After racing internationally in 2018 that didn’t pan out how he anticipated, Reid Battye is back in Australia and ready to challenge in the Supersport category of the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) with Team Suzuki Ecstar. After taking to track at last month’s Phillip Island ASBK test, CycleOnline.com.au tracked down the youthful talent for this edition of Five Questions Why.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Why were you at Phillip Island’s ASBK test?

Firstly, I was at Phillip Island’s ASBK test to try out my new GSX-R600 for Team Suzuki Ecstar. This year I’m competing in the Supersport category, so we went out there to test bike and get a feel for the track. Basically, we’re trying to get ready for the first round, so hopefully we can have a few good races.

Why are you racing in the Supersport category?

It’s a new year for me – last year I went overseas to race Supersport 300, but it didn’t really turn out for me due to unforeseen circumstances. I’m back in Australia now and I’ve stepped up to the 600 – it’s my first year on the 600, and it’s something I’ve wanted to do for a while now. I’ve got such a good opportunity to do it with an awesome team. It’s a big change for me, but I feel really good on the bike.

Why are you racing for Team Suzuki Ecstar?

Basically, I started a new job at Canberra Motorcycle Centre, which shares the same owner as Team Suzuki Ecstar. We talked a bit and put together a package for myself so I could step up to a bigger bike, along with the support of Steeline Pambula, Rideline Road Bike shop, Macna, AGV, TCX, Kinxton Caw, and BCR Racing. They’ve given me such an awesome opportunity and such an awesome bike. To be able to learn off the other boys as well in the team, it’s really good for me.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Why can we expect you to be competitive in your rookie season?

I ended the test in P5, so it was pretty good to see where we were at. The bike wasn’t completely ready either – it was a brand-new bike straight out of the crate with some suspension in it. It was basically for me to get to know the bike, but I was pretty comfortable straight away – each session I did, I was just getting more comfy. Hopefully by halfway through the year I can fight for some podiums, but we’ll wait for the first round and go from there.

Why are you excited to be in the ASBK this season?

Last year didn’t really turn out too well for me, so I’m just so excited that have this opportunity and to have a fresh start here in Australia. It’s good to be back in my own country – you know all the people in the pits, so you can always enjoy yourself. It’s a good thing just to be back in Australia.