Triple MCE Insurance British Superbike champion Ryuichi Kiyonari will return to the grid in 2014 as the Japanese rider switches to the Buildbase BMW team.

Kiyonari remains one of the most successful riders in BSB history, claiming three titles and 43 race wins – putting him second only to Shane Byrne in terms of race victories.

The 2006, 2007 and 2010 champion returned to the UK this season after lifting the Asian championship in 2012 and is now gearing up for a new challenge after a long career with Honda.

“It is always a difficult situation to move teams, but I am very excited about joining Buildbase BMW,” Kiyonari said. “I have been with Honda for a long time in my career so now this is a new and big challenge for me.

“I have never ridden a BMW before so it is all new but I know that the team and bike is very good and can get podiums. I am looking forward to testing now so that I can start to adapt to the BMW and be ready for the season.”

Kiyonari will line up alongside British contender James Westmoreland.