With the recent disappointing ARRC round at Phillip Island run alongside the V8 Supercars, CycleOnline.com.au looks back at the very successful 2+4 event which was the 2009 ASBK opener.

Maxwell leading the field at the picturesque Phillip Island race track.

The announcement that an ASBK round would feature alongside the L&H 500 V8 Supercar round at Phillip Island on 11-13 September was made during a press conference at the Sandown round of the V8 Supercar Championship Series.

Current managing director of IEG, Yarrive Konsky was present flanked by Glenn Allerton and Josh Waters, while the V8 Supercar series was represented by bosses Tony Cochrane and Shane Howard as the news was confirmed.

The plan was to make the Island weekend a motorsport’s and entertainment festival, with the Superbikes adding to the motorsport prestige on a circuit renowned for two-wheel action.

It was revealed that the Superbike category would have a pair of 10 lap races over the weekend, the opening race took place on Saturday with the final race wrapping up the weekend on the Sunday.

Yarrive Konskey was thrilled with the opportunity to showcase the best two-wheeled talent in the country to a new motoring audience.

“In the past, bikes and cars have raced together on the same bill and the format was very well received. I’m glad we are again able to give fans of both racing disciplines the chance to enjoy a weekend of world-class motor racing.”

Race 1

Team Oleon Oils Motologic Honda rider Wayne Maxwell marked the return of the popular 2+4 concept with the then fastest ever national Superbike lap of Phillip Island in the mornings Superpole, before going on to take the honors in the opening 10-lap race over Joe Rocket Suzuki rider Josh Waters. Third went to privateer Honda rider Shannon Johnson.

“I slowed the pace a little when the rain came as the track was a bit slippery in some parts,” said Maxwell. “I got a fair bit sideways in Turn Two, but then the shower cleared and with two laps to go I put the hammer down.”

Race 2

Wayne Maxwell secured the overall ASBK Open round win with a safe third in race two after leading in the early laps before rain began to fall. Josh Waters backed up his race one second place with another in the final leg.

However, it was privateer Honda rider Craig Coxhell that upstaged his factory-backed opposition in the final race to take a dominant 4.847sec victory in front of the large motorsport loving crowd.

Overall 2009 ASBK Open Points: 1 Wayne Maxwell 45, 2 Josh Waters 44, 3 Craig Coxhell 40, 4 Shannon Johnson 38, 5 Shawn Giles 34, 6 Glenn Allerton 31, 7 Trent Gibson 28, 8 Chris Trounson 26, 9 Matthew Griffin 23, 10 Greg Epis 21.