SALTIRE flags will be flying high this weekend as some of the finest bike racers on the planet return for the only Scottish round of the Bennetts British Superbikes at Knockhill.
A crowd of around 15,000 fans will pack into the national motorsport centre, from all corners of the UK and beyond, for three days of action from what is regarded as the world's greatest domestic bike racing championship.
Packed grids of top riders and teams will duel at speeds of up to 170mph at the event, which runs from tomorrow (Friday) to Sunday and will have added features as the iconic West Fife venue continues to celebrate its 50-year anniversary.
Scottish stars who will enjoy home support include Perth's Rory Skinner, who will be aiming for podium finishes and even outright wins within three Superbike races over the weekend, whilst Lewis Rollo, from Haddington, has also featured strongly in the Superbikes Pathway class for rising stars, scoring three wins from three at the last round.
TT stars Peter Hickman and Aussie, Josh Brookes, are fan favourites and they are set to head directly to Knockhill from racing on the Mountain Course at the Isle of Man.
In addition, race winners such as Ireland's Andrew Irwin, Australia's Jason O'Halloran, Leon Haslam and defending champion, Tommy Bridewell, will provide an international feel to the grid that underlines the quality of riders, teams and bikes from Ducati, Honda, Yamaha, BMW, Kawasaki and others.
(Highlights of the 2022 event at Knockhill. Video courtesy of Knockhill Racing Circuit).
Fans attending the Superbikes will also be treated to a special 'SuperPrix' series of races to celebrate their 50th year.
Three-time British Superbike champion, Niall Mackenzie, will be amongst the guest riders, on Yamaha TZ 250s, 350s and 750s, which will evoke memories of Knockhill's early days in the 1970s and 80s.
A total of 25 riders from around the world, including as far afield as Brazil, will take part over two days of racing, with the winner receiving the Bill Simpson Trophy, named in honour of the Scot who passed away recently and was a leading racer, team member and bike builder in the Yamaha TZ scene.
In addition, one of the most famous racing bikes in history will be present for the weekend, as Bob McIntyre's 1957 500cc Quattro Gilera makes the journey from the Isle of Man.
The third corner at Knockhill is named after McIntyre who, in 1957, set the first 100mph average lap of the famous Isle of Man mountain course.
Stuart Gray, director of events at Knockhill, said: "Lap speeds now average 135mph plus but, when Scotsman Bob set his lap, news went around the world and is still talked about today.
"He instantly became a legend of the Isle of Man's amazing TT history and it is the first time that the bike will be at Knockhill."
The rider who sets the fastest race lap across the Superbikes over the course of the weekend will be awarded the Steve Hislop Trophy, named in memory of the late two-time British Superbike champion, and 11-times Isle of Man TT winner.
Jillian Shedden, Knockhill managing director, said: "It is fitting that the Knockhill BSB round immediately follows the famous TT event as Steve was a multiple winner on the Isle of Man, as well as at Knockhill and elsewhere, and we are delighted to keep his memory going in this way and have a corner named after him too."
The camping area is sold-out for what is shaping up to be a memorable weekend, with race goers able to take advantage of giant screens, food courts, a hospitality village, autograph sessions, trade areas and other entertainment.
Tickets for all three days are available on the gate; online at www.knockhill.com/events; or by calling 01383 723337.
Fans are encouraged to pre-purchase and download their tickets to ensure a quick entry.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here