stable managed by another legendary off-road name, Greg Hanson.
"I've got all the time in the world for the lad”, says Hanson. "He has natural talent in abundance and we honestly have not seen the best of him by a long way. He's fit, enthusiastic and has strong, channelled motivation. I can't wait to see what he can do on a big bike”.
As a former British 125 and four-stroke champion, Hanson knows what is necessary to succeed and thinks that all the elements are in place to ensure a platform for success.
"Kristian is young and his self belief is infectious. He has the ex GP rider, Julian Clark, as his personal trainer and they are working on all aspects of a rigorous physical and mental regime in preparation for the British MX1, KWS British Masters and MMX series.”
Untapping his obvious race and championship winning potential is right at the forefront of Kristian's mind. "Right now I am in a happy place. We've collected my KX450Fs from Kawasaki UK and they are totally mint. Racing in MX1 is the right move for me now. With so much power the big bikes are more about the rider than in the other classes which suits me perfectly. I believe that the combination of me, Hanson Racing and the KX450F will certainly make some waves in 2009.”