Motorcycling Australia made an amendment to the rules in late 2018 to allow racers under the age of 16, who demonstrate ability to race at a high standard safely to race in the larger capacity class. This allows Oli, who was hampered by his size in the smaller Supersport 300 class, to step up in class and continue to hone his racing skills.

Team Owner, Ben Henry: “Oli has proven that he has the skill to race, and race well, so I’m really glad to see Motorcycling Australia recognise and address the issue facing young racers like Oli, where their age could slow their progression in the sport. I’m excited to see how competitive he can become throughout the season as he learns and adapts to the bigger, more complex style of racing that comes with stepping up in class, and I’m confident that he’ll do well.”

Oli Bayliss: “I’m looking forward to getting on the R6. I won’t lie that I was getting frustrated on the 300 last year, racing at the front consistently only to have riders pass on straights, but that’s racing. I learnt a lot and now, thanks to the rule change, I can move to the bigger bike and learn some more.”

The first official test for the 2019 season takes place 2-3 February in Phillip Island where Oli and the Cube Racing team get a chance to shake down the new bike before the first round, alongside the first round of the World Superbike Championship (WSBK).

Next Race: ASBK Round 1 – Phillip Island, February 21-24.