Josh Hook can be a serious contender in 2013, according to Paul Free. Image: Andrew Gosling/TBG Sport.

Team Honda Racing principal Paul Free admits he has been surprised by rookie Superbike rider Josh Hook’s progression in the early stages of 2013 and feels his speed will shock experienced competitors come Queensland Raceway next month.

Hook stepped into the Superbike seat after a year in the team’s Supersport program where he achieved some top results but lacked a level of consistency.

Free identified the area of feedback and development as needing improvement but says he has been extremely pleased by Hook’s response to the challenge of piloting one of only four factory Superbikes in Australia.

“Josh is a hellishly-fast motorcycle rider, but really didn’t have a massive amount of experience when it came to giving feedback to a technician or someone that he is working with,” said Free.

“That was probably our biggest problem last year with him being consistently competitive on the CBR600RR. It did get better and develop later in the year, but I don’t think we ever got him working to a level that he needed to be.

“To filling the boots of Wayne Maxwell and stepping up to ride the Superbike as a profession, I’ve got to say Josh has responded so well.

“He has listened to what we have asked of him, as a team, and what we require in terms of the level of professionalism that he has needed to lift to.”

Free believes Hook is heading in the right direction and will be a force to be reckoned with in the category in a short space of time.

“This latest test day just recently showed me that this kid is right on the correct path,” continued Free. “He is progressing so well, so fast.

“With another couple of days testing at Queensland Raceway prior to the race event I think he is going to shock people with just how fast he is. We’re really looking forward to that.”

Hook sits fifth on the standings after two fifth place finishes at Symmons Plains.

Team Honda Racing will revisit Queensland Raceway for a private two-day test on 6-7 June prior to the 14-16 June race weekend, the second point-scoring round of the 2013 Australian Superbike Championship.